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Pterófin TM [ter-o-fin]
Pteró (n) - wing, winged, or feather. + fin (n) - a surface used to produce lift in air or water. |
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Pterofin is a Seattle-based clean technology company developing innovative energy generation devices based on biomimicry. Our unique oscillating wings capture energy from minimal currents, even below 5 MPH winds, to pump water or generate electricity.
Our primary focus is on a customer who at the village level faces high costs and inefficiencies in pumping water from deep wells using existing electric pumps or outdated wind turbines. Pterofin technology can be extremely useful in remote locations, especially rural and agricultural communities in emerging markets as demonstrated by multiple inquiries and order requests from a variety of nonprofit organizations in Mexico, Peru, Ecuador, and Kenya. Pterofin Inc. as well as the inventor, Wallace Kempkey, have been featured in tech press and local media outlets such as GeekWire and KOMOnews.com.
"Birds and fish are extremely efficient at using energy to create motion in a surrounding fluid, so why not try to create energy by using that same motion within a moving fluid."
Pterofin products are controlled by a simple counterbalance system that synchronizes the wings’ position and speed with a mechanical leverage point on the body of the device. The outcome is a coordination of harmonizing the wings pitch angle to a natural frequency of a fluids specific velocity. This oscillating motion is low in RPM and high in torque, which allows it to be extremely efficient at pumping water or generating electricity.
When a Pterofin encounters high winds, gust, or debris, a rotational control system allows the wing or wings to sweep back into the direction of the current, bringing Pterofin power to a halt and making it act at that point simply as a weather vane. This makes it much more aerodynamic and gives it a far more streamline profile than any turbine on the market. We'd like to think it knows how to hibernate or "go dormant" to avoid over-stress on the moving parts that leads to high wear and tear, and also creates far less noise pollution.
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Our near-term goal is to get Pterofin prototypes into the hands of sustainable energy enthusiasts as an avenue to collect data before mass manufacturing the Dragonfly. Our long term goal is to share the Dragonfly with underprivileged communities in need of power and water as well as rural and agricultural communities without the finances or wind required for the average turbine.
Wind turbines typically require a 70-ft guyed tower as well as a substantial financial investment. Pterofin’s key moving components are mounted at the base of its unique, oscillating wings so they are easier to install and maintain and the materials can be sourced easily. In heavy winds Pterofin is silent compared to the 55db of a typical small wind turbine and doesn't pose a threat to birds, bats, or our hearing.
Unlike a turbine, Pterofin technology is: efficient in low currents, inexpensive to manufacture, reliable in heavy currents, has a low cost of maintenance, quiet operation, is environmentally friendly, aesthetically pleasing, and can be made out of a wide variety of materials allowing it to be mass produced and easily adopted around the world.
Through licensing IP agreements with manufacturers who are interested in helping preserve our environment, improve their product line, and expand into new segments that were previously unattainable, Pterofin technology is going to be the next generation of renewable energy for first and third world countries.
Wind turbines typically require a 70-ft guyed tower as well as a substantial financial investment. Pterofin’s key moving components are mounted at the base of its unique, oscillating wings so they are easier to install and maintain and the materials can be sourced easily. In heavy winds Pterofin is silent compared to the 55db of a typical small wind turbine and doesn't pose a threat to birds, bats, or our hearing.
Unlike a turbine, Pterofin technology is: efficient in low currents, inexpensive to manufacture, reliable in heavy currents, has a low cost of maintenance, quiet operation, is environmentally friendly, aesthetically pleasing, and can be made out of a wide variety of materials allowing it to be mass produced and easily adopted around the world.
Through licensing IP agreements with manufacturers who are interested in helping preserve our environment, improve their product line, and expand into new segments that were previously unattainable, Pterofin technology is going to be the next generation of renewable energy for first and third world countries.
Check out our videos and see some other Pterofin products in action!
Terrafin - single wing
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Dragonfly - double wing
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Manta - underwater
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Skimmer - surface water
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News
3/9/2018 Over the last couple months Pterofin, Inc. has been in stealth mode. Our R&D team has created some new designs that we're currently in the process of protecting through the USPTO and in India's patent office. Even though we are one step closer to saving lives through delivering clean drinking water, our updates to the website will be limited and sparse. We have never been so excited about the limitless opportunities Pterofin will offer the world in the coming years. Sign up for our newsletter to find out when we'll officially debut our products.
