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SOURCES OF INNOVATIONA c o n c e p t f o r t h e s u s t a i n a b l e h i g h w a y

A. Hovhannisjan s0171751 E.A.G. ten Velde BSc s0139572 A.F.A. de Vette BSc s0169250

04-11-2011

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TITLEPAGESources of InnovationA concept for the sustainable highway

Enschede, 4th of November 2011.

This report has been written for the subject Sources of Innovation.

A. Hovhannisjan s0171751 E.A.G. ten Velde BSc s0139572 A.F.A. de Vette BSc s0169250

Organisation University of Twente Industrial Design Engineering Postbus 217 7500 AE Enschede The Netherlands

Coordinator Dr. A.H.M.E. Reinders

Number of pages 34 Number of appendices 1 Circulation 2

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The popularity of the subject sustainability has increased during the last decades, particularly in innovating industries. Companies introduce a growing number of sustainable products and production processes. Also, sustainable energy sources are used more often to replace fuel energy in order to create a healthier environment for this and the next generations.

This is a report written for the subject Sources of Innovation and it introduces a new sustainable product concept. The aim of this project is to design a product for the sustainable highway. The report describes the whole design process from idea to final concept. During the project the decision has been made to focus on creating a product which will use previously lost wind energy created by vehicles on a highway and convert it into useful energy, which can be used for the lights on a highway. The project was progressed in three main phases; research, concept generation and development. This report shows the whole procedure of the project divided into 9 chapters.

During the process four innovation methods are used, each method for a different purpose. Using these methods, concepts are generated and developed. Finally, a concept is chosen to work out in more detail. The final concept is modeled in 3D and finally evaluated by means of a program of requirements created before.

INTRODUCTION

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In this project, a conceptual product for the sustainable highway is designed. In order to achieve this, four innovation methods will be elaborated. The methods are technology roadmapping, platform driven product development, TRIZ and innovative design and styling. The design approach consists of the Pahl and Beitz phase model together with these innovation methods. This means that designing has been done according to a common method, but to make an innovative product, the methods are woven through. Technology roadmapping is helpful for concept generation. Then, the concepts are elaborated further by using TRIZ, a method of inventive problem solving. Platform driven product development contributes at the same time by making the product more versatile so it can address more than one market.

The task of the project is to prove the product to be sustainable and therefore it must contain one or more energy technologies. To develop a sustainable product, it is clear that sustainability itself must be explored. In the specification of the project, the principle of sustainability is explained. In short, sustainability means maintaining the conditions under which humans can exist, for this and the next generations, by protecting and preserving water, materials and resources.

Further possibilities and concepts within the task specification are explored in the idea generation. This part consists of several brainstorm sessions to get an idea about the highway and sustainability, and possibilities and actions on the highway. In this phase, the choice for the use of wind energy was made. The results were the outlines of a global product concept, which uses smart wind turbines and integrated road lighting. In technology roadmapping, an innovation technique matching short-term and long-term goals with specific solutions to reach these goals, the different possible technologies for the concept have been analysed. To ‘map’ the future, past developments have been examined. The result of this method is the gain of more knowledge, for instance about the many different kinds of wind turbines, but also about very promising techniques that are

currently being developed, such as magnetic levitation and the smart grid.

In the concept generation, a common phase in the Pahl and Beitz model, the outcomes of technology roadmapping are combined with LED technology and wind energy in mind. After this, TRIZ has been applied to solve a spacing problem. The solution was to integrate the lights into the turbine to save space. The platform driven product development method resulted in four applications for the same product concept. Not only can it be used near the highway but also for domestic use, at remote locations or for commercial purposes.

A very important method is that of innovative design and styling. Technological innovation together with new product design seems to increase the market share of a company. Furthermore, design has a big role in the emotions of people. This phase contains two directions in the design of the product: the design of the lights in the turbine and its interactive workings, and the total appearance of the product. By first diverging and then combining and converging a final concept was created to be worked out in more detail later on. More details for the final concept are elaborated in the chapter program of requirements and technical specifications. Subjects in this chapter are safety, sustainability, general workings and maintenance. Also, the materials used for the product are specified.

In the last chapter, the final concept is presented.

SUMMARY

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Project specification 6

Idea generation 8

Technology roadmapping 10

Concept generation 14

TRIZ 16

Platform driven product development 18

Innovative design and styling 22

Program of requirements and technical specifications 24

Final Concept 28

Conclusions and recommendations 32

References 33

Appendix A - Technical drawings 34

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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The task of this project is to design a conceptual product for the sustainable highway. To achieve this, several innovation methods have been applied. First of all, this chapter will define and specify the task in relation to the project. The innovation methods chosen for this project are Technology Roadmapping, Platform Driven Product Development, TRIZ and Innovative Design and Styling.

Design approachFigure 1 shows the initial design approach according to the Pahl and Beitz Phase Model. In general, this model has been

used in the design project. In addition, the applied innovation methods have been combined to the Pahl and Beitz model to create a custom design approach, as can be seen in figure 2. The project will start with a description of the task and subsequently by its specification. To make the different directions visible, a brainstorm session will be held to explore possible concepts and opportunities. The use of Technology Roadmapping at the specification level will lead to several concepts. These concepts can then be worked out further by using the theory of inventive problem solving TRIZ. Simultaneously, Platform Driven Product Development can contribute to the project by making

PROJECT SPECIFICATION

Task Speci�cation ConceptPreliminary

LayoutDe�nitive

Layout Documentation Solution

Figure 1 - Phase model of the Product Design Process by Pahl and Beitz (Roozenburg and Eekels, 1995)

Task Speci�cation ConceptPreliminary

LayoutDe�nitive

Layout Documentation Solution

Platform driven product development

TRIZInnovative

Design & StylingTechnology

Roadmapping

Figure 2 - Design approach

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the product more viable for commerce. When the preliminary layout is reached, Innovative Design & Styling will be applied to create a better definitive layout and design. Concluding, the results will be documented and finished to create the final solution.

Task The task of the project can be defined as “To design a conceptual product for the sustainable highway”. The product design has to be proven sustainable and has to contain one or more energy technologies such as batteries, solar or fuel cells, fuel cells, wind energy, LEDs or piezoelectric conversions.

SpecificationThe key specifications of the project are as follows:

• To support at least four of the innovation theories• Prove that the design is sustainable• Contain at least one of the energy technologies mentioned

in the task The aim of this project is to design a product for the sustainable highway. But what exactly can a ‘sustainable highway’ mean?

The goal of sustainability can be described with the so called “triple bottom line” (3BL) concept, giving consideration to social, environmental and economic principles. A sustainable highway should strive to reduce the consumption of natural resources and enhance the natural environment, while at the same time satisfying life cycle functional requirements of societal development and economic growth. The development of a sustainable highway should (in addition to addressing environmental and natural resource needs) focus on access (not just mobility), moving people, goods and vehicles and providing people with transportation choices [www.getsustainable.net].

On every highway, a large amount of energy is ‘consumed’ during all kinds of ‘activities’ happening on and around the road. For example, the movements of (parts of) the vehicles produce

lots of wind energy, vibration and sound energy. When they are not used in some way it can be considered lost.

However, some amount of this energy can be ‘caught’ to make an efficient use of it. On highways there is also a lot of energy needed, for example to illuminate the roads. It would be ideal to make products used on highways functioning on energy that had previously been left unused. Such an innovation would reduce or avoid transport-related energy losses and make the highway more sustainable.

