Solar thermal airflow power plant

Abstract

Solar thermal airflow power plant (1), characterized by, - that the operating principle of the downdraft power plant is combined with that of the updraft power plant in a hybrid power plant system, connected in series in a gas-tight and airflow-closed manner, structurally compact and coupled; - that the solar thermal airflow power plant (1) is radially symmetrical in plan view, i.e. that the tower of the downdraft unit (2) is arranged centrally within the plant and is mounted on the base structure (4); - that the vertical components of the tower (2) above the base structure (4) consist of identical standardized air- and / or load-bearing gas-filled one- or multi-part tubular plastic cushion molded components (21), which are each kept in a shape-stabilizing vertically oriented assembly cover and are structurally connected vertically to each other in a stable manner and mounted radially in series by a special assembly technique; - that in the interior of the tower (2) a facade foil (23) is provided as a vertical circumferential tower wall cladding, which is vertically tightly mounted on the covers; - that the interior foil (23) has a micro-perforation distributed over its surface and is coated; - that each pair of adjacent vertical downdraft tower gas cushions (21) and the inner foil (23) each form a dynamic pressure chamber (51) and each have a discharge flap as an air inlet opening in the inlet area at the upper end of the tower (2) towards the inside of the tower; - that the exterior of the tower cushions (21) is vertically covered with a reflective, lightproof exterior facade film (24), which is vertically tightly mounted on the covers; - that a data bus sensor system is implemented in the cushions (21) and that a central compressed gas network is connected to each cushion; - that the ring platform 1 (10) is located at the inlet opening of the downdraft tower (2) as the upper structure termination; - that vertically and diagonally guided safety ropes and straps are mounted on the tower structure (2), which are equipped with tension damping devices. - that starting from the base structure (4) underground under the umbrella structure (9) of the updraft unit, channels (7) run normally and star-shaped outwards and fan out into the sectors (13) of the umbrella structure (9) via the inlet structure (8); - that starting from the inlet structure (8) the sectors (13) of the screen structure (9) are arranged spirally, clockwise or counterclockwise, around the power plant center, each leading into an updraft chimney (3) and being tightly connected there; - that the chimneys (3) of the updraft units are arranged radially along the circumference of the downdraft tower (2) and terminate at a height below the inlet opening of the downdraft tower (2); - that within the system electrical energy is generated simultaneously at several points in the power plant via rotors and turbines (5).

Description

1.0 Subject of the invention / Summary

[0001] The invention relates to a solar thermal air flow power plant (1) in which turbines which generate electrical energy are driven by means of a thermally moved air volume flow column within the system via rotors.

[0002] The solar thermal airflow power plant (1) is a hybrid consisting of a downdraft power plant combined with an updraft power plant.

[0003] Downdraft and updraft power plants have been known for decades. The fundamental innovation of this invention lies in the gas-tight, geosymmetric, and aerodynamically favorable combination of both power plant types into a new and more powerful power plant system.

[0004] The synergy is created by directly connecting or cascading the air flow volumes of both power plant types to form a self-contained, communicating chamber system, except for the upper air intake and exhaust openings. The exhaust air volume of the downdraft unit is equal to the supply air volume of the updraft unit.

[0005] Through the interaction of the various forces (the cold downdraft "pushes" downwards and the warm updraft "pulls" upwards) within the self-contained pressure system, the two phenomena promote and reinforce each other through the so-called "effective pressure." This sector-coupled power link increases efficiency and thus the system yield compared to individual systems.

[0006] Furthermore, in addition to the main idea of ​​the invention, significant modifications and innovations are also made to the known power plant components within the subsystems, which mean further significant increases in efficiency for the overall system.

[0007] Due to the above-mentioned synergies and the innovations described below, the total output of the new power plant system according to the invention is higher than the partial outputs of the individual power plants. 2.0 State of the art / research results

[0008] Updraft power plants have been around for decades. They typically consist of a collector screen, a turbine structure, and an exhaust stack. They utilize the physical effect of warm air rising. The operating principle is as follows:

[0009] The air trapped under a large umbrella is heated by solar radiation, flows due to buoyancy to the turbine house at the center of the system, drives a horizontally arranged turbine, and escapes as an updraft through the chimney, while new ground-level air flows in at the edge of the collector umbrella. The larger the umbrella and the higher the chimney, the greater the system's efficiency.

[0010] Solar updraft power plants in various variants and designs are known under the IPC number F03D.

[0011] Examples include: DE202008005501U1 DE19831492A1 DE29917453U1 DE29715254U1 AT000000510280A4 DE102013007836B3 DE000019831492C2 DE000019821659A1 DE000019601156A1 DE000010300092A1 DE29622549U1

[0012] Downdraft power plants, or downdraft power plants, have also been known in various forms for some time. Downdraft power plants essentially consist of a large-diameter tower structure, with vertically arranged outlets containing numerous turbines located radially along the lower edge of the tower near the ground. These utilize the physical effect of cold air falling to the ground. The operating principle is as follows:

[0013] The temperature of the air inside the tower is cooled by water introduced into the upper part of the tower. This increases the density of the tower air, causing it to fall toward the base of the tower, where it is directed outward toward the turbines. The larger the tower diameter and the taller the tower, the greater the system's efficiency.

[0014] Downdraft power plants in various variants and designs are known under the IPC number F03B but also under F03D.

[0015] Examples include: DE102014008881A1 US020120261918A1 DE000010220055A1 US3894393A

[0016] Hybrid power plants, i.e. a combination of the operating principles of a downdraft power plant with that of an updraft power plant, are also already known in different variants. The operating principle is as follows:

[0017] Hybrid power plants utilize the physical property of fluids: warm fluids rise due to their lower density, while cold fluids fall to the ground due to their higher density. Dynamic energy is captured via turbines at suitable points in the system. By interconnecting both power plant types to create a new power plant category, the advantages of updraft and downdraft power plants are combined in a single plant.

[0018] Examples include: 1. US 6 681 576 B1 3. EP 2 083 169 A1 2. US 11 009 002 B2 4. DE 10 2004 002 316 A1 Conclusion:

[0019] Although the aforementioned patents essentially contain the same hybrid mode of operation as the application subject to the invention, this application, in contrast to the aforementioned patents, contains significant structural differences that have a significantly positive impact on efficiency.

[0020] As a result, the author could not establish any correspondence between previously published applications and the application subject to the invention with regard to the main claim. 3.0 Formulation of the problems

[0021] Updraft power plant: The currently envisaged construction and execution methods do not promise satisfactory economic viability.

[0022] The principle of the solar updraft power plant is primarily based on the input of solar energy. The plant is practically no longer economically viable at night.

[0023] Currently, an unhindered, homogeneous air flow in the greenhouse collector is not possible due to the necessary umbrella supports in the area, which inhibits the efficiency due to turbulence.

[0024] Currently, large chimney heights are not possible due to the currently common solid or sheet steel construction (efficiency is directly proportional to the chimney height). Furthermore, operational reliability and thus operating performance are not optimal due to maintenance, repairs, or even breakdowns, as the entire system is always out of service for the duration of the repair / maintenance / maintenance.

[0025] The current design still results in high friction pressure losses due to increasing wind speeds and the resulting air turbulence in the area of ​​the central turbine housing. This results from the tapering of the vertical profile and the simultaneous radial-horizontal narrowing towards the center of the turbine due to the convergence of unguided air flows.

[0026] The air, which is usually arid at the intended locations, flows in at the edge of the screen and warms up only moderately as it flows through the screen, depending on the relative humidity and the associated energy absorption potential, which limits the system efficiency.

[0027] Furthermore, birds and insects can get lost in the canopy and, once the canopy reaches a certain depth, can no longer fight the wind suction and can die in the turbine house.

[0028] Furthermore, the canopy's edge is always at risk of damage during strong storms. Furthermore, even minor sand and dust storms can carry these contaminants several hundred meters up through the turbine housing and chimney, which is neither beneficial for the turbine unit nor for the local climate.

