Latest news with #BWT
Sustainability Times
22-06-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'They Make No Sound at All': Bladeless Wind Turbines Get Radical Redesign That Delivers Silent Power With Stunning Efficiency
IN A NUTSHELL 🌬️ Researchers at the University of Glasgow have developed a groundbreaking bladeless wind turbine technology. technology. 🔇 The new design promises quieter and more efficient power generation with reduced maintenance needs. power generation with reduced maintenance needs. 🦅 BWTs are safer for wildlife and have a smaller footprint, making them ideal for urban environments. and have a smaller footprint, making them ideal for urban environments. 📈 The study identifies optimal design parameters that could lead to outputs of up to 460 watts, significantly improving current prototypes. In the ever-evolving world of renewable energy, bladeless wind turbines (BWTs) are emerging as a groundbreaking alternative to traditional turbines. These innovative structures, developed through the expertise of researchers at the University of Glasgow, promise to revolutionize the way we harness wind power. By replacing the conventional blade design with a more streamlined and efficient form, BWTs are poised to transform our energy landscape. Through advanced computer simulations, scientists have pinpointed the optimal designs for these turbines, paving the way for their integration into national electricity grids. This article explores the intricacies and potential of this remarkable technology. Understanding Bladeless Wind Power Conventional wind turbines have long dominated the landscape of renewable energy, leveraging the rotational motion of blades to convert wind into electricity. However, BWTs operate on a unique principle known as vortex-induced vibration (VIV). Instead of rotating blades, these turbines utilize tall, slender masts that sway in response to wind currents. The oscillation, amplified when it matches the structure's natural vibration frequency, is directly converted into electricity. This innovative approach not only minimizes noise but also reduces maintenance needs, making it a more efficient solution. The recent study by University of Glasgow researchers demonstrates that the most efficient BWT designs do not necessarily produce the highest power output. Instead, the research identifies an ideal balance between design variables that maximizes energy extraction while maintaining structural integrity. The findings suggest a mast design measuring 31.4 inches in height and 25.4 inches in diameter, capable of delivering up to 460 watts of power, a significant improvement over current prototypes. 'Twice the height of the Statue of Liberty': this colossal wind turbine blade makes waves as it's loaded in China The Advantages of Bladeless Design One of the most notable benefits of BWTs is their silent operation. Traditional turbines often produce noise pollution, which can be a nuisance to nearby communities. The bladeless design eliminates this issue, providing a quieter alternative that is more compatible with urban environments. Additionally, the absence of rotating blades makes BWTs safer for wildlife, reducing the risk of bird collisions commonly associated with conventional turbines. BWTs also offer a more compact footprint, occupying less land area than their traditional counterparts. This characteristic makes them ideal for areas where space is limited. Furthermore, the simplified design of BWTs means they require less maintenance, lowering operational costs and increasing their overall appeal as a sustainable energy solution. 'She Solved It in Her Dorm Room': Student Cracks 100-Year-Old Math Problem Revolutionizing Wind Turbine Efficiency Forever Pioneering Research and Future Implications The groundbreaking research conducted by the University of Glasgow marks a significant step forward in the development of BWTs. By employing computer simulations, researchers have identified the 'sweet spot' in design that maximizes power generation without compromising structural strength. This insight is crucial for scaling up BWTs to produce even more significant amounts of energy, potentially reaching outputs of 1 kilowatt or more. The implications of this research extend beyond academic circles. Companies in the renewable energy sector are beginning to explore the potential of BWTs. The partnership between BMW and Aeromine Technologies to test bladeless wind power at the Oxford MINI Plant is a testament to the technology's growing appeal. As these prototypes continue to demonstrate their efficacy, we can expect a broader adoption of BWTs in the coming years. 'Prepare for 20 years of free energy': Dragonfly-shaped marvel replaces wind turbines with groundbreaking technology Charting the Path Forward As the world confronts the challenges of climate change and the need for sustainable energy solutions, BWTs offer a promising path forward. Their unique design and operational advantages position them as a viable alternative to traditional wind turbines. The research findings published in the journal Renewable Energy provide a roadmap for future development, encouraging the industry to innovate and refine these designs further. The potential for BWTs to contribute significantly to global energy needs is vast. With continued investment and research, these turbines could soon become a staple of our renewable energy infrastructure, offering a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient means of harnessing wind power. As we look to the future, the question remains: How will the integration of bladeless wind turbines reshape our energy landscape, and what new innovations will they inspire in the quest for sustainable power? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (28)
Newsweek
08-06-2025
- Automotive
- Newsweek
Alpine F1 Unveils Smart Sneakers With Built-In Chip for Exclusive Access
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The Alpine Formula One team is not only upping its game on track, but it is also enhancing the fan experience by quite a margin. The team has launched unique travel sneakers that offer exclusive access to customers and connect them to Alpine's "loyalty ecosystem." Alpine partnered with Endstate, a footwear and technology company based in Boston, to develop the sneakers that come with an NFC chip embedded in the tongue. Customers can tap their phones to gain access to exclusive Alpine F1 experiences and product authentication. The handcrafted tech sneakers are made in Portugal with a leather upper and rubber outsole, designed to be worn by all genders. Franco Colapinto of Argentina driving the (43) Alpine F1 A525 Renault on track during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Spain at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on May 31, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. Franco Colapinto of Argentina driving the (43) Alpine F1 A525 Renault on track during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Spain at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on May 31, 2025 in Barcelona, calls the partnership the amalgamation of high-performance motorsport with modern footwear design backed by technology. The product description states: "BWT Alpine Formula 1 Team have partnered with Endstate to create a contemporary luxury sneaker designed specifically for the racing team. The collaboration marks a significant milestone in merging high-performance motorsport with modern footwear design embedded with technology. "Each Alpine x Endstate sneaker seamlessly integrates an Endstate NFC chip (3chip) embedded within the tongue, transforming the shoes into a gateway for exclusive Alpine experiences and product authentication. The 3chip activates through a simple smartphone tap, instantly connecting owners to Alpine's loyalty ecosystem." The BWT Alpine Formula One Team Travel Sneaker is here! 👟 Crafted with @Endstate, each pair features an embedded chip unlocking exclusive BWT Alpine Formula One Team experiences and authenticating your — BWT Alpine Formula One Team (@AlpineF1Team) June 7, 2025 The Alpine F1 team has also been witnessing technological and managerial changes in its efforts to climb the pecking order. The team's senior advisor, Flavio Briatore, has assumed the team boss role after the exit of Oliver Oakes in May, until a new team principal takes charge. Briatore joined Alpine last year, and since his onboarding, the Enstone outfit has been preparing to not only enhance performance in the current season but also plan for next year, when the sport enters a new era of regulations. Addressing the changes, Briatore told F1: "We're back in the business, with Alpine. Not easy because the team has gone through a lot of change, especially in the last four or five years, not only now. But little by little, we try to put the team together, the people together. "We're looking for next year as well – for the new engine and the new gearbox from Mercedes-Benz. So, this is our goal for next year. In the meantime, we need to be more competitive. We are not competitive for the moment, like I want, but [it] takes time." Speaking on the progress made in finding a new team principal, Briatore said: "We're looking. For the moment, nothing changed. I feel sorry for Ollie, honestly, because I had a very good relationship with him. He was a good team principal. "Everybody knows for personal reasons he stopped and resigned from Alpine. We're looking. We don't want to make any mistake. I'm prepared to take some time. But the moment we decide what is the new team manager, put in this way, we'll tell you."