In this project the focus will lie on creating a product which will use previously ‘lost’ energy coming into existence on a highway and convert it to useful energy which can be used directly in the same place.

During the process that goes from ideas to a conceptual product, the following innovation methods will be used: TRIZ, platform driven product development, technology roadmapping and innovative design and styling.

Sustainability on itself is very hard to describe. However, the main principle is that everything we need for our wellbeing and survival depends on nature. This can be directly and indirectly. Sustainability is creating and maintaining the conditions under which humans can exist, in harmony with nature, and that we can also fulfil the requirements of future generations of people. Sustainability in a nutshell therefore means protecting and preserving so we can continue to have water, materials and resources to protect both our health and the health of nature and the environment [www.epa.gov].

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IDEA GENERATIONTo explore further possibilities and concepts within the boundaries of the task specification, an initial brainstorm session has been held. In this session, associations to sustainability (figure 3) and the highway (figure 4) were mapped. Subsequently, the associations were categorised and transformed into ideas for the sustainable highway. The most inspiring ideas were about lighting and wind energy, and they are explained more detailed in this chapter.

Interaction and lightingDriving on a highway can be exhausting and uninspiring. A recent campaign of the Dutch ministry of Infrastructure and Environment warns drivers (for instance so-called ‘sleep drivers’, [www.wordtgeenslaaprijder.nl]) about an increase of fatigue when driving multiple hours without stops. In order to make the highway more interactive and inspiring, the highway lighting can change when cars pass by. This can be accomplished by smart lighting. A series of connected lampposts will emit white light in front of a driving car and red light at the rear. Every time the car passes a lamppost, the lighting will change from white to red. At night, this system would only light parts of the highway

where cars are actually driving to decrease energy usage and light pollution.

SpeedA new way of interacting can be response of the lights to the speed of upcoming vehicles. A series of motion sensors can measure the speed and the changes in speed of a vehicle, which is then transferred to the lighting controller. When a car slows down, an increase of red light will be emitted at the back of the car. Similarly, an accelerating vehicle will receive more white light in front of it. Additionally, the system can warn drivers while speeding by showing blinking lights or changing colours. To guarantee safety, the system should never encourage hazardous driving manoeuvres. An example to maintain safety and encourage a low energy consumption is rewarding vehicles driving at a constant speed for a long period of time. This can be done by unique visual effects such as animations or an increase of light. Beside the safety and environmental benefits, it increases a drivers’ awareness of his speed without having to look at the speedometer.

Spacing and keeping distanceKeeping distance is an important aspect of safety on highways. In general, a distance of two seconds between two vehicles is recommended. However, it is difficult and exhausting to repeat these measurements. To help drivers maintaining a safe distance,

Figure 3 - Associations with Sustainable

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the concept can inform drivers about the distance between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them by changes in lighting.

Dangerous cornersFrequently, vehicles that leave a highway are faced with sharp turns, which are usually indicated by white signs with red arrows indicating the direction of the turn. By using connected lampposts and motion sensors, lights can indicate the shape of the turn with animation.

Special conditionsWeather conditions such as fog and heavy rain can require adaptive lighting. When these conditions are detected, the lighting will adapt to ensure maximum visibility and thus improving the safety of the highway.

Furthermore, the system can use blinking lights in emergencies such as stranded vehicles or upcoming emergency service vehicles. This can be done by a microphone connected to the light controller, which is able to recognise sirens from emergency vehicles.

Wind energyWhen a vehicle is driving at high speed on a highway, most energy is being used to overcome air resistance, or drag. This potential energy in the airstream can be regenerated by the use of wind turbines. The turbines consist of a rotor component, such

as vanes or propellers, a generator component to convert the low incoming rotational speed to high rotational speed that is suitable for generating electricity and the structural support such as a tower or mast. By exciting energy on the highway itself it can be directly used, for instance for street lighting, to reduce the energy loss of transportation. The lights can be implemented in the exterior of the turbine. A small battery inside the construction of the turbine can store energy for a small while when it is not directly needed. Another possibility is to transport the left-over energy to buildings that are near the road. A Smart Grid can be used to distribute the energy in the most efficient and economic way (as can be seen later on in figure 13).

Global conceptThe concept in general is a line of smart wind turbines with integrated road lighting. The wind turbines should be able to produce on average more energy than the lighting requires, and delivers this abundant energy to local clients through a Smart

Grid. The concept can be considered sustainable mostly due to its energy efficient lighting, energy production and reduction of light pollution. Throughout the night, the highway lighting will only illuminate the road when it’s used by traffic resulting in a reduced energy consumption. By using sensors in each wind turbine, the following lighting effects can be applied:

• A trail of red light follows each vehicle, increasing in brightness when the vehicle brakes

• A trail of white light in front of each vehicle, increasing in brightness when it accelerates

• Visual rewards for safe driving (correct speed)• Changes in colour indicating the distance between vehicles• Adaptive lights to increase visibility in special weather

conditions• Blinking blue lights to warn drivers of an upcoming

emergency vehicle

Figure 4 - Associations with Highway

Figure 5 - Possible solutions

Figure 6 - Highway actions

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Technology roadmapping is an innovation technique that matches short-term and long-term goals with specific solutions to help meeting those goals. In this chapter, different technologies will be analysed and reflected. Subsequently, the technologies will be placed in a timeline to create a technology roadmap.

MaglevMagnetic levitation, or Maglev in short, is a principle in which an object is suspended and supported by nothing but magnetic fields. Small scale applications of Maglev can be found in various objects such as the Levitron toy, a floating bed by the Dutch architect JanJaap Ruijssenaars and picture frames (figure 7). Examples of large scale implementation of Maglev can be found in transport. Multiple countries such as China, Japan, Germany and the United States have constructed trains supported by the principle of Maglev (figure 8). By doing so, the vehicles move smoothly, quietly and require less maintenance than wheeled mass transit. The power needed for levitation is not a particularly large percentage of the overall energy consumption because most energy is needed to overcome air resistance. Especially for high speeds, the reduction of maintenance costs and high reliability are significant[www.wikipedia.org - maglev].

In this concept, the maglev method will be used to let the rotor rotate without mechanical friction with the other parts of the

turbine. Magnets should be placed below the rotor and on the bottom of the rotor assembly, to let the assembly levitate above the under part. Also, it is important that the rotor part cannot be separated from the body by lift of the wind.

Additionally, magnets will be placed between the rotational axis so that the rotor can rotate around the axis without any contact. By doing so, the rotation will be almost frictionless (disregarding the friction of air) resulting in very high rotational speeds and a relative large energy production. The main advantages of using magnetic levitation in the wind turbines are:

• Because there are no bearings which can wear out, it suffers no mechanical friction or wear, resulting in lower maintenance and a longer product life cycle

• A reduction of energy losses created by mechanical friction and wear

• A reduction in maintenance can lead to a decrease in operational costs

• Contactless rotating parts result in a reduction of vibrations and noise

AlternatorAn alternator (or an alternating current generator) is an electromechanical device that converts mechanical energy to

TECHNOLOGY ROADMAPPING

Figure 7 - Floating bed by means of Maglev Figure 8 - Maglev train

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electrical energy in the form of alternating current. This is based on the fact that when an electrical conductor moves in a magnetic field, in that conductor voltage is created and by a closed circuit current can flow through it. An alternator consists of a rotor (rotating part) and a stator (stationary part). The magnetic field in an alternator is created by one or more permanent magnets. The stator consists of one or more coils; when the rotor starts to rotate, the expected alternating voltage is created in the coils [www.wikipedia.org - alternator].

