Tree-Inspired Wind Turbine

Feb-04-17 A biomimetic tree that generates electricity via its shaking ‘leaves’ could offer an attractive—and safer—alternative to conventional wind turbines.

Developed by a group from Iowa State University, the device’s design is based on the leaves of the cottonwood tree, which feature flat leaf stalks that cause a regular oscillation pattern—ideal for energy generation. The team placed strips of specially crafted plastic in the leaf stalks, which will generate electricity when bent by the wind.

The team believes the tree-inspired turbine could have applications in homes or smaller workspaces, where the need for power is not so great, and aesthetics matters more.

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[DIGITALJOURNAL.COM]
[NEWS.IASTATE.EDU]

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