20090297352 | DEBRIS REMOVAL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR WIND TURBINE BLADES - A system is provided for cleaning debris from horizontal axis wind turbine blades. The system includes a wiper with arms extending partially around the blade adjacent the leading edge and a line engaging the leading edge so as to scrape debris from the blade edge as the arms move along the length of the blade. The arms are carried outwardly along the blades by aerodynamic and centripetal forces, and are retracted by cables attached to the arms. The system is activated by a PLC in response to sensors on the turbine to automatically clean the blade when wind conditions typically allow insects to fly and contaminate the blades. A grease control system is also provided on the blades to prevent grease or oil from the turbine hub from leaking onto the blade. | 12-03-2009 |