FlexSys Wind Energy

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Wind conditions vary continuously – so does the aerodynamic shape of FlexSys Smart Blade. By continuously adjusting the local geometry of the blade, FlexSys Smart Blade captures 15% more energy and results in a significant reduction in stresses.

Large wind turbines must operate under very turbulent and unpredictable environmental conditions. Due to sudden, compact gusts, the loads on the blades vary over intervals of time much shorter (1-3Hz) than the response times of today’s variable speed rotors or active blade pitch mechanisms, and vary over different sections of the at any given time. The resulting stochastic loads become the performance limitations and the design drivers for the blades and some components of the drive train and structure.

 
FLEXSYS SMART BLADE CAN INCREASE ENERGY CAPTURE UP TO 15% PER YEAR

FLEXSYS SMART BLADE CAN INCREASE ENERGY CAPTURE UP TO 15% PER YEAR

FLEXSYS ADAPTIVE EDGE ADDS AN ACTUATED FLAP TO THE TURBINE BLADE'S TRAILING EDGE

FLEXSYS ADAPTIVE EDGE ADDS AN ACTUATED FLAP TO THE TURBINE BLADE'S TRAILING EDGE

Large wind turbines must operate under very turbulent and unpredictable environmental conditions. Due to sudden, compact gusts, the loads on the blades vary over intervals of time much shorter (1-3Hz) than the response times of today’s variable speed rotors or active blade pitch mechanisms, and vary over different sections of the at any given time. The resulting stochastic loads become the performance limitations and the design drivers for the blades and some components of the drive train and structure.

FlexSys Adaptive Edge is a seamless, shape morphing, trailing edge for utility scale wind turbines. The FlexSys Adaptive Edge enables turbine blades, for the first time, to respond with the same bandwidth as fluctuations in the incoming wind through continuous sense-and-control. This patented technology has been extensively analyzed by Wind Technology Center, Sandia National Laboratories. Sandia concluded FlexSys’ Adaptive Edge technology is transformational as it offers


Sandia National Laboratiries concluded FlexSys’ Adaptive Edge technology is transformational as it offers:

  • 5 to 9% reduction in the cost of wind energy;
  • 10-15% increases in energy capture in typical utility scale turbines;
  • Significant stress reduction in the blade and the gearbox, protecting the infrastructure from severe stresses due to wind gusts.
  • An opportunity to potentially eliminate the need for blade pitch mechanisms.