In most turbines, wind spins a three-blade system, which turns a vertical shaft that connects to an electrical generator at its base. In contrast, Mahawili's design looks like a giant bicycle wheel with 20 nylon spokes. At the outer end of each spoke is a magnet and stationary coil, which generate electricity. Because the electricity is created in the blades themselves and not by spinning a heavy shaft, Mahawili's design can capture two to three times as much energy as traditional models, according to Honeywell International (HON). The conglomerate tested Mahawili's design as part of a worldwide search for energy-efficient turbines, and it "really stood out," says Tony Uttley, a Honeywell vice-president. The turbine is small and light enough to sit on a roof; five could power an average U.S. household.
BusinessWeek
Photo Credit Honeywell
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