The next steps...
The most important step at the moment is the construction of a scaled-down wind turbine on which all functions - electrical, mechanical, electronic - and controls can be tested, tried out and optimized. SAILWIND 4 has a diameter of 4 m and an output of 5 kWp. It is important to us that SAILWIND 4 has all the features of a large machine.
In almost every textbook on wind turbines, Greek sail windmills are depicted and explained superficially. However, they have been completely neglected from the technical-scientific side and have hardly been investigated properly. It is known, what power is expected to be produced by small test rotors up to 1 m in diameter, measured in a wind tunnel. The performance coefficients cp are given as 0.25 to 0.30. In the past, sail windmills were only built with the experience of mill builders, passed on from generation to generation. Wood was back then the material of choice, replaced progressively by steel.
There are no studies on static and dynamic loads under real wind conditions. In addition, we now have available new, previously unimaginable, materials. Scientific approaches on improving the effectiveness of sail windmills have never been pursued, which currently result e.g. through CFD optimization of the sails and mechatronics. Also, there have never been any sound measurements on running mills under real conditions. We want to close these gaps.
We want to scientifically examine SAILWIND at the University Konstanz in order to exploit the full potential of these machines. For this we need your support.
Let us think SAILWIND ahead together!
We need to become faster in the energy transition!
Where do we currently stand?
The CAD model of SAILWIND 4 is ready and designed in all details; all manufacturing drawings already exist. In principle, construction of the prototype could start tomorrow. A large part of the electronic controls and data transmission are also ready. The electrical concept including generator and inverter has been specified. The machine is equipped with numerous load sensors so that dynamic high-resolution load and performance data can be obtained.
Lighthouse project
at the HTWG Konstanz
SAILWIND 4 must exit the development / planning stage of the last few years and be transferred to the construction and implementation stage. At the HTWG Konstanz, SAILWIND 4 is to be carried out as an interdisciplinary project in the field of sustainable energy production. Professors and enthusiastic students from several faculties (mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and information technology, civil engineering) work together on the construction and the investigations under the project manager. The HTWG Konstanz provides all the lab facilities, space and framework conditions for SAILWIND4. But the project won't work without financial aid and external help!
The project is running on voluntary initiatives and the high commitment of students. We have noticed that young people are increasingly interested in future issues (energy transition, transport transition, sustainable processes, etc.). They are fascinated in helping to shape the future and they are eager to contribute to solving the problems of our world. We are very happy about this awareness! That should be encouraged even more with your support.
Our goals
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Commitment to sustainable energy generation
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Innovative solutions for mechatronics, smart energy controls, digital twin, weather data-based forecast models and wind farm control using AI
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Interdisciplinary cooperation of the departments to promote the networked, holistic thinking and working of young people across disciplines.
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Internationality and cultural exchange (GR and other Mediterranean countries)
How can SAILWIND become a commercial success?
We are looking for a lead partner. This cooperation will be mutually worthwhile. The construction and sale of standardized SAILWIND modules (rotor + nacelle) will certainly be a profitable, new business field for a company in mechanical or mechatronical field or engineering. Further sales partners in the respective countries will work on customer projects. Wind measurements for yield calculations, civil engineering, permits, construction work, as well as erection and start-up of the wind turbine. We are planning to establish later a start-up company, to which rights and know-how for the overall planning, construction and sales of SAILWIND systems will be nationally granted. With pleasure we would find a lead partner in Greece to start with the first SAILWIND 10 or SAILWIND 12. If the partner accompanies our HTWG project - the construction and testing of SAILWIND 4 - right from the start, he can also contribute with his ideas and work with us on the concept of big SAILWINDs. A research application for public funding could also be submitted jointly. SAILWIND is innovative!
Crisis-proof jobs and high added value in the field of RES
Jobs in the field of renewable energies (RE) and Renewable Energy Sources (RES) are crisis-proof! That is why SAILWIND systems should be built on site. New jobs are being created locally and existing ones are being secured. Above all, it is about the construction of the main mechanical components, the steel tower or the restoration and reconstruction of old mill towers (architectural work, concrete work), as well as wind measurements for yield calculations. We will need local companies and to work with us. Licenses for project planning and assembly of complete SAILWIND systems could be granted.
SAILWIND creates a significant part of the added value in one's own country. From consultants, engineers, project planners, architects to mechanics and construction workers, many professional groups are integrated. It is important to us that a large part of the profit stays in the country concerned and does not flow away across borders.
Climate Protection pays off
We want to convince mill owners, landowners and administrations, that local, decentralized energy production from wind with SAILWIND is worthwhile. Old mills can be used sensibly and be rebuilt. Not only the sight of the running machines is pleasing. It is of course important that the cash register rings and that the investment in SAILWIND is reimbursed quickly. In addition, security of power supply, independence and self-sufficiency with renewable electricity from wind will count also. Today it is no longer about just calming your conscience! Climate protection concerns all of us. We all have the duty to make the world a little better.
Cooperatives as operator model
For the construction and operation of SAILWIND systems - be it as a single system or several in a larger network - interested parties can join forces: residents, localities, communities, islanders, companies and businesses. This approach is particularly advantageous, since such initiatives are widely publicly funded. Public funding can be provided by the government or the EU from various structural programs. Local sustainability initiatives are generally eligible if the association is legally binding through a cooperative agreement. The SAILWIND team will be happy to support you with words and deeds. We have experienced specialists at HTWG Konstanz who are familiar with establishing cooperatives.
Please contact us, if you wish to set up a SAILWIND operating company. There are already many citizens groups and activists against large wind turbines. Take the next step into the future together with us! SAILWIND is an important step towards an independent power supply without diesel generators and small power plants that pollute the air and make noise.
SAILWIND in Central Europe, USA or Asia? Why not?
SAILWIND has many advantages and unique selling points compared to high-speed wind turbines with blades. There are increasing reservations among the population about large wind turbines, especially in densely populated regions. Citizens' initiatives are formed. In the vicinity of your house, high-speed small wind turbines with blade rotors are not the appropriate solution! SAILWIND, on the other hand, is clean, quiet and technically superior. The advantages are convincing!
We therefore very much hope that we will find more fans of SAILWIND here in Germany, Central Europe and worldwide. It is high time for Sailwind!
