applied
sciences
Article
Analysis of a Nature-Inspired Shape for a Vertical Axis
Wind Turbine
Javier Blanco Damota 1 , Juan de Dios Rodríguez García 1 , Antonio Couce Casanova 1 , Javier Telmo Miranda 2 ,
Claudio Giovanni Caccia 3 and María Isabel Lamas Galdo 1, *
Citation: Damota, J.B.; García, J.d.D.R.;
Casanova, A.C.; Miranda, J.T.;
Caccia, C.G.; Galdo, M.I.L. Analysis of
a Nature-Inspired Shape for a Vertical
Axis Wind Turbine. Appl. Sci. 2022,
12, 7018. https://doi.org/10.3390/
app12147018
Academic Editor: Michal Puškár
Received: 20 June 2022
Accepted: 10 July 2022
Published: 12 July 2022
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral
with regard to jurisdictional claims in
published maps and institutional affil-
iations.
Copyright: © 2022 by the authors.
Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
This article is an open access article
distributed under the terms and
conditions of the Creative Commons
Attribution (CC BY) license (https://
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/
4.0/).
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018. https://doi.org/10.3390/app12147018
1 Escuela Politécnica de Ingeniería de Ferrol, Universidade da Coruña, 15403 Ferrol, Spain;
javier.blanco.damota@udc.es (J.B.D.); de.dios.rodriguez@udc.es (J.d.D.R.G.); antonio.coucec@udc.es (A.C.C.)
2 Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Industriales, UNED, 28040 Madrid, Spain; jtelmo@ieec.uned.es
3 Department of Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Milano, 20156 Milan, Italy;
claudiogiovanni.caccia@polimi.it
* Correspondence: isabel.lamas.galdo@udc.es; Tel.: +34-881013896
Abstract: Wind energy is gaining special interest worldwide due to the necessity of reducing pollutant
emissions and employ renewable resources. Traditionally, horizontal axis wind turbines have been
employed but certain situations require vertical axis wind turbines. With a view to improve the
efficiency of a vertical axis wind turbine Savonius type, the present work proposes a bioinspired
design blade profile relying on the Fibonacci spiral. This shape is repeatedly presented in nature and
thus it leads to a bio-inspired blade profile. A numerical model was carried out and it was found that
the Fibonacci shape improves the performance of the original Savonius shape, based on semicircular
blade profiles. Particularly, the Fibonacci blade profile increases around 14% the power in comparison
with the Savonius blade profile. Besides this comparison between Savonius and Fibonacci, a research
study was carried out to improve the efficiency of the Fibonacci turbine. To this end, the effect of
several parameters was analyzed: number of blades, aspect ratio, overlap, separation gap, and twist
angle. Improvements on the average power greater than 30% were obtained.
Keywords: wind turbine; VAWT; CFD; Savonius; Fibonacci
1. Introduction
The continuously growing energy demand constitutes an important issue for society.
The main fossil resources currently employed for power generation, such as natural gas,
coal, oil, etc., generate a significant level of pollutants; moreover, these fuels are non-
renewable resources. These facts have incremented the interest in renewable energies.
Among all types of renewable energies, wind energy has experienced a rapid growth over
the last years. It is expected that wind energy will account more than 40% of all renewable
energy by 2030 [1] and 20% of the worldwide energy demand [2].
According to the orientation of the rotating axis, two types of wind turbines can be
distinguished: Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWT) and Vertical Axis Wind Turbines
(VAWT). HAWTs have a rotating axis parallel to the wind direction. These are the most
common wind turbines, employed in high power farms, although can also be found in
small sizes for mini wind power applications. On the other hand, VAWT have a rotating
axis perpendicular to the wind direction. These wind turbines are less common but
nowadays are the focus of much research due to their low power applications. The growing
worldwide demand for wind energy leads to the necessity of obtaining a more efficient use
of wind that cannot be employed by large HAWTs. To this end, VAWTs are aimed at low
scale applications, especially urban environments with poor wind conditions [3–6]. The
exploitation of these winds together with the winds exploited by large wind turbines may
considerably increase the global wind energy production.
https://www.mdpi.com/journal/applsci
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 2 of 16
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 2 of 16

Regarding VAWTs, two types can be found in the literature. The Darrieus turbine,
Regarding VAWTs, two types can be found in the literature. The Darrieus turbine,
mainly based on lift, and the Savonius turbine, mainly based on drag. The main propulsor
mainly based on lift, and the Savonius turbine, mainly based on drag. The main propulsor
effect in the Savonius turbines is the drag force acting on them, while the Darrieus rotating
effect in the Savonius turbines is the drag force acting on them, while the Darrieus rotating
principle is mainly based on the lift force actuating on the blades. The Savonius wind
principle is mainly based on the lift force actuating on the blades. The Savonius wind
turbine was initially proposed by Sigur Savonius [7] in the 1930s. This turbine is integrated
turbine was initially proposed by Sigur Savonius [7] in the 1930s. This turbine is integrated
by two semi-circular sections vertically positioned along the rotation axis. The main ad-
by two semi-circular sections vertically positioned along the rotation axis. The main
vantages are its simplicity, high start-up, low noise, and independence of the wind direc-
advantages are its simplicity, high start-up, low noise, and independence of the wind
tion [8]. In [8].
direction comparison with awith
In comparison Darrieus turbine,
a Darrieus the Savonius
turbine, the Savoniusis more recommended
is more recommended for
urban environments
for urban due due
environments to itstolower starting
its lower torque,
starting i.e.,i.e.,
torque, it needs
it needs lower
lowerwind
wind velocities
velocities
for starting. In offshore applications, the Savonius turbine is appropriated
for starting. In offshore applications, the Savonius turbine is appropriated as a hydrokinetic as a hydroki-
netic turbine
turbine to generate
to generate energy
energy fromfromtidaltidal currents
currents [9–12].
[9–12]. Despite
Despite thesethese advantages,
advantages, the
the main
main disadvantage of the Savonius turbine is its low efficiency [13,14].
disadvantage of the Savonius turbine is its low efficiency [13,14]. For this reason, these For this reason,
these
typestypes of turbines
of turbines havehave
beenbeen scarcely
scarcely employed
employed untiluntil
recent recent decades.
decades. ManyMany modifi-
modifications
cations haveproposed
have been been proposed along
along the thein
years years
orderintoorder to increment
increment the efficiency
the efficiency of the
of the Savonius
Savonius turbine. The most significant parameters analyzed in the
turbine. The most significant parameters analyzed in the scientific literature (number of scientific literature
(number
blades, of blades,
aspect aspect
ratio, ratio,
overlap, overlap, separation
separation gap, and twist gap,angle)
and twist angle) are
are analyzed analyzed
below, and a
below, and a schematic representation of them
schematic representation of them is shown in Figure 1. is shown in Figure 1.

