Numerical and Experimental Analysis of A Vertical-Axis Eccentric-disc Variable-Pitch Turbine (VEVT)

A combined experimental and numerical investigation is carried out to study the performance of a vertical-axis eccentric-disc variable-pitch turbine (VEVT). A scheme of eccentric disc pitch control mechanism based on double-block mechanism is proposed. The eccentric control mechanism and the deflection angle control mechanism in the pitch control structure are designed and optimized according to the functional requirements of the turbine, and the three-dimensional model of the turbine is established. Kinematics analysis of the eccentric disc pitch control mechanism is carried out. Kinematics parameters and kinematics equations which can characterize its motion characteristics are derived. Kinematics analysis and simulation are carried out, and the motion law of the corresponding mechanical system is obtained. By analyzing the force and motion of blade of VEVT, the expressions of the important parameters such as deflection angle, attack angle and energy utilization coefficient are obtained. The lateral induced velocity coefficient is acquired by momentum theorem, the hydrodynamic parameters such as energy utilization coefficient are derived, and the hydrodynamic characteristics of VEVT are also obtained. The experimental results show that the turbine has good energy capture capability at different inflow velocities of different sizes and directions, which verifies that VEVT has good self-startup performance and high energy capture efficiency.