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 cost
Market 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.)
Brochure
