Back in the day of 3000 BC, the buildings in Iranian desert cities were designed with a "wind catcher" technology that acted like modern day air conditioners, without high utility bills. Ancient architects designed a system of air traps, ducts, and a water reservoir that created a wind turbine effect within the structure. The airflow was directed to a pool of water that was centrally located in the building, and then up and out of a dome or tower roof. The pool of water cooled the air, providing relief from the desert heat in the central hall of the building as well as food refrigeration near the water's edge. There was even an icemaker installed.
The trick was to control the changing air pressure throughout the wind catcher to keep the airflow moving without the use of power or mechanism.
Mark Sheikhrezai, CEO and founder of Windation Energy Systems, was inspired by the technology of his homeland ancestors. His company, Windation Energy Systems, has recently introduced a wind appliance that converts wind into electricity using the "wind catcher" concept. The general wind pattern used by the ancient technology creates a green solution to modern energy use.
The wind appliance captures the air flow from the top, pushing the wind through a series of centrifuges and rotors that create up to five kilowatts of electricity. There is not enough electricity to power an entire office building, but the energy usage is significant enough to offset the installation cost of $45,000 - $50,000 within seven years, according to Windation Energy Systems. This could pay for itself faster than the installation of a solar array on a flattop commercial building. (Reminder: The cost effectiveness of any energy source that harnesses Mother Nature's gifts is always dependent upon the availability of that said resource in your neighborhood.) The Palo Alto Medical Foundation in California will be installing one Windation wind appliance later this year.
Windation's wind appliance is enclosed, resembling a modern air conditioning unit rather than the traditional open-air wind turbines. The new design ensures safety of all flying animals (bird, bats, and other such creatures) while ensuring safety for the customer.
Windation Energy Systems will begin to produce more units in 2009 in an old windmill factory in Nebraska. It is encouraging to see another eco-conscious start-up company whose future is bright, as everyone from the federal government to individual citizens is going green!
Source: BecauseAction.com
