Origami-inspired urban wind turbines: Scalable bladeless designs for decentralized renewable energy

Abstract

This study addresses the challenges of deploying small wind turbines (SWTs) in urban environments, particularly issues related to societal objections, noise, and wildlife safety. To tackle these problems, we introduce a novel origami-inspired bladeless wind turbine that redirects axial airflow into tangential forces using internal diffuser conduits. Two 3D-printed prototypes, with rotor diameters of 15.28 cm (Model 1) and 15.74 cm (Model 2), were evaluated in a controlled wind tunnel under various scenarios, including free rotation, generator load, and variable resistive loads. We tested performance under four experimental conditions to determine power output and cut-in speeds. Results indicate that these turbines achieve high efficiency and power output at low wind speeds, with cut-in speeds of 3.2 m/s for free rotation and 5.3 m/s for loaded generation. The innovative modular design not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also allows for seamless integration into urban architectures, supporting hybrid energy systems and off-grid applications. This research advances the field by demonstrating the potential of origami-inspired turbines to overcome the limitations of conventional SWTs, providing a scalable and sustainable energy solution for modern urban settings. This research contributes to urban sustainability by offering a clean, quiet, and aesthetically adaptable solution that enhances public acceptance and environmental compatibility.