Designed by Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill, this tower called “Clean Technology Tower” would be constructed in Chicago as highly efficient building. The wind turbines will be placed at the corners of the building, to make sure it captures the wind at its highest velocity as it accelerates around the tower. If you have heard about recently featured solar Masdar Headquarters, that building also designed by the same firm who will build this clean technology tower. At the apex, where wind speeds are at a maximum, a domed double roof cavity directs the wind towards an array of wind turbines. The negative pressure created by the turbines will be used to ventilate interior spaces. The dome itself is shaded by solar cells that capture the southern sun.
Designer : Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill via MetaEfficient
What an innovative idea!
Does any one know the level of noise and vibration these turbines will generate? And what happens in crowded cities to deflect the power of the wind generated by them………and finally, what will happen to the blades in the event of a powerful wind storm or hurricane? I am sold on solar power, but there are some strong questions concerning the safety and noise and resulting problems from the generation of the wind. Someone out there who has some facts and figures…….please respond with information…….for everyone! It also occurs to me that wildlife (bees, birds etc) could be harmed in great numbers………!
Vertical axis wind turbines are virtually silent (especially in comparison with typical building MEP equippment), also the vertical axis are seen by birds, unlike horizontal axis turbines. At great wind speeds the turbines have a safety shut off.