The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jan. 07, 2003
Filed:
May. 01, 2000
Michael S. Selig, Makomet, IL (US);
Kyle K. Wetzel, Lawrence, KS (US);
Zond Energy Systems, Inc., Tehachapi, CA (US);
Abstract
A balancing of aerodynamic optimization and structural optimization provides a wind turbine airfoil having substantially improved performance characteristics. Mathematic modeling yields maximum aerodynamic criteria that are coupled with a structural analysis to modify the optimum aerodynamic design into a balanced, substantially optimized airfoil configuration. The resulting airfoils have substantial performance impact on GAEP. The airfoil is based on the theoretical optimum aerodynamic structure modified as required to maximize structural integrity. The method for maximizing airfoil performance permits the design of airfoils of predictable performance while achieving necessary structural integrity. A family of airfoils having operational and structural characteristics with substantially enhanced performance capability includes thickness-to-chord ratios ranging from 14% to 45%.