Turbine as generatorMost wind turbines use a generator, mostly with a transmission, connected to the rotating axis of the turbine, to convert the mechanical energy of the rotor into electrical energy. But if we combine a magnetically levitated wind turbine with an alternator, then no other generator will be needed, because the turbine itself can function as a generator. Combining means that the turbine will be levitated with magnets and a coil will be integrated into the rotational axis, which will create electric current when the magnetic field starts to change (when the turbine rotates).

Although the Maglev theorem was developed in the 19th century, large scale applications have only appeared recently. Small scaled Maglev vertical wind turbines are being sold since several years [www.cnhx160.com] and several Maglev trains and monorails are operational throughout the world. It should be possible to create the conceptual Maglev wind turbines within several years.

Quantum levitationQuantum levitation is magnetic levitation using superconducting materials and the Meissner effect. The phenomenon known as diamagnetism occurs when a superconducting material excludes the magnetic force of another magnet, thereby forcing the magnet to float on air [www.magnet.fsu.edu]. The effect locks the magnet to the magnetic field above the superconductor although within the field, the magnet is able to float freely. The Meissner effect is used in some Maglev vehicles already [www.wikipedia.org - maglev].

Wind turbinesA wind turbine converts kinetic energy from wind into mechanical energy, often with the goal of electricity production. If so, it is also called a wind generator or wind charger - if it is used for driving machinery it can be called a windmill or wind pump. Larger grid-connected arrays of turbines are increasingly becoming a source of electric power [www.wikipedia.org - wind turbine].

Wind turbines are mainly available in two different types; the horizontal axis and the vertical axis designs. The horizontal-axis wind turbine (or HAWT) is the oldest and most common type - it is how we all know the three-bladed masts from windmill parks. In a HAWT, the rotor shaft with the generator has to point into the wind. This happens with a servo motor coupled with a sensor (or in a small type of windmill with a wind vane). HAWTs are a so-called upwind design, both for the turbulence

and fatigue failures. There have been made downwind designs to try to get rid of the need to turn into the wind. Tip speeds are over 320 km/h, compared to other types they are efficient and have good reliability.

Vertical-axis wind turbinesThe vertical-axis wind turbine (or VAWT) has its rotor shaft arranged vertically. The main advantage is that it is effective in all directions, it does not have to be pointed. This is particularly an advantage in areas where the wind direction is very variable, for instance when placed on buildings. The generator can be placed near the ground, which makes it easier to access for maintenance. The disadvantages include a lower rotational speed but a higher torque. This results in a lower power coefficient. Also, it is difficult to accurately model the wind flow so there has to be built a prototype at all times [www.mywindpowersystem.com].

The VAWT has a couple of subtypes, of which the Darrieus wind turbine and the Savonius wind turbine are the most common. The Darrieus turbine (figure 10) is efficient but is not very reliable due to stress on the tower. Also, they need a little start up power because the starting torque is very low. A subtype of the Darrieus has straight blades instead of curved ones and it is self-starting. Further advantages are that it has a higher performance coefficient, it is more efficient in turbulent winds and there is less stress on the blades. The Savonius wind turbine is a ‘drag-type’, it has two or more scoops catching wind. They are self-starting when three vanes are used. The Savonius is highly reliable but

Figure 9 - Twisted Savonius turbine Figure 10 - Darrieus turbine Figure 11 - Hovering wind turbines concept Figure 12 - Electroluminescence

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not very efficient. Torque can be made smoother by making helical scoops (the turbine looks twisted) instead of straight ones (figure 9). In this form it is used mainly as roof wind turbines or on boats.

An advantage that can make a big difference is that the vertical turbines can be placed closely together; as long as the wind pattern is not affecting the rotation of the next turbine negatively. Horizontal turbines need to be spaced 15 to 25 times their rotor diameter apart [www.allsmallwindturbines.com].

Hovering wind turbinesHovering wind turbines can generate energy from wind currents without having to occupy space on land. A U.S. patent submitted by Stanford University describes an array of small to middle sized turbines combined to generate energy [Macedo patent, 2006]. By hovering at high altitudes, the turbines can benefit from high speed jet streams, creating substantially more energy than land based wind turbines. Although several companies have come up with concepts of hovering wind turbines (figure 11), the technology is still far from commercial availability.

ElectroluminescenceElectroluminescence (EL) is a phenomenon in which a material emits light caused by an electric current or a strong electric field (figure 12) [www.wikipedia.org - electroluminescence]. Its power consumption is low and comparable to neon or fluorescent lamps. The most common applications consist of powder or thin films. An early example is the application of an EL film of instrument panels in Crysler cars since 1960. EL lamps can be made in any colour and do not require additional circuitry to regulate the amount of current flowing through them.

Smart GridA smart grid is an electrical grid which intelligently responds to all connected sources and devices. By controlling energy flows in an intelligent way, it strives to monitor and control the delivery of energy in the most reliable, economic and sustainable way

as possible. By using Smart Grids, the European Union tries to optimise the electricity network [www.smartgrids.eu]:

• Flexible: fulfilling customers’ needs whilst responding to the changes and challenges ahead;

• Accessible: granting connection access to all network users, particularly for renewable power sources and

high efficiency local generation with zero or low carbon emissions;

• Reliable: assuring and improving security and quality of supply, consistent with the demands of the digital age with resilience to hazards and uncertainties;

• Economic: providing best value through innovation, efficient energy management and ‘level playing field’ competition and regulation.

The SmartGrids European Technology Platform for Electricity Networks of the Future began its work in 2005 and aims to formulate and promote a vision for future electricity networks looking towards 2020 and beyond. Its objectives [ec.europa.eu] are to develop a shared vision for the future, to identify research

Figure 13 - Smart Grid setup

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needs and build support for public and private research, to align ongoing projects and to draw conclusions and recommendations for further development. Smart grid

Billions of Euros have to be invested in the powergrid [ec.europa.eu] before the European smart grids are fully operational. Additionally, these developments will take several years. Although small scaled smart grids may appear within several years, a fully functional grid capable of supporting the digital highway concept is not expected until 2020.

RoadmapFigure 14 shows the application of Technology Road Mapping to the proposed concept. These days, there are a few Maglev wind turbines available which are technically similar to the proposed concept. However, the implementation of a nationwide Smart Grid is not expected to be completed within this decade. It is therefore expected that the Smart Maglev Wind Turbines can be mass produced in 2020.

Product

Technology

Market

High voltage network

Vertical Axis Wind Turbine

Wind turbines

Sustainable energy productionSustainable energy production and delivery

Sustainable energy production and smart delivery

Smart Maglev wind turbines

Smart Hovering wind turbines

Quantum levitation

Maglev (transportation)

LED lighting OLED lighting

Maglev (wind energy)

Jet Stream wind generator

Smart Grid

2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2050 2000

Figure 14 - Technology roadmap

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Based on the outcomes of the Technology Roadmapping different concepts have been generated. All concepts have been designed with LED technology and wind energy in mind. The idea of the concepts is to generate energy out of the drag of cars in addition to the wind present at highways. Although it is difficult to estimate the amount of energy which can be regenerated from moving vehicles, it is expected to be a significant supplement to the energy generated by the regular wind.

