Grant: Applied Research Tools and Instruments Grants

If wind turbines and humans are to peacefully co-exist in this age of renewable energy, the turbines had better be quiet. Ongoing and recent public concern over the installation of wind turbines near populated areas underlies the need for the development of a next-generation wind turbine that is quiet, efficient and can become an unobtrusive part of the urban landscape. Fanshawe College is assisting partner Vital Group Inc. with such a new-style turbine. The college has requested NSERC support to purchase acoustic and vibration measuring equipment. This will allow researchers to evaluation the levels of noise emissions coming from turbines. In addition, wind turbines attached to structures, such as commercial and apartment buildings and homes, must remain stable and operate with minimal levels of vibration. This is essential if the turbines are to stay affixed to their structures and not present a safety hazard to passers-by. Acquisition of the equipment also will allow the college to engage in future projects with other motorized equipment manufacturers and integrators. Companies will benefit from access to college expertise and resources. Faculty will gain new knowledge and insights to bring back to students via classroom teaching. College students will play an important role in this applied research, and will benefit from a real world, hands-on learning experience that complements their conventional learning experiences.