Abstract: A wind turbine with improved response to wind conditions is provided. Blade flap angle motion is accompanied by a change in pitch angle by an amount defining a pitch/flap coupling ratio. The coupling ratio is non-constant as a function of a flap angle and is preferably a substantially continuous, non-linear function of flap angle. The non-constant coupling ratio can be provided by mechanical systems such as a series of linkages or by configuring electronic or other control systems and/or angle sensors. A link with a movable proximal end advantageously is part of the mechanical system. The system can provide relatively large coupling ratios and relatively large rates of coupling ratio changes especially for near-feather pitches and low flap angles.

Abstract: A wind turbine is configurable with at least one blade is pitched to provide relatively high sensitivity to wind direction or sheer so as to perform a rudder function which moves the blades such that the vertical plane defined by the blade ends is substantially parallel to the wind direction. In one aspect, the wind turbine has at least two different blades having two different blade pitches. In one embodiment, the rudder action configures a two bladed wind turbine such that a non-rudder blade, having a pitch different from the rudder blade, has its free end pointing substantially directly into the wind, providing relatively low cross-sectional resistance to the wind and accordingly relatively low load.

Abstract: A structure and method for transferring load, particularly bending load, from a blade to a blade hub, such as for use in a wind turbine device, is provided. In one embodiment, the structure includes two or more spaced-apart annular rings, respectively contacting the inner surface of a blade root end, and the outer surface of a hub spindle, with a web extending therebetween.

Abstract: A wine turbine with blades having a high lift-to-drag ratio is provided. A hydraulic or other control system is used to control cone angle, such as in response to flap moment. Pitch of blades is controlled, such as in relation to the blade flap angle. Teeter motion is controlled preferably as a function of teeter angular velocity.