Abstract
FIU inventors have designed a system to simultaneously
reduce wind damage and provide power to buildings, homes, and other
construction structures. Wind damage to homes and buildings is primarily caused
by uplift forces caused by wind. Damage caused by wind may also allow for water
intrusion and therefore, water damage. This technology uses a lightweight mini
helicoidal wind turbine attached to a roof gutter, or to a roof edge if no roof
gutter is available, attenuating wind induced suction (negative pressures) and
also providing green energy in the form of wind energy that can be stored in
batteries or can be used through net metering. The system can also be
integrated into wall edges/corners of buildings and other structures to reduce
wind induced suction generated by separated flows and vortices. This technology
would alleviate financial burdens due to damage caused by wind and water
intrusion.This aerodynamic system has been successfully tested in
computational simulations as well as with a prototype in the laboratory. Both
saw a significant reduction in wind suction and generation of power by
harvesting wind energy.Benefit
Simultaneously reduces wind damage and provides green energy Ability to capture wind energy at both low and high-speed winds Reduces risk of water intrusion Easy to integrate to existing buildings, homes, and other structures Light, durable and aesthetically appealing Low maintenance costMarket Application
This system is specifically designed for buildings, homes, and other construction structures such as stadiums, signs, canopies, trusses, and transportation, traffic, power infrastructure (including bridges, towers, light poles, etc.)
Abstract
FIU inventors developed a High-Wind
Resistant Concrete Roofing. This system reduces hurricane-induced damage,
property losses and insurance costs, and enhances occupant safety, while being
aesthetically attractive, and similar to the existing tile roof systems. The
system’s structural and economic feasibility, constructability, and performance
have been validated through detailed experimental investigations. Details of
the investigations are available upon request.Hurricane-induced damage and property losses are due in
large part to failure of roofs and water intrusion. To improve roof strength
and performance, this system uses concrete panels reinforced by
high-performance fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) meshes. The system eliminates
commonly used roof components and subassemblies such as wooden trusses,
sheathing, underlayment, and shingles or tiles, which are most vulnerable in
high winds. The new system replicates the shape and color of commonly used
barrel tiles or other shapes, thus preserving the aesthetics of traditional
roofing. Additional features are unimpeded and spacious attic space and
increased interior volume underneath the roof. The system’s estimated cost is
comparable to the cost of conventional roofing systems.Benefit
Exceeds the minimum requirement by the Florida Building Code for hurricane-prone regions Able to withstand winds up to 200 mph Provides high structural integrity at low cost, and is wind-water-debris resistant Able to reproduce tile patterns and maintain the aesthetic appeal of traditional roofs Accommodates pre-installed wiring and utility connections Incorporates pre-attached insulation to accomplish higher energy rating Has high ductility Provides higher fire rating than existing systems Is Corrosion resistant May be prefabricated or cast in placeMarket Application
The system is light, strong, wind-water-debris resistant, and is applicable to new construction as well as for upgrading roof systems of existing building