7/24/2017 Pterofin, Inc is ready to start collecting data in real time on it's latest prototype which will soon be installed in the great outdoors.
3/28/2017 We tested our latest prototype today at the Kirsten Wind Tunnel and were very pleased about the results. In order to refine our technology we've simplified the design to eliminate components and complexities in collecting data on its efficiency. Over the next few weeks we will be installing a new gearbox and flywheel to help it reach its full potential in power output. We are also working to display the kw/hours in real-time here on pterofin.com,
2/5/2017 Check out the video of Jarrod Lyman introducing Pterofin technology at TEDx on San Juan Island. Most of our videos explain how our technology works, but this is the best example of WHY we're working so hard to bring it to life.
8/25/2016 This is one of Pterofin's single wing prototypes, made of PVC and Bamboo canvased with plastic wrap. The power being produced lights up a LED from a shake flashlight, with its magnet attached to a cable, which is attached to a lever arm protruding from the drive shaft that holds the wing.
8/20/2016 Pterofin proceeding on painstaking patent process
8/5/2016 Pterofin taking part in TedX event
7/26/2016 Berkeley students pursue continued success with Pterofin
7/5/2016 One of the most important factors in creating successful forms of alternative energy is efficiency, the ability to generate useful levels of electricity affordably. The latest prototype, the Terrafin, was built using common parts from any hardware store or junkyard and cost less than $50 to build and can be maintained for pennies.
11/24/2015 Pterofin won Most Valued Small Company in Tidal at the International Tidal Energy Summit in London, UK!
8/22/2015 This video is a short introduction to the evolution of Pterofin technology.
8/16/2015 I'm currently speaking to a few interested parties who are fascinated with the Manta's potential energy output using tidal and oceanic currents. Check out our quick animation of the Manta in action.
7/30/2015 Today I was a presenter at the "Thingamajig" showcase event at the West Seattle Elementary School! All of the kids were really excited to learn about my alternative wind energy technology and to hear my story about filing a patent and starting Pterofin, Inc. The kids had so many questions about my invention ranging from, "How long did it take you to build it?" to "Can I ride it?" The high level of curiosity and ingenuity really left me inspired. The highlight of my day was after my presentation to the last group of kids, one of the kids approached me, held out a fist bump and said "You're a hero." I will definitely continue my relationship with this project for as long as humanly possible.
6/22/2015 Another milestone for the Pterofin Dragonfly! We took 'Peoples Choice Award' at the CleanTech Alliance Showcase 2015 for Best Emerging Company! You can download the poster by clicking here.
5/31/2015 Today I tested the Dragonfly prototype and captured video of it pumping water in five mile per hour wind! Check out the video to see how efficient this exciting new technology really is!
4/21/2015 These pictures are a first draft of a 6 inch tall Dragonfly Pterofin model for 3D printing. You'll be able to choose a color format or paint it yourself to make it look like a bird or bug flying through the air!
3/15/2015 You can now help support Pterofin today by purchasing some of our products in the Shop section of Pterofin.com! Come back next week to see more exciting new products for sale!
10/3/2014 I completed the first of many high wind speed tests today to demonstrate the pitching back portion of Pterofin technology. The video posted shows a Pterofin moving 25mph in it's dormant state, proving it's versatility and reliability.
8/22/2014 Seattle Parks and Recreation is considering installing three Pterofin wind energy products in a new park near the Troll in Fremont called the, "Troll's Knoll". The three wind energy products will be the Dragonfly models, designed to generate electricity and add to the artistic elements of the park. Check out the presentation from the Community Meeting held last month for more details about the park and the benefits of incorporating our Dragonfly products.
6/25/2014 Today I finished building a half scale Dragonfly model that will be purchased and installed at a few different locations here in Seattle. One of the locations is a public park in Fremont, looking to install three of my wind energy products to power lights along a path in the park. Check out the video I posted on youtube and check back for more videos of the high and low wind speed tests we'll perform over the next few weeks.
5/29/2014 I was given a second opportunity to present Pterofin at a Fulbright “From Lab to Market” Seminar today and had an amazing time! The students seemed to really enjoy our presentations and discussions about our companies pushing through the world of "clean-tech" and strategic business planning.
