The innovative wind and solar powered hybrid street lamp concept can not only produce light by using renewable energy, also it’s a boost to an everyday object that can operate completely off-grid. This concept was derived from the effort of designers to create a more sustainable future that integrates a range of reusable energy technologies into everyday life objects. These lamps comprise a solar array connected with a wind turbine, and can produce up to 380W of power.
These wind/solar powered street lamps are fitted to locally made, usual galvanized steel poles and can be easily swapped with previous street lamps. The turbines can be either a horizontal axis wind turbine or a 2nd generation 300W vertical axis wind turbine. Two solar panels are mounted on the side of the pole that is capable of producing up to 80W of power.
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The innovative conceptual product by Laura Sink of The Art Institute of Pittsburg is an interesting one. Natura Levo, is a small, vertical-axis wind turbine whose primary purpose is to catch wind from any direction. The beautifully shaped stationary shape is the center axis for the design, which can be mounted to any existing structure like a telephone pole or even the usual backyard and once mounted the device, is used to catch wind. It’s a nice and simple way to make us aware of the need to coexist within the natural surrounding. So it is a nice, sleek and practical educational tool for today’s generation.
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Wang Yigang has designed flow, a wind solar energy system. This solar and wind energy collection system uses arciform photovoltaic cells to enable a better collection of sun light. At the same time, the shell, which is composed of six photovoltaic cells, can be used as wind concentrator. The wind forms a whirlpool within. This acceleration of wind speed increases the performance of the rotor. Through movable joints, the angles of the photovoltaic cells can be adjusted so that different orientations can be made for the maximisation of sun exposure, and to vary the amount of wind entering the system. The wind energy system uses a Darrieus-type vertical axis wind turbine. It can operate normally even when the wind is not very strong. In addition, FLOW?s small size makes this system suitable for family use.
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