Wind-Lens Effect in Micro Wind Power Plant Installed in Airflow Duct

Wind power generation using duct airflow has been considered as an energy-harvesting source to power wireless sensor terminals. According to previous studies, wind power generation in ducts connected to a diffuser is stable, and use of a diffuser increases the power output. Thus, in this study, we analyzed the wind-lens effect in micro wind power plants installed in an airflow duct to use duct airflow as an energy source. Experimental findings of the study showed that the output power increased when a diffuser was connected to the exhaust port of the duct. Without a diffuser, the output power was proportional to the cube of the air velocity, and the application of a diffuser resulted in a higher output power. When the diffuser was connected, the output power characteristics were evaluated with respect to the position of the rotor inside the duct. Experimental results showed that the rotor maximized output power when it was placed inside the duct. Thus, the diffuser was found as an effective method for increasing the output power in duct-based micro wind power generation.