(a) (b)
Figure
Figure Savoniusturbine;
1. 1.Savonius turbine;(a)
(a)3D
3Dview;
view;(b)
(b) lateral
lateral section.
section. H:
H: height,
height, C:
C:chord
chordlength,
length,O:O:overlap,
overlap,SG:
separation gap, D: rotor diameter, D ep : end plate diameter.
SG: separation gap, D: rotor diameter, Dep: end plate diameter.
1.1. Aspect Ratio
1.1. Aspect Ratio
The aspect ratio is the relation between the height and the rotor diameter, i.e., AR = H/D.
The aspect ratio is the relation between the height and the rotor diameter, i.e., AR =
Important discrepancies can be found in the literature regarding the optimum value of this
H/D. Important
parameter. discrepancies
While can be
some researchers found 2inasthe
propose theliterature
optimum regarding
aspect ratiothe optimum
[12], value
other researches
ofestablished
this parameter.
the optimum AR around 4 [15–17], and even higher values such as 6 [18]. [12],
While some researchers propose 2 as the optimum aspect ratio
other researches established the optimum AR around 4 [15–17], and even higher values
such
1.2.as 6 [18].
Overlap
The overlap is the distance that an inside edge penetrates into another. This parameter
1.2.
hasOverlap
been extensively studied due to its importance on power generation. As in the previous
caseThe overlapthe
regarding is the distance
aspect ratio,that an inside
different edge
values penetrates
were proposedinto another. This
as optimum and parame-
important
terdiscrepancies
has been extensively
can be foundstudied dueliterature.
in the to its importance
One canon power
refer generation.
to Sheldahl et al.As in the
[19], who
previous
proposed case regarding
10–15% thechord
of the aspectlength
ratio, different values
as optimum were proposed
overlap as optimum
value; Fujisawa [20],andwho
important discrepancies can be found in the literature. One can refer to Sheldahl
proposed 15% of the chord length; Mojola [21] and Alexander and Holownia [13], who et al. [19],
who proposed
proposed 10–15%
20–30% of the
of the chord
chord length
length; andasMenet
optimumandoverlap
Bourabaavalue;
[22],Fujisawa [20], who
who analyzed both
proposed
the aspect15% of and
ratio the chord
overlaplength; Mojola [21]
and established anand Alexander
optimum andasHolownia
overlap 24.2% when [13],AR who
= 2.
 1.3. Separation Gap
The separation gap is the width separating the inside edges of the blades. Several
proposedstudies
20–30% analyzed the length;
of the chord effect of
andthe separation
Menet gap and
and Bourabaa [22],most of them concluded
who analyzed both that the
the aspect ratio and
optimum overlap
value and [12]
is zero established an optimuminoverlap
since increments as 24.2% when
the separation AR = 2.the power of the
gap reduce
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 3 of 16
wind turbine due to reductions in the quantity of air in the blade opposed to the move-
1.3. Separation Gap
ment.
The separation gap is the width separating the inside edges of the blades. Several
1.3. Separation
studies 1.4.
analyzed theofeffectGapof the separation gap and most of them concluded that the
Number Blades
optimum valueThe is zero [12] since
separation increments
gap in the
is the width separationthe
separating gap reduce
inside the power
edges of the of the Several
blades.
wind turbine Many
studies toresearchers
due analyzed
reductions concluded
in theof
the effect that
quantity ofthe
air optimum
the separation in gap and number
the blade opposed
most oftoblades
of them the is twothat
move-
concluded [16,18]
the since
ment. the power is reduced when the number of blades increases. Nevertheless,
optimum value is zero [12] since increments in the separation gap reduce the power of the an advantage
of wind
turbines
turbinewith duemore than two
to reductions blades
in the is that
quantity of airthe starting
in the torque is
blade opposed lower
to the [19]. This is
movement.
especially
1.4. Number of Bladesimportant under low velocity wind conditions, where turbines with more than
two1.4. Number
blades areofconcluded
Blades
appropriate
Many researchers thatalthough
the optimum theynumber
provide less efficiency.
of blades is two [16,18] since
Many researchers
the power is reduced when the number concluded that the
of blades optimumNevertheless,
increases. number of blades is two [16,18] since
an advantage
1.5.the
of turbines power
Twist
with is reduced
Angle
more than twowhenbladestheisnumber
that theofstarting
blades torque
increases. Nevertheless,
is lower [19]. Thisanisadvantage
especially important under low velocity wind conditions, where turbines withismore
of turbines with more than two blades is that the starting torque lower [19]. This is
than
The twist
especially angle isunder
important the angle
low between
velocity windtheconditions,
upper andwhere lowerturbines
sections of the
with more blades,
than Fig-
two blades are appropriate although they provide less efficiency.
uretwo 2. Lee et al. [23] analyzed 0°, 45°, 90°, and 135°
blades are appropriate although they provide less efficiency. twist angles and found that the opti-
mum
1.5. Twist Anglevalue is 45°. Zhao et al. [18] analyzed 90°, 180°, 270°, and 360° and found that the
1.5. Twistvalue
optimum Angleis 180°. Damak et al. [24,25] compared two Savonius turbines with 0° and
The twist angle is the angle between the upper and lower sections of the blades, Fig-
180° The twist angle is the angle between the upper higher
and lower sections of the blades,
ure 2. Lee et twist
al. [23]angles and0°,
analyzed found thatand
45°, 90°, the latter
135° provided
twist angles and power
found coefficients.
that the opti-
Figure 2. Lee et al. [23] analyzed 0◦ , 45◦ , 90◦ , and 135◦ twist angles and found that the
mum value is 45°. Zhao et al. [18] analyzed 90°, 180°, 270°, and 360° and found that the
optimum value is 45◦ . Zhao et al. [18] analyzed 90◦ , 180◦ , 270◦ , and 360◦ and found that
optimum value is 180°. Damak et al.◦ [24,25] compared two Savonius turbines with 0° and
the optimum value is 180 . Damak et al. [24,25] compared two Savonius turbines with 0◦
180° twist and
angles180and found
◦ twist thatand
angles the found
latter provided higher
that the latter power coefficients.
provided higher power coefficients.

(a) (b)

Figure 2. Twist
(a)angle; (a) 3D view; (b) upper view. (b)
Figure
Figure 2.1.6.
Twist 2. Twist
angle; angle;
(a) 3D view;(a) 3Dupper
(b) view;view.
(b) upper view.
Blade Profile
1.6.One
BladeofProfile
the most significant improvements proposed in the literature consists of em-
1.6. Blade Profile
ploying bladethe
One of most significant
profiles different improvements proposedprofile
from the semicircular in the literature
initially consists
proposed of em-
by Sigur
One of the most
ploying bladesignificant
profiles improvements
different from proposed
the in the literature
semicircular profile consists
initially of em- by Sigur
proposed
Savonius
ploying blade
[7].
profiles
Some examples are the models of Kumar et al. [26], Alom and Saha [27],
Savonius [7].different from the are
Some examples semicircular
the models profile initially
of Kumar et proposed
al. [26], Alomby Sigur
and Saha [27],
Savonius Kacprzak
[7]. Someetet al. [28], Benesh
examples [29], Mohamed
are the [29],
models of Kumar et al.
al. [30],
et[30], [26], and Chan et al.[27],
[31], as illustrated
Kacprzak al. [28], Benesh Mohamed et al. and Alom
Chan et andal. Saha
[31], as illustrated in
in
Kacprzak et Figure
al. 3a,f,
[28], respectively.
Benesh [29], Mohamed et al. [30], and Chan et al. [31], as illustrated
Figure 3a,f, respectively.
in Figure 3a,f, respectively.

(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f)

(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f)
Figure 3. Some
3. Some modified
modified profiles
profiles proposed
proposed in the
in the literature; (a)Kumar
Kumaretetal.al.[26];
[26]; (b) Alom and
Figure
Figure 3. Some modified profiles proposed in the literature; (a) literature;
Kumar et al.(a)[26]; (b) Alom and (b) Alom and
SahaSaha [27]; (c) Kacprzak et al. [28]; (d) Benesh [29]; (e) Mohamed et al. [30]; (f) ChanChan
[27]; (c) Kacprzak et al. [28]; (d) Benesh [29]; (e) Mohamed et al. [30]; (f) et al. [31].
et al. [31].
Saha [27]; (c) Kacprzak et al. [28]; (d) Benesh [29]; (e) Mohamed et al. [30]; (f) Chan et al. [31].

The present work proposes an innovative nature-inspired blade profile based on the
Fibonacci sequence. Geometrically, this sequence constitutes a spiral that is presented in
many natural contexts such as vegetables, animals, and nature phenomena in general, as
shown in Figure 4. Since the Fibonacci spiral is highly presented in nature, and thus is
consequence of millions of years of evolution, it is appropriate to propose this geometry
 The present work proposes an innovative nature-inspired blade profile based on th
Fibonacci sequence. Geometrically, this sequence constitutes a spiral that is presented i
many natural contexts such as vegetables, animals, and nature phenomena in general, a
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 shown in Figure 4. Since the Fibonacci spiral is highly presented in nature, 4 ofand
16 thus i
consequence of millions of years of evolution, it is appropriate to propose this geometr
for VAWT wind turbines, obtaining a bio-inspired blade profile. In relation to this, som
for VAWTof
authors wind
the turbines, obtaining
present work a bio-inspired
have proposed ablade profile. Inshape
bio-inspired relation
fortoa this, some
marine propulso
authors of the present work have proposed a bio-inspired shape for a marine propulsor
elsewhere [32–35], improving the performance of the traditional propellers for certain ap
elsewhere [32–35],
plications. These improving the performance
works demonstrate of the traditional
that sometimes nature can propellers for certain
appropriately inspire me
applications. These works demonstrate that sometimes nature can appropriately inspire
chanical devices with surprising results.
mechanical devices with surprising results.

(a) (b) (c)

Figure 4. Examples of the Fibonacci spiral in nature. (a) Snail shell; (b) Fran hurricane, September
Figure 4. Examples of the Fibonacci spiral in nature. (a) Snail shell; (b) Fran hurricane, Septembe
1996 [36]; (c) Whirlpool Galaxy [37].
1996 [36]; (c) Whirlpool Galaxy [37].
The Fibonacci blade profile proposed in the present work and its modifications to
improveThethe
Fibonacci blade
performance profile
were proposed
analyzed in the present
numerically. work work
In a previous and its modifications
[38], the Fi- t
improve
bonacci the was
shape performance
proposed were analyzed
to investigate thenumerically. In a of
effect of number previous work [38],
blades, aspect ratio,the Fibo
overlap, separation
nacci shape gap, and twist
was proposed angle. Thethe
to investigate present
effectwork aims toof
of number analyze the
blades, effect ratio,
aspect of over
these parameters. To this end, a numerical model was carried out based on CFD (Com-
lap, separation gap, and twist angle. The present work aims to analyze the effect of thes
putational
parameters.Fluid
ToDynamics).
this end, a This model was
numerical modelvalidated with experimental
was carried out based onmeasurements
CFD (Computationa
obtained elsewhere [20].
Fluid Dynamics). This model was validated with experimental measurements obtaine
2.elsewhere
Materials [20].
and Methods
2.1. Numerical Model
2. Materials and previously,
As mentioned Methods a numerical model was developed to analyze several modi-
fications of a VAWT
2.1. Numerical ModelSavonius type. Numerical models present important advantages over
experimental setups. Contrary to the high cost and time necessaries to carry out experi-
As mentioned previously, a numerical model was developed to analyze several mod
mental measurements of different configurations, the CFD model developed constituted a
ifications of a VAWT Savonius type. Numerical models present important advantage
tool to fast and cheaply analyze different geometries performance parameters. Moreover,
over experimental
numerical setups.
models provide Contrary
interesting to the high
information cost and
regarding time necessaries
the velocity and pressureto field
carry out ex
perimental
that measurements
are too complicated of different
to measure configurations, the CFD model developed const
experimentally.
tutedThea software
tool to fast and cheaply
OpenFOAM analyze different
was employed. The maingeometries
reason is that performance
this is an open parameters
source and thus it allows a total access to the code to understand and manipulate
Moreover, numerical models provide interesting information regarding the velocity an it. The
governing equations
pressure field are too
that are the complicated
RANS (Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes). In particular,
to measure experimentally.
the conservation
The software of mass and momentum
OpenFOAM were implemented.
was employed. The mainAs a turbulence
reason model,
is that this is an ope
the SST k-ω was employed since several studies revealed its estimation capabilities in
source and thus it allows a total access to the code to understand and manipulate it. Th
VAWTs [39–43]. In a previous work [44], several turbulence models were compared,
governing equations are the RANS (Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes). In particular, th
and it was concluded that the SST k-ω is the most appropriate for these simulations
conservation
although of mass and cost
the computational momentum
was higherwere
thanimplemented.
other turbulenceAs amodels,
turbulence
such model,
as the the SS
k-ω was employed
commonly employedk-ε. sinceTheseveral
PIMPLEstudies
algorithmrevealed its estimation
was employed capabilities in VAWT
for the pressure–velocity
[39–43]. The
coupling. In atemporal
previous work [44],
treatment several through
was realized turbulence models
an implicit were with
method, compared,
a constant and it wa
◦
concluded
time that the SSTto k-ω
step corresponding 1 ofisrotation.
the mostInappropriate
order to reach fora quasi-state
these simulations although th
state, several
revolutions
computationalmust be
costanalyzed.
was higher Particularly, the results
than other shown
turbulence in the present
models, such aswork
the refer
commonlyto em
the 6th rotation.
ployed k-ε. The PIMPLE algorithm was employed for the pressure–velocity coupling. Th
When modeling wind turbines, it is common to employ the non-dimensional parame-
temporal treatment was realized through an implicit method, with a constant time ste
ters shown in Equations (1)–(3).
corresponding to 1° of rotation. In order to reach a quasi-state state, several revolution
must be analyzed. Particularly,
blade the results
tip tan shown
gential in theωR
velocity present work refer to the 6th ro
TSR = = (1)
tation. wind speed V
When modeling wind turbines, it is common to employ the non-dimensional param
P P
eters shown in Equations (1)–(3).
Cp = = 3
(2)
Pavailable 0.5 ρSV
 P P
Cp = = (2)
Pavailable 0.5 ρSV3

Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 5 of 16

T T
CT = = (3)
Tavailable 0.25 ρSV2 D
T T
In the equations above,CTV=is Tthe undisturbed = wind speed, ω the rotational(3)speed, P
0.25 ρSV2 D
available
the power, ρ the density of air, S the cross section area (S = DH), T the torque, CT the torque
In the equations above, V is the undisturbed wind speed, ω the rotational speed, P
coefficient, and CP the power coefficient. TSR is the ratio between the blade tip tangential
the power, ρ the density of air, S the cross section area (S = DH), T the torque, CT the
velocity and the wind
torque coefficient, and speed.
CP theThe powerpower coefficient
coefficient. TSR represents
is the ratio which
betweenfraction
the of the power
blade
in
tip tangential velocity and the wind speed. The power coefficient represents which at the
the wind is being extracted by the turbine through the projected area of the rotor
flow direction.
fraction The mass
of the power flow
in the rateisfor
wind an air
being streambyflowing
extracted through
the turbine througha surface
the pro-S is ρSV,
and therefore
jected area of the
the available
rotor at the power
flowcomes fromThe
direction. its kinetic
mass flowenergy,
rate i.e.,
for P an = 0.5 ρVSV2 =
air stream
available
flowing
0.5 ρSV3.through
The power a surface S is ρSV,
coefficient and therefore
represents the available
the ratio of the power powertocomes from its power.
the available
kinetic energy, i.e., P = 0.5 ρVSV 2 = 0.5 ρSV3 . The power coefficient represents
The available torque for an air stream is Tavailable = Pavailable/ω. Taking into account that V =
available
the ratio
ωR, of theexpression
the latter power to the available
yields that T power. The available torque for an air stream
available = Pavailable/ω = 0.5 ρSV3/(V/R) = 0.5 ρVSV2/(2
is Tavailable = Pavailable /ω. Taking into account that V = ωR, the latter expression yields that
V/D) = 0.25 ρSV2D. The torque3coefficient represents the ratio of the torque to the available
Tavailable = Pavailable /ω = 0.5 ρSV /(V/R) = 0.5 ρVSV2 /(2 V/D) = 0.25 ρSV2 D. The torque
torque,
coefficient represents the ratio of the torque to the available power
as shown in Equation (3). Obviously, since the torque, as is P = T·ω,inin
shown non-dimensional
Equation (3).
form it holds
Obviously, that
since theCpower
P = CT·TSR,
is P =asT·can
ω, inbenon-dimensional
seen in Equation (4).it holds that CP = CT· TSR,
form
as can be seen in Equation (4).
P P Tω
Cp = = = = CT TSR (4)
PP P ρSV Tω
0.5 3
0.5 ρSV 3
Cp = =
available
3
= 3
= CT TSR (4)
Pavailable 0.5 ρSV 0.5 ρSV
The domain and boundary conditions are shown in Figure 5. The dimensions are 23
The domain and boundary conditions are shown in Figure 5. The dimensions are
× 8 × 8 m. It was verified that these dimensions are large enough to avoid any border effect.
23 × 8 × 8 m. It was verified that these dimensions are large enough to avoid any border
This was checked repeating the simulation using domains 10 × 10 × 25 m and 12 × 12 × 30
effect. This was checked repeating the simulation using domains 10 × 10 × 25 m and
m12 × 12obtaining
and × 30 m andthe same results.
obtaining the sameThe boundary
results. conditions
The boundary are also
conditions areshown in this
also shown in figure.
The
this upstream
figure. The face was modeled
upstream as a velocity
face was modeled inlet, while
as a velocity the downstream
inlet, while the downstream faceface
was mod-
eled as an outlet.
was modeled as anThe exterior
outlet. faces were
The exterior modeled
faces were as free
modeled slipslip
as free in in
order
ordertotominimize
minimize border
border effects.
effects. This boundary
This boundary conditioncondition
imposesimposes a zero
a zero shearshear stress,
stress, i.e.,i.e.,
thethe tangentialvelocity
tangential
velocity derivative
derivative normal tonormal to the boundary
the boundary is zero.isThe
zero. The turbine
turbine bladesblades were treated
were treated as
as no-slip sur-
no-slip
faces. surfaces.

Figure 5. Boundary conditions.

Figure 5. Boundary conditions.
The mesh is shown in Figure 6. This figure shows a tri-dimensional view and a detail
of the middle plane. The mesh consists of tetrahedral elements from 0.05 to 0.2 m size.
The size is finer around the turbine. Two zones were established: static and rotating. The
rotating domain is a cylinder around the turbine which rotates around the turbine axis. The
static domain is the remaining region, which remains fixed. A sliding interface connects
the static and rotating domains.
 tating domain is a cylinder around the turbine which rotates around the turbine axis. The
static domain
The meshisisthe remaining
shown in Figureregion, whichshows
6. This figure remains fixed. A sliding
a tri-dimensional viewinterface connects
and a detail
of the middle plane. The mesh
the static and rotating domains. consists of tetrahedral elements from 0.05 to 0.2 m size. The
size is finer around the turbine. Two zones were established: static and rotating. The ro-
tating domain is a cylinder around the turbine which rotates around the turbine axis. The
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 6 of 16
static domain is the remaining region, which remains fixed. A sliding interface connects
the static and rotating domains.

Figure 6. 3D computational mesh and detail of the middle plane.

FigureSeveral
Figure6.6.3D
meshes withmesh
3Dcomputational
different
computationalmesh and elements
anddetail
detailofofthe
were plane.
themiddle
tested in order to verify that the results
middleplane.
are independent of the mesh size. Table 1 indicates the power coefficient obtained at TSR
Several
= 1 using meshes
four with
meshes. It different
can elements
be seen were tested
that meshes in order
3 and to verify
the that the resultsAccord-
Several meshes with different elements were tested in4order
provide
to verifysame result.
that the results
are independent of the mesh size. Table 1 indicates the power coefficient obtained at
ing
aretoindependent
this, mesh 3ofwas selected.
the mesh size. Table 1 indicates the power coefficient obtained at TSR
TSR = 1 using four meshes. It can be seen that meshes 3 and 4 provide the same result.
= 1 using four meshes. It can be seen that meshes 3 and 4 provide the same result. Accord-
According to this, mesh 3 was selected.
ing to
Table 1. this, mesh 3 wasmeshes
Computational selected.
checked.
Table 1. Computational meshes checked.
Mesh
Table 1. Computational meshes checked. Number of Elements CP at TSR = 1
Mesh
Mesh 1 1.5 × 106
Number of Elements CP at TSR = 10.226
Mesh Number of Elements CP at TSR = 1
Mesh
Mesh121
Mesh 2.9
× 10
1.5 1.5 6 × 106
× 106 0.226 0.212
0.226
Mesh
Mesh232
Mesh 3.8
× 10
2.9 2.9 6 ×6106
× 10 0.212 0.207
0.212
Mesh
Mesh343
Mesh 3.8 3.84.5
× 10 ×6106
×610 0.207 0.207
0.207
Mesh44
Mesh 4.5 4.5
× 10×610
6 0.207
0.207
Regarding the near wall cells, a boundary layer with five layers was established,
providing a y+ lower
Regarding thanwall
the near 1. cells, a boundary layer with five layers was established,
Regarding the near wall cells, a boundary layer with five layers was established,
providing a y+ lower than 1.
providing a y+ lower than 1.
2.2. Validation of the Results
2.2.Validation
2.2. Validationofofthe
theResults
Results
In order to validate the model, the numerical results were compared to experimental
Inorder
In ordertotovalidate
validatethe
themodel,
model,thethenumerical
numericalresults
resultswerewerecompared
comparedtotoexperimental
experimental
measurements of Sandia laboratories [20]. To this end, a turbine with the parameters in-
measurements
measurements of Sandia
of 7Sandia laboratories
laboratories [20]. To
[20].beTo this end,
thisthat a
end,thisturbine
a turbine with
with the parameters
the parameters in-
dicated
dicated
ininFigure
Figure 7
wasanalyzed.
was
analyzed. It
Itcan
canbe
seen
seen that this
turbine
turbine is
is composed
composed of two
ofsemi-
two semi-
indicated in Figure 7 was analyzed. It can be seen that this turbine is composed of two
circular
circularblades
blades and twosupport
and two supportendplates.
endplates. There
There ais
isThere a consensus
consensus in theinliterature
the literature regarding
regarding
semi-circular blades and two support endplates. is a consensus in the literature
thetheoptimal
optimal
regarding
size
thesize
of the
of the
optimal
endplates,
endplates,
size
around
around
of the endplates, 1.11.1 times
times
around 1.1the
the
rotor
times
rotor diameter.
thediameter.
The
The reason
rotor diameter.
reason
is that is that
The reason
very
isveryhigh
thathigh diameters
verydiameters increase
increase
high diameters rotor inertia
rotor inertia
increase [12].
[12]. [12].
rotor inertia