Concept 1Hidden beneath the surface of the asphalt are small Savonius wind turbines. Every time a car passes by, wind energy can be converted into electricity. Some of the energy is sent to turbines ahead of the driving vehicle in which this energy is used to light the road. The light is emitted by LEDs and will change colour depending on the circumstances. Figure 15 shows the concept emitting yellow light to illuminate the road in front of a car. Additionally, the concept can create a red trail for every car or blinking lights to warn about upcoming traffic jams.

Concepts 2Integrated within the crash barriers are twisted Savonius turbines (figure 16). They work very well in an environment where wind comes from multiple directions. Similar to the other concepts, it can be directly used for lighting the highway. When these

turbines are placed in the middle of the road, they can catch wind from traffic in both directions.

Concept 3This concept (figure 17) makes use of noise barriers which are present in densely populated areas. By using existing noise barriers, the concept can be cost effective and efficient in space. The illustration shows a new type of noise barrier, the so-called noise tube, which would be perfect to implement small scaled wind turbines. Additionally, the wind turbines can be used to illuminate the highway by LED lighting.

Concepts 4Concept 4 (figure 18) shows wind turbines integrated within street lighting. The concept can be applied to new or existing, single or double light posts and uses Darrieus turbines.

Concept 5 This concept (figure 19) again uses the crash barriers. The turbines emit light from inside. It has the same advantages as concept 3, plus they can be built smaller because they are more size-efficient.

Concept 6The Gorlov turbine is used for this concept (figure 20). It is a VAWT placed horizontally. The constructions can be placed on

CONCEPT GENERATION

Figure 15 - Concept 1 Figure 16 - Concept 2

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any highway and the main advantage is that it catches a lot of wind, not only from cars. Most turbulence is coming from the top of the vehicles. The energy that is collected can be used to light the entire highway. Additional lighting can be implemented in the sides of the poles of the construction.

Figure 17 - Concept 3 Figure 18 - Concept 4

Figure 19 - Concept 5 Figure 20 - Concept 6

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TRIZ (the Russian abbreviation for the Theory of Solving Inventive Problems) is a Russian innovation method found by scientist and engineer Genrich Altshuller. Altshuller started massive studies of patent collections with the main goal to develop a method which would turn inventive processes to a clearly defined technology: from a problem to a solution without numerous trials and errors. Altshuller concluded from his studies that using previous experience, presented in explicit way (for instance in terms of principles and patterns), the majority of new inventive problems could be solved [Souchkov, 2007].

When new problems are represented in terms of contradictions, there are several TRIZ principles which could be followed to solve problems formulated as contradictions. The principles indicate how to eliminate the same type of the contradiction encountered in some area of technology before.

Also in this project, or in the created concept to be more exact, there were a few contradictions which have been solved following the principles of TRIZ.

One problem is that there is too little space near the highway to place a large wind turbine in. Now a contradiction could be formulated by using the Root-Conflict Analysis technique from TRIZ. To make a contradiction one needs to ask ‘what causes the problem?’. After that from the condition that causes the problem (the negative effect) a positive effect should be found as illustrated in an abstract way in figure 21.

So the negative effect (too little space) is being caused by the large wind turbine (the condition), which has the positive effect to produce more energy. The contradiction here is that the wind turbine has to be small (for space) and big (for more energy) at the same time.

Access to the principles is provided through the Altshuller matrix, which contains vertical axis (with positive effects) and horizontal axis (with negative effects which arise when attempting to achieve the positive effects). Selecting a pair of positive and negative effects in the Altshuller Matrix, the

numbers of the principles can be found which have to be used to solve the formulated contradiction. The parameter on the vertical axis which is the closest to the positive effect in this case is number 39: productivity . Closest to the negative effect from the horizontal axis is parameter number 7: volume of moving object.

The principles, found from the intersection of this two, which should be followed are the numbers:

2: Taking away

6: Universality

10: Prior action

34: Discard and recover

Using the ‘taking away’ principle, the problem can be solved by taking some components away and placing them on a specified distance from the wind turbine, to be able to keep the rotor

TRIZ

Figure 21 - TRIZ Root-conflict analysis

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blades as large as possible. Components that could be separated are for example the lights or the rotor blades.

The ‘universality’ principle contains the following strategy to use [www.triz40.com]: ‘Make a part or object perform multiple functions; eliminate the need for other parts’.

The part that can perform multiple functions in this case is the rotor blade. Lights can be integrated into the rotor blades (figure 23) or the rotor blades could be made in such way (or from such materials) that the blades can function as lights (next to rotating for energy creation). Another option is to integrate solar cells into the rotor blades (figure 22), so that more energy can be produced by the blades. By doing so, the positive effect (more energy production) of our contradiction can be achieved in another way than making the rotor blades larger.

The ‘prior action’ principle suggests to prearrange the objects, parts or components such that they can come into action from the most convenient place. A solution is to place the turbine there where the air flow caused by the vehicles is the hardest, so that it can catch the most wind and produce more energy. Another solution is to design the rotor blades such that they can rotate in the most effective way to produce more energy.

One of the strategies of the principle ‘discard and recover’ is to eliminate or modify a part of a system which produces negative effect, in order to remove or reduce that negative effect. Here the part that causes the negative effect is the contacting part between the rotor blades and the rotor shaft, which causes a lot of friction. Using the Maglev technique with magnets the contact surface could be minimized, reducing friction. With less friction the rotor blades can rotate longer and faster and produce more energy and the blades can be kept small.

Figure 22 - Solar cells integrated into the rotor blades

Figure 23 - Lights integrated into the rotor blades

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Using the platform strategy for product development, a company can offer a large variety of products and meet more customers needs. McGrath has defined product platform as a set of subsystems and interfaces that form a common structure from which a stream of related products can be developed and produced efficiently [Halman et al, 2003].

A platform is an architecture of the common elements implemented across a range of products, which is called a product family. It is the common basis of all individual products within that product family. A modular product architecture is characterized by independence between elements (modules) and their interfaces [Halman et al, 2003]. Some benefits of the platform strategy are that it:

• Enables rapid and consistent product development, which reduces the time to market

• Encourages a long-term view on product strategy• Offers more variety in products to meet more customers

needs In this project the platform strategy is used to create more variants of the same concept. More concepts are created with the same standard platform. This enables the concept to be applicable in more contexts, to reach a broader market segment.

ApplicationFirst, the application of Platform Driven Product Developments requires an assembly breakdown of the designed concept. By defining the required parts within the concept, product families can be created using similar parts. Figure 24 shows the concept broken down into the most important assemblies and parts. Small components such as electrical wiring and fasteners are deliberately left out of the application to maintain a clear overview.

Product platformsBy looking at the different components, different product platforms can be created. Every product platform shares multiple components with other platforms. Figure 27 shows a platform flower displaying four examples of product platforms. Additional to the sustainable highway, products can be created for a commercial and domestic platform. The fourth platform used are remote locations such as sailboats, mountain huts and villages in developing countries. Another way of displaying the product platforms is by means of a platform scheme, which is shown in figure 30.

Domestic wind turbinesAt a domestic scale, wind turbines (figure 25) can be used to generate sustainable energy for personal use. This variant uses

PLATFORM DRIVEN PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Maglevwindturbine

Anchorage

Sensors

Anchor pole

Windturbine

Housing

Blades

LEDs

Generator

Controller

Concept Assemblies Parts

Figure 24 - Concept at assembly and parts level

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most of the components required for the highway concept. Differences can be found in the optional roof mount and lighting. This product platform can contain a familiy of different domestic wind turbines targeting multiple target groups. The different target groups can be reached through differences in pricing, performance and exterior design.

