
The quietrevolution vertical axis turbine, say developers, was designed in response to demand for turbines that work well in urban environments, where winds speeds are lower and wind directions change frequently.
UK-based wind-energy company quietrevolution says it will use PLM software from Dassault Systèmes, Paris, to improve design and manufacturing of its wind energy generators. Having calculated a mathematically correct shape for its aerodynamically-optimized vertical axis rotor blades, quietrevolution uses Dassault’s Catia to design, engineer, and manufacture its turbines. The company says Catia helps them capitalize on the growing demand for wind turbines by providing an efficient design, development, and production platform that lets it make the most of its resources.
“Product development is the heart of our work,” says quietrevolution Design Manager Richard Kingsley. “In the short time we have been using Catia, it has significantly improved our ability to efficiently complete a design-to-manufacture processes of advanced structures. The software lets us digitally design, sign off, investigate tooling feasibility, build products, and communicate 3D designs. It’s used in our supply chain and lets us exchange native files with partners which leads to more efficient production.”
“Using the best practices developed with manufacturers from other industries lets wind-turbine manufacturers avoid costly trial and error in the real world,” says Dassault’s Director Mike Crow. “The software shortens development cycles while manufacturing stronger products with higher energy outputs by combining design, testing, and manufacturability analysis in a single environment.”
Filed Under: Components, Turbines