2/10/2014 My latest prototype was retrofitted with a second wing to increase its efficiency, to help it track the wind, and to showcase the effectiveness of the biomimicry in its design. This modification converted the model from a Terrafin to a Dragonfly design, which I'm hoping to replicate all over the world to pump clean drinking water for impoverished populations.
2/10/2014 I asked for some wind and got a wind storm! Unfortunately, I'm starting to realize that this might not be the best place to test a wind generator, because of all the surrounding trees and a massive house in the way. I added a few weights behind the pump to simulate the weight of the water, which allows us to start collecting data on when the wing will pitch back. After a few other adjustments to the counterweights and bungee cord, I should be able to add the water and start measuring it's power output.
2/8/2014 I just finished installing the latest prototype and now I'm waiting for some wind to come through. The upcoming weather is supposed to be pretty bad, so I'll see what kind of video I can shoot and what kind of data I can collect over the next couple days. Exciting times!!!
12/19/2013 Jacob’s Well and Panes y Peces bring food security and true sustainability to the poor and impoverished communities throughout the Americas at no cost to them. One of the main challenges they face is an affordable energy source. Pterofin’s wind and hydroelectric generators are ideal solutions to pump and heat water during some of the colder winter days. Warm water ensures a thriving population of Tilapia fish and healthy plants. I'm looking forward to sharing results of our wind prototype and seeing the benefits for the people in these rural communities. If you would like to get involved or donate to this effort, please contact Jacob’s Well or Pterofin.
12/9/2013 Our latest prototype is up and running again, except now it has a water pump and a permanent magnet alternator! The system is quite unique to say the least, having three separate containers and using air pressure instead of head pressure to generate hydroelectricity. This closed loop system produces a water jet that turns a pelton wheel, which will charge a car battery and eventually power a few on board LEDs. We also raised the body of the prototype, so now the counterweights swing over the base and the two rear fins are much larger to help track the wind.
10/27/13 I installed the new prototype today at a secret testing location before moving it to Ballard High. This will give me a great opportunity to work out the bugs and make sure everything is safe for the students to perform tests on it's efficiency.
9/13/2013 Today we started building our first pilot prototype in the metal shop at Ballard High School! They have the most amazing location on campus to install and test the prototype, and we're working with two teachers and several students on collecting the data we'll need to prove this amazing new technology exist!
9/4/2013 We're excited to announce our first pilot installation happening in just a few weeks! This prototype will start with pumping water in a fountain to demonstrate how our products can be made using simple materials found in developing countries. After we measure the head pressure and gallons per minute, we'll switch to pumping water and generating hydroelectricity using a small water turbine and car battery for charging mobile devices.
8/17/2013 Tested the latest all bamboo wind prototype at the park today and it worked GREAT! There was no pump or generator installed on it yet, so without a load to slow it down it was really flying back and forth! If the wind picked up a little more it would have pitched all the way back and stopped.
8/1/2013 Pterofin is now working with K&L Gates on our intellectual property and communications between us and the USPTO. Our last Office Action Response was filed on July 8th, 2013 and our patent is still pending through the Green Energy Fast Track that Obama started in Dec. 2009. Everything looks very promising so far and the patent should be issued to Pterofin later this year or early 2014!
7/22/2013 TRAFFIC!?! Ah, the good kind =) # of people who talked about our Facebook Page from 7/7/13 to 7/13/13, broken down by country.
12,968,464 - United States of America
1,802,022 - United Kingdom
1,324,900 - India
997,242 - Canada
735,784 - Australia
718,074 - Philippines
278,090 - Malaysia
6/27/2013 Perofin presents at Bloom Seattle. Watch the video here!
6/11/2013 Wallace will be presenting Pterofin at Bloom Seattle on June 27th. Come join us!
4/27/2013 Tested our latest prototype in a park today and the pump worked! For just a short while though...
2/26/2013 Check out our latest prototype!
1/29/2013 Our Kickstarter campaign made the Seattle Tacoma News as the Crowdfunding Pick of the Week!
1/24/2013 Wallace presented Pterofin this morning as the guest speaker at the University Sunrise Rotary Club of Seattle. What a great group of people and the project was well received!