Figure 7. Characteristics of the turbine used for the validation procedure.

The average power coefficient against the tip speed ratio obtained numerically and
experimentally are shown in Figure 8. It can be seen that a satisfactory concordance was
obtained. It is noteworthy that the average error between numerical and experimental
results is 5.8%. Both results show a similar trend, with increments of the average power
 Figure 7. Characteristics of the turbine used for the validation procedure.

The average power coefficient against the tip speed ratio obtained numerically and
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018
experimentally are shown in Figure 8. It can be seen that a satisfactory concordance7 of was 16

obtained. It is noteworthy that the average error between numerical and experimental
results is 5.8%. Both results show a similar trend, with increments of the average power
coefficients
coefficientsand,
and,after
aftera acertain
certainvalue, decreases
value, decreases with thethe
with increase of the
increase of tip
thespeed
tip speedratio.ratio.
The
reason is thatiswhen
The reason the tipthe
that when speed ratio increases,
tip speed and thus
ratio increases, andthethus
rotation velocity,velocity,
the rotation the velocitythe
of the blade
velocity tipsblade
of the exceedstips the air velocity
exceeds the air and less power
velocity and lessis power
transferred from the from
is transferred windthe to
the turbine, reducing the net power. Several reasons may explain
wind to the turbine, reducing the net power. Several reasons may explain the small dis- the small discrepancies
obtained
crepancies between
obtained experimental and numerical
between experimental andresults. On theresults.
numerical one hand, CFDone
On the is not an exact
hand, CFD
science and discretization is applied to the mesh and governing equations.
is not an exact science and discretization is applied to the mesh and governing equations. On the other
hand,
On theexperimental methods have
other hand, experimental an inevitable
methods have antolerance.
inevitableMoreover,
tolerance.another
Moreover, important
another
source
importantof error
source is due to theisblockage
of error due to the effect. The blockage
blockage effect. The effect is caused
blockage byisemploying
effect caused by
aemploying
wind tunnel a windwithtunnel
limited dimensions.
with The flow The
limited dimensions. is restricted around the
flow is restricted turbine
around the and
tur-
cause a local acceleration of the wind velocity in the test section which
bine and cause a local acceleration of the wind velocity in the test section which incre- increments the drag
and
mentsthethe
measured
drag andpower coefficient.
the measured Blackwell
power et al.Blackwell
coefficient. [20] proposeet al.a[20]
blockage
propose correction
a block-
factor, also called velocity increment factor, to correct the experimental
age correction factor, also called velocity increment factor, to correct the experimental measurements, but
they highlight that the validity of the factor employed is questionable
measurements, but they highlight that the validity of the factor employed is questionable and it is necessary
to
anddeeply analyze corrections
it is necessary to deeply analyzefactorscorrections
for Savonius turbines.
factors More recently,
for Savonius turbines.Ross Moreand re-
Altman [45] compared several blockage corrections for Savonius turbines
cently, Ross and Altman [45] compared several blockage corrections for Savonius turbines and concluded
that the methodology employed by Blackwell et al. [20] is appropriate.
and concluded that the methodology employed by Blackwell et al. [20] is appropriate.

0.4
Experimental
Numerical
0.3
CP

0.2

0.1

0
0 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5
TSR

Figure 8.
Figure 8. C
CPP against TSR experimentally and numerically obtained.

3.
3. Results
Results and
and Discussion
Discussion
As
As the numerical model
the numerical model has
has been
been validated,
validated, aa new
new blade profile based
blade profile based on
on aa naturally-
naturally-
inspired shape, the Fibonacci spiral, is proposed in Section 3.1. Subsequently,
inspired shape, the Fibonacci spiral, is proposed in Section 3.1. Subsequently, the the effects of
effects
several parameters on the Fibonacci blade profile are analyzed in Section 3.2. The
of several parameters on the Fibonacci blade profile are analyzed in Section 3.2. The ob- objective
of Section
jective 3.2 is to3.2
of Section improve the performance
is to improve of the Fibonacci
the performance blade profile.
of the Fibonacci blade profile.
3.1. Fibonacci Sequence
3.1. Fibonacci Sequence
The Fibonacci numbers were first described in 200 BC by Indian mathematicians [46].
The Fibonacci numbers were first described in 200 BC by Indian mathematicians [46].
In the Middle Ages, they were analyzed by the Italian mathematician Leonardo of Pisa, who
In the Middle Ages, they were analyzed by the Italian mathematician Leonardo of Pisa,
was known as Fibonacci (Fillus Bonacci, i.e., the son of Bonacci). The Fibonacci sequence is
who was known as Fibonacci (Fillus Bonacci, i.e., the son of Bonacci). The Fibonacci se-
a recurrent succession given by Equations (5)–(7), where each term f depends on the two
quence is a recurrent
predecessors, n − 1 andsuccession
n − 2. given by Equations (5)–(7), where each term f depends
on the two predecessors, n − 1 and n − 2. f = 0 (5)
0

f1 = 1,f0if=n 0= 1 (5)
(6)
fn = fn−2 + fn−1 , if n > 1 (7)
The Fibonacci spiral is based on the Fibonacci sequence. The graphical representation
of the Fibonacci sequence consists of establishing squares with the size of the successive
terms, situated as shown in Figure 9. The Fibonacci spiral is also shown in this figure,
 f1 = 1, if n = 1 (6)
f1 = 1, if n = 1 (6)
fn = fn−2 + fn−1 , if n > 1 (7)
fn = fn−2 + fn−1 , if n > 1 (7)
The Fibonacci spiral is based on the Fibonacci sequence. The graphical representation
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018of the Fibonacci The
sequence
Fibonacciconsists ofisestablishing
spiral based on thesquares with
Fibonacci the size The
sequence. of the successive
graphical representation
8 of 16
terms, situated as Fibonacci
of the shown insequence
Figure 9.consists
The Fibonacci spiral issquares
of establishing also shown
with in
thethis
sizefigure,
of the successive
which is formed
terms,bysituated
circumference
as shown arcs.
in Following
Figure 9. Thethe Fibonacci sequence, the shown
spiral is also side sizesin this figure,
of these squares are 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, etc.
which is formed by circumference arcs. Following the Fibonacci sequence, thethe
which is formed by circumference arcs. Following the Fibonacci sequence, sideside sizes
sizes of
of these squares are 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55,
these squares are 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, etc. 89, etc.

Figure 9. Fibonacci spiral obtained from the Fibonacci sequence.

Figure9.9.Fibonacci
Figure Fibonaccispiral
spiralobtained
obtainedfrom
fromthe
theFibonacci
Fibonaccisequence.
sequence.
The blade profile proposed in the present work is composed by two consecutive sec-
The
The blade
tions of the Fibonacci spiral.profile
blade proposedin
Any consecutive
proposed in thepresent
terms
the present
high enoughwork
work is
lead
is composed
to the same
composed by by two
relation,
two consecutive
consecutive sec-
sections
the so-called golden
tions of
of the the
ratio Fibonacci
or divine
Fibonacci spiral.
proportion
spiral. AnyAny consecutive
[47], terms
1.61803398874986.
consecutive terms high high enough
The
enough leadlead
higher to
thethe
to the
con-
samesame rela-
relation,
tion,
secutive terms, the closer
the so-called
the so-called golden
their
golden ratioratio
relationship orto
or divinedivine
the proportion
golden
proportion [47],[47],
ratio, 1.61803398874986.
as shown in Equation
1.61803398874986. The
The(8). higher
higher the
the con-
consecutive
secutive terms, terms,
thethe closer
closer their
their relationshiptotothe
relationship thegolden
goldenratio,
ratio,asasshown
shownin inEquation
Equation (8).
(8).
fn
= 1.618033988749864... if n → ∞ , if n > 1 (8)
fn−1 fnfn
= 1.618033988749864...
= 1.618033988749864 . . . ififn → n∞, →if∞n, >if 1n > 1 (8)
(8)
fnf−n−11
According to this, each blade is composed by two curves whose ratios are related by
the golden ratio.According
Dependingto
According this,
toon theeach
this, blade
bladeisistwo
orientation,
each composed by
bytwo
possibilities
composed twocancurves whose
be applied
curves whose ratios
ratios are
(sequence arerelated
relatedby by
the
thegolden
low-high-high-lowgoldenor ratio.
ratio.Depending
sequence on
onthe
theorientation,
high-low-low-high),
Depending showntwo
orientation, possibilities
in Figure
two 10a,b.can
possibilities Forbe
can applied
applied(sequence
compari-
be (sequence
low-high-high-low
son purposes, the semicircularoror
low-high-high-low sequence
Savonius
sequence high-low-low-high),
blade profile is also shown
high-low-low-high), illustrated
shown in Figure 10a,b.
ininFigure
these ForFor
figures
10a,b. comparison
compari-
purposes,
though dotted purposes, the semicircular Savonius blade profile is also illustrated in thesethough
sonlines. the semicircular Savonius blade profile is also illustrated in these figures figures
dotted
thoughlines.
dotted lines.

