Power Your Future Challenge - Nekoosa High School

Welcome to the OmniWind media page! Here, we’re thrilled to share our journey in creating efficient, sustainable micro-turbines for clean energy. This page highlights key stages in our prototype’s development—from concept and CAD design to 3D printing and feasibility testing.

Through research on wind turbines, our students explored common failure modes of commercial turbines (see left), noting critical issues we aim to address. Using CAD software, our team crafted a prototype with a centrifugal retractable vane mechanism to enhance resilience in high winds. These designs were brought to life in our CADFABLAB, where high-speed 3D printers created the physical components using environmentally-friendly filament.

Below, you’ll see our prototype turbine being tested, where we assessed the turbine’s performance, durability, and efficiency. This first prototype was a partial success: the turbine rotated as expected, but the retractable vane system only partially retracted. With continued work funded by the Power Your Future Challenge, we’re excited to refine and optimize our design. Stay tuned for updates!