[0029] Downdraft wind turbines: Here, too, the current construction and design methods do not promise sufficient economic viability. According to experts, tower diameters of up to 400 m and tower heights of up to 1,500 m would be necessary to operate a cost-effective system. However, due to the currently standard solid construction methods (concrete and / or steel), the tower can only reach relatively low heights. However, as the height increases, it becomes extremely expensive and vulnerable to storms and earthquakes due to the large, rigid surfaces.

[0030] However, as the tower height increases, the flow losses of the air falling inside also increase due to increasing wall friction, which negatively impacts the yield. To pump the process water required for the necessary evaporative cooling to the height of the tower mouth, up to 50% of the generated energy must currently be reinvested.

[0031] This is also why, with the current state of technology, a downdraft power plant only achieves about a third of the output of a comparable-sized updraft power plant.

[0032] Hybrid power plants: Patents 1-3 mentioned above (see point 2) are fully enclosed systems and require an additional primary energy source to function, along with additional devices for heating and cooling the fluid medium. The energy yield of these power plants is directly related to the rate of temperature change of the fluids, which, on the one hand, requires a high primary energy input, but, on the other, reduces efficiency.

[0033] Patent 4 (see point 2) is a semi-open system and uses near-surface geothermal energy (up to 1,000 m depth) as its primary energy source. However, there is concern that efficiency will decrease due to rock cooling, as the rate of heat flow in the rock is slower than the cooling via the updraft process. Conclusion:

[0034] All three power plant types are undoubtedly great, extremely innovative, inspiring and forward-looking inventions, for which this application represents a new development step from the author's point of view, since the application provides for a completely new design and obtains its functionally necessary primary process energy exclusively from solar thermal radiation and atmospheric cooling, which promises a high degree of efficiency due to the large temperature differences within the system. 4.0 Advantages of the solar thermal airflow power plant (SLK)4.1 Efficiency improvement

[0035] The main innovation and advantage of the invention filed here lies in the coupling of the two power plant types into a single, closed system (excluding the upper air intake and exhaust openings). Combined with some structural modifications to the two basic power plant types, a significant efficiency improvement is achieved compared to the known individual solutions.

[0036] By introducing moisture into the air of the downdraft unit (FSE), it becomes colder and denser, causing it to sink to the ground more quickly. At the same time, this moist downdraft air can absorb more solar energy as it flows through the updraft unit (AWE), thereby positively increasing the effective system pressure, which in turn leads to increased efficiency. The closed design allows moisture to be added to the system only once, and then it is used twice.

[0037] By merging the two types of systems (FSE+AWE), energy can also be generated at night, since the downdraft unit also operates at night and, thanks to the closed system, also drives the updraft unit (then, of course, with reduced efficiency). 4.2 Multi-local energy extraction / multi-turbine system

[0038] Due to the radially symmetrical design of the hybrid system (1), in addition to the large central downdraft power plant, several (e.g., 6, but preferably 8 or 12) smaller satellite solar updraft power plant modules are created. Due to the closed system and the associated undisturbed, directed volume flow, flow energy can be tapped via turbines at several points within the system and converted into electrical energy. 4.3 Weather resilience

[0039] The solar thermal airflow power plant (1) is largely resistant to storms, as the system's lightweight and elastic construction makes it generally well-tolerant of weather conditions. The tower structures are secured in position by damped tension bands and can therefore swing back and forth during storms. Furthermore, since the updraft chimneys are attached to both the downdraft tower and the two neighboring chimneys along their entire height, they reinforce each other (similar to a sandwich construction), which lends the vertical structures a certain static rigidity and enables greater construction heights. Therefore, the power plant does not have to reduce its output or even shut down during storms, but can continue operating without disruption. 4.4 Ease of maintenance and repair

[0040] The solar thermal air flow power plant (1) can be switched off sequentially for maintenance and repair purposes via lock devices (analog 25), ie kept flow-free, without the rest of the plant being affected.

[0041] Even extensive repairs due to accidents (natural disasters or destructive actions) can be accomplished relatively quickly with this type of power plant, as most components consist of standardized air cushions (21, 22, 30). Furthermore, if necessary, all tower structures (2+3) could be completely and quickly retrieved and lowered using cable winches. 4.5 Free from environmental hazards

[0042] Due to its closed system design, the solar thermal airflow power plant (1) does not cause any exhaust air draft at ground level, nor does it cause any visual or acoustic disturbances from the rotor or turbine that could disturb users or residents, as well as existing local flora and fauna. The closed design prevents swarms of insects, birds, or rodents from entering the plant, which would then die there. Distance regulations from residential areas could therefore be eliminated.

[0043] The solar thermal airflow power plant (1) does not pose any danger to the population, the atmosphere or the biosphere during construction, operation, maintenance or dismantling, as only tested construction materials are used and no hazardous substances are applied.

[0044] The air from the extracted atmospheric layers is also returned there. 4.6 Contribution to climate improvement

[0045] The solar thermal airflow power plant (1) contributes to climate improvement through its operation, since the process water required for operation, which is introduced into the system, is released back into the atmosphere in the form of air humidity via the exhaust air chimneys (3), which could be particularly beneficial in the long term in arid climates. 4.7 Contribution to air purification

[0046] Each solar thermal airflow power plant (1) can contribute to air pollution control as a result of the initial air humidification in the downdraft tower (2), since solid contaminants and suspended particles are then bound by water for a short time, washed out, transported downwards and collected at the base structure (4) and disposed of via slotted gutters.

[0047] This means that approximately 50,000 to 70,000 km can be 3 Air is cleaned of suspended particles. 4.8 System protection during operation

[0048] Due to the closed system of the solar thermal airflow power plant (1), no adverse effects can be caused by gusts of wind, clouds of sand and dust, swarms of insects, birds, or rodents. This prevents damage, extends cleaning, repair, and maintenance cycles, and reduces downtime. Furthermore, it prevents these air pollutants (ground-level suspended particles) from being transported via the chimneys into the lower atmosphere, where they could have a negative impact on the climate. 4.9 Potential offshore operations

[0049] The solar thermal airflow power plant (1) can be operated not only on land but also on a floating pontoon offshore, as its soft construction is tolerant to wind and wave energy. This would also keep a vast expanse of water out of reach of sunlight, preventing further warming of the water through shading. 4.10 Improved operating area management 1

[0050] The hybrid solution saves on operational space and makes more effective use of it, as a downdraft power plant is simultaneously integrated and located on the same area as a conventional solar updraft power plant, allowing the entire system to be operated more economically. Furthermore, flexible bifacial solar cells can be applied to and within the cushion components, which can generate additional solar power. In this respect, the operational space can be used for three purposes. 4.11 Improved operating area management 2

[0051] In addition to section 4.9, the solar thermal airflow power plant (1) can also enable agricultural and forestry land use through a raised construction of the updraft unit. This variant even allows for quadruple use of the operating area. 4.12 Reliable volatility

[0052] Due to its high operational reliability (in terms of the required maintenance intervals, the long service life of the plant components, the comparatively uncomplicated repair and component replacement measures, and the security of supply with secondary energy during adverse weather conditions), power plant type (1) possesses good, safe, and reliable energy availability and volatility (predictability of yields) with relatively low fluctuations. According to the invention, the plant operates well and reliably even with diffuse sunlight and, thanks to switchable heat pumps from the apron unit (47), even at night and during periods of bad weather for several days. The plant typically does not need to be shut down during normal storms.