(a) (b)
(a) (b)
Figure 10. Blade profiles analyzed; (a) Fibonacci I (black color dashed line), sequence low-high-high-
Figure 10. Blade profiles analyzed; (a) Fibonacci I (black color dashed line), sequence low-high-high-
low, and comparison
low, and comparison with(grey
Savonius (grey color dotted
(b) line); (b) Fibonacci II (black color dashed line),
Figure 10.with
BladeSavonius color(a)
profiles analyzed; dotted line);
Fibonacci I (blackFibonacci II (black
color dashed line),color dashed
sequence low-high-high-
sequence
line), sequence high-low-low-high,
high-low-low-high, and and comparison
comparison with with Savonius
Savonius (grey (grey
color color
dotted dotted
line). line).
low, and comparison with Savonius (grey color dotted line); (b) Fibonacci II (black color dashed
line), sequence high-low-low-high, and comparison with Savonius (grey color dotted line).
Figure 11a illustrates the average power coefficient and Figure 11b the average thrust
Figure 11a illustrates the average power coefficient and Figure 11b the average thrust
coefficient against the tip speed ratio for both Fibonacci blade profiles proposed and the
coefficient against the tip
Figure 11aspeed ratio the
illustrates for average
both Fibonacci blade profiles
power coefficient andproposed
Figure 11band
thethe
average thrust
Savonius blade profile. It can be seen that both the power and thrust coefficient increase
Savonius blade profile.against
coefficient It can be
theseen that both
tip speed ratiothe
forpower and thrustblade
both Fibonacci coefficient increase
profiles proposed and the
with the tip speed ratio up to a certain value after which it drops down. Fibonacci I
Savonius blade profile. It can be seen that both the power and thrust coefficient increase
configuration provides a higher power and thrust coefficient than Savonius one. Partic-
ularly, a 14.1% improvement on the average power coefficient was obtained and a 13.5%
improvement on the average thrust coefficient. Nevertheless, Fibonacci II configuration
provides lower power and thrust coefficients. Due to this, the Fibonacci I blade profile will
be adopted in the remaining work. The reason of the results obtained in Figure 11 is the
principle of operation of a Savonius turbine. The power is mainly produced by drag, and
the Fibonacci I configuration increments the drag force of the advancing blade and reduces
the drag force of the returning blade, increasing the net driving force.
 a 14.1% improvement on the average power coefficient was obtained and a 13.5% im-
provement on the average thrust coefficient. Nevertheless, Fibonacci II configuration pro-
vides lower power and thrust coefficients. Due to this, the Fibonacci I blade profile will be
adopted in the remaining work. The reason of the results obtained in Figure 11 is the prin-
ciple of operation of a Savonius turbine. The power is mainly produced by drag, and the
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 9 of 16
Fibonacci I configuration increments the drag force of the advancing blade and reduces
the drag force of the returning blade, increasing the net driving force.

0.4 0.6
Fibonacci I Fibonacci I
Savonius Savonius
0.5
Fibonacci II Fibonacci II
0.3
0.4

0.2
CP

CT
0.3

0.2
0.1
0.1

0 0
0 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5 0 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5
TSR TSR

(a) (b)

Figure 11. (a) C against TSR for Savonius, Fibonacci I, and Fibonacci II blade profiles; (b) C against
Figure 11. (a) CPPagainst TSR for Savonius, Fibonacci I, and Fibonacci II blade profiles; (b) CTT against
TSR for Savonius,
TSR for Savonius, Fibonacci
Fibonacci I,
I, and
and Fibonacci
Fibonacci II
II blade
blade profiles.
profiles.

Other improvements obtained by different authors are summarized in Table 2. It is

Other improvements obtained by different authors are summarized in Table 2. It is
worth mentioning that CP varies with the Reynolds number. For this reason, it is difficult
worth mentioning that CP varies with the Reynolds number. For this reason, it is difficult
to compare which shape is the most appropriate using this table since all data should be
to compare which shape is the most appropriate using this table since all data should be
analyzed under the same Reynolds number.
analyzed under the same Reynolds number.
Table 2. Results of blade shape modification of the Savonius turbine.
Table 2. Results of blade shape modification of the Savonius turbine.
Blade
Blade Profile
Profile CP Improvement
CP Improvement (%) (%) Reference
Reference
Batch
Batch 10.5 10.5 [48]
[48]
Elliptical
Elliptical 10.3 10.3 [28]
[28]
Airfoil
Airfoil 10 10 [49]
[49]
Elliptical
Elliptical 17.8117.81 [50]
[50]
Elliptical
Elliptical
8.89 8.89 [51]
[51]
Elliptical 11.34 [52]
Elliptical 11.34 [52]

Another interest aspect is related to the turbine fatigue hazard. Many VAWTs fail
due toAnother interest
blending. The aspect is related
responsible to theare
stresses turbine
cyclicfatigue hazard.
and thus promoteMany VAWTs
fatigue, failadue
and di-
to blending. The responsible stresses are cyclic and thus promote fatigue, and a dimensional
mensional parameter related to the fatigue damage is CF, Equation (9), where F represents
parameter
the related
thrust force. to the
Since thefatigue
torquedamage is in
is T = F·R, CFnon-dimensional
, Equation (9), where
formFitrepresents
holds thatthe
CT =thrust
CF.
force. Since the torque is T = F·R, in non-dimensional form it holds that CT = CF .
F
CF = F (9)
CF = 0.5 ρSV2 (9)
2
0.5 ρSV

According to this, it is important to minimize both thickness and thrust loading. To this
end, the parameter SCPmax , Equation (10) [53], represents the superiority of the maximum CP .

CPmax
SCPmax = × %t (10)
CF

In the equation above, %t represents the thickness of the blade as percentage of the
chord length. For instance, using a 5% thickness, the results corresponding to Savonius,
Fibonacci I, and Fibonacci II are shown in Table 3. It can be seen that the Fibonacci I blade
profile is the most suitable since it presents the highest SCPmax .
 CPmax
SCPmax = × %t (10)
CF
In the equation above, %t represents the thickness of the blade as percentage of the
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 chord length. For instance, using a 5% thickness, the results corresponding to Savonius,
10 of 16
Fibonacci I, and Fibonacci II are shown in Table 3. It can be seen that the Fibonacci I blade
profile is the most suitable since it presents the highest SCPmax.
Table 3. SCpmax corresponding to Savonius, Fibonacci I, and Fibonacci II.
Table 3. SCpmax corresponding to Savonius, Fibonacci I, and Fibonacci II.
Blade Profile CPmax CF at P Max SCPmax
Blade Profile CPmax CF at P Max SCPmax
Savonius 0.217 0.2614 0.415
Savonius 0.217 0.2614 0.415
Fibonacci
FibonacciI I 0.243
0.243 0.2886
0.2886 0.421
0.421
Fibonacci
FibonacciIIII 0.205
0.205 0.2494
0.2494 0.411
0.411

3.2.Design
3.2. DesignAspects
Aspectsin
inthe
theFibonacci
FibonacciBlade
BladeProfile
Profile
Oncethe
Once thesuperiority
superiorityofofthe
the Fibonacci
Fibonacci blade
blade profile
profileover
over the
the Savonius
Savonius oneone was
was demon-
demon-
strated,this
strated, thissection
sectionaims
aimstotooptimize
optimizethetheFibonacci
Fibonacciblade
bladeprofile.
profile. To
Tothis
thisend,
end,the
theeffect
effectof
of
severalparameters
several parametersisisanalyzed.
analyzed. These
These parameters
parameters are
are the
the number
number of of blades,
blades, aspect
aspect ratio,
ratio,
overlap,separation
overlap, separationgap,
gap,and
andtwist
twistangle.
angle.

3.2.1.
3.2.1.Effect
Effectofofthe
theNumber
Numberof ofBlades
Blades
The
The effect of the number ofblades
effect of the number of bladesisisshown
shownin inFigure
Figure12.
12.ItItcan
canbe
beseen
seenthat
thatthe
thepower
power
coefficients
coefficients obtained
obtained with
with three
three blades
blades are
are lower
lower than
than those
those obtained
obtained with
with two
two blades.
blades.
Using
Usingfour
fourblades,
blades,the
thepower
power coefficients
coefficientsareare
even lower.
even TheThe
lower. reason is that
reason a blade
is that deflects
a blade de-
the
flects the air flow that would focus on the next blade that, in turn, also deflects the air that
air flow that would focus on the next blade that, in turn, also deflects the air flow flow
could focus focus
that could on theonnext
theblade
next after
bladeit.after
Eachit.blade
Eachaffects
bladethe following
affects one, andone,
the following the result
and theis
that less energy from the moving air is converted into mechanical energy.
result is that less energy from the moving air is converted into mechanical energy.