Commercial wind turbinesSimilar to domestic wind turbines, wind turbines can be used to power corporate buildings. By placing the wind turbines on high buildings (figure 26), the efficiency of the wind turbines can be higher due to stronger winds at high altitudes. Besides the benefits from durable energy production, companies can differentiate themselves in creating a more durable and future-proof brand image. The design of the wind turbines should reflect this image.Again, a product family can be created by introducing multiple products differentiated by pricing, performance and exterior design.

Remote locationsVillages or buildings located in remote areas can benefit from wind energy because the energy can be generated locally. Examples can be developing countries, beach huts (figure 28) sailboats (figure 29) and mountain huts. By definition, remote locations are not connected to smart grids and will require batteries to store abundant energy.

Figure 25 - Domestic wind turbine Figure 26 - Commercial turbine Figure 28 - Beach hut turbine Figure 29 - Boat wind turbine

Dom

estic

Remote

Comm

ercial

Modern housing

Themed housing

Organic housing

Commercial LightingBehaviourDomestic

LightingBehaviour

RemoteLightingBehaviour

HighwayLightingBehaviour

Motion sensor

Battery

Proximitysensor

Microphone

LEDs Blades

Generator

Controller

Sustainable Highway

Figure 27 - Platform flower

20

Product familiesThe developed concept is designed for the Dutch culture and environment. By alternating the exterior design, the concept can be adjusted to suit a range of different countries and (sub) cultures. Examples of this are wind turbines shaped like a palm tree for more southern countries, a traditional styling for old city centres and modern styling for modern city centres. Additionally, the internal software can be altered to match the lighting of different environments with different interactions.

SensorsThroughout the past decades, technological innovations within cars, navigation systems, cell phones and other electronic devices have made drastic improvements on the miniaturization of sensors. These days, hundreds of sensors are available and are used in a wide range of applications to determine motion, chemical compositions, radiation, lighting and so on.

The developed concept can use some of these sensors to interact with its environment. The system should be able to determine the presence and approximate speed of vehicles. The street lighting can then be adjusted to inform drivers about their speed or to warn upcoming traffic for a traffic jam. Furthermore, the system can warn drivers when emergency services are approaching. The required sensors are:

• Motion sensors• Proximity sensors• Microphone

Additional sensors can be added to alter the lighting to different interactions. An example might be a sensor measuring the output power to adjust the colour of the lighting.

21

Module groups

Product platforms

Product families

Housing LEDs Blades Generator ControllerMotion andproximitysensor

Anchoring

Domestic windturbines

Commercial windturbines

Sustainablehighway wind

turbinesBoat wind turbines

Battery Microphone

Product A

Product B

Product C

Product A

Product B

Product C

Product A

Product B

Product C

Product A

Product B

Product C

Figure 30 - Platform scheme

22

Most people think of design to be something aesthetic and not as significant as technological innovations in new products. Several researches, however, have shown the high significance of design in new products. Technological innovation together with new product design seems to increase the market share for a company compared to others [TNO, 2005]. Therefore it is important, also in this project, to pay attention to design as well.

Design in products also plays a big role in the emotions of people. There could be done a lot with design to manipulate these. In this case for example, the wind turbine could be designed in a way that drivers get the feeling they are driving too fast, which helps to stimulate them to decrease their speed. With the design of the turbines there can also be brought more pleasure in the bold and boring highways, to add something to the landscape and to let people feel comfortable while driving.

In this project, a lot of design sketches have been created before for the chosen concept and they are placed in two different categories: design of the lights in the turbine and the form of the rotor blades. So in the first phase the ideas are diverged first and then categorized. In the second phase, one idea (concept) from each category has been chosen, after which more concepts are created combining the two ideas. Finally convergence has been applied, one of them has been chosen as a final concept to be worked out in more detail. Figure 31 shows a scheme of the results.

In the idea generation, several uses of coloured light have been worked out. The main idea is that, besides the regular lamp for (additional) street lighting, there are LEDs implemented in the vanes of the wind turbine to make them slightly interactive or encourage driving at the right speed. The lights however may not be too distracting for the driver and may never encourage speeding. Therefore, a number of functions have been chosen for further elaboration. The other functions may be implemented in

a later stadium, for instance if a pilot version has been proven effective.

The regular street lights do not have to be removed immediately when the new wind turbines are placed. They can be connected to the generator grid, for instance to provide more light on busy or dangerous places, or they can be removed when they have become too old or when they are broken.

The following uses of LEDs are chosen to be elaborated into our prototype design:

• The trail of light that follows the car is red in the back and white in front of the car. The light in the back glows brighter when a car is decreasing speed, the faster the decrease the brighter the light - like an extra brake light.

• When cars drive too close together, the front white light interferes with the red back light and the colour changes into, for instance, yellow to warn the driver that he is not keeping enough distance.

• When weather conditions are bad and there is limited sight, for instance when it is very foggy, all turbines will emit light at their brightest, preferably in one colour.

• When the wind turbines detect a car with problems, bright orange warning lights will turn on around it.

• When an ambulance is using its siren and rotating lights it can be detected, and over a large area clear blue lights will turn on so that drivers can anticipate on the ambulance coming near. This of course also counts for police cars and/or fire department.

The first two uses are mainly useful in dusk or night. The other three can be also used in daylight. The turbine has some reflective material on its vanes so it is also visible when something is broken or during daytime.

INNOVATIVE DESIGN AND STYLING

23Figure 31 - Design and Styling scheme

24

To define the concept in a detailed way, a program of requirements has been set up.

Requirements

SafetySafety of the product has two aspects, one is direct and one is indirect. Solutions for both can be the same, but they are thought of from different angles. Direct means prevention of damage for persons or animals when accidentally coming to near to the moving parts. Indirect means that the device itself prevents hurting a person with an action, such as stopping the blades of the turbine.

SustainabilitySustainability is the capacity to endure. This means that the product has to maintain its workings long-term. Sustainability knows various dimensions and a product for the sustainable highway involves the environment, the economic dimension and the social dimension of sustainability. Furthermore, the population grows but also the human consumption. The life span of all the different components is very important for the product. Another chapter specifies this aspect further.

General workingsSeveral demands concern maintenance, accessibility and appearance. The part design & styling deals with most of the appearance, but since it is an important requirement it is also listed here.

Size of the productA traffic barrier is placed on both sides of the central reservation (middenberm) and mostly on the other side(s) of the road as well. They are commonly used on highways but also on other places where damage from vehicles has to be prevented, such as buildings, machines and parking lots. The type of traffic barrier used is the standard guardrail. There are some other types

(rigid barriers, made of concrete) often used temporarily. This concept will only be placed where they are safe behind a barrier, so in between two in the central reservation or behind a rail at the sides of the road. Dutch guard rail constructions are 75 centimetres high. This means that the rotor part must be higher than that. The width of the central reservation is variable, which means that the large lights that will be shining onto the road have to be adjustable.

Maintenance, life cycle and

costsMaintenance, life cycle and costs of a product are directly related to each other and are of great importance for our product. The government has attention for sustainability in products. Also, these products have to be low in maintenance, inexpensive and high durability, before the government is interested in investing. Therefore, to let the project succeed, it is important to consider these subjects.

