High-altitude suspension type power generation device and system

Abstract

The invention provides a high-altitude suspension type power generation device and system.The high-altitude suspension type power generation device comprises a floating assembly, a generator set and a posture regulation and control assembly, the floating assembly comprises a frame, an air bag and a mooring rope, the air bag is arranged on the frame in a flat plate shape, and one end of the mooring rope is connected with the frame; the other end of the mooring rope is connected to a ground fixing device; the generator set is arranged on the frame and located above the air bag. The posture regulation and control assembly comprises a winch, and a traction rope is wound around the winch and connected with the frame. According to the high-altitude suspension type power generation device, through the flat plate type air bag design, the windward side is lowered, the stability of the overall structure is improved, and a spacious and stable platform is provided for arrangement of a generator set; meanwhile, the posture of the floating assembly is adjusted through the posture adjusting and controlling assembly, and the stable posture and the optimal power generation angle of the device in the air are ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of high-altitude power generation technology, specifically to a high-altitude suspended power generation device and system. Background Technology

[0002] Wind energy is an important renewable energy source. Ground-based wind energy development is relatively mature, but it is affected by factors such as topography, resulting in unstable wind speeds and low energy density. In contrast, wind energy resources in the airspace at altitudes of hundreds to thousands of meters are abundant and stable, with high wind speeds and stable wind directions, and are less affected by the ground.

[0003] Among related technologies, high-altitude wind energy utilization equipment mainly includes kite-type and airship-type systems. However, kite-type power generation systems are greatly affected by high-altitude aerodynamic disturbances, and the kite's flight stability is poor, causing frequent changes in the direction and magnitude of the pull force, resulting in reduced power generation efficiency and reliability. Airship-type power generation systems, due to the large size of the airship and the weak controllability of the windward surface, are prone to attitude deviation under crosswind conditions, threatening the structural safety of the airship and making it difficult to achieve the goal of reliable, long-term operation. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the problems in related technologies, this invention provides a high-altitude suspended power generation device and system, which not only has a smaller windward area, improving the stability of the overall structure, but also facilitates the adjustment of the attitude of the levitation components through attitude control components, ensuring the stable attitude and optimal power generation angle of the device at high altitudes.

[0005] According to a first aspect of this application, the high-altitude suspended power generation device provided by the present invention includes a levitation component, a generator set, and an attitude control component. The levitation component includes a frame, an airbag, and a tethering cable. The airbag is flat and disposed on the frame. One end of the tethering cable is connected to the frame, and the other end of the tethering cable is connected to a ground fixing device. The generator set is disposed on the frame and located above the airbag. The attitude control component includes a winch with a traction rope wound on it, and the traction rope is connected to the frame.

[0006] In some embodiments, the levitation assembly further includes at least two air deflectors symmetrically disposed on opposite sides of the airbag, wherein the airfoil cross-section of the air deflectors is configured as symmetrical or arc-shaped.

[0007] In some embodiments, the airbag has multiple compartments, each compartment having an inflation port and at least one pressure relief valve.

[0008] In some embodiments, the compartment has a first wall and a second wall disposed opposite to each other, and a connecting strip is provided between the first wall and the second wall. The connecting strip is made of fiber and extends in the same direction as the thickness direction of the airbag.

[0009] In some embodiments, the surface of the airbag is provided with a plurality of guide strips, the thickness of the airbag after inflation is set to H, and the height of the guide strips is set to 2%H to 5%H.

[0010] In some embodiments, the levitation assembly further includes a stabilizing wing disposed on the leeward side of the airbag, the stabilizing wing having a height of 5%H to 15%H and an angle of 5° to 15°.

[0011] In some embodiments, the frame includes a plurality of tension straps, which are arranged in a cross, grid, or triangular pattern on the outside of the airbag. The tension straps are made of aramid fiber or polyethylene fiber.

[0012] In some embodiments, the attitude control component further includes a wind speed and direction monitor and a controller. The wind speed and direction monitor is used to monitor the wind speed and direction at the altitude where the high-altitude suspended power generation device is located. The generator set has an impeller. The controller is used to control the impeller to stop rotating when the wind speed collected by the wind speed and direction monitor is greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0013] In some embodiments, the attitude control component further includes an attitude monitor, a pressure monitor, and a controller. The attitude monitor is used to monitor the suspension attitude and height of the high-altitude suspended power generation device; the pressure monitor is used to monitor the gas pressure inside the airbag; and the controller is used to adjust the suspension attitude of the high-altitude suspended power generation device by regulating the gas pressure of the airbag and the amount of extension and retraction of the traction rope based on the data collected by the attitude monitor and the wind speed and direction monitor.

