Increasing energy demand and environmental regulations around the world provide an adequate framework for developing methods of obtaining energy from renewable sources. Wind force is a resource with a high potential through which green energy can be obtained with no negative impact on the environment. Different turbine typologies have been developed, which can convert the wind force into mechanical and electrical energy through turbine rotational motion. Starting from the classic vertical-axis SAVONIUS rotor model, other models have been designed, which, according to the numerical studies and experimental test results, show higher performance parameters in operation. Such models present specific rotor blade geometries to achieve better operational results in terms of shaft torque and generated power. There are multiple research results from numerical analysis on virtual models or experimental tests that use rotor models in different constructive configurations aiming to improve operation performance. These research activities are related to the rotor blade number, the aspect and overlap ratio values, the blade profile geometry modification, the use of end plates connected to the rotor blades, curtain mounting solutions for directing the air flow on the active blade alone, and rotor constructive variants with deformable blades during operation. Some of the results obtained from the mentioned research activities are shown in this review for special rotor configurations whose performance results in terms of torque or power values are compared to the classical SAVONIUS model.

In this work, 3D models in classic configuration of Bach and Benesh rotor type, as well as models with modified blade pattern geometry were analyzed from the air circulation point of view inside the rotor enclosure in order to identify the operating parameters differences according to rotor geometric modified configuration. Constructive design aspects are presented, as well as results obtained from the virtual model analysis in terms of circulation velocity and pressure values which enhance rotor operation related to torque and power coefficients. The rotors design pattern is made according to previous results obtained by different researchers who have performed numerical analysis on virtual models and tests on the experimental rotor models using the wind tunnel. The constructive solutions are describing two-bladed rotor models, in four new designed constructive variants and analyzed using ANSYS CFX. The air velocity specific values, static and total pressure recorded at the rotor blade level are highlighted, that influence the obtaining of rotor shaft torque and power. Also torque coefficient (CT) and power coefficient (CP) values according with specific values of tip speed ratio (TSR) are presented for each analyzed case. The analysis results show higher power coefficient values for analyzed Bach V2 and Benesh V2 rotor modified models compared to the classic Bach and Benesh models for 0.3 TSR of 0.11–012 CP, 0.4 TSR of 0.18 CP (Benesh V2 model) and 0.27 CP at 0.6 TSR (Bach V2). The resulted values confirm that Benesh V2 model offers higher CP up to 5% at TSR 0.3, 2% at TSR 0.6 and 3% at TSR 0.4 compared to the Benesh classical model. The Bach V2 model offers 4% higher CP compared to the classic Bach model at TSR 0.6. Based on these results it is intended the further analytical and experimental research in order to obtain optimal rotor pattern.

The construction industry has seen a remarkable development in recent decades, making it possible to build infrastructure elements capable of withstanding considerable demands on traffic, wind or seismic actions. These achievements have been made due to the solutions used for isolation against dynamic actions that may require the structure at a given time. In order to ensure the protection of construction structures against seismic actions, many constructive solutions have been developed which can be mounted inside the resistance structure. These are mechanical systems used for isolation and seismic energy dissipation, which by operation are able to modify structural behaviour at earthquake. A hybrid seismic isolation model is described which is classified under the building base isolation systems category. This system consists of concave roller elements in combination with elastomeric shock absorbing elements. An experimental model has been developed and analysed, and the results are presented in terms of accelerations in time and frequency at the level of the structural elements at which the recordings are made during excitation simulating the action of a seismic event. The isolation system is used on the low model of a bridge or viaduct structure. Analyses are made for different models of insulation system layout at the isolated structure and distinct cases regarding the construction of the component parts regarding the rolling elements in contact with the concave surface. The results are presented for each structural element in part describing the registered values of acceleration due to the excitation on the supporting pier and the superstructure over the three main directions of movement according to the constructive type of the rolling elements that are included in the isolating system. Experimental analysis was performed on a small-scale system under laboratory conditions, based on a set of simplified assumptions. The advantage of this approach is supported by multiple possibilities of simulation of real dynamic loading situations, static and dynamic loading states, structural and functional schemes and functional configurations of the supporting and isolation systems against dynamic actions. Thus, the transfer of experimental results from reduced models to real systems through mathematical and computer models associated with them is ensured by appropriate transfer functions.

The current study seeks to explore the underexamined or potentially under-researched social dimensions of circular economy (CE) in the context of buildings. Utilising a meta-synthesis approach, this paper builds on the two primary theoretical frameworks in the well-being literature: the eudaimonic and hedonic perspectives. The analysis of the selected articles reveals that these frameworks foster distinct modes of interaction and perception concerning one’s environment. A consensus is evident among the studies reviewed, advocating for integrating both eudaimonic and hedonic elements to achieve optimal well-being and happiness. Moreover, some scholars argue that for the attainment of sustainability goals and, by extension, CE objectives, the eudaimonic approach to well-being should be emphasised over the currently predominant hedonic inclinations. The research also attempts to open a discourse between the sometimes rather comprehensive, holistic, and hard-to-quantify dimensions of human well-being and the more logical, measurable, and tangible results-oriented approach towards the built environment. This investigation illustrates how well-designed building elements, aligned with CE principles, can play a pivotal role in fostering both environmental sustainability and human flourishing in the built environment.

An Interdisciplinary Analysis Regarding Economic and Social Development in the Rural Area of EU Member Countries from Central and Eastern Europe | InTechOpen, Published on: 2016-11-03. Authors: Fănel Dorel Șcheaua

Isolation System Model Subjected to Random Vibrations | InTechOpen, Published on: 2016-11-03. Authors: Fanel Scheaua