- #1
TheRyan
- 40
- 0
I've searched the net and this site, and although I've found several sites and posts related to the idea of wind turbine / windmill design, I have yet to find anything explaining the science and math behind windmill blade design. I've entered into a technology competition which involves designing blades for a pre-made turbine. The fact that the motor / gears are the same for everyone makes the playing field level from the start, as well as the fact that we'll all be given the same supplies and tools.
We'll (my 2 person team) be given two hours to design the blades (and "nosecone" to mount them on), then test them. The design which performs best, in other words generates the most electricity wins. Can someone point me in the right direction for learning about windmill blade design? I'm guessing the materials will be composed of Styrofoam and cardboard sheets, possibly some others, and tools will include hot melt glue, scissors, tape, and a knife or other appropriate implements. It isn't specified whether the generator's axle must be either horizontal or vertical, but because it's called a "windmill blade design" contest I'm guessing it'll be horizontal. Any help would be great!
We'll (my 2 person team) be given two hours to design the blades (and "nosecone" to mount them on), then test them. The design which performs best, in other words generates the most electricity wins. Can someone point me in the right direction for learning about windmill blade design? I'm guessing the materials will be composed of Styrofoam and cardboard sheets, possibly some others, and tools will include hot melt glue, scissors, tape, and a knife or other appropriate implements. It isn't specified whether the generator's axle must be either horizontal or vertical, but because it's called a "windmill blade design" contest I'm guessing it'll be horizontal. Any help would be great!