[0014] Based on the same inventive concept, the high-altitude suspended power generation system provided in the second aspect of this application includes the high-altitude suspended power generation device provided in the first aspect.

[0015] In summary, the high-altitude suspended power generation device and system provided in this application have the following technical advantages compared with related technologies: the flat-plate airbag structure of this application not only reduces the windward surface and improves the stability of the overall structure, but also provides a spacious and stable platform for the deployment of the generator set; at the same time, the attitude control component adjusts the attitude of the floating component to ensure the stable attitude and optimal power generation angle of the device in the high altitude. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of a high-altitude suspended power generation device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 This is an internal schematic diagram of a high-altitude suspended power generation device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the airbag in a high-altitude suspended power generation device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a top view schematic diagram of a portion of the structure of the levitation component in a high-altitude suspended power generation device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Reference numerals: 100, Ground fixing device; 11. Aerial assembly; 111. Frame; 1111. Tensioning belt; 112. Airbag; 1121. Compartment; 113. Tethering rope; 114. Pressure relief valve; 115. Parachute; 116. Deflector; 117. Deflector strip; 12. Generator set; 13. Attitude control components; 131. Winch; 132. Traction rope; 133. Controller. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0022] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the present invention provides a high-altitude suspended power generation device, which includes a levitation component 11, a generator set 12, and an attitude control component 13. The levitation component 11 includes a frame 111, an airbag 112, and a tethering cable 113. The airbag 112 is flat and mounted on the frame 111. One end of the tethering cable 113 is connected to the frame 111, and the other end is connected to a ground fixing device 100. The generator set 12 is mounted on the frame 111 and located above the airbag 112. The attitude control component 13 includes a winch 131, on which a traction rope 132 is wound, and the traction rope 132 is connected to the frame 111.

[0023] Specifically, the frame 111 provides a stable foundation structure for the airbag 112, which is flat and mounted on the frame 111. Compared to kite-like and airship-like structures, this design offers significant advantages. From an aerodynamic perspective, the flat-plate airbag 112 has a smaller frontal area. Kite-like structures typically have a large wingspan, resulting in significant air resistance during flight, especially in strong winds, requiring more energy to maintain stability. While airship-like structures are generally rounded, their large volume at high altitudes also contributes to a large frontal area, increasing drag. The flat-plate airbag 112, however, minimizes the frontal area while ensuring sufficient lift, thereby reducing air resistance and improving the device's stability.

[0024] Meanwhile, the flat airbag 112 also provides a spacious and stable platform for the installation of the generator set 12. Because the surface of the airbag 112 is flat, the generator set 12 can be easily installed on the frame 111 above the airbag 112, avoiding installation difficulties and space constraints caused by complex structure.

[0025] One end of the tethering cable 113 is securely connected to the frame 111, while the other end is connected to a ground-based fixing device, thus connecting the high-altitude device to the ground. This ensures that the device maintains a stable levitational state under various high-altitude environments and weather conditions, improving the device's safety and reliability. Furthermore, the attitude control component 13 can adjust the traction rope 132 via the winch 131, enabling attitude adjustment of the levitation component 11 at high altitudes and ensuring that the device always maintains a stable levitational state.

[0026] In summary, the high-altitude suspended power generation device provided by the present invention, through the structural design of the flat airbag 112, not only has a smaller windward area, improving the stability of the overall structure, but also facilitates the adjustment of the attitude of the floating component 11 through the attitude control component 13, ensuring the stable attitude and optimal power generation angle of the device at high altitude.

[0027] In this embodiment, the airbag 112 can be fixed to the frame 111 by means of hot-press bonding, mechanical riveting, or slot-fitting. Hot-press bonding involves applying an adhesive material to the contact surfaces of the frame 111 and the airbag 112; after application, the airbag 112 is accurately placed on the frame 111; then, the bonding area is heated and pressurized using a hot-pressing device to cure the adhesive material, thus fixing the airbag 112 to the frame 111. Mechanical riveting refers to the fixing method of connecting the airbag 112 and the frame 111 together using rivets. Mechanical riveting has advantages such as high connection strength and good vibration resistance, and can withstand greater external forces, ensuring that the airbag 112 will not separate from the frame 111 in harsh environments such as strong winds.

[0028] The "slot-fitting" method involves machining a slot on the edge of the frame 111. The shape and size of the slot can be designed according to the material and thickness of the airbag 112 to ensure that the airbag 112 can smoothly fit over the slot and be securely engaged. When installing the airbag 112, the edge of the airbag 112 is first folded and shaped appropriately to match the slot on the frame 111. Then, the edge of the airbag 112 is wrapped around the slot on the frame 111, and pressure is applied to embed the airbag 112 into the slot.

