Optimized Structural Support for Wind Turbine Blades
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept applies the core technology of the original patent to optimize structural support in wind turbine blades, reducing fatigue, vibration, and increasing stability.
Background and Problem Solved
Traditional wind turbine blades often suffer from structural weaknesses, leading to reduced efficiency and lifespan. The original patent's innovative support structures for golf club heads can be adapted to address these limitations, providing a novel solution for the wind energy industry.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept utilizes a network of slender connected elements to provide improved curvature and rate of change of curvature, withstanding high wind loads and reducing fatigue. The elements are designed using computer-aided design software and manufactured using additive techniques, ensuring optimized structural support. The system can be integrated with sensors and processing units to monitor and optimize the structural integrity of wind turbine blades.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the original patent's technology to the wind energy industry, providing an inventive step in optimizing structural support for wind turbine blades. The specific combination of curvature, rate of change of curvature, and additive manufacturing techniques constitutes a non-obvious innovation.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include variations in the design of the support elements, such as different geometries or materials. The inventive concept could also be applied to other industries, such as aerospace or construction, where optimized structural support is critical.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the wind energy industry, enabling the development of more efficient and durable wind turbine blades. The target market includes wind turbine manufacturers, wind farm operators, and renewable energy companies.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A63 | A63B53/0487 |
| A | A63 | A63B53/0408 |
| B | B22 | B22F10/14 |
| B | B22 | B22F10/80 |
| B | B33 | B33Y10/00 |
| A | A63 | A63B53/0412 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Advanced Manufacturing and Structural Design, focusing on additive manufacturing techniques for complex geometrical components in sports equipment and industrial applications
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer with expertise in computer-aided design, additive manufacturing, and structural optimization, possessing knowledge of binder jet 3D printing and advanced geometric modeling techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the core manufacturing methodology and structural support principles from the golf club head patent can be readily translated to wind turbine blade design by applying known additive manufacturing techniques and structural optimization principles. The fundamental approach of creating complex, curved support structures with smooth geometric transitions is directly transferable between different mechanical systems. The technical problem of reducing structural fatigue through optimized support geometry is a common engineering challenge across multiple domains.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,851 |
|---|---|
| Title | Support structures for golf club heads and methods of manufacturing improved support structures |
| Assignee(s) | Topgolf Callaway Brands Corp. |