Placement height and anchoring Maintenance on the product is made easy because it is very accessible; it is placed near the ground and all components are within reach. Work can be done easily and quickly, without having to use vehicles or larger machines. The road does not have to be closed for a longer period of time. Furthermore, the choice of the footing is such that it could be removed. This enables maintenance technicians to replace a broken wind turbine by a new one, or to take the wind turbine in need of repair away from the highway to conduct the maintenance elsewhere. In this way the traffic will not be disturbed too much.

No frictionThanks to the maglev principle, the moving parts of the wind turbine have no contact with each other. This means that there is no friction between the parts, resulting in the absence

PROGRAM OF REQUIREMENTS AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

25

Category Requirements Wishes

Safety No severe physical damage must happen when accidentally touching moving parts of the device (direct) No damage at all

When an accident occurs and the product is damaged, harm from electrocution or contact with hazardous substances must be prevented (direct)

The machine shuts itself down and disconnects from the grid

The windmills have to stop immediately when a car or person comes unusually close by, for instance at car troubles, accidents, maintenance and help services (the lights stay on) (indirect)

The machines start up again when no objects are detected

It must be possible to limit the rotational speed of the vanes so that they cannot break during storms (indirect) This must be possible from a distance, without visiting the actual turbine

There may not be too many different light signals and/or colours for they will distract drivers (indirect) The selection can be changed from a central computer system

The device has to have the possibility to be stopped for any reason, for instance for maintenance (direct)

Sustainability The device has to be able to excite all of its own energy use

Overproduction of energy must be used elsewhere

The product itself may not produce harmful emissions

The product may not contain matter that is severely damaging the environment when (accidentally) released, such as materials that can spontaneously self combust, explosive, corrosive, poisonous, oxidising or radioactive

The components used must have a life span of at least 15 to 20 years

The life span of the housing of the device must be at least 15 years (LEDs and other small components may be replaced earlier)

General workings The device must keep working when small light components fail (for instance when three of ten LEDs are broken it must still remain functioning)

It may not damage cars that are making normal use of the road

Components have to be resistant to all weather conditions

The device must be accessible for maintenance

Replacing (broken) components must not be time consuming and expensive and possible with standard tools

The electrical components must be standardised components

Size The device must fit between two guard rails

The device must be higher than the guard rail

Appearance The design must have a positive appearance The design must be appealing both day and night

The design must have a natural appearance The product must use natural colours

26

of abrasion of the parts. This extends the total life span of the product enormously and there is less maintenance needed.

Use of LED lightingWith its 50% of energy efficiency and 15 to 20 years of lifetime, LED lighting is ideal to be used in this concept. Maintenance costs money so the longer the life span of the lights, the more money you save.

Corrosion resistant materialThe materials that have been chosen for the product are all resistant against corrosion and all kind of heavy weather conditions. This will decrease the need for maintenance and increase the lifetime of the product. Some damage is however inevitable, but the life span will still be 20 years.

Standard componentsUsing standard industrial components, such as screws, bolts and nuts, can be assembled and disassembled quickly with standard equipment. This accelerates maintenance services of the system.

Remote software controlControlling the system remotely by means of software, some maintenance problems could be solved from a distance, working from one place instead of driving from place to place. Some problems could even be solved by the system software itself, which increases the product lifetime. This all means less, easy, quick and efficient maintenance. These things make the maintenance also cheaper.

CostsLess maintenance, quick maintenance and long product life cycles result in reduction of costs.

Generally the two most expensive parts of such turbines are the generator and the housing. Now the turbine is the generator itself and no other generator is needed, the costs for purchasing generators can be saved. Absence of the generator also means

that the turbines can be kept small which means less material for the housing, resulting in cost reduction.

Also with the use of LED lighting a lot of costs could be saved, as mentioned above.

The costs made for purchasing the components and material could be neglected, because after a short time the investments all will be gained back, by means of the great amount of energy production by maglev based turbine generators and efficient consumption of the lights.

Technical specificationsUsing the maglev generator technique, less energy will be lost because the direct performance as a generator and without any friction. This way more energy will be produced than with the normal helical Darrieus turbine.

Energy consumption of LED street lightsLED lights are nowadays the most popular in application of street lighting because of their great advantages compared to for example incandescent light bulbs or fluorescent lamps. Key advantages of quality LED street lights include:

• Significantly longer life span • Lower energy consumption• Reduced maintenance costs

A typical 13 watt LED lamp is equivalent to a standard 40 watt incandescent bulb, which has an expected life span of 1000 hours while a LED can operate more than 50000 hours, 50 times longer than the incandescent bulb. Using the lights 8 to 10 hours a day means LEDs have a life cycle of 15 to 20 years. Current LED lamps turn 50% of the energy they get, into light,

while fluorescent lamps turn 35% of the energy into light and Incandescent light bulbs just 10%.

A disadvantage of the LED lights is that they are quite expensive to purchase, but the costs are gained back in long term [www.wikipedia.org - LED].

Use of magnetsFor the magnetic levitated wind turbine a magnet should be chosen which is quite strong, to be able to ‘carry’ the weight of the rotor blades. A suitable magnet for this application is the neodymium magnet. Neodymium magnets are the strongest permanent magnets known, a few grams of it can lift a 1000 times its own weight. This means that if the rotor blades are about 10 kg (10000 grams), only 10 grams of neodymium would be enough to carry it [www.wikipedia.org - neodymium].

Neodymium has the disadvantage that it quickly oxidizes in ordinary air. The oxide layer then peels off which exposes the metal to further oxidation. Therefore neodymium is mostly coated with other, more noble metals, to protect him from corrosion. For this concept a nickel plated neodymium magnet with will be used.

Design and material

BladesA modern wind turbine is designed to work on varying speeds. The use of new light-weight material causes fast acceleration of the turbine. It is important to be able to control the speed and torque at which the turbine rotates, to keep the whole turbine within its limits (torsional, centrifugal, etc), to optimise efficiency (especially in light winds), to enable maintenance (sometimes it has to be put to a full stop) and to reduce the noise.

Small blades can be made from light metals such as aluminium, which are also easy to construct. A hollow construction could be made to get a more rigid (and light) result. Metals require frequent maintenance so are not preferred. Other rigid but light materials are composites like carbon fibre or fibreglass laminates.

27

Tower / housingBecause wind velocities increase at higher altitudes it is very important to have a stable tower. The rule for diameter of the tower is that it has to be doubled when the height of the tower is doubled. The higher the tower, the higher the wind speeds (increase of 10% when doubling the height) and the more power (34%). This is best applied on the very high HAWT structures, the concept elaborated is of course very low to the ground and forces are less big. The tower height has to be approximately three times the size of the rotor part.

In conventional structures, the vertical load (or dead weight) is transferred to the ground. However, on wind turbines is quite a large horizontal dynamic load which also needs to be restrained. A heavy footing is needed. The housing of the tower can be made of construction steel, which is common and cheap, and heavy enough to give enough vertical load. To give proper footing the construction can be cast in concrete, like road signs and street lights.