[0029] Furthermore, the contact area between the airbag 112 and the slot can be coated with adhesive or equipped with auxiliary fasteners. Adhesive fills the tiny gaps between the airbag 112 and the slot, increasing friction and preventing the airbag 112 from slipping. Auxiliary fasteners can be small plastic clips or metal springs, which further secure the airbag 112 and improve connection reliability. This slot-covering fastening method offers advantages such as convenient and quick installation, and strong disassembly capability, facilitating maintenance and replacement of the airbag 112. It also ensures a firm and reliable connection between the airbag 112 and the frame 111, meeting the requirements for use with high-altitude suspended power generation devices.

[0030] Optionally, the shape of the slot can be set to U-shape.

[0031] In some embodiments, the airbag 112 is made of multiple layers of materials, wherein the inner layer of the airbag 112 is made of nylon fabric or polyester fabric, the middle layer is made of TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer) layer, and the outer side of the airbag 112 is provided with a UV-resistant coating and a self-cleaning coating, thereby reducing the cost per square meter by more than 50% compared with traditional rigid-shell aircraft airships, eliminating the need for a large number of high-strength aircraft structural components, and reducing the overall system cost by 30% to 40% compared with traditional kite-type / airship-type structures.

[0032] When nylon fabric is used as the base material, it possesses extremely high tensile and breaking strength. This means that it can maintain structural integrity and is not prone to tearing or breakage when subjected to enormous tensile forces. Furthermore, nylon has excellent abrasion resistance. In high-altitude environments, it may be subjected to friction from sand, particles, etc., and its abrasion-resistant properties allow the inner fabric to withstand prolonged friction without significant wear, thus extending the service life of the airbag 112. Polyester fabric is also an ideal choice. It has high strength and elastic modulus, providing elastic cushioning while ensuring the structural stability of the airbag 112. When the airbag 112 is subjected to external impact, the elasticity of the polyester fabric can absorb some energy, reducing the damage to the internal structure of the airbag 112.

[0033] A TPU layer is coated on the inner fabric surface of the airbag 112. The TPU layer possesses excellent flexibility and elasticity, allowing the airbag 112 to deform more smoothly during inflation and deflation without cracking or peeling. Furthermore, the TPU layer exhibits good airtightness. It effectively prevents gas leakage, ensuring stable internal air pressure within the airbag 112. Even after prolonged use, the TPU layer maintains its excellent airtightness, reducing the need for frequent inflation due to gas leakage and improving the operating efficiency of the power generation device.

[0034] The outermost layer of the airbag 112 can be coated with an anti-ultraviolet coating and a self-cleaning coating. The anti-ultraviolet coating can effectively absorb or reflect ultraviolet rays, reducing the damage of ultraviolet rays to the airbag 112 material and extending the service life of the airbag 112. The self-cleaning coating can reduce the frequency and difficulty of manual cleaning, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure the cleanliness of the surface of the airbag 112.

[0035] In some embodiments, the tether cable 113 is made of a high-strength fiber composite material, and the tether cable 113 contains a conductive wire bundle. The high-strength fiber composite material may include materials such as carbon fiber and aramid fiber. Carbon fiber has extremely high specific strength and specific modulus. The tether cable 113 made of carbon fiber composite material is lighter in weight, which can effectively reduce the load on the entire power generation device, significantly reduce the weight of the floating platform, and improve the ceiling and platform stability.

[0036] Furthermore, the conductive wire harness is generally composed of multiple strands of highly conductive metal wires (such as copper wire, aluminum wire, etc.). This stranded structure not only improves the flexibility and tensile strength of the conductive wire harness but also effectively reduces resistance during current transmission, thus lowering energy loss. The conductive wire harness allows the tethering cable 113 to perform both tethering and power transmission functions. In high-altitude suspended power generation devices, the electrical energy generated by the power generation module can be efficiently transmitted to ground equipment via the conductive wire harness.

[0037] Furthermore, the outer surface of the tethering cable 113 is covered with an abrasion-resistant layer, which can improve its abrasion resistance.

[0038] Furthermore, the mooring rope 113 includes a main rope and multiple auxiliary tension ropes, both of which have layered protection and breakage indication.

[0039] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the aerodynamic assembly 11 further includes at least two guide vanes 116, which are symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the airbag 112. In the complex airflow environment at high altitudes, the airflow exerts forces of varying directions and magnitudes on the aerodynamic assembly 11. The symmetrically arranged guide vanes 116 ensure that the forces acting on the aerodynamic assembly 11 are relatively balanced under the influence of airflow from all directions, thereby effectively reducing swaying and displacement caused by uneven airflow and greatly improving the stability of the aerodynamic assembly 11.

