Abstract: A fluid turbine has semi-spherical, hollow blades arrayed about a vertical axis. The turbine's blade shape reduces drag on a convex side and increases drag on a concave side. Part of the center of the array of rotor blades is open, allowing flow through the center of the array. The spherical form enhances fluid flow through the center of the array and results in rotational force on a downwind blade, and directs fresh air into bypass flow. A combination of holes and a deflector surface generates vortices as updraft flow passes through holes, creating a pressure differential between the area surrounding the holes and the upper portions of the blade. Fluid passing from relatively higher pressure to relatively lower pressure passes the deflector surface, forming vortices that result in rotational force on the blades of the fluid turbine.

Abstract: A fluid turbine has semi-spherical, hollow blades arrayed about a vertical axis. The turbine's blade shape reduces drag on a convex side and increases drag on a concave side. Part of the center of the array of rotor blades is open, allowing flow through the center of the array. The spherical form enhances fluid flow through the center of the array and results in rotational force on a downwind blade, and directs fresh air into bypass flow. A combination of holes and a deflector surface generates vortices as updraft flow passes through holes, creating a pressure differential between the area surrounding the holes and the upper portions of the blade. Fluid passing from relatively higher pressure to relatively lower pressure passes the deflector surface, forming vortices that result in rotational force on the blades of the fluid turbine.