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Bioinspired optimization of a wind turbine gear

The challenge was to minimize material use in the gears while ensuring they remain structurally stable under both static and cyclic loads typical in wind turbines, and still be feasible for manufacturing. The solution is the use of bio-inspired design strategies, enhanced by parametric optimisation using advanced additive manufacturing to optimise material usage and ensure structural integrity. This enabled rapid prototyping and validation.

43 % mass reduction

Parametric optimization

Manufacturing directed design

43 % mass reduction

Parametric optimization

Manufacturing directed design

Drawing from the resilience and efficiency of natural systems, we've engineered wind turbine gears that not only perform reliably under operational conditions but also lead the way in environmental sustainability.

Ignacio Laraudogoitia

Advanced Design Researcher

Ignacio Laraudogoitia

Tecnalia

Gold
Silver

Tecnalia Research & Innovation is the first private Technology Center in Spain and one of the main organizations dedicated to applied research in Europe. Its operating model is based on sectoral Business Units that stand out for their Market orientation and Specialization. TECNALIA focuses its activity on applied research in order to use the results of its research and its knowledge in companies and society, thus contributing to their growth.

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