[0053] As a result of the sector coupling implemented here (FSE+AWE+PV) and their easily plannable partial shutdowns, temporary operational repair and maintenance processes can be easily calculated, minimized in terms of production downtime and thus usually carried out in a commercially sound manner thanks to the large number of energy extraction points in the system as well as the extensive planned component-applied bifacial photovoltaic devices. 4.13 Process cooling as a by-product

[0054] Since the cool mountain air from the downdraft tower (2) must / should be warmed for the updraft process, “cold” is generated via heat exchangers, which can be dissipated and used economically as energy-efficient process cooling in further technical operations. 4.14 Recording of antenna and transmitter systems

[0055] Ring platforms 1 and 2 (10 and 19) have the capacity to accommodate antenna and transmitter systems for 360° media coverage. Leasing this capacity generates additional economic benefits.

[0056] 4.15 Short construction period due to high degree of standardized prefabrication The solar thermal airflow power plant (1) can be realized in relatively short planning and execution periods due to a high degree of standardized prefabrication of many of the components used.

[0057] The largely conceptually simple prefabricated construction method with few variants can be manufactured in industrial assembly line production regardless of weather conditions. The low-complexity construction method allows for easy and rapid assembly without a high risk of defects. 4.16 Simple dismantling / short-term plant dismantling

[0058] The solar thermal airflow power plant (1) can be dismantled and dismantled easily, quickly, and cost-effectively at the end of its life cycle, as it uses only conventional, safe, non-polluting construction materials that can be easily recycled. Essentially, all that's required is to "let out the air," fold the foils, and demolish the concrete. 4.17 Fast system availability

[0059] The solar thermal airflow power plant (1) can be started up and started up from standby mode within minutes. Depending on the time of day and the resulting solar energy input into the system, operational readiness and maximum output are reached more quickly during the day than at night.

[0060] In this respect, this type of power plant can (conditionally) also be described and used as a peak load power plant. 5.0 Explanation of the proposed solution (principle - function - construction)5.1 Brief description of the invention and basic principle:

[0061] As already mentioned, the solar thermal airflow power plant (1) is a hybrid of an improved downdraft power plant fused with a modified updraft power plant. The plant essentially consists of the downdraft unit (FSE = essentially the classic downdraft power plant), the base structure (4) (interface and joint between the downdraft and updraft units, as well as housing the machine and maintenance rooms), and the updraft unit (AWE = essentially the familiar updraft power plant).

[0062] In the tower (2) of the downdraft unit, the air cools and falls vertically to the ground, where this kinetic energy drives turbine rotors (5) in the base structure (4). The cool exhaust air from the downdraft unit is deflected at an angle of approximately 120° at the base and is channeled via the lower turbine ring (6) through the underground ducts (7) below the canopy level (9), preheated, and fed directly back to the updraft unit at the outer edge of the canopy (8). It is then flushed upwards into the canopy area, heated within the canopy, and thus directed towards the chimneys (3), passed through turbines (5) located at the chimney base to generate energy, and discharged via the chimneys (3) back up into the atmospheric layer from which the air was drawn minutes previously. This creates a closed air column system—in other words, "communicating tubes"—that drive each other through differences in air density via the so-called "effective pressure."The downdraft unit “pushes” and “pushes” the air column to the ground due to an increase in density, and the updraft unit “pulls” the air column back up due to a reduction in density.

[0063] The higher the temperature spread of the inner air column in the power plant, the more thermal energy is in the system and the more electrical energy can be obtained from the system.

[0064] The airflow column is guided in a planned manner throughout all areas of the system and can be given a swirl impulse at various levels of the system, further increasing the air velocity and thus the energy in the system. The interconnection of both units creates synergies that compensate for the disadvantages of the individual systems and turn them into advantages, leading to significant efficiency improvements for the solar thermal airflow power plant (1) as a whole compared to the individual systems.

[0065] To maintain high efficiency even during primary energy outages (night and periods of bad weather), the system is being expanded to include an apron unit (APU). The apron unit is essentially a giant solar heat collector and storage unit, which, using heat pumps, can maintain the system's secondary energy supply for several days. The heat is fed into the air of the updraft unit in the canopy structure (9). 5.2 Functional description:Downdraft unit:

[0066] At the tower head (2) of the downdraft unit, the air begins to flow into the system. When external air speeds are not gusty and are uniform, the wind spoiler system (11), mounted on a rotating mounting platform (10), can be adjusted to the wind direction and optionally extended. This system then serves to redirect the horizontal external air speed and can be used to optimize the initial velocity of the vertical downdraft airflow. This simultaneously increases the system pressure, which in turn increases efficiency.

[0067] Due to the spray / dripping water escaping in the area of ​​the tower mouth (2) from a sprinkler system stretched like a net across the horizontal tower cross-section, the air temperature in the downdraft tower (2) drops. This results in an increase in density, whereby the air column in the tower (2) moves downwards towards the base structure (4). In the base structure (4), the main energy of the downdraft winds is tapped by preferably at least two horizontally mounted counter-rotating rotors (5) connected in series, preferably filling the entire cross-sectional area of ​​the tower (alternatively, several radially arranged smaller rotor systems can be provided here). Immediately after the lower rotor, in the center of the base structure (4), a rounded spoiler truncated cone (12) is formed, which distributes the volume flow evenly radially in all directions and at an angle of approx.The air is aerodynamically guided at an angle of 120° in all directions from the tower base area into the radially arranged lower turbine ring (6), where a large portion of the residual energy of the redirected downdraft air column is additionally captured via smaller, vertically aligned turbine wheels (5) arranged radially in the turbine ring (6). The annular turbine ring (6) consists of several turbine units arranged evenly vertically next to one another, to which the ducts (7), which run outwards in a star shape below the canopy plane (9) of the updraft area in plan view, dock.

[0068] In vertical section, the ducts (7) run slightly downwards beneath the canopy unit (9). After approximately one-third / one-half of the canopy radius, the air ducts turn upwards again at the apex. The ducts emerge from the ground toward the canopy edge and direct the airflow into the inlet structure (8) of the updraft unit.

[0069] In the area of ​​the upward-facing duct sections (starting at the apex), the air is preheated by suitable devices using externally supplied solar thermal energy to raise the temperature of the cold air early on and thus promote or accelerate the upcoming heat absorption phase in the updraft unit. At the same time, the coolness of the downdraft air is captured, dissipated, and economically utilized for further technical processes (e.g., district cooling, etc.). Updraft unit:

[0070] The air masses are flushed from below through the ducts (7) over the inlet structure (8) upwards into the canopy area (9). The canopy area (9) of each segment (13) is spiral-shaped in plan and round to slightly elliptical in cross-section. With a tapered cross-section, it leads back to the base structure (4), via the updraft rotors (5) into the exhaust stack (3), and at the level of the ring platform 2 (19) back into the lower atmosphere.

[0071] The inlet structure (8) of the updraft unit represents the interface between the two original power plant types. From here, the airflow is supplied with as much energy as possible in the shortest possible time along its entire path. The updraft unit is divided into several equally sized symmetrical segments (13), which are arranged radially around the central tower structure (2+3). Each individual segment (13) consists of the section of its peripheral inlet structure (8), the segment screen (9), the machine unit on the base structure (4), and the exhaust air stack (3). The updraft stacks (3) are constructed of transparent material so that incident sunlight also contributes to increasing the system's energy output. Each updraft segment functions independently. Front unit:

[0072] The apron unit is essentially a giant solar heat collector and storage system, through which heat pumps can maintain the facility's secondary energy supply for several days. The heat is fed into the air of the updraft unit.

[0073] The apron unit is a nearly level area extending outside or around the solar thermal airflow power plant (1), preferably in a ring shape. To ensure the supply of the system's necessary process heat for cloudy days, inclement weather, or nighttime operation, the radiant energy that heats the apron is accumulated in a storage medium (14).

[0074] During the day, radiant energy arriving on the surface of the apron is loaded into the storage tank via suitable devices. When needed, the stored heat is extracted via water circulation pumps and fed into the power plant area where it is needed. The solid heat storage tank (14) has a dark-colored surface and is dimensioned in terms of storage mass so that it can maintain operation for several days using stored heat (secondary energy).

