A young engineering student from India is making waves in the world of renewable energy. Divya Tyagi, a Penn State University graduate student, has solved a 100-year-old math problem related to wind energy — a breakthrough that could make wind turbines more powerful and efficient.
The original problem was introduced in 1926 by British aerodynamicist Hermann Glauert. His equation helped design turbines by predicting the maximum power they could generate. But it left out key factors like the total force and bending pressure on the blades — critical things engineers need to know when designing turbines that can survive tough wind conditions.
Divya took on this challenge as part of her undergraduate thesis. With the guidance of her professor, Sven Schmitz, she refined Glauert’s complex model using a smart mathematical method called calculus of variations. Her solution made the equation easier to use — and added in those missing forces.
“This new model doesn’t just tell us how much power we can get, it helps us design better, stronger blades,” said Professor Schmitz. “This kind of work will shape the next generation of wind turbines.”
Divya’s updated model can help engineers tweak the shape, twist, and angle of blades for better performance. Even a tiny 1% improvement in power output can mean enough electricity for a whole neighborhood.
Her research has been published in Wind Energy Science, and she has already won the prestigious Anthony E. Wolk Award for her work.
“I wanted to find the best wind flow conditions for turbines,” said Divya. “It was tough, but this model shows what’s really possible.”
From a college project to a global impact — Divya Tyagi’s work could lead to more efficient, cost-saving wind turbines and push us closer to a cleaner energy future.
Source:
- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/education/news/meet-divya-tyagi-the-penn-state-student-who-cracked-a-100-year-old-wind-energy-equation-boosting-turbine-efficiency/articleshow/119260883.cms
- https://www.news18.com/india/indian-origin-student-solves-100-year-old-math-problem-unlocks-way-for-advances-in-wind-energy-9268761.html
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