Tubercle Technology: Bumps Offer Better Aerodynamics

All of man's ingenious efforts would pale in comparison to nature's engineering marvels, simply because 'nature works in mysterious ways'. We have always thought that aerodynamics and a streamlined body go hand in hand. However, nature has once again proved us wrong. A multi-ton humpback whale is, perhaps, the most baffling examples of aerodynamics that doesn't rely on smooth surfaces. And one owes this discovery to another accident - a scientist's misconception about fluid dynamics. Humpback whales have randomly located bumps on their flippers. These bumps, called tubercles, explain the humpback whale's uncanny agility in water. The startling discovery made by Dr. Frank E.Fish has led to the creation of the Tubercle Technology by WhalePower. Apparently, the new 'aerodynamic' design enhances the efficiency of wind turbines, fans, flippers, wings and airfoils.

tubercle technology

The 'bumps' on a turbine direct air into the smaller regions of the turbine blades. This significantly increases the wind speed across the channels, leading to greater airlift. The bumps also ensure that the channelized air doesn't escape from the edges of the blade - a situation that traditionally caused noise, instability as well as loss in efficiency. The leading edge 'bump' design will be applied to airfoils and hydrofoils after the technology reaches a mature stage. With increased usage expected in wind turbines, the commercial viability of this technology is certainly beyond doubt.

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Whale fins

Via:Gizmag