16. Applications and Implications
Overview
This week, we focus on the applications and implications of our project. We explore how design and materials can help address global challenges while developing sustainable and replicable solutions. We document the costs, processes, and evaluations required to effectively implement the wind wall.
What will it do?
The wind wall will generate renewable electrical energy using modular wind turbines, maximizing wind capture in urban and rural areas. It will also enable monitoring of performance data, promoting energy sustainability and reducing dependence on non-renewable sources.
Who has done what beforehand?
Projects like the "Wind Turbine Wall" by Joe Doucet and the "WindTree" by NewWind have explored the integration of small wind turbines in urban structures, showcasing how renewable energy can combine with innovative design.
What will you design?
We will design the blades, the structure of the wall, and a monitoring system. The blades will be optimized to capture multidirectional wind and will be mounted on metal shafts with stepper motors to generate electricity.
What materials and components will be used? How much will they cost?
| Qty | Description | Price | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | NEMA17 Motors | $11.00 USD each | Impresoras 3D Puebla SAS de CV |
| 5 | Couplings for NEMA17 | $2.20 USD each | Impresoras 3D Puebla SAS de CV |
| 4 | PLA Filament (Red) | $30.00 USD per spool | Impresoras 3D Puebla SAS de CV |
| 3 | PLA Filament (Black) | $30.00 USD per spool | Impresoras 3D Puebla SAS de CV |
| 5 | Floor Pillow Blocks | $13.00 USD each | Impresoras 3D Puebla SAS de CV |
| 1 | Acrylic Sheets | $50.00 USD | Home Depot |
| 20 meters | 2mm Aluminum Profiles | $5.00 USD per meter | Local Supplier |
| 5 | PCBs | $2.20 USD each | China |
| 5 | 100 µF Electrolytic Capacitors | $0.10 USD each | Local Electronics Store |
| 5 | 1N4148 Diodes | $0.05 USD each | Local Electronics Store |
| 5 | Resistors | $0.02 USD each | Local Electronics Store |
| 5 | Jumpers | $0.10 USD each | Local Electronics Store |
| 5 | ATTiny85 Microcontrollers | $1.50 USD each | Local Electronics Store |
| 1 | XIAO ESP32C3 | $9.00 USD | Amazon |
| 1 | Vinyl | $10.00 USD | Local Supplier |
| 50 | Screws | $0.05 USD each | Local Hardware Store |
| 50 | Nuts | $0.05 USD each | Local Hardware Store |
Where will they come from?
The materials, including PLA, aluminum, and electronic components, will be sourced from local suppliers and specialized vendors in digital manufacturing and electronics.
What parts and systems will be made?
The parts to be made include the blades (via 3D printing), the wall structure (assembled with aluminum profiles and acrylic), and the electronic system for energy generation and monitoring.
What processes will be used?
Several processes will be employed to design, build, and integrate the components of the wind wall. These include:
- 3D printing for the blades.
- Cutting and assembling aluminum profiles.
- Integrating electronics for energy generation and monitoring.
- Developing a web system for data visualization.
What questions need to be answered?
- What is the energy efficiency of the system under different wind speeds?
- How can the blades be optimized to maximize energy capture?
- Is the design scalable for other applications or dimensions?
How will it be evaluated?
The evaluation of the wind wall will focus on its performance, durability, and system effectiveness. Specifically, the following aspects will be measured:
- The amount of energy generated (kWh) under various wind conditions.
- The durability and maintenance requirements of the materials.
- The effectiveness of the monitoring system.