0.4
N= 2
N= 3
N= 4
0.3
CP

0.2

0.1

0
0 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5
TSR
Figure12.
Figure 12.CCPP against
against TSR
TSR for
for 2,
2, 3,
3, and
and 44 blades.
blades. AR
AR == 1, O = 0, SG == 0,
0, TA
TA == 0.
0.

As
As mentioned
mentioned above, an
an advantage
advantageofofturbines
turbineswith
withmore
more than
than two
two blades
blades is that
is that the
the starting torque is lower. This is especially important under low velocity wind condi-
starting torque is lower. This is especially important under low velocity wind conditions,
tions,
wherewhere turbines
turbines with with
moremore
than than
two two blades
blades are appropriate
are appropriate although
although theythey provide
provide less
less efficiency.
efficiency.

3.2.2. Effect of the Aspect Ratio

The effect of the aspect ratio is shown in Figure 13. It can be seen that the power
coefficients increase with the aspect ratio until AR = 7. Nevertheless, above this value of the
aspect ratio the power coefficients decrease again. On the one hand, the power coefficients
increase with the aspect ratio due to a reduction of end blade losses. On the other hand,
the endplates increase the efficiency of the turbine due to the reduced escaping of air, but
this effect is reduced when the aspect ratio is increased. These opposed effects lead to an
optimum value of the aspect ratio. In particular, Figure 13 shows an increment of 31.2% of
the average power coefficient using AR = 7.
 cients increase with the aspect ratio due to a reduction of end blade losses. On the oth
the aspect ratio the power coefficients decrease again. On the one hand, the power coeffi
hand, the endplates increase the efficiency of the turbine due to the reduced escaping
cients increase with the aspect ratio due to a reduction of end blade losses. On the othe
air, but thisendplates
hand, the effect is reduced
increasewhen the aspect
the efficiency ofratio is increased.
the turbine due toThese opposedescaping
the reduced effects lea
o
to an optimum value of the aspect ratio. In particular, Figure 13 shows an increment
air, but this effect is reduced when the aspect ratio is increased. These opposed effects lead
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 31.2% of the average
to an optimum valuepower
of the coefficient using
aspect ratio. AR = 7. Figure 13 shows an11increment
In particular, of 16
o
31.2% of the average power coefficient using AR = 7.
0.4
AR = 1
0.4
AR = 4
AR = 1
AR = 7
AR = 4
0.3 AR = 10
AR = 7
0.3 AR = 10

CP CP
0.2
0.2

0.1
0.1

0
0 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5
0
0 0.3 0.6 TSR 0.9 1.2 1.5
TSR 1, 4, 7, and 10. N = 2, O = 0, SG = 0, TA = 0.
Figure 13. CP against TSR for aspect ratios
Figure13.
Figure 13.CC
PP against
against TSR
TSR forfor aspect
aspect ratios
ratios 1, and
1, 4, 7, 4, 7,10.
andN 10.
= 2,N
O == 2,
0, O
SG==0,0,SG
TA==0,
0. TA = 0.
3.2.3. Effect of the Overlap
3.2.3. Effect of the Overlap
3.2.3.The
Effect of the
effect Overlap
of the overlap is shown in Figure 14. It is habitual to represent this param
The effect of the overlap is shown in Figure 14. It is habitual to represent this parameter
eter
as O/C,The
as effect
O/C,
i.e., ofthe
therelation
i.e.,relation
the overlap
between isthe
shown
between in overlap
the
overlap Figure 14.
and chord Itlength.
and is habitual
chord canto
Itlength.berepresent
It canthat
seen this
the param
be seen that th
eter as O/C,
mostappropriate
most i.e.,
appropriate the relation
overlap
overlap between
valuevalue
is 0.15. is the
0.15.
The overlap and
Theprovides
overlap chord length.
overlapa spacing
provides It can
a spacing
between be seen
betweenthth
the blades, that
most allows
blades,
which appropriate
which theallows overlap
passage the airvalue
of passage isof0.15.
from the The the
air from
advancing overlap provides
advancing
to the returning to a spacing
the
blade. This air between
returning may th
blade. Th
blades,
lead to which
increments allows
of the the passage
power of
depending aironfrom
the the advancing
overlap
air may lead to increments of the power depending on the overlap value. value. to the returning blade. Thi
air may lead to increments of the power depending on the overlap value.
0.4
0.4 O/C = 0.00
O/C = 0.15
0.00
O/C = 0.30
0.15
0.3 0.30
O/C = 0.50
0.3 O/C = 0.50
CPCP

0.2
0.2

0.1
0.1

0
00 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5
0 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5
TSR
TSR
Figure14.
Figure 14.CCPPagainst
againstTSR
TSRfor
foroverlap–chord
overlap–chord length
length relation
relation 0, 0.15,
0, 0.15, 0.3,0.5.
0.3, and andN0.5.
= 2,NAR
= 2,= AR
1, = 1, SG
Figure 14.=C0.P against TSR for overlap–chord length relation 0, 0.15, 0.3, and 0.5. N = 2, AR = 1, SG
0,
SG TA
= 0,=TA
0.
0, TA = 0.
The phenomena caused by the overlap parameter is shown in Figure 15. It can be
seen that the overlap may increment the power coefficients because the air flows from the
advancing blade for the returning blade, increasing the pressure on the convex side. This
helps the convex side to produce power. Nevertheless, high overlaps lead to an excessive
reduction of air on the concave side of the blades, which reduces the power coefficients.
 seen that the overlap may increment the power coefficients because the air flows from
The phenomena
advancing caused
blade for the by theblade,
returning overlap parameter
increasing the is shown on
pressure in Figure
the convex15. Itside.
can
seen that the overlap may increment the power coefficients because the air flows
helps the convex side to produce power. Nevertheless, high overlaps lead to an exces from
advancing
reduction blade
of air for the concave
on the returningside
blade, increasing
of the the pressure
blades, which reducesonthe
thepower
convex side. T
coefficie
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 helps the convex side to produce power. Nevertheless, high overlaps lead12to an excess
of 16
reduction of air on the concave side of the blades, which reduces the power coefficien

Figure 15. Working principle of the Fibonacci turbine with overlap.

Figure 15. Working principle of the Fibonacci turbine with overlap.
Figure
3.2.4. 15. Working
Effect of theprinciple of the
Separation Fibonacci turbine with overlap.
Gap
3.2.4. Effect of the Separation Gap
The effect of the separation gap is shown in Figure 16. As in the previous case,
3.2.4.The
Effect of of
effect thetheSeparation
separation Gap
gap is shown in Figure 16. As in the previous case, it is
habitual toto
habitual represent
represent this this parameter
parameter as SG/C,
as SG/C, i.e., thei.e., the relation
relation between thebetween the gap
separation separation
The
andchord effect
chordlength. of
length.the separation
It can be seen gap is shown in Figure 16. As in the previous case,poi
and It can be seen that athat
zeroaseparation
zero separation gap provides
gap provides the highestthe highest
power
habitual to
coefficients.
coefficients.
represent
The
The reason
reason
this parameter
is that
is that
as SG/C,
the separation
the separation
i.e., the relation
inappropriately
inappropriately
between
directs thedirects
the separation
theconvex
air on the air on the con g
and
sidechord
side ofofthe
the length.
returning
returning It can
bucket, be seen
reducing
bucket, that a the
zero
the power
reducing separation
coefficient.
power gap provides the highest pow
coefficient.
coefficients. The reason is that the separation inappropriately directs the air on the con
side of
0.4the returning bucket, reducing the power coefficient.
SG/C = 0.00
0.4 SG/C = 0.05
SG/C= =0.00
SG/C 0.10
0.3 SG/C = 0.05
SG/C = 0.10
0.3
CP

0.2
CP

0.2

0.1

0.1

0
0 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5
0 TSR
0 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5
Figure16.16.CPCagainst
Figure P against
TSRTSR for separation
for separation gap–chord
gap–chord length length
relation relation 0, 0.05,
0, 0.05, and 0.1. Nand
= 2, 0.1.
AR =N1,= 2, AR =
TSR
O = 0, TA =
= 0, TA = 0. 0.
Figure 16. CP against TSR for separation gap–chord length relation 0, 0.05, and 0.1. N = 2, AR = 1
= 0, TAThe phenomena caused by the separation gap parameter is shown in Figure 17. It can
= 0.
The phenomena caused by the separation gap parameter is shown in Figure 17. I
be seen that the separation gap could increment the power if the pressure created on the
be seen
convex that
side the acquire
would separation gap
a value could
large increment
enough to promotethetorque
power andifthus
the power
pressure created on
on this
The side
convex phenomena caused by
would acquire the separation
a value gap parameter is torque
shown in Figure 17. It
convex side. Nevertheless, the flow path islarge enough
not able to promote
to promote torque and and
thus power thus
on powe
be seen
this
thisside.that
The the
convex flowseparation
side.that gap the
passes from
Nevertheless, could increment
theconcave
flow to the
path theable
is convex
not power
blade isifwasted
the pressure
to promote created
the thuson
and thusand
torque po
convex
power isside would
reduced as acquire
the a
separation value
gap islarge enough
increased. to promote torque
on this side. The flow that passes from the concave to the convex blade is wasted and and thus power
this
theconvex
power side. Nevertheless,
is reduced the flow path
as the separation gap is
is not able to promote torque and thus pow
increased.
on this side. The flow that passes from the concave to the convex blade is wasted and t
the power is reduced as the separation gap is increased.
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 13 o
Appl.
Appl.Sci.
Sci.2022,
2022, 12,
12, x FOR PEER REVIEW
7018 13 of 16
13 of 16