[0040] Optionally, the airfoil section of the guide 116 can be configured as symmetrical or arc-shaped. A symmetrical airfoil section means that the upper and lower surfaces of the guide 116 are completely symmetrical. When airflow passes over it, the airflow velocity and pressure distribution on the upper and lower surfaces exhibit a symmetrical relationship. This allows the symmetrical airfoil to generate relatively stable lift characteristics at both positive and negative angles of attack, and the lift is almost zero at zero angle of attack, with relatively low drag. For the aerostat assembly 11, the symmetrical airfoil section of the guide 116 can provide a more balanced stress performance in complex and variable airflow environments, reducing sudden changes in stress on the guide 116 caused by abrupt changes in airflow direction, thereby enhancing the overall stability of the aerostat assembly 11, such as the NACA00 series.

[0041] The curved airfoil section refers to the upper surface of the airfoil 116 being designed as a relatively convex curved shape, while the lower surface is relatively flat. When airflow passes over the curved airfoil, due to the longer airflow path on the upper surface, according to Bernoulli's principle, the airflow velocity will increase and the pressure will decrease; while the airflow velocity on the lower surface is relatively slower and the pressure is higher. This pressure difference generates upward lift, allowing the curved airfoil to produce greater lift than a symmetrical airfoil under the same airflow conditions.

[0042] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the airbag 112 contains multiple compartments 1121, each compartment 1121 having an inflation port and at least one pressure relief valve 114. The presence of multiple compartments 1121 within the airbag 112 improves overall stability. Because the different compartments 1121 are independent of each other, when one compartment 1121 is subjected to external impact or suffers localized damage, the other compartments 1121 can still maintain normal operation, continuing to provide support and buoyancy for the airbag 112, thereby reducing the risk of failure of the entire airbag 112. Furthermore, the planar airbag 112 designed with multiple compartments 1121 exhibits an attitude change of less than ±3° under gust conditions, reducing the lateral sway amplitude of the wind turbine unit at high altitudes (300-800 m) by more than 30%, improving the unit's operational stability and energy capture efficiency. In this embodiment, the airbag 112 contains 6 to 12 compartments 1121.

[0043] Each compartment 1121 is equipped with an inflation port, allowing each compartment 1121 to be inflated independently for self-control. This enables the shape and buoyancy distribution of the airbag 112 to be adjusted according to actual needs. Furthermore, each compartment 1121 is equipped with at least one pressure relief valve 114 to ensure timely and effective release of excessive pressure under any circumstances. The inventors have discovered that the design of multiple compartments 1121 within the airbag 112 can maintain at least 70% effective lift even when a single compartment is depressurized, thus avoiding the risk of a fall.

[0044] Furthermore, the pressure relief valve 114 has a mechanical overpressure one-way channel and an electrically controlled electromagnetic channel. The mechanical overpressure one-way channel incorporates a spring-valve disc structure. The spring's elastic coefficient is precisely calculated and repeatedly tested to ensure stable and appropriate elastic force under different pressure environments. When the internal pressure of the airbag 112 exceeds the preset mechanical overpressure threshold, the thrust generated by the gas pressure on the valve disc overcomes the spring force, pushing the valve disc open and forming a one-way pressure relief channel. At this time, excess gas can quickly be discharged from the airbag 112 through this channel, effectively reducing the internal pressure of the airbag 112. This mechanical opening method features fast response and high reliability, does not rely on external power sources or complex control systems, and can promptly relieve pressure under any circumstances, including power failures or control system malfunctions, providing basic safety assurance for the airbag 112. The set threshold of the mechanical overpressure one-way channel can be set to 1.2 to 1.5 times the rated pressure.

[0045] The electrically controlled electromagnetic channel adds intelligent and precise control functions to the pressure relief valve 114. This channel consists of an electromagnet, a valve core, and a corresponding control circuit. The magnetic force of the electromagnet can be precisely adjusted by the current intensity in the control circuit. Under normal operating conditions, the control circuit dynamically adjusts the current of the electromagnet based on preset pressure parameters and the real-time monitored internal pressure signal of the airbag 112. When the internal pressure of the airbag 112 approaches but has not yet reached the mechanical overpressure threshold, but the system determines that a certain degree of pressure relief is needed in advance to optimize the performance of the airbag 112 or to prevent potential risks, the control circuit energizes the electromagnet, causing it to generate a magnetic force that attracts the valve core, opening the electrically controlled electromagnetic channel and allowing some gas to escape from the airbag 112. In this way, the pressure of the airbag 112 can be finely adjusted to meet the diverse needs of airbag 112 pressure control in different application scenarios.

