A Morphing Blade for Wave and Wind Energy Conversion

Abstract

The paper introduces a morphing blade for the application of wave and wind energy conversion. The most common and typical wave turbine, the Wells turbine, is symmetrical but rigid, whereas wind turbine blades are asymmetrical with some intended (adaptive) or unintended flexibility. Unlike the Wells turbine which is rigid, the morphing blade is flexible, allowing chord-wise bend from the leading to the trailing edge. The morphing blade discussed here is also symmetrical. It is based on an airfoil that is, in an unloaded state, geometrically similar to the NACA0012 airfoil, the Wells Turbine. The blade's flexibility results in a shape that differs from the NACA0012 airfoil if a load is applied. The intended function of the flexible blade has similarities to the function of blade flaps or ailerons and controlled deformations of flight surfaces with aerospace applications, introduced as a measure of improving efficiency and maneuverability of aircrafts at velocities other than the cruising speed. Efficiency of the new blade is higher than that of the rigid blades.