1/10/2013 Check out our kickstarter.com campaign for Pterofin! Please support and/or re-post this link on whatever social media network you're using and wish us luck!
11/13/2012 Pterofin demonstrated it's technology at the 2012 Global Forum for CleanTech last week and this week it's off to the Greenbuild Expo!
9/28/1012 Today we finished working with the Technical Assistance Program, through the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, who wrote up a technology note that summarizes recommendations and observations about the
Technology. Check out the latest section of our website for more on the Technology, product validation, and an estimated power output for some of our wind and water products.
9/26/2012 Another great article about Pterofin in Geekwire! Read the Q&A: Pterofin borrows wind turbine design from bird wings.
9/24/2012 WCTA member and Pacific Northwest Cleantech Open Semifinalist Pterofin is raising capital.
8/2/2012 Former Napa Noon Rotary Club member announces incorporation!
7/20/2012 Pterofin Announces Incorporation! We couldn't be any more excited for Pterofin, Inc. and the benefits this new technology will bring around the world!
6/14/2012 Wallace introduced Pterofin (slide 22) at the Washington Clean Technology Alliance in front of several hundred people as a contestant for the Northwest CleanTech Open. We can't wait to follow through with some of the contacts we made there, as well as the National Conference in San Jose next week! Check out the great article from Seattle PI and TechFlash!
5/31/12 Wallace presented his experience starting Pterofin, LLC to a large room full of Fulbright students at a seminar they hosted in downtown Seattle today called, "From Lab to Market". It was AMAZING and they were all so fascinated by the prototype! He presented for 15 minutes and sat on a panel for open discussion about the secrets and pitfalls of turning a good idea into a successful business. Check out some of the pictures!
4/18/12 We just found out today that on March 1st the world found out about Pterofin Technology, as the international patent application has finally been published and given the Number WO 2012/027502 A1.
3/26/12 We tested the new wind and water Pterofin prototype at the Kirsten Wind Tunnel and Water Tunnel at UW. They both need a little fine tuning but look very promising! Check out the youtube playlist!
3/5/12 Another great article on KOMO News was written about Pterofin! Check it out!
2/27/12 US Patent has finally been published and on many different websites! Check out the links section of the website.
12/12/11 Today we found out that the decision on the petition under 37 CFR 1.102, filed 9/15/2011, to make special under the pilot program for applications pertaining to the Green Technologies as set forth in 74 Federal Register Notice 64666 (December 8, 2009) and amended by 75 Federal Register Notice 28554 (May 21, 2010) and 75 Federal Register Notice 69049(November 10, 2010) was GRANTED! This is why the patent will be published in a few months and possibly issued in 2013, as opposed to 2020, which is great news for Pterofin, LLC and the rest of the world!
8/25/2011 Filed the non-provisional patent with Fenwick and West LLP
4/27/2011 Pterofin makes it through the investment round and into the Sweet 16 at the UW Business Plan Competition.
4/15/2011 KOMO News published a great article about Pterofin!
4/13/2011 Pterofin wins the Grand Prize at the Seattle Pacific University Social Venture Plan Competition and $2500!
3/31/2011 Pterofin wins the Honorable Mention Award at the UW Environmental Innovation Challenge and $2500!
1/13/2011 Pterofin wins the Second Runner Up at the UW Science and Technology showcase and $300.
8/25/2010 Filed the provisional patent with Janeway Patent Law PLLC
Please follow and like Pterofin on google+, facebook or twitter to hear the latest about our exciting new products!
Eight years of hard work and dedication has gone into what will soon be considered the second generation of natural renewable energy and a potential world energy crisis will subsequently emerge as yet another feat of human ingenuity.
3/9/2018 Over the last couple months Pterofin, Inc. has been in stealth mode. Our R&D team has created some new designs that we're currently in the process of protecting through the USPTO and in India's patent office. Even though we are one step closer to saving lives through delivering clean drinking water, our updates to the website will be limited and sparse. We have never been so excited about the limitless opportunities Pterofin will offer the world in the coming years. Sign up for our newsletter to find out when we'll officially debut our products.
7/24/2017 Pterofin, Inc is ready to start collecting data in real time on it's latest prototype which will soon be installed in the great outdoors.