Rotor typeThe turbine is a VAWT. In general, it has two types: the Darrieus and the Savonius. The Darrieus uses lift forces generated by aerofoils while Savonius uses drag forces. The main reason not to choose for Savonius is the very low efficiency (about 10%). Advantages of the Darrieus are that it is effective in all directions, even in turbulence, and that it does not have to be pointed into the wind. Maintenance is easy because it is placed near the ground. It is the most efficient VAWT to operate in turbulent wind, it has a high starting torque and a high performance coefficient. In general, the drawback of the Darrieus is that the wind speed on the ground is lower than higher in the air (where HAWTs perform). However, in this context it uses the wind energy that is produced by vehicles passing by. Also, the Darrieus is not self-starting. This means it needs a little ‘push’ to start, but it is very low and even reduced by using three or more blades (the more blades the easier). Using more blades results in higher solidity for the rotor. Normally the push to start comes from a small (electro)motor, but the airstream from the vehicles could also be

sufficient because there is no friction. However, this can only be tested with a prototype because it is impossible to model.

There are three main kinds of Darrieus VAWTs, the rotor Darrieus, the rotor Darrieus H and the rotor Darrieus Hélicoïdale. The H does not fit properly into the design. The helical blades of the Hélicoïdale, also called Gorlov helical turbine or giromill, has another advantage, which is spreading the torque evenly over the entire revolution and this prevents destructive movements. Also, it is very reliable compared to the regular turbine, and it is one of the most efficient VAWT with 35%.

For this product, the helical Darrieus turbine will be used. It is reliable and efficient, and can be built in a way it will fit into the design as elaborated in the chapter Design & Styling.

ComponentsA very rough cost estimation can be made with the sum of material cost. It is impossible to say what the production and assembly costs will be or the costs for placing the final product on its desired location, though this can also be guessed by looking at the costs for the placement of regular lampposts. Prices are based on the products available for consumers, for companies or developers it is probably less expensive [www.conrad.nl] [www.metal-pages.com].

The significant components are the anchoring, the housing and the blades, and more generally standardised parts such as a generator, magnets for the maglev principle, sensors, a controller, small electrical components, LEDs and lamps. The type of lamps is specified for the final concept so for this estimation the price of the regular lamp is used. It is very probable that the lamp of choice in the near future costs as much as these regular ones.

The anchoring is an extension of the housing, but beneath the ground. It is shaped in such a way that it holds on to the concrete in which it is cast. The housing itself, so including the underground part, is made in a single piece of hot-dip galvanised steel (it has a crystalline surface, like the crash barriers). The blades are made from composites; epoxy resin and glass fibre cloth. The sensors are a motion sensor of €11,- and a proximity sensor of €32,- (a strong one) and a microphone (sound sensor)

of €1,-. The total estimated material costs are €263,- [www.solidlight.nl].

Item Material Price

Rotor blades (3x) composites (epoxy resin)

€10,-

Housing galvanised steel €75,-

Anchoring concrete €1,-

Generator copper spools €5,- to €10,-

Transformator €20,-

Magnets (ca. 30) neodymium €25,- (€350/kg)

Sensors €44,-

Controller PCB €5,- to €10,-

Electr. comp. diverse €10,-

LEDs (app. 60) €18,-

ClearSky (2x) €40,-

28

This chapter shows the final developed concept. By means of Platform driven product development, two family members of the Sustainable Highway platform are explained and shown. Although both family members consist of lampposts powered by wind turbines, the design and styling differs in significant ways. The first member is a 1.7 meters high organically shaped lamppost with a wind turbine attached to the top (figure 32). This concept is designed for highways in urban and suburban surroundings.

The second member is an additional model designed for highways in rural areas. Figure 33 shows the concept as a 17 meters tall lamp post with two attached wind turbines. By using higher lampposts, the lighting is directed almost perpendicular to the road which is less harmful for animals.

Figures 37-43 show the placement of the wind turbines and the lighting effects in several conditions. The figures show how the turbines look like and how the lights react in light and dark conditions. In case of bad and foggy weather conditions all turbines will emit light at their brightest, preferably in one colour (figure 42). When emergency vehicles are using siren and

rotating lights it can be detected, and over a large area clear blue lights will turn on (figure 43).

Distraction and driving safety

The proposed concept can have an impact on the safety of drivers. First of all, the concept helps to indicate the current velocity of each vehicle. In this way, the driver is aware of the vehicle’s velocity without focusing his attention to the speedometer. On the other hand, moving light sources might be a distraction to drivers. The final concept tackles this problem by placing the

FINAL CONCEPT

Figure 32 - Flower concept Figure 33 - Lamp post concept

29

street lighting in a fixed position as can be seen in figure 34. The subtle, diffuse lights used for effects are projected on the moving rotor blades of the wind turbine. This ensures that no moving lights are distracting drivers by directly shining into the eyes of a driver.

The product and light pollutionJust like clean air, water and soil, darkness is elementary for nature to function. Animals and plants focus on light as its source of information. Especially in Northern Europe it is important to disturb the darkness as less as possible because, being so far from the equator, the differences in light are large. Too much light can severely disrupt the biorhythm of all kinds of organisms and demolish a whole ecosystem. The change in light/darkness ratio disturbs natural behaviour like migration,

brooding and hunting. Photosynthesis of plants cannot happen without darkness [www.platformlichthinder.nl - ecologie].

Just as it disturbs animals, light pollution disturbs humans. This is mainly because the melatonin production, which is important

for the immune system, is affected. It can cause sleeping disorders and stress, and maybe even cancer. Darkness is an important antagonist of the current hectic society. On the highway, a key element is of course safety. A solution could be that there will only be lighting where it is necessary or using dimmable lamps.

Figure 34 - Aiming of the lights

Figure 35 - Nature friendly lights pilot at Ameland, The Netherlands

Figure 36 - Green coloured street lights

30

Besides all this, light has a social security function. People feel safer when there is light, even though it is not proven to be actually safer. But it is definitely something to keep in mind.

The most common effects of light pollution are that birds are disorientated by the light and that animals are attracted by it. Being attracted to lights near the highway often means that they get killed by the traffic.

It is proven that animals are mainly influenced by red parts of the spectrum and less by blue or green. Blue however causes a problem for humans because we cannot see clearly in blue light. In 2008, Philips invented a special kind of artificial light based on research done by the University of Wageningen. They stated that the inner compass of birds and other animals are affected only by some components of the light. Filtering these components out, a functional green lamp is what is left (figure 36). It is now used on oil platforms in the North Sea, where over 60 million birds pass by in migration [www.newscenter.philips.com].

A pilot is also done on Ameland in street lighting (figure 35) and it is very successful. According to Philips, the ClearSky uses less energy than current street lights and it has a longer lifespan.

These new lights deal with a lot of problems for nature, but not with all of them. The focus of this product is to be equally or less harmful than current methods. Besides this method, there are several other ways to diminish light pollution. First of all, the lights in the turbine are directly aligned on the road so that only

the road is lit and not a large area around or above it (figure 34). Secondly, using the proximity sensor, the lights can be dimmed when there is no traffic. This also saves energy. On a lot of places on the highway, the light posts are placed at the sides of the road. By placing the turbines in the central reservation, light is not affecting anything in the area near the road. Another problem that is solved by the turbines is horizon pollution.

Normally, the rule for street lighting is that more light means higher safety, but until a certain level. More important is that the level of light is equally divided. Suddenly appearing light objects form a real danger because it temporarily blinds the driver. Also, after the period of lights, the eyes have to adapt to the darkness again and during this the driver is not able to see contrast. The product should of course be tested, but it is estimated that it provides enough light to be safe and not blinding the driver [www.platformlichthinder.nl - verkeersveiligheid].

