This project explored vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs), with the goal of building one that could generate 4 watts of power when pushed down a hallway. It applied principles of scaling, motor characterization, design, and fabrication.
We began by researching turbine types and their properties, then built small-scale models for wind tunnel testing. The collected data was used to scale the turbine to meet power requirements of the full-size model.
I led design and fabrication, starting with the small-scale models. After testing showed the Lenz Turbine best met our power and weight requirements, I scaled the dimensions and designed the full-sized version. I modeled the parts in SolidWorks and drafted the lasercut files and engineering drawings for manufacturing.
The full scale model took 12 hours to build, assembled with glue, pressure fits, and screws, then finished with plastic sheeting stretched over the spars. The turbine produced 6.6 watts of power and weighed 3.8 kilograms.
Media (small-scale) : MDF, PLA, Paper | 11” x 11” x 11” | 2017
Media (CAD) : Solidworks | 1m x 1m x 1m | 2017
Media (full-scale) : MDF, Aluminum, Plastic sheeting | 1m x 1m x 1m | 2017