[0075] A mesh (15) (similar to the material of a chain-link fence, for example) is stretched horizontally several meters above the apron. This mesh prevents the air rising from the dark surface from escaping, thus creating a quasi-greenhouse effect between the massive storage unit and the mesh body, which further heats the massive storage unit. The mesh (15) is arranged in a plan view that follows the geometric shape of the apron, preferably in a ring around the power plant (1).In cross-section, the mesh has a slight gradient outwards towards the apron edge, so that the heated air must move inwards towards the edge of the power plant (Inset: As soon as air above a certain speed flows tangentially along a mesh-like surface, many micro-air vortices of approximately the same size and direction are created on the wire or fiber bodies, which form a flat air cushion for the actual air flow, on the vertices of which the air can glide tangentially along the surface with minimal friction. The mesh then acquires the basic property of an almost completely closed component).

[0076] The warm air losses through the mesh openings are irrelevant and unnecessary at this point, since this is an open system for cost reasons and the main effect of heat retention via the heating plates (17) of the solid storage tank (14) is still well fulfilled.

[0077] At the inner apron boundary (= the outer skin boundary of the inlet structure (8) of the solar thermal air flow power plant (1)) there is a row of turbines (16) in the network level (15) along the entire circumference of the power plant edge, over which the heated apron air flows upwards and escapes again through the rotor openings. General:

[0078] Throughout the power plant (1), suitable devices (such as swirl nozzles, component bends, and control surfaces within the respective flow channel section) impart a spin to the airflow at selected locations, causing the air column to rotate around its own flow direction axis and thus spiral through the channel and tube system at increased speed. This increases the energy yield by increasing the system's efficiency.

[0079] To ensure the operational reliability of the power plant (1) despite potential temporary local restrictions, such as those caused by maintenance, repairs, or accidents, bulkheads are installed at selected interfaces to interrupt the air flow. These bulkheads are preferably located at the tower head, the chimney heads, the turbine ring (6), the intake structure (8), and / or the updraft turbine unit (5).

[0080] For example, for major repairs on the ring platforms 1+2 (10+19), the tower structures (2+3) can be pulled down and rolled up using cable winches stationed in the base structure (4) via attachment points on the ring platforms 1+2 (10+19) and special devices, so that ultimately both platforms (10+19) rest on the base structure (4).

[0081] Since the power plant (1) will preferably be located in arid regions characterized by dust and sand, an automatic water purification system is provided at specific intervals to ensure efficiency. The purification process will take place on windless nights and last several hours. It is primarily (but not exclusively) necessary for the horizontal umbrella structures (9). The required process water is provided via a supply line running along the upper apex of each umbrella segment (9). The cleaning water, distributed over a large area from this, flows over the curved segments (13) of the umbrella structure (9) to the solid segmental partition walls (18). At their apex, a channel is formed which carries the water containing the purified material down a gradient to the edge of the plant, from where it is then collected and treated for further use.

[0082] Outside the apron unit, in certain areas following the radius of the power plant (1), a chain of hills has been built up (construction waste), on the sun-facing sides of which there are heliostats that direct the sunlight to the more sun-facing sides of the power plant (1) in order to improve the efficiency of the overall system. 5.3 Design - overall concept: A notice: The component and concept description follows the path of the air flow through the entire system in the definition hierarchy. Generally:

[0083] In order to generate an aerodynamic and guided flow of the air volume flow in the system and then to be able to use it optimally, it is advantageous to structurally implement a symmetrical power plant concept. The invention provides that the downdraft unit is located centrally in the system and the exhaust air leaving the subsystem at the tower base (base structure (4)) is guided via underground ducts (7) that dip in a star shape beneath the solar umbrella (9) of the updraft unit, to the umbrella edge (8) of the updraft unit and is transferred into the area of ​​the updraft unit via the circumferentially radially annular inlet structure (8). The updraft unit is divided into several self-contained, uniform sectors (13) that guide the air volume flow in the umbrella (9) to the updraft chimneys (3) located on the base structure (4). Each sector (13) has a separate updraft chimney (3).The updraft chimneys (3) are arranged geometrically uniformly and symmetrically along the outer edge of the downdraft tower (2). The updraft chimneys (3) terminate in the ring platform 2 (19), which, on the one hand, fixes the chimney heads and thus stabilizes the outlet openings, and, on the other hand, also serves as a media and maintenance platform.

[0084] The sectors (13) of the updraft unit's canopy (9) have a spiral design. The orientation of the spiral is determined by the Coriolis force acting at the system location (Northern Hemisphere ➢right-handed - clockwise | Southern Hemisphere ➢left-handed - counterclockwise). This directs the air masses through the canopy sectors (13) with improved efficiency according to their geophysical inclination (influenced by the Earth's rotation). A further advantage of the spiral shape is the longer airflow path in the system from the canopy edge (8) to the chimney (3). This allows the air to heat up more intensively due to the increased residence time, resulting in higher effective system pressure, higher air velocities, and thus increased overall system efficiency. Downdraft unit - central tower (2):

[0085] The downdraft unit forms the geometric center of the solar thermal airflow power plant (1). Here, the cool ambient air from the lower atmosphere begins to flow into the tower inlet (2) of the plant.

[0086] To force the inlet flow into and increase the speed of the cold air in the downdraft tower (2), the optionally switchable wind spoiler system (11) is mounted on a lightweight rotating assembly ring that is arranged on top of the ring platform 1 (10) and is radially movable there. The wind spoiler system (11) essentially consists of a spherically shaped sailcloth, which owes its dimensional stability to the radial anchor point arrangements on the rotating ring and the stabilizing compressed air hoses incorporated into the sailcloth. At various statically relevant points on the open edge of the sailcloth, tension straps are incorporated into the sailcloth. These tension straps pull the spoiler sail (11) out of its garage storage and unfold it using winches (20) arranged on the opposite segment of the rotating assembly ring. The garage also contains winches that retrieve the sail and secure it in position when necessary.

[0087] At the target height of the downdraft tower (2), the ring platform 1 (10) represents the upper end.

[0088] Here, the tower head is positively fixed in position, and the outlet opening is statically stabilized. Ring platform 1 (10) is made of sustainable, weather-resistant lightweight material (such as aluminum, plastic, foam metal, and / or composite material). The height of ring platform 1 (10) of the tower head of the downdraft unit is preferably above the height of ring platform 2 (19), which houses and fixes the chimney heads of the updraft units. The reason for these measures is that the air flowing into the downdraft tower should be as cold as possible and must not contain any heat load from the power plant exhaust air. The height of the downdraft tower is ideally approximately the 0°C limit of the natural atmospheric layers (H = approx. 2,000 to 3,000 m).

[0089] The tower (2) of the downdraft unit, located between the ring platform 1 (10) and the base structure (4), consists of gas cushions (21) made of black, opaque plastic film. The reason for this is that the air masses of the downdraft tower (2) should be as cool as possible and therefore need to be protected from light and thus heat.

[0090] These gas cushions (22) are vertically aligned and, mounted radially one after the other, form a circular tower. They extend from the base structure (4) to the ring platform 1 (10) at the target height of the downdraft tower (2). The gas cushions (22) are single- or multi-part hose cushions and are located in a cover. This cover is a one-piece, tube-like containment, stabilization, and protective sheath that is mounted and connected to the bottom of the base structure (4) and the top of the ring platform 1 (10). The covers are connected to each other at their vertical contact surfaces. In cross-section through the tower, the covers look like a giant revolver cylinder, and the hose cushions look like cartridges loaded into it.The background for this design is a rapid construction method as well as the possibility of a short-term reversible replacement of defective hose cushions under full load without affecting ongoing operations, since the temporary absence of a cushion does not significantly affect the statics due to the interconnected and mutually stiffening system components (tower, chimneys, suspended protective film, etc.).

