Introduction

The invention refers to an aerodynamic profile with variable twist, in addition to a variable pitch, so as to improve the functionality and performance of any generic rotating element prone to aerodynamic actions. This is possible by means of a proper actuation of a portion of the aerodynamic profile, able to rotate of a twist angle, along a common rotation axis, with respect to another portion. An optimized operating ratio can be provided in terms of efficiency.

Technical features

The invention concerns the presence of a variable twist for a rotating aerodynamic element, such as e.g. a blade of an aeronautic propeller or a blade of a windmill. According to the invention, the actuation (5 in the figure) of one supporting profile (3a or 3b in the figure) allows to modify the value of incidence (twist angle) relatively to the other supporting profile, around at least one rotation axis R-R parallel to the span (A) of a portion of an aerodynamic considered profile (1 in the figure). As well, the actuator means rotate both supporting profiles, around the rotation axis R-R, to modify the pitch angle of the considered portion of the aerodynamic profile. Generally an aerodynamic profile can be composed of a plurality of portions, like those described here, being mutually connected along the common rotation axis. The actuating means can be electric, electromechanical, piezoelectric or pneumatic, in order to allow either a linear type of actuation or a rotational one.

Possible Applications

• Aerodynamics;
• Aeronautics Blade;
• Windmill Blade;
• Blade Propeller.

Advantages

• Optimized aerodynamic shape for any condition or operating ratio;
• Variable twist changing both continuously in time and differently along the profile;
• Optimized operating ratio with higher efficiency;
• Control of parameters.