Modular light weight design of composite trusses

Purpose and goal

Triblade is a revolutionary new technology for rotor blades for wind turbines, where the blades are built as a lattice made from composite materials. With the new technology, it will be possible to manufacture rotor blades that are both cheaper, longer and much lighter than those currently produced. The goal of the feasibility study was to explore the possibilities of further developing Triblade to a modular design. A modular design is expected to provide technology with major competitive advantages by enabling more efficient production and easy transport.

Expected results and effects

We have developed a number of proposals for modular solutions, that have been analyzed in CAD and FEM software. A proprietary software has also been used for the analysis. We have also made prototypes of selected solutions in order to evaluate them in terms of production, assembly and load capacity. We see from the results of the feasibility study that there are good opportunities to develop a modular solution for Triblade in a subsequent development project. We also see opportunities to use modular composite trusses as lightweight solutions in other areas such as bridges and roof beams.

Planned approach and implementation

The feasibility study was conducted by the consortium partners Winfoor and Composites Design. We also had access to experts from Nordex, Lund University and Marstrom Composite, who have acted as advisors to the project. Cooperation with these external partners have been a great help in reaching the goals of the feasibility study.