[0091] To vertically stabilize the tubular basic shape of the tower (2), at least some cushions / cartridges are filled with lifting gas (such as H2 or He) according to the structural design results; the remaining cushions are filled with compressed air. The individual cushions are all manufactured to the same design, height, and diameter and are controlled via bus monitoring (pressure can be increased or decreased).

[0092] The gas-filled cushions (21) are held taut both horizontally in a ring shape and vertically by means of flexible carbon rope or belt systems, thus securing their position. Alternatively, a stabilization net can be used. The vertical bands extend from the base structure (4) via ring platform 2 (19) to ring platform 1 (10), keeping the platforms and cushions flexible but still stabilizing and securing their position, so that the system can withstand storms undamaged. Furthermore, the vertical bands are equipped with multiple hydraulic damping devices (bending and torsional strain relief and damping devices) located along their length to ensure that wind forces only act on the vertical structures in a dampened and material-friendly manner, maintaining dimensional stability and thus preventing wind forces from having a significant impact on operational safety.

[0093] To smooth out the geometric discontinuities inside the downdraft tower (2) caused by the curves of the cushions (21) and thus avoid disruptive turbulence, the tower's interior walls are vertically lined with a thin foil facade (23) and mounted to the covers. The individual facade modules are mounted slightly overlapping, similar to a plain roof covering, facing downwards and laterally, so that the downdraft cannot become trapped in an assembly joint and destroy the interior facade (23).

[0094] The inner facade film (23) has a microperforation from which compressed air escapes evenly, and is continuously and automatically replenished. The compressed air is collected in the dynamic pressure chamber (51) and fed by the downdraft flow from the tower (2). The dynamic pressure chamber (51) is created from the geometry of two adjacent downdraft tower gas cushions (21) and the inner facade film (23). The compressed air is diverted from the downdraft in the upper inlet area of ​​the tower (2) via controllable deflector flaps into the respective dynamic pressure chamber (51) and can only escape through the microperforation. The overpressure arises as a result of the dynamic volume flow.

[0095] The reason for this is that, as a result of the downward movement of the downdraft, a thin gas film is first formed on the inner wall side from the air emerging from the "micro nozzles", from which a cylindrical micro vortex is then formed over a large area, on whose air vertices the downdraft falls downwards largely without touching the wall, minimizing friction and thus increasing efficiency.

[0096] Alternatively, a classic foil lining (ideally coated with a lotus leaf effect) can be used to minimize frictional resistance.

[0097] The downdraft tower (2) is also equipped with an outer, fully enveloping, curtain-type film façade (24) to protect the cushions from windborne dust and sand ingress. This prevents additional loads from sand and moisture ingress, as well as increased wear from movement and sand friction between the components. The film façade (24) is made of opaque, UV- and age-resistant, highly tear-resistant, and fiber-reinforced plastic film. The film façade (24) is taut and weatherproof, yet reversibly assembled.

[0098] The outside of the film facade (24) can be equipped with flexible film solar cells.

[0099] The downdraft unit is supplied with process water via vertically guided flexible hoses. The hoses are installed in the downdraft tower system and connected to the supply ring of ring platform 1 (10). The water is pumped from the process water cisterns into the risers. Since the required delivery head precludes economical pumping, a small portion of the updraft is diverted in the area of ​​the updraft chimneys (3) and directed upwards via the hose risers. A compressed air device can also be used to support the pumping process. The turbulence this creates in the hose disrupts the homogeneity of the water column, creating a type of "water foam" that has a much lower density than water and is thus carried upwards by the updraft pressure from below.On the platform (10), the water is calmed, cooled, and fed into a ring distributor, which is directly connected to the irrigation system in the downdraft channel. This distributes the water evenly over the surface and causes it to rain down via spray heads, thereby lowering the temperature of the air column and thus increasing its density. This causes the air column to plummet downwards toward the base structure (4). To force this effect, the falling air column is given a swirl spin (caused by guide devices and / or by temporarily activated downward-directed compressed air nozzles and / or by controlled ignited hydrogen nozzles, which temporarily provide the initial thrust for swirl formation via ring-shaped, diagonally directed nozzles).

[0100] To block the air flow in the downdraft tower (2) during planned operational interruptions, a sealing device (25) is provided at the level of ring platform 1 (10). This sealing device (25) also consists of a gas-filled cushion body, which, when inflated, has the shape of a lens, covers and seals the entire cross-section of the tower head. The lock (25) is made of UV- and aging-resistant, highly tear-resistant, and fiber-tested plastic film.

[0101] The sealing device (25) is located in the center of the tower. When retracted, it consists of a central vertical spindle around which the lens body is wound centrally to save space when empty. The spindle is held statically centrally within the tower's symmetry by a statically effective spoke device or, alternatively, by several support cables anchored to the ring platform 1 (10) and connected to the ends of the spindle at the top and bottom. Several tension cables connected to winches are attached to the center of the spindle. When sealing is initiated from the central unit, motor winches wind up the tension cables, and the cushion body is evenly extended and unfolded. At the same time, compressed air is pumped into the cushion. The compressed air filling and cushion deployment run synchronously, preventing any fluttering of the cushion material. The lock (25) is then opened in the reverse order.The motor-driven spindle rewinds the lens body and simultaneously presses out the air. Basic structure (4) - Comprehensive:

[0102] The base structure (4) is the central interface and thus the heart of the entire facility (1). It connects the downdraft tower (2) with the underground transfer channels (7), which lead to the inlet structures (8) of the umbrella segments (13), on one side, and the umbrella systems (13) with the updraft chimneys (3) on the other. It houses most of the largest generators (5), most of the machine and technical rooms, and the entire maintenance infrastructure. The base structure (4) is constructed of solid construction. Downdraft unit - base structure (4):

[0103] The base structure (4) consists of an upward-facing opening with the diameter / size of the selected tower cross-section in its vertical center. A rounded truncated cone (12) rises from the ground at the center of the structure. At its upper end, at least two counter-rotating, horizontally mounted rotor systems (5) are located, filling the entire surface. Due to their large diameter and the forces acting on the outside, these rotor systems (5) cannot run freely; instead, they must be guided there for stabilization. Each rotor system (5) has an outer race (26) to which the rotor blade ends are integrated and mounted. The races (26) roll over stationary, adjustable carriages (27) mounted on the wall (roller bearing principle), so that the respective rotor plane (5) is centered and kept low in tension, allowing the rotor (5) to operate with low vibration and friction.Each rotor (5) drives several large generators located below the outlet cone (12). The cone root lies below the ground surface, runs aerodynamically effective towards the edges of the base structure (4), and flows into the outlet ring (28) at a downward angle of approximately 120°. The outlet ring (28) is the interface between the base structure (4) and the channel structures (7). It represents the lower end of the downdraft unit, is ring-shaped, and has several circular openings at equal intervals on the ring's axis of symmetry. The floor geometry of the base structure (4) is advantageously designed to follow aerodynamics towards the circular openings of the outlet ring (28). The spherically curved surfaces of the reinforced concrete floor are preferably tempered, coated, and / or lined with a suitable material.Optional wind spoilers are mounted on the cone root, which keep the air in swirl mode after passing through the main rotors (5) and direct it, energized, into the circular openings. Turbine systems (5) are arranged in series in the circular openings of the outlet ring (28), which capture the residual energy of the downdraft process.

[0104] The base structure (4) contains operating, mechanical and maintenance equipment, as well as devices to ensure the vertical stability of the tower structures (2+3). Downdraft unit - sewer structures (7):

[0105] Concrete pipes are connected to the aforementioned turbine systems (5), which channel the air below the canopy structures (9) radially outward toward the edge of the power plant. For structural reasons, each duct section consists of several unidirectional individual ducts (7). The slightly downward-facing concrete pipes (7) are directed upwards again at the lower apex (apex circle approximately in the center of the canopy) and finally, via distributor systems (29), fan out into several outward-facing ducts, which channel the air in several fractions, but at the same total volume flow, toward the intake structures (8).