Figure 17. Working principle of the Fibonacci turbine with separation gap.
Figure 17. Working principle of the Fibonacci turbine with separation gap.
Figure 17. Working principle of the Fibonacci turbine with separation gap.
3.2.5.Effect
3.2.5. Effectofofthe
theTwist
Twist Angle
Angle
3.2.5. The
Effect
Theeffectof of
effectthe
oftheTwist
thetwist Angle
angle
twist angleis shown
is shownin Figure 18. 18.
in Figure It can be seen
It can that that
be seen a certain valuevalue
a certain
ofoftwist
twist angle isispositive since thethe
power coefficients are are
increased. 90◦ value
WithWith the the
The effect of the twist angle is shown in Figure◦18. It can be seen that value
angle positive since power coefficients increased. 90° a certain va
power coefficients are higher than those corresponding to 0 . If the twist angle
power coefficients are higher than those corresponding to 0°. If the twist angle is increased is increased
ofto twist
◦ angle is positive since the power coefficients are increased. ◦ With 90° value
to180
180°the
thepower
powercoefficients
coefficientsare
arehigher.
higher.The
Thegeometry
geometry corresponding
corresponding to to
180 is is
180° shown
shown in
power coefficients
in the figure. areother
higher than those corresponding
twist angles, in to 0°.case
If the
270twist angle
◦ , reduce is increa
the figure. On the other hand, excessive twist angles, in this case 270°, reduce thethe
On the hand, excessive this
power
tocoefficient.
180° the power coefficients are higher. The geometry corresponding to 180° is shown
power coefficient.
the figure. On the other hand, excessive twist angles, in this case 270°, reduce the pow
0.4
coefficient.
TA = 0º
0.4 TA = 90º
TA = 180º
TA = 0º
0.3 TA = 270º
TA = 90º
TA = 180º
0.3 TA = 270º
CP

0.2
CP

0.2
0.1

0.10
0 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5
TSR

Figure 18.CC
0 18.
Figure againstTSR
P Pagainst TSRfor
fortwist
twist
angles 0◦ ,0°,
angles 90◦90°, ◦ , and
, 180180°, and ◦. N =
270270°. N2,=AR
2, AR
= 1,=O1,=O0,=SG
0, SG
= 0.= 0.
0 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.5
4.4.Conclusions
Conclusions TSR
The present work proposes an improvement of the Savonius turbine. The Savonius
Figure The C present work
TSRproposes an improvement of the 270°.
Savonius turbine.
AR = 1,The = Savonius
turbine18. P against
is based for twist
on semi-circular angles
blade 0°, 90°,
profiles, 180°,
while theand N = 2,
present work proposes aOnature-
0, SG = 0.
turbine is based on semi-circular blade profiles, while the present work proposes a nature-
inspired shape based on the Fibonacci spiral. This shape is presented repeatedly in nature.
4.Ainspired shape based on the Fibonacci spiral. This shape is presented repeatedly in nature.
Conclusions
numerical model based on CFD was created to compare the Fibonacci and Savonius
A numerical
blade model
profiles and based better
obtained on CFD was for
results created to compare
the Fibonacci the An
shape. Fibonacci and Savonius
improvement of
The present work proposes an improvement of the Savonius turbine. The Savon
14.1% on the average power coefficient and 13.5% on the average thrust coefficient were of
blade profiles and obtained better results for the Fibonacci shape. An improvement
turbine
obtained iswith
14.1% on based theon
the average semi-circular
power
Fibonacci bladeand
coefficient
blade profile. profiles,
After that,while
13.5% on
thethethe present
average
effect of work
the thrust
number proposes
coefficient
of a natu
blades,were
inspired
obtainedshape
separation with based
the
gap, aspect on the
Fibonacci
ratio, Fibonacci
blade
overlap, and spiral.
profile.
twist After This
angle wasshape
that, is presented
the effect of the
investigated. repeatedly
The number
main in natu
of blades,
findings
Aof numerical
separation
the present model
gap,
work are:based
aspect ratio, on CFD and
overlap, wastwist
created
angletowas
compare the Fibonacci
investigated. and Savon
The main findings
of theprofiles
blade present work are:
and obtained better results for the Fibonacci shape. An improvement
14.1%
- The on optimum
the average power
number coefficient
of blades and 13.5% on the average thrust coefficient w
are two;
- The optimum
obtained with the aspect ratio blade
Fibonacci is seven.
profile. After that, the effect of the number of blad
separation gap, aspect ratio, overlap, and twist angle was investigated. The main findi
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 14 of 16

- The optimum number of blades are two;

- The optimum aspect ratio is seven.
- The optimum overlap/chord length relation is 0.15.
- The optimum separation gap is 0.
- The optimum twist angle is 180◦ .
The findings regarding the optimum number of blades and separation gap are in
line to the scientific literature about regular Savonius turbines. Nevertheless, regarding
optimum aspect ratio, overlap, and twist angle, there is no consensus in the literature.
For future works, an important aspect is to design a turbine with the most appropriate
combination of number of blades, aspect ratio, overlap, separation gap, and twist angle. To
this end, optimization models will be employed in future works, such as Multidisciplinary
Design Optimization (MDO) algorithms or Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). Another
future research will lay on further improve the performance of the Savonius turbine based
on the Fibonacci blade profile by means of improvements, such as V-shape deflectors,
deflecting plates, curtains, venting slots, guide vanes, several stages, and combinations of
Savonius–Darrieus turbines. Once the most appropriate VAWT design is obtained, another
necessary area of research will be the economic aspect. Feasibility analysis will be realized in
future works to compute the economic advantages of using VAWT in urban environments.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, J.B.D., J.d.D.R.G., A.C.C., J.T.M., C.G.C. and M.I.L.G.;
methodology, J.B.D., J.d.D.R.G., A.C.C., J.T.M., C.G.C. and M.I.L.G.; software, J.B., J.d.D.R.G., A.C.C.,
J.T.M., C.G.C. and M.I.L.G.; validation, J.B., J.d.D.R.G., A.C.C., J.T.M., C.G.C. and M.I.L.G.; formal
analysis, J.B., J.d.D.R.G., A.C.C., J.T.M., C.G.C. and M.I.L.G.; investigation, J.B., J.d.D.R.G., A.C.C.,
J.T.M., C.G.C. and M.I.L.G.; resources, J.B.D., J.d.D.R.G., A.C.C., J.T.M., C.G.C. and M.I.L.G.; writing—
original draft preparation, M.I.L.G.; writing—review and editing, J.B.D., J.d.D.R.G., A.C.C., J.T.M.
and C.G.C.; supervision, J.B.D., J.d.D.R.G., A.C.C., J.T.M., C.G.C. and M.I.L.G. All authors have read
and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding: This research received no external funding.
Institutional Review Board Statement: Not applicable.
Informed Consent Statement: Not applicable.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References
1. Liu, Y.; Xiao, Q.; Atilla, I.; Peyard, C.; Wan, D. Establishing a fully coupled CFD analysis tool for floating offshore wind turbines.
Renew. Energy 2017, 112, 280–301. [CrossRef]
2. Liu, Z.; Tu, Y.; Wang, W.; Qian, G. Numerical analysis of a catenary mooring system attached by clump masses for improving the
wave-resistance ability of a spar buoy-type floating offshore wind turbine. Appl. Sci. 2019, 9, 1075. [CrossRef]
3. Blanco, J.; Lamas, M.I.; Couce, A.; Rodriguez, J.D. Vertical Axis Wind Turbines: Current Technologies and Future Trends.
In Proceedings of the International Conference on Renewable Energies and Power Quality, A Coruña, Spain, 25–27 March 2015.
4. Pagnini, L.C.; Burlando, M.; Repetto, M.P. Experimental power curve of small-size wind turbines in turbulent urban environment.
Appl. Energy 2015, 154, 112–121. [CrossRef]
5. Vita, G.; Šarkić-Glumac, A.; Hemida, H.; Salvadori, S.; Baniotopoulos, C. On the wind energy resource above high-rise buildings.
Energies 2020, 13, 3641. [CrossRef]
6. Wijayanto, R.P.; Kono, T.; Kiwata, T. Performance characteristics of an orthopter-type vertical axis wind turbine in shear flows.
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10, 1778. [CrossRef]
7. Savonius, S.J. The S-rotor and its applications. Mech. Eng. 1931, 53, 333–338.
8. Talukdar, P.K.; Sardar, A.; Kulkarni, V.; Saha, U.K. Parametric analysis of model Savonius hydrokinetic turbines through
experimental and computational investigations. Energy Convers. Manag. 2018, 158, 36–49. [CrossRef]
9. Zhang, Y.; Kang, C.; Zhao, H.; Teng, S. Effects of in-line configuration of drag-type hydrokinetic rotors on inter-rotor flow pattern
and rotor performance. Energy Convers. Manag. 2019, 196, 44–55. [CrossRef]
10. Alipour, R.; Alipour, R.; Koloor, S.S.R.; Petru, M.; Ghazanfari, S.A. On the Performance of Small-Scale Horizontal Axis Tidal
Current Turbines. Part 1: One Single Turbine. Sustainability 2020, 12, 5985. [CrossRef]
11. Alipour, R.; Alipour, R.; Fardian, F.; Koloor, S.S.R.; Petru, M. Performance improvement of a new proposed Savonius hydrokinetic
turbine: A numerical investigation. Energy Rep. 2020, 6, 3051–3066. [CrossRef]
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 15 of 16

