Tidal Energy Turbine Form Redesign with Biomimicry

Over the Christmas break I did a short term project (about 20 days) that I also entered into Design Climate Action Design competition. I think by far I really enjoy looking into different ways of harvesting energy from mundane activities, like using transducers in subway stations, or using kinetic-mechanical energy materials for stairs in densely populated areas etc.

As for this short project, I would like to contribute to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions. I am undertaking the design of a novel tidal turbine inspired by principles of bio-inspired soft robotics. The central idea revolves around creating a turbine structure that mimics the fluidity and net-like characteristics found in nature, aiming to seamlessly integrate into its surrounding environment without disrupting wildlife. My focus is primarily on the form of the turbine, emphasizing a design that allows for a more harmonious interaction with marine ecosystems compared to traditional turbines. Although the technological intricacies are not fully laid out at this stage due to time constraints, the aspiration is to develop a concept that addresses environmental concerns.

After the introduction of the meaning of tidal energy, how it works, and the current negative impact tidal turbines have on marine life (why we need change) I discuss the first step to proposing a new design – bladeless turbines by using hydrofoils instead. Their streamlined design not only reduces the environmental impact on marine life by eliminating rotating blades but also enhances efficiency in energy conversion. Hydrofoils operate by harnessing lift generated from water flow, allowing them to capture energy with reduced drag and increased effectiveness. To improve this method it is proposed to use these hydrofoils in a dual mechanism to enhance the stability and reduce energy loss. Also, I decided it would be better for the hydrofoil to move laterally to efficiently capture energy from tidal currents across a broader spectrum of flow directions.

Next I looked at fish, whales and eels to for a biomimetic design approach, drawing inspiration from nature’s efficiency, and contributing to the development of bladeless turbines that are both environmentally conscious and highly effective in harnessing tidal energy. There is also research done on using corrugated hydrofoils similar to that of a dragonfly’s wings to further enable the energy generation,

The energy collection mechanism used is called vortex-induced vibration (VIV). The key is to create a structure that interacts with vortices in the water flow. Piezoelectric materials are typically integrated into the structure, often near the trailing edge, where the vibrations are most pronounced. These materials convert the mechanical energy generated by the hydrofoil’s oscillations in response to vortices into electrical energy.

Then the form and shape are developed, taking shape into a shark’s fin, and the piezoelectric material placement is also researched. There is also a quick test on the feasibility of the design in a free online CFD software and a real-life experiment with piezoelectric discs and an LED. The theoretical prototype is drawn up and explained.

In conclusion, the development of a tidal energy device featuring a flexible fin and piezoelectric material holds promising potential for sustainable electricity generation in my opinion. The theoretical material list emphasizes durability and resistance to underwater conditions, however there could be a future focus on exploring biodegradable materials to minimize environmental impact over time. The adaptability of the design could also be suspended or attached to boats! While further
testing is crucial to validate its real-world efficacy, the project aligns with ongoing efforts by companies exploring similar concepts, demonstrating a shared commitment
to innovative and environmentally conscious solutions in the field of renewable energy. Continued research, testing, and collaboration with experts will be essential to refine the design and contribute to the advancement of tidal energy technology.