[0106] Since there can be approximately 2-3 km between the base structure (4) and the inlet structure (8) and thus the segment ratio between the two structures is approximately 1:12 (meaning that the segment section of the inlet structure (8) is 12 times longer than that of the outlet ring (28)), the channel structures (7) must fan out symmetrically in the area in front of the inlet structure (8) so that the entire segment length of the same is surrounded by air as evenly as possible during the inlet process into the updraft unit, thus preventing turbulence that disrupts the system and is detrimental to efficiency.

[0107] In the upward-facing duct sections (7), the still cold air is preheated due to the downdraft process, which creates buoyancy in the volume flow. The heat is supplied via heat exchangers located inside the duct tubes (7), which are supplied with heat from the solid heat storage units of the apron unit. The resulting / removed process cooling is dissipated via insulated pipes for further industrial use.

[0108] The underground, tube-like supply air corridors (7) terminate in the inlet structure (8) at the outer edge of the canopy, which forms the interface between the duct structures (7) and the updraft unit. A row of turbines can be installed upstream before the air flow is directed upwards into the updraft unit. Inlet structure (8):

[0109] The inlet structure (8) represents the central interface between the underground channel structures (7) and the shielding systems (9) of the updraft unit. It surrounds the entire power plant in a ring shape and forms its outer closure.

[0110] The inlet structure (8) has a semicircular design, pointing upwards in cross-section. The underground part of the inlet structure (8) consists of a solid mineral construction (the semicircular surfaces are preferably coated or clad with a suitable material) and ends approximately at ground level. Above ground level, the structures consist of transparent air cushions (30), which seamlessly transition into the spherically curved umbrella structures (9).

[0111] The gas-filled cushions (30) in the area of ​​the inlet structure (8) are made of transparent, temperature-, UV-, and aging-resistant, highly tear-resistant, and fiber-reinforced plastic film. The inner side of the lower foil cushion layer contains a suitable coating to reflect reflected solar radiation and scattered light back into the interior. The cushion components (30) can be coated with translucent, flexible bifacial solar cells.

[0112] To block the air flow from the duct structures (7) into the updraft units during planned downtimes, a partitioning device similar to that of the downdraft unit can be installed downstream of the turbine units in the area of ​​the inlet structure (8). The incoming volume flow from the downdraft unit is then redirected and can escape to the outside through controllable openings at the beginning of the cushion level (30). This allows segments not involved in maintenance to continue operating and do not need to be shut down. Updraft unit - umbrella structures (9):

[0113] The updraft unit begins at the inlet structure (8) with the outer edge of the canopy. The gas-filled cushions (30) of the inlet structure (8) connect smoothly and seamlessly to the lifting gas cushions (30) of the canopy structures (9) of the same design. From here, the canopy structures (9) begin with their spiral-shaped, organically and spherically curved, and aerodynamically effective geometry.

[0114] All gas cushions (30) of the umbrellas (9) are made of transparent, temperature-, UV-, and aging-resistant, highly tear-resistant, and fiber-reinforced plastic film. The inner side of the upper foil cushion layer contains a suitable coating to reflect solar radiation and scattered light reflected from the umbrella interior back to the umbrella base, thus keeping radiant energy within the system.

[0115] The cushion components (30) of the umbrella structures (9) can be equipped with translucent flexible bifacial solar cells.

[0116] The cushions (30) all have the same geometry and size, are form-fittingly adapted to one another and are preferably hexagonal (but also triangular or trapezoidal) in shape.

[0117] Thus, only one cushion variant (30) identical in shape and size is installed in the entire umbrella structure (9). This special force- and form-fitting assembly mesh and the gas pressure in the cushions (30) create rigidity, stability, and toughness in the umbrella structure (9), as well as elasticity against internal and external forces.

[0118] The dimensions of the cushions (30) are approximately 5-8m long and 2-3m thick. Each cushion (30) is centrally monitored and controlled via a printing bus, allowing any malfunctions to be detected early and rectified quickly.

[0119] The cushions (30) of the shielding unit (9) form a slightly upwardly curved shape in each segment (13). This is achieved by structurally elevating the respective segment surface. The segment cushion modules (30) are partially filled with compressed air and are designed in such a way that, at their intended internal operating pressure, they deflect spherically upward as a unit due to mutual flank contact pressure, and they maintain their shape through frictional engagement.

[0120] The individual cushions (30) are all gas-filled. To stabilize the spherical shape, at least some segment areas are filled with lifting gas (H2 or He).

[0121] In the head area of ​​the segment partition walls (18), trapezoidal notches the size of half a gas cushion (30), the anchor blocks (39), are provided on both sides. Securing straps (31) are mounted between the anchor blocks (39). These straps connect and hold the individual cushions (30) to one another by means of these carbon cables or straps (31), which are stretched across the entire segment widths. The cables or straps (31) run in storage devices integrated into the cushion edges of the individual cushions (30) (e.g., loops or hoses) in order to prevent an internal build-up of tension or dynamic chafing on the cushions that could be damaging to the material, thus extending the service life and maintenance intervals of the cushions (30) and increasing operational reliability. These structural measures keep the entire sector (13) dimensionally stable.

[0122] A water hose with a spray device for cleaning the screen (dust and sand) runs along the upper apex line of the screen structures (9).

[0123] The solid segmental partition walls (18) form the lateral connection between the sub-segments (13) and serve as abutments, the "backbone," for the screen structures (9). A drainage channel for washing water and cleaning waste disposal is provided on the top of the segmental partition walls (18).

[0124] The lower level of the updraft unit's canopy segments (13), the base plates, begin at the segment partition walls (18), form the same spherical shape downwards, mirrored in cross-section, and are made of solid mineral construction. The dark surfaces attached to them are also spherically curved and preferably coated or sheet-clad.

[0125] The spherically curved upper umbrella segments (13) and the geometrically mirrored base surfaces each form an approximately ellipse in the open cross-section, which tapers across the entire spiral segments (13) towards the power plant center and ends at the respective updraft chimneys (3) on the base structure (4).

[0126] In the base plate of each screen segment (13), a uniformly flat pipe network (similar to heated screed) is provided at thermally effective points, through which the warm feed water of the solid heat storage tank (14) of the apron unit is pumped in selected time windows as required, thus heating the base plate and warming the air passing over it.

[0127] The massive segmental partition walls (18) begin at the inlet structure (8), spiral along the umbrella segments (13) to the power plant center, and end at the base structure (4). They form the main structural framework of the umbrella structures (13) of the updraft unit. This is where the umbrella structures (13) are supplied with technology and media (maintenance corridors, water, gases, energy, instrumentation and control, etc.). The supply lines for heat supply to the floor slabs are also located here. The return lines for the heating circuits are positioned at the lower apex of the floor slabs. A thermal insulation layer, preferably mineral, is located beneath the floor slab to safeguard process heat. Updraft unit - base structure (4):

[0128] At the outer edge of the base structure (4) is the inlet ring with the inlet funnels to which the umbrella segments (13) of the updraft unit are connected. At this point, the horizontal flow direction changes upwards to the vertical. For this purpose, the structure provides a smooth, elongated, spherical and aerodynamically favorable 90° curve in the form of an elbow. Above each of these is the turbine house, again with at least two counter-rotating rotors (5). The turbine house forms the end of the base structure (4) of the updraft unit. The updraft chimneys (3) are connected above the turbine houses. Updraft unit - chimney structures (3):

[0129] The chimneys (3) of the updraft unit, located between the ring platform 2 (19) and the base structure (4), consist of tube-like gas cushions (22) made of transparent plastic film. The idea behind this is to allow the air masses in the chimneys (3) to retain as much solar energy as possible.