[0046] Furthermore, the compartment 1121 has a first wall and a second wall arranged opposite to each other, with a connecting strip between the first wall and the second wall. The connecting strip is made of fiber, and its extension direction is consistent with the thickness direction of the airbag 112. During the inflation and use of the airbag 112, its thickness direction will be subjected to significant pressure and stress changes. When the airbag 112 begins to inflate, the internal gas pressure rises rapidly, and the thickness direction of the airbag 112 is subjected to an outward expansion force attempting to thicken it. The connecting strip extending along the thickness direction of the airbag 112 effectively resists the pressure and stress changes in that direction, limits the distance between the first wall and the second wall, and restricts the outward expansion of the first and second walls, thereby ensuring that the thickness of the airbag 112 does not increase excessively and remains within the design requirements.

[0047] Of course, in some embodiments of the present invention, a connecting channel may also be provided between two adjacent compartments 1121. The connecting channel can balance the pressure. When there is a pressure difference between adjacent compartments 1121, gas will flow from the high-pressure compartment to the low-pressure compartment through the connecting channel until the pressure is balanced, thereby balancing the pressure in the entire airbag 112 and preventing excessive pressure in a single compartment 1121 from affecting the stability of the entire device.

[0048] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the surface of the airbag 112 is provided with multiple guide strips 117. The thickness of the inflated airbag 112 is set to H, and the height of the guide strips 117 is set to 2%H to 5%H, thereby effectively guiding airflow while reducing airflow turbulence and energy loss. In this embodiment, the guide vanes 116 and guide strips 117 are used in combination to create a stable pressure distribution in the high-altitude, high-speed airflow of the airbag 112, thereby reducing oscillation and vortex shedding, and improving the system's stationary stability.

[0049] If the height of the guide strip 117 is too low, below 2%H, its guiding effect on airflow will be very limited, failing to effectively change the airflow distribution around the airbag 112 and making it difficult to achieve the expected optimization effect. The airflow may bypass the guide strip 117 and continue to flow in its original manner, failing to achieve the purpose of reducing airflow resistance. Conversely, if the height of the guide strip 117 is too high, exceeding 5%H, although it can enhance the guiding ability of airflow to some extent, it will also bring some negative effects. An excessively high guide strip 117 will increase the roughness of the surface of the airbag 112, thereby increasing the friction between the airflow and the surface of the airbag 112, causing unstable airflow, generating eddies and turbulence, and affecting the stability of the entire device.

[0050] Furthermore, the aerostat assembly 11 also includes a stabilizing wing, which is located on the leeward side of the airbag 112. The height of the stabilizing wing is set to 5%H to 15%H, and the angle of the stabilizing wing is set to 5° to 15°. This can ensure that the stabilizing wing can effectively play a stabilizing role while minimizing the adverse effects on the flight performance of the aerostat assembly 11, so that the aerostat assembly 11 can maintain a stable and efficient operating state under various flight conditions.

[0051] Optionally, two to three stabilizing fins can be installed, which can utilize aerodynamic deflection to create a stable wake direction, reducing platform yaw and twisting. This improves stability during long-term high-altitude stays.

[0052] In some embodiments, the frame 111 includes a plurality of tension straps 1111, which are arranged in a cross, grid, or triangular pattern on the outside of the airbag 112. The tension straps 1111 are made of aramid fiber or polyethylene fiber. A cross-shaped arrangement means that two mutually perpendicular tension straps 1111 intersect, applying tension to the airbag 112 in two main directions. When the airbag 112 is subjected to external forces from horizontal or vertical directions, the cross-shaped tension straps 1111 can quickly distribute the external force throughout the entire frame 111 structure, preventing excessive local stress that could deform or damage the airbag 112. For example, during the flight of the aerostat, crosswinds may occur; the cross-shaped tension straps 1111 can effectively resist the horizontal tension generated by the crosswinds, maintaining the shape and positional stability of the airbag 112.

[0053] Of course, in some embodiments, the tensioning belts 1111 can also be distributed in a grid pattern. The grid-shaped tensioning belts 1111 can better adapt to changes in airflow, reduce the swaying and swinging of the airbag 112, and improve the flight stability and safety of the aerostat.

[0054] Furthermore, when the tensioning belts 1111 are arranged in a triangular pattern on the outside of the airbag 112, they can evenly distribute the external force to each tensioning belt 1111, avoiding local stress concentration. For example, when the levitation device is subjected to a sudden impact, the triangularly intersecting tensioning belts 1111 can quickly disperse the impact force throughout the entire frame 111, reducing damage to the airbag 112 and extending the service life of the levitation device.

[0055] In some embodiments, the frame 111 is provided with a plurality of tethering hard points, which are symmetrically arranged, for example, distributed at equal angles or on equal sides. Each tethering hard point is provided with a reinforcing plate and a fixing ring. The reinforcing plate can improve the overall structural strength, and the fixing ring can facilitate the binding of the tethering rope 113 or the traction rope 132.

