Science Scene - Not A Brush, Fuller model shows promise

Our Fuller Wind Turbine, a new type of boundary-layer, bladeless wind turbine has been granted U.S. Patent No. 7,695,242. The turbine is based on a 1913 Tesla patent, specially modified for wind generation applications. [How forward thinking some of our early scientists and engineers were!]


Solar Aero’s completely enclosed model avoids drawbacks of bladed turbines such as noise, radar interference, visual pollution and wildlife injuries — while retaining high efficiency ratings. With only one rotating component (a turbine/driveshaft/alternator assembly) and no heavily loaded bearings, the turbine is expected to deliver power at a cost comparable to coal-fired power plants.

Our turbine has lower maintenance requirements than bladed turbines. In addition, all generation equipment can be located at ground level while the turbine is supported on magnetic bearings, thus eliminating the need for up-tower routine maintenance. Yaw bearings will be permanently lubricated. Reduced life-cycle costs make the unit desirable for urban rooftops and for use where support and maintenance infrastructure is limited.

The non-interfering nature of this design makes it suitable for erection near military surveillance and radar installations.

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