[0130] These gas cushions (22) are vertically aligned and, mounted radially next to one another, form a circular stack tower (3). They extend from the base structure (4) to the ring platform 2 (19) at the target height of the stack heads. The gas cushions (22) are one-piece hose cushions and are housed in a cover. This cover is a transparent, one-piece, hose-like containment, stabilization, and protective sheath that is firmly mounted and connected to the base structure (4) below and to the ring platform 2 (19) above. The covers are connected to each other at their vertical contact surfaces. The reason for this design is rapid construction and the possibility of quickly and reversibly replacing defective cushions (22) under full load without affecting ongoing operations, since the temporary absence of a cushion impairs the statics due to the interconnected and mutually bracing system components (tower, stacks, curtain wall membranes, etc.).) was not significantly affected.

[0131] To vertically stabilize the tubular basic shape of the chimneys (3), at least some cushions are filled with a lifting gas (such as H2 or He) according to the structural design results; the remaining cushions (22) are filled with compressed air. The individual cushions (22) are all manufactured to the same design, height, and diameter and are controlled via bus monitoring (pressure can be increased or decreased).

[0132] The gas-filled cushions (22) are held taut both horizontally in a ring shape and vertically by means of carbon rope or strap systems, thus securing their position. Alternatively, a stabilizing net can be used.

[0133] The vertical belts extend from the base structure (4) to ring platform 2 (19), keeping the platform and cushions (22) flexible yet stabilized and secured in position, allowing the system to withstand storms unscathed. The belts are stored in support devices (e.g., loops or hoses) to protect the cushions. Furthermore, the vertical belts are equipped with hydraulic damping (bending and torsional strain relief and damping devices) located multiple times along their length to dampen wind impacts on the vertical structures, thus maintaining their shape stability, protecting the material, and ensuring that weather conditions do not affect operational safety.

[0134] To smooth out the geometric discontinuities inside the chimneys (3) caused by the cushion curves and thus avoid disruptive turbulence, the chimney interior walls are vertically lined with a thin, transparent foil facade (32) and mounted to the covers. The individual facade modules (32) are mounted, similar to a plain-tile roof covering, with slight overlaps directed upwards and laterally, so that the upstream air flow cannot become trapped in an installation joint and destroy the interior facade (32).

[0135] The inner facade film (32) has a micro-perforation from which compressed air escapes evenly, and is continuously and automatically replenished. The compressed air is collected in the dynamic pressure chamber (51) and fed by the updraft flow from the respective chimney (3). The dynamic pressure chamber (51) is created from the geometry of two adjacent updraft chimney gas cushions (22) and the inner facade film (32). The compressed air is diverted from the updraft flow into the respective dynamic pressure chamber (51) via controllable deflector flaps in the lower inlet area of ​​the respective chimney (3) and can only escape through the micro-perforation. The overpressure arises as a result of the dynamic volume flow.

[0136] The reason for this is that, as a result of the upward movement of the updraft flow, a thin gas film is first formed on the inner wall side from the air emerging from the "micro nozzles", from which a cylindrical micro vortex is then formed over a large area. At the air vortex vertices of these vortexes, the updraft flow is largely discharged upwards (without touching the wall) and can escape, minimizing friction and thus increasing efficiency.

[0137] Alternatively, a conventional foil lining (ideally coated with a lotus leaf effect) can be used to minimize frictional resistance. The foil facades (32) of the chimney structures (3) are provided with a suitable reflective coating on the inside to accumulate and retain the incoming heat radiation in the chimney (3).

[0138] In order to protect the vertical chimney structures (3) from wind-borne dust and sand ingress and thus to protect the individual cushions (22) and their joints from excessive wear, a curtain film facade (33) is constructed that completely envelops the components.

[0139] The outer foil facade (33) is attached to the components so tightly that it does not flap in wind and storms, yet is elastic enough to accommodate all bending and torsional movements of the chimney structures (3) without damage. The foil facade (33) is made of transparent, UV- and age-resistant, highly tear-resistant, and fiber-reinforced plastic foil. The foil facade (33) consists of facade segments that are detachably connected to each other with elastic tension and are dust-tight.

[0140] Both the covers and the outer foil facades (33) of the chimney structures (3) can be equipped with translucent flexible bifacial solar cells.

[0141] The updraft chimneys (3) are connected to the ring platform 2 (19) at the target height. This is where the chimney heads are fixed in position. Ring platform 2 (19) is made of sustainably weather-resistant lightweight material (e.g., aluminum, plastic, foam metal, and / or composite material). The height of ring platform 2 (19) is below the height of the apex of the downdraft unit's tower head.

[0142] On the ring platform 2 (19), in the area above the chimney heads of each updraft unit, an exhaust air deflector (40) (diffuser / deflector spoiler) is permanently mounted. This deflector deflects the outgoing airflow outward, while at the same time partially utilizing the upward force (F) of the updraft flow to push the ring platform 2 (19) upward, thus contributing to the weight reduction of the platform (19). The deflection angle of the exhaust air deflector (40) is variably controllable. This additionally stabilizes the position of the entire vertical structure of the power plant.

[0143] In addition to the stabilisation benefits, the background to the measures is that the air flowing into the downdraft tower should be as cold as possible and that no heat load from the power plant exhaust air should be introduced here.

[0144] The devices (40) are designed in such a way that no significant back pressure which reduces efficiency occurs in the chimneys (3).

[0145] In order to close the updraft chimneys (3) for planned operational interruptions and thus keep them draught-free, a partitioning device analogous to that of the downdraft unit is installed at the level of the ring platform 2 (19).

[0146] The updraft chimneys (3) can also be designed in the form of horizontally stacked segment or ring module cushion components. Advance unit (47):

[0147] The apron unit (47) is used to absorb and store process heat and to release and supply the power plant (1) (in the updraft unit) with secondary energy during periods without solar radiation. The apron (47) consists of a dense system of many geometrically identical, self-sufficient, mineral solid heat storage units (14) (charging modules) arranged in a ring around the power plant (1). Each segment (13) of the updraft unit is supplied with heat by the geometrically directly adjacent apron segment when needed.

[0148] The solid heat storage modules (14) are all designed in the same cuboid shape as standard (dimensions, for example, approx. 10m x 10m x 3-5m) and are embedded, storage module to storage module, on a heat-insulating mineral fill (e.g., expanded clay, brick granulate, foam glass sand, or similar) to save space. A dark-colored "heating concrete slab", the absorber (17), is arranged above the storage modules (14). This upper heat receiver slab (17) is thermally separated from the actual solid storage module (14) in the subsurface (preventing night-time cooling). The slab (17) is elastically embedded and secured in position on a suitable insulating separating layer. Each storage block module (14) has an integrated charging circuit and a supply circuit (similar to heated screed), both of which can be switched independently of one another.

[0149] The charging circuit consists of a winding and spatially uniformly formed vertically oriented pipe network in which the carrier medium water is driven by a circulation pump, which transports "cold or charging water" upwards into the heating plate (17), where it is heated and pumped back down as "warm water" into the storage modules (14), thus increasing the temperature in the concrete block (14).

[0150] The supply circuit exists only within the massive storage tanks (14) and consists of a winding and spatially uniform, horizontally oriented pipe network in which the carrier medium, water, is driven by a circulation pump that transports "cold water" into the massive heat storage tank (14), where it is heated and pumped out as "hot water" to a heat exchanger that heats the supply flow for an updraft segment. The necessary technical infrastructure for this is installed in the technical bays (36) of the maintenance corridors (35). Supply and return lines for the sector supply (13) are laid along the maintenance corridors (35).

[0151] Beneath the solid heat storage modules (14), accessible maintenance and supply tunnels (35) radiate outward at the intersections of two rows of storage modules. Along these routes (35), the charging and supply infrastructure for the storage units (14) as well as the supply and return lines for the nighttime supply of the updraft units are located in the technical bays (36).