[0056] In some embodiments, the attitude control component further includes a wind speed and direction monitor and a controller 133. The wind speed and direction monitor is used to monitor the wind speed and direction at the altitude where the high-altitude suspended power generation device is located. The generator set 12 has an impeller. The controller 133 is used to control the impeller to stop rotating when the wind speed collected by the wind speed and direction monitor is greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0057] Specifically, the wind speed and direction monitor can perform comprehensive and dynamic monitoring of the wind speed and direction at the altitude where the high-altitude suspended power generation device is located. This means it can capture minute changes in wind speed and slight shifts in wind direction, converting these physical quantities into electrical signals and sending them to the controller 133. The controller 133 can receive the wind speed and direction data collected by the wind speed and direction monitor in real time. Upon receiving the data, the controller 133 quickly assesses the wind speed. When the wind speed exceeds a preset threshold, it indicates that the high-altitude wind conditions are severe. Excessive wind speed may damage the impeller, affecting the normal operation of the generator set 12 and even threatening the safety of the entire high-altitude suspended power generation device. In this situation, the controller 133 immediately issues a control command to stop the impeller from rotating, effectively preventing equipment damage and safety accidents caused by excessive wind speed, and ensuring the long-term stable operation of the high-altitude suspended power generation device in complex high-altitude environments.

[0058] Furthermore, the attitude control component also includes an attitude monitor, a pressure monitor, and a controller 133. The attitude monitor is used to monitor the suspension attitude and height of the high-altitude suspended power generation device; the pressure monitor is used to monitor the gas pressure inside the airbag 112; and the controller 133 is used to adjust the suspension attitude of the high-altitude suspended power generation device by adjusting the gas pressure of the airbag 112 and the amount of extension and retraction of the traction rope 132 based on the data collected by the attitude monitor and the wind speed and direction monitor.

[0059] The attitude monitor integrates sensors such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers. Accelerometers accurately measure the acceleration changes of the high-altitude levitated power generation device along three axes, reflecting its motion state, including start-up, stopping, acceleration, and deceleration. Gyroscopes sense the device's angular velocity; by integrating this data, the rotation angle and attitude changes, such as pitch, roll, and yaw, can be accurately obtained. Magnetometers provide information about the Earth's magnetic field, helping to determine the device's absolute orientation. By fusing data from these sensors, the attitude monitor can monitor the levitated attitude of the high-altitude levitated power generation device in real time and accurately, including its tilt angle and rotation direction, while also precisely measuring its altitude.

[0060] The pressure monitor measures the gas pressure inside the airbag 112 and sends the gas pressure data to the controller 133. As the core control unit of the entire attitude control assembly, the controller 133 receives data collected in real time from the attitude monitor and the wind speed and direction monitor. For example, when the attitude monitor feedback device tilts, the controller 133 combines the wind speed and direction data collected by the wind speed and direction monitor to determine whether the tilt is caused by wind or other factors. If it is determined that the tilt is caused by wind, the controller 133 calculates the required adjustment of the gas pressure in the airbag 112 and the amount of extension / retraction of the traction rope 132 based on the direction and degree of tilt. To regulate the gas pressure in the airbag 112, the controller 133 sends a control command to the gas pressure regulating device, changing the pressure inside the airbag 112 by adjusting the inflation and deflation of the gas, thereby restoring the device to a stable levitation attitude. For controlling the amount of winding and unwinding of the traction rope 132, the controller 133 will adjust the speed and direction of the motor on the winch 131 corresponding to the traction rope 132 to achieve precise winding and unwinding of the traction rope 132, and further adjust the attitude and height of the device.

[0061] In some embodiments, the high-altitude levitated power generation device also includes a battery that can power the attitude control components and provide a stable power output.

[0062] In some embodiments, multiple generator sets 12 are provided, arranged in an array. This effectively reduces the obstruction effect of the front-row generator sets 12 on the rear-row generator sets 12, reduces wake loss, and ensures that each generator set 12 can fully capture high-altitude wind energy, thereby improving the energy conversion efficiency of the entire power generation system. Furthermore, the array distribution of multiple generator sets 12 allows for easy adjustment of the overall structure's center of gravity, ensuring that the center of gravity coincides with or deviates from the center of buoyancy of the levitation component 11 within ±3%, thus preventing the entire device from tilting and affecting stability, while also increasing crosswind sensitivity. Of course, in addition to adjusting the array arrangement of the generator sets 12, in this embodiment, the center of buoyancy can also be adjusted by controlling the gas pressure within the compartment 1121. The center of buoyancy refers to the equivalent point of application of the buoyancy force experienced by the levitation component 11 at high altitude.