Another pilot project which supports this idea has been done in Drachten, The Netherlands, where green lights have been placed along cycle lanes. The green colour has the same wavelength as the environment (only the red is filtered out) so that the eye does not have to adapt to the differences in light levels. This means that the same illumination can be reached with a lower light level [www.smallingerland.nl].

Concept detailsFigure 39 shows a cross sectional view of the concept. The concept is as mentioned before an organically shaped lamppost

Figure 37 - Lighting effectsFigure 38 - Lighting effects in the dark

Figure 39 - Cross section

31

with a wind turbine attached to the top of about 1.7 meters high. Next to that, the concept contains two lamps and a footer of about 1 meter. The lamps are attached to metal bars which could be eased in and out of the concept easily, when the lamps have to be replaced. Furthermore, the lamps can be placed in different directions because they are hinged to the metal bar; this makes the lamps useful in different contexts and on different road widts. A technical drawing of the concept is shown in appendix A.

Energy consumptionRegular street lamps are often low pressure natrium lamps, or sodium-vapor lamps. They do not give white light so the usage is limited to highways and larger roads. To produce light of 1500 lumen, it needs only 10 watts (while an ordinairy light bulb uses 100 watts) - the SOX gives 120 to 200 lumen per watt. Philips ClearSky lamps are available in the following versions: MASTER TL-D ClearSky and MASTER TL-D ClearSky Polar (18W, 36W and 58W), MASTER QL ClearSky (55W, 85W, 165W), MASTER MH and MH-T ClearSky (50W, 70W, 100W, 150W, 250W, 400W) [www.newscenter.philips.com - article]. The choice for this project will be the Master TL-D of 18 watts, which produces approximately 100 lumen per watt resulting in a total of 1800 lumen per lamp. Full-colour RGB-LEDs are used, which cover the entire spectrum. RGB-LEDs are able to produce about 30 lumen per watt, which is far more than necessary. About 25

lumen is needed to enlight the rotor blades, done by an array of LEDs. The estimated wattage for all the LEDs in total is 10 watt.

In total, less than 50 watt is needed. The expectation is that the maglev windturbine will at least have the prestations of a regular windmill of the same type, which can deliver 200 watts.

Figure 40 - Placement in normal conditions

Figure 41 - Closed view of the turbines

Figure 42 - Foggy weather conditionsFigure 43 - Lighting effects emergency vehicles Figure 44 - Flower concept placement

32

SustainabilityThe product is expected to be much more sustainable compared to the current situation. The energy required by the LEDs and ClearSky lighting is expected to be lower than traditional lighting. By solely lighting the road that is being used, the energy usage during nights can be reduced dramatically while increasing the lifespan of the lamps. Furthermore, the energy created by the wind turbine is expected to be much more than required for lighting the roads. The abundant energy can be used for powering buildings and devices through a Smart Grid. This can mean that matrix signs, petrol stations and restaurants can be powered by the wind turbines. By producing more energy than the system requires, the concept helps to tackle environmental issues caused by energy consumption. The use of Maglev in wind turbines helps to reduce waste by extending the life cycle of the product. A full environmental life cycle assessment should be considered to compare the impact of the concept on nature relative to existing lighting solutions and energy production.

CostsThe overall costs of the product concept are expected to be comparable to traditional street lighting. Although the initial costs of production are higher, the energy savings and energy productions will justify the initial costs. The reduction in maintenance due to the increased life span of the lights can lead to a significant cost reduction because maintenance at highways are considered expensive and dangerous.

InteractionThe interaction between lighting and vehicles can lead to both a safer highway and a more interesting journey. However, more research should be done to the animations and road safety in order to improve the safety of the highway. At this stage, it is unknown what effects the interactions will have on drivers and if the proposed animations are effective.

InnovationAlthough the concept of energy production and road lighting is not a novelty in the current market, the proposed concept adds another dimension through interaction. By lighting effects, drivers are more aware of their speed and are encouraged to maintain a constant speed, reducing fuel consumption. Additionally, the lighting effects can help drivers in their tasks. Whereas traditional lighting remains constant, the interactive lighting can communicate with drivers to keep them awake and alert.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

33

REFERENCES[www.epa.gov] http://www.epa.gov/sustainability

[www.getsustainable.net] http://www.getsustainable.net/triple-bottom-line.html

[www.wordtgeenslaaprijder.nl] www.wordtgeenslaaprijder.nl

[www.wikipedia.org - maglev] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maglev

[www.wikipedia.org - alternator] http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alternator

[www.cnhx160.com] http://www.cnhx160.com/hx/home/index_en.php

[www.magnet.fsu.edu] http://www.magnet.fsu.edu/education/tutorials/magnetacademy/superconductivity101/page7.html

[www.wikipedia.org - wind turbine] nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windturbine

[www.mywindpowersystem.com] http://www.mywindpowersystem.com/

[www.allsmallwindturbines.com] www.allsmallwindturbines.com/

[Macedo patent, 2006] Patents_HAWP/7129596_Hovering_wind_turbine.pdf - Patent 7,129,596 - 31 okt 2006 by Macedo

[www.wikipedia.org - electroluminescence] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electroluminescence

[www.smartgrids.eu] http://www.smartgrids.eu/

[ec.europa.eu] http://ec.europa.eu/research/energy/pdf/smartgrids_en.pdf

[www.triz40.com] http://www.triz40.com/aff_Principles.htm

[Souchkov, 2007] Souchkov, Valeri, ‘Accelerate Innovation withTRIZ’, ICG T&C, 2007

[McGrath, 1995] McGrath, M.E. Product Strategy for High-Technology Companies. Homewood, IL: Irwin, 1995

[Halman et al, 2003] Johannes I. M. Halman, Adrian P. Hofer, Wim van Vuuren, Journal of Product Innovation Management, Platform-Driven

[TNO, 2005] TNO, Design in the Creative Economy – A Summary, Premsela Foundation, The Netherlands, 2005

[www.wikipedia.org - LED] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Light-emitting_diode

[www.wikipedia.org - neodymium] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neodymium

[www.solidlight.nl] http://www.solidlight.nl/webshop/?p=productsList&iCategory=105

[www.metal-pages.com] http://www.metal-pages.com/metalprices/neodymium/

[www.platformlichthinder.nl - ecologie] http://www.platformlichthinder.nl/thema/ecologie/

[www.newscenter.philips.com] http://www.newscenter.philips.com/nl_nl/standard/about/news/press/20081205_philips_vogelvriendelijke_verlichting_genomineerd.wpd

[www.newscenter.philips.com - article] http://www.newscenter.philips.com/nl_nl/standard/about/news/press/article-16118.wpd

[www.platformlichthinder.nl - verkeersveiligheid] http://www.platformlichthinder.nl/thema/verkeersveiligheid/

[www.smallingerland.nl] http://www.smallingerland.nl/eCache/58736/LED-licht_in_Slingepark

Images from www.SXC.hu

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APPENDIX A - TECHNICAL DRAWINGS

1000

415

300 30

80

100

1170

600

100

522

200

238

45

677 68

C

100

544

80

180

C (1 : 10)

FACULTYOF

ENGINEERING

University of Twente

PROJECTIONMETHOD DATEUNLESS STATED

OTHERWISE:TOLERANCES 0,5 MM

MATERIAL TITLE

SURFACE FINISH DRAWING NO.

REV.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETERS SHEET 1 OF 1

A4

DRAWN

SCALECHECKED

Ani

Erwin, Frederiek

03-11-2011

1:50

01Wind turbine

Assem