E x a m i n i n g P h y s i c a l a n d M e t a p h y s i c a l P e r f o r m a n c e
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Figure 1: SWIFT
TM
wind turbine
Swift
TM
is the building mountable silent wind turbine. The swift wind turbine designed
with a horizontal axis, produces less than 35dB at all wind speeds which is less than a
whisper due to its diffuser ring. SWIFT
TM
has electrical and mechanical safety system
and it exceeds all the UK and European safety standards for small scale wind generators.
This turbine can provide one third to one half (2000Wh) of an average household energy
requirements in good site conditions, with a payback period of 5 years (Renewable
Devices 2011). The technical team of SWIFT
TM
is partnered with creative designers in
order to improve its aesthetical integration along with performance. The brackets
provided by SWIFT
TM
are specifically designed to absorb various vibrations from the
turbine. The SWIFT
TM
is eligible for granting funds from the Low Carbon Buildings
Programme (UK wide), Communities and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES) in
Scotland. Swift
TM
wind turbine generates maximum amount of energy at wind speeds
between 12m/s and 14m/s (Better Generation 2012). After which the turbine furling will
kick into action rotating the blades out of the wind direction, slowing the rotor down
(Renewable Devices 2011). If the wind speed still increases, the electronic brakes will
reduce the speed of the rotor further reducing the power output (Figs.2 & 3). In case of
storm, if both the systems are insufficient the turbine will shut down. The sensors come
into action in case any shocks is recognized due to unidentified objects or unbalancing of
the wind turbine and shut down the system till it is manually reset after visual inspection
(Renewable Devices 2011).