[0063] Furthermore, the generator set 12 may include either a horizontal-axis wind turbine or a vertical-axis wind turbine. For example, if the diameter of the rotor in the generator set 12 is set to D, and the generator set 12 includes multiple horizontal-axis wind turbines, the distance between two adjacent horizontal-axis wind turbines is greater than or equal to 3D. If the generator set 12 includes multiple vertical-axis wind turbines, the distance between two adjacent vertical-axis wind turbines is greater than or equal to 2D. This effectively reduces the mutual interference of wake effects, allowing each wind turbine to operate in a relatively independent wind field environment, fully capturing high-altitude wind energy, and improving the energy conversion efficiency of the entire power generation system.

[0064] In some embodiments, the multiple generator sets 12 can also be arranged symmetrically or staggeredly. A staggered arrangement means that adjacent rows of generator sets are offset by 0.5D to 1.5D along the wind direction. A symmetrical arrangement means that the multiple generator sets 12 are symmetrically distributed along the front-to-back or left-to-right sides of the floating assembly 11, which helps improve the overall device's resistance to crosswinds. The inventors' research has found that the symmetrical portion can reduce the pitch angle change of the entire device under gusts by 25% to 40%.

[0065] Staggered arrangement refers to offsetting adjacent rows of generator sets by 0.5D to 1.5D along the wind direction. This allows the rear generator sets 12 to cleverly avoid the direct wake region of the front generator sets 12, entering a wind field environment with relatively high wind speeds and relatively uniform airflow. In this way, the rear generator sets 12 can capture more wind energy, improving the energy conversion efficiency of the entire power generation system. Simultaneously, the staggered arrangement also increases the flow path of wind within the generator set array 12, allowing for more sufficient contact time between the wind and the generator set impellers, further improving wind energy utilization efficiency. The inventors' research has found that offsetting adjacent generator sets 12 along the wind direction by 0.5D to 1.5D can reduce the wake overlap area, contributing to an 8% to 12% increase in overall power generation.

[0066] Furthermore, staggered arrangement can improve the structural stability of the power generation system to some extent. Since the units are no longer arranged in a neat straight line, but rather in a staggered manner, the entire system can distribute the force more evenly when bearing wind loads, reducing unit vibration and fatigue damage caused by concentrated wind loads, and extending the service life of the units.

[0067] In some embodiments, the array arrangement of generator sets 12 is diverse, for example, it can be coupled with the load-bearing structure of the air-supporting component 11: the frame 111 adopts a multi-compartment stiffened structure, that is, different areas have different load-bearing capacities. For example, the middle area (near the main reinforcing beam area) prioritizes the arrangement of heavier generator sets, which can avoid excessive pressure on local airbags 112 and improve the overall structural life. The outer area can be arranged with lightweight generator sets or auxiliary equipment (such as attitude control components 13) to reduce the bending moment loading at the edges and improve the torsional resistance.

[0068] Alternatively, multiple generator sets 12 can be arranged in a directional configuration prioritizing aerodynamic stability. The multiple generator sets 12 must meet the following conditions relative to the prevailing wind direction: the main generator set should be located in the central area of ​​the windward side of the platform to provide directional stability. Other generator sets are arranged symmetrically laterally as needed to balance the lateral moments. The inventors' research has shown that this arrangement can reduce the lateral offset of the entire device under crosswind conditions by 20% to 30%.

[0069] In some embodiments of the present invention, the generator set 12 may further include a photovoltaic panel, which can be laid on top of the frame 111. That is, the photovoltaic panel can be used in combination with the wind turbine generator set 12, or it can be used alone.

[0070] In some embodiments, the aerostat 11 further includes a parachute 115, which has a mechanical maximum descent speed trigger. That is, when the aerostat 11 encounters strong airflow during ascent and loses lift, beginning to fall, the mechanical maximum descent speed trigger constantly monitors the descent speed of the aerostat 11. As the descent speed increases, when a pre-set maximum safe descent speed threshold is reached, the mechanical structure within the trigger is activated instantaneously, triggering the deployment of the parachute 115. The parachute 115 rapidly deploys from its retracted state in a very short time, forming a large canopy, thereby generating strong air resistance. This resistance effectively counteracts the gravity of the falling aerostat 11, rapidly reducing its descent speed. Ultimately, the aerostat 11, cushioned by the parachute 115, lands safely and smoothly on the ground, avoiding equipment damage and potential hazards to the surrounding environment and personnel caused by high-speed descent.

[0071] Optionally, the parachute 115 includes a pull-cord automatic ejection pack or a CO2 ejection folding pack.