3/28/2017 We tested our latest prototype today at the Kirsten Wind Tunnel and were very pleased about the results. In order to refine our technology we've simplified the design to eliminate components and complexities in collecting data on its efficiency. Over the next few weeks we will be installing a new gearbox and flywheel to help it reach its full potential in power output. We are also working to display the kw/hours in real-time here on pterofin.com,
2/5/2017 Check out the video of Jarrod Lyman introducing Pterofin technology at TEDx on San Juan Island. Most of our videos explain how our technology works, but this is the best example of WHY we're working so hard to bring it to life.
8/25/2016 This is one of Pterofin's single wing prototypes, made of PVC and Bamboo canvased with plastic wrap. The power being produced lights up a LED from a shake flashlight, with its magnet attached to a cable, which is attached to a lever arm protruding from the drive shaft that holds the wing.
8/20/2016 Pterofin proceeding on painstaking patent process
8/5/2016 Pterofin taking part in TedX event
7/26/2016 Berkeley students pursue continued success with Pterofin
7/5/2016 One of the most important factors in creating successful forms of alternative energy is efficiency, the ability to generate useful levels of electricity affordably. The latest prototype, the Terrafin, was built using common parts from any hardware store or junkyard and cost less than $50 to build and can be maintained for pennies.
11/24/2015 Pterofin won Most Valued Small Company in Tidal at the International Tidal Energy Summit in London, UK!
8/22/2015 This video is a short introduction to the evolution of Pterofin technology.
8/16/2015 I'm currently speaking to a few interested parties who are fascinated with the Manta's potential energy output using tidal and oceanic currents. Check out our quick animation of the Manta in action.
7/30/2015 Today I was a presenter at the "Thingamajig" showcase event at the West Seattle Elementary School! All of the kids were really excited to learn about my alternative wind energy technology and to hear my story about filing a patent and starting Pterofin, Inc. The kids had so many questions about my invention ranging from, "How long did it take you to build it?" to "Can I ride it?" The high level of curiosity and ingenuity really left me inspired. The highlight of my day was after my presentation to the last group of kids, one of the kids approached me, held out a fist bump and said "You're a hero." I will definitely continue my relationship with this project for as long as humanly possible.
6/22/2015 Another milestone for the Pterofin Dragonfly! We took 'Peoples Choice Award' at the CleanTech Alliance Showcase 2015 for Best Emerging Company! You can download the poster by clicking here.
5/31/2015 Today I tested the Dragonfly prototype and captured video of it pumping water in five mile per hour wind! Check out the video to see how efficient this exciting new technology really is!
4/21/2015 These pictures are a first draft of a 6 inch tall Dragonfly Pterofin model for 3D printing. You'll be able to choose a color format or paint it yourself to make it look like a bird or bug flying through the air!
3/15/2015 You can now help support Pterofin today by purchasing some of our products in the Shop section of Pterofin.com! Come back next week to see more exciting new products for sale!
10/3/2014 I completed the first of many high wind speed tests today to demonstrate the pitching back portion of Pterofin technology. The video posted shows a Pterofin moving 25mph in it's dormant state, proving it's versatility and reliability.
8/22/2014 Seattle Parks and Recreation is considering installing three Pterofin wind energy products in a new park near the Troll in Fremont called the, "Troll's Knoll". The three wind energy products will be the Dragonfly models, designed to generate electricity and add to the artistic elements of the park. Check out the presentation from the Community Meeting held last month for more details about the park and the benefits of incorporating our Dragonfly products.
6/25/2014 Today I finished building a half scale Dragonfly model that will be purchased and installed at a few different locations here in Seattle. One of the locations is a public park in Fremont, looking to install three of my wind energy products to power lights along a path in the park. Check out the video I posted on youtube and check back for more videos of the high and low wind speed tests we'll perform over the next few weeks.
5/29/2014 I was given a second opportunity to present Pterofin at a Fulbright “From Lab to Market” Seminar today and had an amazing time! The students seemed to really enjoy our presentations and discussions about our companies pushing through the world of "clean-tech" and strategic business planning.
2/10/2014 My latest prototype was retrofitted with a second wing to increase its efficiency, to help it track the wind, and to showcase the effectiveness of the biomimicry in its design. This modification converted the model from a Terrafin to a Dragonfly design, which I'm hoping to replicate all over the world to pump clean drinking water for impoverished populations.
