The development team of the Novosibirsk State Technical University (NETI) at Technoprom 2024 presented a sample of a wind power plant that is more compact and affordable for consumers than existing analogues on the market.
As previously reported, the prospects for the use of such a device, according to the developers, are quite wide. In remote settlements of the country, diesel generators are most often used in case of power outages, the operation of which is expensive due to the cost of fuel. A wind power plant is an alternative and affordable option for autonomous or backup power supply. Another potential field of application for variations of wind turbines is research or archaeological expeditions. The use of a wind power plant of the NSTU-NETI version as the main or backup energy source in the agro-industry, according to the calculations of the developers, will reduce energy costs by 5—6% per year.
"Initially, we planned to manufacture load-sensing power elements based on aluminum alloys, but estimated that it would be very expensive, so it was decided to make them steel for the prototype. We met the specified weight parameters — the weight of the entire structure does not exceed 170-180 kg, which is comparable to existing analogues on the market. The installation was demonstrated at Technoprom 2024, and VOIR (the All-Russian Society of Inventors and Innovators) supported us and helped with the registration of intellectual property. An application for a utility model has been submitted for this wind power plant," said Daniil Matveev, one of the authors of the development, a 1st—year postgraduate student at the Faculty of Aircraft of NSTU-NETI.
According to Daniel, preparations for the tests are currently underway. The wind power plant will be placed on the roof of an apartment building. During the tests, which are planned to be carried out during the autumn-winter — 2024/2025 period, the output power, self-starting characteristics, as well as the minimum wind speed will be checked so that the rotor rotates and electricity is generated.
"We analyzed the large patent base of such installations and came to the conclusion that almost all patents are not adapted to difficult climatic conditions. For example, when operating in winter conditions, when snow and rain are possible, icing occurs, which can lead to a decrease in the efficiency of the installation. Therefore, we have provided an anti—icing system, which will allow the windmill to operate in winter," added Daniil Matveev.
After the tests, the developers plan to undergo certification and search for consumers of this product.