Abstract: An offset-axis type wind generator uses a passive cyclic pitch-change rotor whose shaft axis is inclined downward and aft, with its sense of rotation selected so that the yaw component of the shaft torque at least partially of the shaft torque offsets that component of thrust which accompanies power extraction. A wind-alignment vane extends from a boom mounted on a furling hinge, equipped with mechanism to limit the vane's anti-furling moment to balance only the remainder of the moment of rotor thrust. Hence, disengagement of power extraction does not cause the rotor to overspeed, and the machine may idle even in gale-force winds, furled to nearly 90.degree..

Abstract: Cyclic pitch variation of the rotor blades of a horizontal axis wind energy conversion machine permit its operation at substantially design rotor speed and rotor torque over a range of wind speeds, by heading the rotor progressively out of the wind through a range from approximately 20.degree. for light winds to a near 90.degree. setting for gales, at which the power output is interrupted to permit the rotor to idle. Changes in wind direction will cause the rotor to follow the wind even though so headed out of it. By allowing the blades substantial freedom to adapt their pitch to side winds, the present construction allows rapid rates of yaw into a shifting wind, such as may destroy conventional rotors by the attendant gyroscopic forces. Further, by actively controlling their pitch, aerodynamic forces exerted by the cyclic pitch change blades substantially balance out the gyroscopic forces attendant to yaw.