2/10/2014 I asked for some wind and got a wind storm! Unfortunately, I'm starting to realize that this might not be the best place to test a wind generator, because of all the surrounding trees and a massive house in the way. I added a few weights behind the pump to simulate the weight of the water, which allows us to start collecting data on when the wing will pitch back. After a few other adjustments to the counterweights and bungee cord, I should be able to add the water and start measuring it's power output.
2/8/2014 I just finished installing the latest prototype and now I'm waiting for some wind to come through. The upcoming weather is supposed to be pretty bad, so I'll see what kind of video I can shoot and what kind of data I can collect over the next couple days. Exciting times!!!
12/19/2013 Jacob’s Well and Panes y Peces bring food security and true sustainability to the poor and impoverished communities throughout the Americas at no cost to them. One of the main challenges they face is an affordable energy source. Pterofin’s wind and hydroelectric generators are ideal solutions to pump and heat water during some of the colder winter days. Warm water ensures a thriving population of Tilapia fish and healthy plants. I'm looking forward to sharing results of our wind prototype and seeing the benefits for the people in these rural communities. If you would like to get involved or donate to this effort, please contact Jacob’s Well or Pterofin.
12/9/2013 Our latest prototype is up and running again, except now it has a water pump and a permanent magnet alternator! The system is quite unique to say the least, having three separate containers and using air pressure instead of head pressure to generate hydroelectricity. This closed loop system produces a water jet that turns a pelton wheel, which will charge a car battery and eventually power a few on board LEDs. We also raised the body of the prototype, so now the counterweights swing over the base and the two rear fins are much larger to help track the wind.
10/27/13 I installed the new prototype today at a secret testing location before moving it to Ballard High. This will give me a great opportunity to work out the bugs and make sure everything is safe for the students to perform tests on it's efficiency.
9/13/2013 Today we started building our first pilot prototype in the metal shop at Ballard High School! They have the most amazing location on campus to install and test the prototype, and we're working with two teachers and several students on collecting the data we'll need to prove this amazing new technology exist!
9/4/2013 We're excited to announce our first pilot installation happening in just a few weeks! This prototype will start with pumping water in a fountain to demonstrate how our products can be made using simple materials found in developing countries. After we measure the head pressure and gallons per minute, we'll switch to pumping water and generating hydroelectricity using a small water turbine and car battery for charging mobile devices.
8/17/2013 Tested the latest all bamboo wind prototype at the park today and it worked GREAT! There was no pump or generator installed on it yet, so without a load to slow it down it was really flying back and forth! If the wind picked up a little more it would have pitched all the way back and stopped.
8/1/2013 Pterofin is now working with K&L Gates on our intellectual property and communications between us and the USPTO. Our last Office Action Response was filed on July 8th, 2013 and our patent is still pending through the Green Energy Fast Track that Obama started in Dec. 2009. Everything looks very promising so far and the patent should be issued to Pterofin later this year or early 2014!
7/22/2013 TRAFFIC!?! Ah, the good kind =) # of people who talked about our Facebook Page from 7/7/13 to 7/13/13, broken down by country.
12,968,464 - United States of America
1,802,022 - United Kingdom
1,324,900 - India
997,242 - Canada
735,784 - Australia
718,074 - Philippines
278,090 - Malaysia
6/27/2013 Perofin presents at Bloom Seattle. Watch the video here!
6/11/2013 Wallace will be presenting Pterofin at Bloom Seattle on June 27th. Come join us!
4/27/2013 Tested our latest prototype in a park today and the pump worked! For just a short while though...
2/26/2013 Check out our latest prototype!
1/29/2013 Our Kickstarter campaign made the Seattle Tacoma News as the Crowdfunding Pick of the Week!
1/24/2013 Wallace presented Pterofin this morning as the guest speaker at the University Sunrise Rotary Club of Seattle. What a great group of people and the project was well received!
1/10/2013 Check out our kickstarter.com campaign for Pterofin! Please support and/or re-post this link on whatever social media network you're using and wish us luck!
11/13/2012 Pterofin demonstrated it's technology at the 2012 Global Forum for CleanTech last week and this week it's off to the Greenbuild Expo!