12. Akwa, J.V.; Vielmo, H.A.; Petry, A.P. A review on the performance of Savonius wind turbines. Renew. Sustain. Energy Rev. 2012,
16, 3054–3064. [CrossRef]
13. Tian, W.; Song, B.; VanZwieten, J.; Pyakurel, P. Computational fluid dynamics prediction of a modified Savonius wind turbine
with novel blade shapes. Energies 2015, 8, 7915–7929. [CrossRef]
14. Pujol, T.; Massaguer, A.; Massaguer, E.; Montoro, L.; Comamala, M. Net power coefficient of vertical and horizontal wind turbines
with crossflow runners. Energies 2018, 11, 110. [CrossRef]
15. Vance, W. Vertical Axis Wind Rotors—Status and potential. In Proceedings of the Conference on Wind Energy Conversion
Systems, Washington, DC, USA, 11–13 June 1973; pp. 96–102.
16. Saha, U.K.; Thotla, S.; Maity, D. Optimum design configuration of Savonius rotor through wind tunnel experiments. J. Wind Eng.
Ind. Aerodyn. 2008, 96, 1359–1375. [CrossRef]
17. Alexander, A.J.; Holownia, B.P. Wind tunnel tests on a savonius rotor. J. Wind Eng. Ind. Aerodyn. 1978, 3, 343–351. [CrossRef]
18. Zhao, Z.; Zheng, Y.; Xu, X.; Liu, W.; Hu, G. Research on the Improvement of the Performance of Savonius Rotor Based on
Numerical Study. In Proceedings of the 2009 International Conference on Sustainable Power Generation and Supply, Nanjing,
China, 6–7 April 2009; pp. 1–6. [CrossRef]
19. Sheldahl, R.E.; Blackwell, B.F.; Feltz, L.V. Wind tunnel performance data for two- and three-bucket Savonius rotors. J. Energy 1978,
2, 160–164. [CrossRef]
20. Fujisawa, N. On the torque mechanism of Savonius rotors. J. Wind Eng. Ind. Aerodyn. 1992, 40, 277–292. [CrossRef]
21. Mojola, O.O. On the aerodynamic design of the savonius windmill rotor. J. Wind Eng. Ind. Aerodyn. 1985, 21, 223–231. [CrossRef]
22. Menet, J.L.; Bourabaa, N. Increase in the Savonius rotors efficiency via a parametric investigation. In Proceedings of the European
Wind Energy Conference, London, UK, 22–25 November 2004.
23. Lee, J.H.; Lee, Y.T.; Lim, H.C. Effect of twist angle on the performance of Savonius wind turbine. Renew. Energy 2016, 89, 231–244.
[CrossRef]
24. Damak, A.; Driss, Z.; Abid, M.S. Experimental investigation of helical Savonius rotor with a twist of 180◦ . Renew. Energy 2013,
52, 136–142. [CrossRef]
25. Damak, A.; Driss, Z.; Abid, M.S. Optimization of the helical Savonius rotor through wind tunnel experiments. J. Wind Eng. Ind.
Aerodyn. 2018, 174, 80–93. [CrossRef]
26. Kumar, G.; Ram, V.R.; Kumar, N. Numerical analysis of different blade profile of wind turbine. Int. J. Appl. Eng. Res. 2018,
6, 375–385.
27. Alom, N.; Saha, U.K. Influence of blade profiles on Savonius rotor performance: Numerical simulation and experimental
validation. Energy Convers. Manag. 2019, 186, 267–277. [CrossRef]
28. Kacprzak, K.; Liskiewicz, G.; Sobczak, K. Numerical investigation of conventional and modified Savonius wind turbines. Renew.
Energy 2013, 60, 578–585. [CrossRef]
29. Benesh, A.H. Wind Turbine System Using a Savonius-Type Rotor. U.S. Patent 5494407A, 27 February 1996.
30. Mohamed, M.H.; Janiga, G.; Pap, E.; Thévenin, D. Optimal blade shape of a modified Savonius turbine using an obstacle shielding
the returning blade. Energy Convers. Manag. 2011, 52, 236–242. [CrossRef]
31. Chan, C.M.; Bai, H.L.; He, D.Q. Blade shape optimization of the Savonius wind turbine using a genetic algorithm. Appl. Energy
2018, 213, 148–157. [CrossRef]
32. Lamas Galdo, M.I.; Rodriguez Vidal, C.G. Hydrodynamics of biomimetic marine propulsion and trends in computational
simulations. J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8, 479. [CrossRef]
33. Lamas, M.I.; Rodríguez, C.G.; Rodríguez, J.D. Optimization of the efficiency of a biomimetic marine propulsor using CFD. Ing. E
Investig. 2014, 34, 17–21.
34. Lamas, M.I.; Rodríguez, J.D.; Rodríguez, C.G. CFD analysis of biologically-inspired marine Propulsors. Brodogradnja 2012,
63, 125–133.
35. Lamas, M.I.; Rodríguez, J.D.; Rodríguez, C.G.; González, P.B. Three-dimensional CFD analysis to study the thrust and efficiency
of a biologically-inspired marine propulsor. Pol. Marit. Res. 2011, 18, 10–16. [CrossRef]
36. U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Public Domain. Available online: https://commons.wikimedia.org/
wiki/File:Fran10.jpg (accessed on 10 July 2022).
37. NASA; ESA. The Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA). In Public Domain. Available online: https://commons.wikimedia.org/
wiki/File:The_Two-faced_Whirlpool_Galaxy.jpg (accessed on 10 July 2022).
38. Blanco, J.; Rodriguez, J.D.; Couce, A.; Lamas, M.I. Proposal of a nature-inspired shape for a vertical axis wind turbine and
comparison of its performance with a semicircular blade profile. Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 6198. [CrossRef]
39. Altan, B.D.; Atılgan, M. An experimental and numerical study on the improvement of the performance of Savonius wind rotor.
Energy Convers. Manag. 2008, 49, 3425–3432. [CrossRef]
40. Plourde, B.D.; Abraham, J.P.; Mowry, G.S.; Minkowycz, W.J. Simulations of three-dimensional vertical-axis turbines for communi-
cations applications. Wind Eng. 2012, 36, 443–453. [CrossRef]
41. Gallo, L.A.; Chica, E.L.; Flórez, E.G.; Obando, F.A. Numerical and experimental study of the blade profile of a Savonius type rotor
implementing a multi-blade geometry. Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 10580. [CrossRef]
42. Zhang, H.; Li, Z.; Xin, D.; Zhan, J. Improvement of aerodynamic performance of Savonius wind rotor using straight-arc curtain.
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10, 7216. [CrossRef]
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 7018 16 of 16

43. Akwa, J.V.; Alves da Silva Júnior, G.; Petry, A.P. Discussion on the verification of the overlap ratio influence on performance
coefficients of a Savonius wind rotor using computational fluid dynamics. Renew. Energy 2012, 38, 141–149. [CrossRef]
44. Blanco Damota, J. Perfil de Pala de Turbina Eólica de Eje Vertical de Diseño Bioinspirado: Estudio Comparativo y Optimización
Mediante Modelo CFD Parametrizado. Ph.D. Thesis, Unviersidade da Coruña, A Coruña, Spain, 2022.
45. Ross, I.; Altman, A. Wind tunnel blockage corrections: Review and application to Savonius vertical-axis wind turbines. J. Wind
Eng. Ind. Aerodyn. 2011, 99, 523–538. [CrossRef]
46. Parmanand, S. The So-called Fibonacci numbers in ancient and medieval India. Hist. Math. 1985, 12, 229–244. [CrossRef]
47. Huntley, H.E. The Divine Proportion; Dover Publications Inc.: New York, NY, USA, 1970.
48. Kamoji, M.A.; Kedare, S.B.; Prabhu, S.V. Experimental investigations on single stage modified Savonius rotor. Appl. Energy 2009,
86, 1064–1073. [CrossRef]
49. Tartuferi, M.; D’Alessandro, V.; Montelpare, S.; Ricci, R. Enhancement of Savonius wind rotor aerodynamic performance:
A computational study of new blade shapes and curtain systems. Energy 2015, 79, 371–384. [CrossRef]
50. Ostos, I.; Ruiz, I.; Gajic, M.; Gómez, W.; Bonilla, A.; Collazos, C. A modified novel blade configuration proposal for a more
efficient VAWT using CFD tools. Energy Conv. Manag. 2019, 180, 733–746. [CrossRef]
51. Sharma, S.; Sharma, R.K. Performance improvement of Savonius rotor using multiple quarter blades—A CFD investigation.
Energy Convers. Manag. 2016, 127, 43–54. [CrossRef]
52. Chehouri, A.; Younes, R.; Ilinca, A.; Perron, J. Review of performance optimization techniques applied to wind turbines. Appl.
Energy 2015, 142, 361–388. [CrossRef]
53. Alipour, R.; Alipour, R.; Fardian, F.; Tahan, M.H. Optimum performance of a horizontal axis tidal current turbine: A numerical
parametric study and experimental validation. Energy Conv. Manag. 2022, 258, 115533. [CrossRef]