[0072] In some embodiments, the floating assembly 11 further includes a lightning rod with a spherical or conical collecting end at the top, and the tethering cable 113 includes a grounding cable, one end of which is connected to the lightning rod and the other end of which is connected to a grounding device on the ground, thereby conducting lightning energy to the ground.

[0073] Among them, the spherical collector end has a larger surface area, which can more effectively attract lightning leaders in thunderstorms and increase the probability of lightning hitting the lightning rod; the conical collector end, with its sharp shape, can generate a stronger electric field concentration effect in the electric field, which also helps to guide lightning to hit the lightning rod, thereby guiding the lightning energy to the lightning rod.

[0074] Furthermore, the lightning rod is made of either carbon fiber conductive composite material or aluminum-magnesium alloy. Carbon fiber conductive composite material reduces the weight of the lightning rod, thereby reducing the overall load on the floating assembly 11 and improving its lifting efficiency. Aluminum-magnesium alloy is corrosion-resistant, ensuring that the lightning rod will not experience performance degradation due to corrosion during long-term use, thus extending its service life.

[0075] Furthermore, the high-altitude suspended power generation device also includes a transient voltage suppression module (SPD) to prevent lightning induced current from entering the generator set 12 or the attitude control component 13.

[0076] Based on the same inventive concept, the present invention also provides a high-altitude suspended power generation system, which includes the high-altitude suspended power generation device provided in any of the foregoing embodiments. The high-altitude suspended power generation system may have multiple high-altitude suspended power generation devices, which may be arranged in an array to avoid the influence of wake vortices on adjacent high-altitude suspended power generation devices.

[0077] It should be noted that the high-altitude suspended power generation device provided in this application embodiment is applicable to high-altitude suspended power generation systems. Therefore, the implementation principles and technical effects not mentioned in the high-altitude suspended power generation system embodiments can be referred to the corresponding content in the aforementioned high-altitude suspended power generation device embodiments.

[0078] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0079] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0080] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0081] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0082] In this invention, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0083] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A high-altitude suspended power generation device, characterized in that, The device includes a levitation assembly, a generator set, and an attitude control assembly. The levitation assembly includes a frame, an airbag, and a tether cable. The airbag is flat and mounted on the frame. One end of the tether cable is connected to the frame, and the other end is connected to a ground anchoring device. The generator set is mounted on the frame and located above the airbag. The attitude control assembly includes a winch with a traction rope wound around it, and the traction rope is connected to the frame.

2. The high-altitude suspended power generation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The levitation assembly also includes at least two air deflectors, which are symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the airbag, and the airfoil cross-section of the air deflectors is set to be symmetrical or arc-shaped.

3. The high-altitude suspended power generation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The airbag contains multiple compartments, each of which has an inflation port and at least one pressure relief valve.

4. The high-altitude suspended power generation device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The compartment has a first wall and a second wall arranged opposite to each other, and a connecting strip is provided between the first wall and the second wall. The material of the connecting strip includes fibers, and the extension direction of the connecting strip is consistent with the thickness direction of the airbag.

5. The high-altitude suspended power generation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The airbag surface is provided with multiple guide strips, the thickness of the airbag after inflation is set to H, and the height of the guide strips is set to 2%H to 5%H.

6. The high-altitude suspended power generation device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The aerodynamic assembly also includes a stabilizing wing, which is located on the leeward side of the airbag. The height of the stabilizing wing is set to 5%H to 15%H, and the angle of the stabilizing wing is set to 5° to 15°.

7. The high-altitude suspended power generation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The frame includes multiple tension belts, which are arranged in a cross, grid, or triangular pattern on the outside of the airbag. The tension belts are made of aramid fiber or polyethylene fiber.

8. The high-altitude suspended power generation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The attitude control component also includes a wind speed and direction monitor and a controller. The wind speed and direction monitor is used to monitor the wind speed and direction at the altitude where the high-altitude suspended power generation device is located. The generator set has an impeller. The controller is used to control the impeller to stop rotating when the wind speed collected by the wind speed and direction monitor is greater than a limited threshold.

9. The high-altitude suspended power generation device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The attitude control component also includes an attitude monitor, a pressure monitor, and a controller. The attitude monitor is used to monitor the suspension attitude and height of the high-altitude suspended power generation device; the pressure monitor is used to monitor the gas pressure inside the airbag; and the controller is used to adjust the gas pressure of the airbag and the amount of extension and retraction of the traction rope based on the data collected by the attitude monitor and the wind speed and direction monitor, so as to adjust the suspension attitude of the high-altitude suspended power generation device.

10. A high-altitude suspended power generation system, characterized in that, It includes the high-altitude suspended power generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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