9/28/1012 Today we finished working with the Technical Assistance Program, through the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, who wrote up a technology note that summarizes recommendations and observations about the
Technology. Check out the latest section of our website for more on the Technology, product validation, and an estimated power output for some of our wind and water products.
9/26/2012 Another great article about Pterofin in Geekwire! Read the Q&A: Pterofin borrows wind turbine design from bird wings.
9/24/2012 WCTA member and Pacific Northwest Cleantech Open Semifinalist Pterofin is raising capital.
8/2/2012 Former Napa Noon Rotary Club member announces incorporation!
7/20/2012 Pterofin Announces Incorporation! We couldn't be any more excited for Pterofin, Inc. and the benefits this new technology will bring around the world!
6/14/2012 Wallace introduced Pterofin (slide 22) at the Washington Clean Technology Alliance in front of several hundred people as a contestant for the Northwest CleanTech Open. We can't wait to follow through with some of the contacts we made there, as well as the National Conference in San Jose next week! Check out the great article from Seattle PI and TechFlash!
5/31/12 Wallace presented his experience starting Pterofin, LLC to a large room full of Fulbright students at a seminar they hosted in downtown Seattle today called, "From Lab to Market". It was AMAZING and they were all so fascinated by the prototype! He presented for 15 minutes and sat on a panel for open discussion about the secrets and pitfalls of turning a good idea into a successful business. Check out some of the pictures!
4/18/12 We just found out today that on March 1st the world found out about Pterofin Technology, as the international patent application has finally been published and given the Number WO 2012/027502 A1.
3/26/12 We tested the new wind and water Pterofin prototype at the Kirsten Wind Tunnel and Water Tunnel at UW. They both need a little fine tuning but look very promising! Check out the youtube playlist!
3/5/12 Another great article on KOMO News was written about Pterofin! Check it out!
2/27/12 US Patent has finally been published and on many different websites! Check out the links section of the website.
12/12/11 Today we found out that the decision on the petition under 37 CFR 1.102, filed 9/15/2011, to make special under the pilot program for applications pertaining to the Green Technologies as set forth in 74 Federal Register Notice 64666 (December 8, 2009) and amended by 75 Federal Register Notice 28554 (May 21, 2010) and 75 Federal Register Notice 69049(November 10, 2010) was GRANTED! This is why the patent will be published in a few months and possibly issued in 2013, as opposed to 2020, which is great news for Pterofin, LLC and the rest of the world!
8/25/2011 Filed the non-provisional patent with Fenwick and West LLP
4/27/2011 Pterofin makes it through the investment round and into the Sweet 16 at the UW Business Plan Competition.
4/15/2011 KOMO News published a great article about Pterofin!
4/13/2011 Pterofin wins the Grand Prize at the Seattle Pacific University Social Venture Plan Competition and $2500!
3/31/2011 Pterofin wins the Honorable Mention Award at the UW Environmental Innovation Challenge and $2500!
1/13/2011 Pterofin wins the Second Runner Up at the UW Science and Technology showcase and $300.
8/25/2010 Filed the provisional patent with Janeway Patent Law PLLC
Please follow and like Pterofin on google+, facebook or twitter to hear the latest about our exciting new products!
Eight years of hard work and dedication has gone into what will soon be considered the second generation of natural renewable energy and a potential world energy crisis will subsequently emerge as yet another feat of human ingenuity.
"The concept came to me almost 10 years ago, but I became truly inspired to see it through and start a business after joining the Napa Noon Rotary Club in 2006. After listening to a fellow Rotarian talk about his experience funding, traveling, building and installing a well with a wind turbine, I realized that depending on who and where a person is, a glass of clean drinking water can be far more significant than any glass of wine. Six years of R&D finally paid off as I came to design the cheapest form of renewable energy to help save lives on a global scale. I filed the provisional patent in 2010 and started Pterofin LLC to house the IP of the invention. The non-provisional patent was filed one year later after winning and placing in a number of collegiate competitions all around Seattle. The patent is currently pending with the USPTO on the Green Energy Fast Track, which means it should be issued to us some time in 2015. Please check out our videos of a few prototypes we've built over the years, and the many published articles on the patent and the Pterofin project. Hope you enjoy our website and Cheers!"
- Wallace Kempkey
- Wallace Kempkey