Conceptualization of a Small‐Scale Bladeless Wind Turbine Utilizing the Scotch‐Yoke Mechanism

The absence of blades and many mobile mechanical parts in the bladeless wind turbine design prevents the effect on birds, as well as reduces environmental noise and maintenance costs. Moreover, a bladeless wind turbine occupies less space compared to conventional wind turbines; hence, more bladeless wind turbines can be installed in the same space. To achieve an efficient conversion of vibrational motion to electrical energy by bladeless turbines, several motion‐conversion mechanisms have been employed. This project presents an exploratory study of another efficient mechanism potentially to be incorporated into the design of conceptual bladeless turbines, that is, the scotch‐yoke mechanism. The main components of the design include a conical mast, a curved‐arm connector, and a scotch‐yoke mechanism. Analytical deductions and calculations were performed to ensure the smooth implementation of the design. It was found that a total theoretical force of 585.21 N was exerted on the system. At optimal operations, the maximum displacement, velocity, and acceleration of the scotch‐yoke mechanism could be 0.088 m, 0.855 m/s, and 5.848 m/s 2 , respectively. At a cut‐in wind speed of 3.5 m/s, cut‐out speed of 25 m/s, and rated wind speed of 14 m/s, the system may produce power of 945.39 W and a minimum power of 14.77 W. This bladeless wind turbine model has the potential to be advantageous in terms of simplicity, cost, durability, power output, and environmental interactions.