Introduction
Serving as one of the most reliable renewable energy sources, mechanical engineering continuously evolves and develops the best technologies to benefit from wind energy. It has the primarily role in improving the functionality and efficiency of wind turbines.
Wind turbines are devices that convert kinetic energy of the wind into mechanical and electrical energy. As wind turbines have become efficient devices over years, engineers attempt to develop technologies to support the function of wind turbines. Gaining the best energy out of the wind.
Basic wind turbine components
The wind turbine is a relatively simple device, which basically includes five main parts:
- Blades: The parts that cause wind to induce rotational motion and do the actual capturing of its energy. Blades used in the modern day are constructed much sturdier and more powerful due to manufacturing processes using materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. Additionally, computer simulation programs are used to optimize the design of the blades and make them increasingly efficient in harnessing energy from wind.
- The Axis: It turns the rotational motion of blades into faster rotation also known as gear-speed, which it transits to electrical generator. Strong, lightweight stainless steel and aluminum are used for the hubs.
- Conveyor (Gyro box): It is a device that can change the direction of blades rotating in wind, particularly position and showing them to face directly vertically against Wind, which increases Power generation effortlessly.
- Tower: A tower supports all components of a turbine and elevates them above the ground. The height of the tower is thoughtfully pick in order to acquire best rotation of wind.
- Control system: A control system which generally comprises of a set of electronic devices that are used to monitor the performance and operation related aspects.
These directions are increasing the efficiency of wind turbines
Methods of how to increase efficiency in wind turbines. For several years, companies and research institutions have sought higher amount of energy a cone by with the different means:
- Gaining the size of blades, increase length and diameter this increases the surface which collects wind leads to consuming more energy.
- Advanced materials: Carbon fiber, fiberglass composite blades that are lighter and stronger enable larger and better wind capturing efficiency.
- Dynamic Design: Computer Simulation Program is used for optimization of Blade and shaft design to harness wind energy most efficiently.
- Floating turbines: These make it feasible for wind in deeper waters, where the speed and strength of the winds is higher.
Role of artificial intelligence in improving the performance of wind turbines
As artificial intelligence (AI) is witnessing significant developments, engineers try to integrate (AI) applications into may technologies. One of the newest applications so far, is optimize the function of wind turbines. Sensors installed on turbines collect big amount data, and engineers use (AI) to analyze it. Also, artificial intelligence is accurate in prediction wind speed and direction. AI allows to adjust the angle of the turbine blades to make the most of available energy. Moreover, (AI) can detect potential turbine malfunctions early, which lead to Rapid intervention. It allows early maintenance which saves cost and enable the devices to last longer time.
Future challenges
Despite the great developments in wind energy, there are many challenges ahead:
- Environmental impact: Developer should Work harder to reduce the noise and visual effects of wind turbines.
- Integration with the electrical grid: Integrating large amounts of intermittent renewable energy into the electrical grid requires the development of intelligent energy management systems.
- Development of energy storage technologies: Affordable and highly efficient energy storage technologies must be developed to ensure continuous energy supply.
Conclusion
Nowadays, mechanical engineering focus on implementing new technologies to support wind turbines function. In conclusion, wind energy is reliable source and we should put more effort to gain cleaner energy. As research and development continues, wind energy can play a greater role in achieving a sustainable future.
INTERNATIONAL ENGINEERING ORGANIZATION IEO