[0152] Above the heating plate level (17), a net (15) (similar to wire mesh or similar) is stretched horizontally at a height of several meters. The net (15) is held taut in a horizontal position by rod-shaped vertical components (e.g. steel pipes or similar). The net (15) slopes slightly outwards towards the edge of the apron and, conversely, rises slightly towards the edge of the updraft segment (8). At the interface to the updraft segment, the net structure (15) is connected to a circumferential sheet metal rim (34) which projects several meters into the apron unit and, on the edge of the power plant, has at least one row of preferably slightly conical sheet metal exhaust chimneys (Ø approx. 4-5m) arranged radially and at regular intervals. Each turbine (16) contains a turbine through which the rising warm air "trapped" above the apron unit can escape.

[0153] The sheet metal exhaust chimneys of the mesh edge sheet rim (34) point upwards and are aligned slightly diagonally towards the power plant (1) following the tangent of the cushion bend at this point.

[0154] Outside the apron unit (47), in selected areas, it is planned to model hills from the construction waste dumps. On their sun-facing flanks, a sufficient number of heliostats will be located. These heliostats consist of slightly curved stainless steel plates directed toward the shady sides or the areas of the power plant facing away from the sun, such as the exhaust stacks in these areas, and charge the system with additional solar energy. These heliostats are located north of the equator in the northwest-north-northeast areas and south of the equator in the southwest-south-southeast areas of the power plant. 5.4 Alternative design concept: elevated SLK version (variant 2) A notice: The previously described solution, while compact in itself, requires a high amount of land, making it primarily suitable for use in arid climates with a vegetation-free or low-vegetation site. To make this power plant type attractive and viable for climates with normal vegetation and / or areas where agriculture and forestry are practiced, a more environmentally friendly design variant is presented here. However, due to its design, its efficiency is lower than that of the main variant. General - (Variant 2):

[0155] The principle of action and function of this alternative is the same as that of the main variant described above.

[0156] The design of the downdraft unit [tower (2), base structure (4), and duct structures (7)] is identical in both variants. The updraft unit differs in that the channel fan-out (46) at the outer end of the duct structures (7) underground is omitted, as is a smaller inlet structure (8), and in the omission of the entire flat canopy plane (9). The ground-level canopy plane (9) of the main variant is replaced by the compact spiral duct design being broken up into straight, elevated "bridge ducts," each consisting of an elevated, tubular gas cushion duct (42). This gas cushion duct (42) runs linearly from the outside to the power plant center, where it meets the base structure (4) at its normal position, to which each duct (42) is hermetically sealed.

[0157] The design of the chimney structures (3) is identical in both variants. Due to the high consumption of valuable space, an apron unit is not practical here. Inlet structure (8) - (Variant 2):

[0158] The inlet structure (8) represents the central interface between the underground channel structures (7) and the tubular gas cushion channels (42) of the updraft unit.

[0159] The inlet structure (7) has a semicircular design, pointing upwards in cross-section. The underground part of the inlet structure (8) consists of solid mineral construction (the semicircular surfaces are preferably coated or clad with a suitable material) and ends approximately at ground level. Above ground level, the structures consist of curved, transparent air cushions (30), which merge seamlessly into the circular gas cushion channel (42).

[0160] The gas-filled cushions (30) in the area of ​​the inlet structure (8) are made of transparent, temperature-, UV-, and aging-resistant, highly tear-resistant, and fiber-reinforced plastic film. The inner side of the lower foil cushion layer contains a suitable coating to reflect reflected solar radiation and scattered light back into the interior. The cushion components (30) can be coated with translucent, flexible bifacial solar cells.

[0161] To block the air flow from the duct structures (7) into the updraft units during planned downtimes, a partitioning device similar to that of the downdraft unit can be installed downstream of the turbine units in the area of ​​the inlet structure (8). The incoming volume flow from the downdraft unit is then redirected and can escape to the outside through controllable openings at the beginning of the cushion level (30). This allows segments not involved in maintenance to continue operating and do not need to be shut down. Updraft unit - Tubular gas cushion channel (42) - (Variant 2):

[0162] The updraft unit begins at the inlet structure (8). The gas-filled cushions (30) of the inlet structure (8) connect seamlessly and evenly to the lifting gas cushions (30) of the gas cushion channels (42) of the same design.

[0163] All gas cushions (30) of the channels (42) are made of transparent, temperature-, UV-, and aging-resistant, highly tear-resistant, and fiber-reinforced plastic film. The side of the film cushions (30) facing the interior of the channel (42) contains a suitable coating to reflect heat and solar radiation, as well as scattered light, reflected from the tube interior, thus keeping radiant energy within the system.

[0164] The cushion components (30) of the gas cushion channels (42) can be equipped with translucent flexible bifacial solar cells.

[0165] The cushions (30) all have the same geometry and size, are form-fittingly adapted to one another and are preferably hexagonal (but also triangular or trapezoidal) in shape.

[0166] Thus, only one cushion variant (30) identical in shape and size is installed in the entire duct structure (42). This special force- and form-fitting assembly network and the gas pressure in the cushions (30) create rigidity, stability, and toughness in the duct structure (42), as well as elasticity against internal and external forces.

[0167] The dimensions of the cushions (30) are approximately 5-8m long and 2-3m thick. Each cushion (30) is centrally monitored and controlled via a printing bus, allowing any malfunctions to be detected early and rectified quickly.

[0168] The cushions (30) of the channels (42) are mounted to one another in such a way that they form a tubular shape in cross-section. The cushion modules (30) are designed in such a way that, at their intended internal operating pressure, they form a tube as a unit due to the mutual flank pressure of the walls and maintain their shape through frictional engagement.

[0169] The individual cushions (30) are all filled with gas to stabilize their tubular shape. To secure their position at plan height, most sections are filled with lifting gas (H2 or He). The gas cushion channels (42) are held and fixed at regular intervals by static elements. They have a slight horizontal incline (approximately 1-3%) toward the power plant center.

[0170] The individual cushions (30) of the tubes (42) are connected to each other by securing straps (31) or by means of nets, held and thus secured in position.

[0171] The ropes or straps (31) run in integrated storage devices of the individual cushions (30) (e.g. loops or hoses) in order to prevent an internal build-up of tension or dynamic chafing on the cushions (30) that is harmful to the material and thus to extend the service life and maintenance intervals of the cushions (30) and to increase operational reliability.

[0172] A water hose with a spray device for cleaning the screens (dust and sand) runs along the upper apex line of the screen structures (9). The washing water flows down the channel body (42) into the vegetation. 5.5 Operational safety:Operational safety with regard to primary energy supply and function:

[0173] As mentioned above, each updraft segment (13) is assigned a segment of the apron unit that accumulates heat energy during the day. The mass of this apron unit is dimensioned such that the updraft unit can be supplied with sufficient heat energy not only at night by switchable heat pumps, but also that sufficient capacity is available for several days of bad weather, allowing such days with little sunshine to be bridged. This creates short-term "fair-weather independence." During prolonged periods of bad weather, the system's energy yield still functions due to diffuse thermal radiation, but at a reduced output.

[0174] By introducing cold air and moisture into the downdraft unit, its functionality is essentially guaranteed both at night and during periods of inclement weather. This also benefits the updraft unit. Operational safety with regard to energy generation:

[0175] Since the solar thermal airflow power plant (1), as described above, consists of a large downdraft power plant and several smaller updraft power plants, as well as a large number of secondary turbines (5), individual power plant segments (13) can be selectively shut down for maintenance and repair purposes without affecting the rest of the plant. This is achieved by sequentially interrupting the airflow using inflatable bulkheads or barriers (similar to 25) at key positions (power plant interfaces). This keeps the relevant sectors (13) draft-free, allowing work to be carried out safely.

[0176] Due to the large number of energy extraction points (5) in the system as well as the extensive planned component-applied bifacial photovoltaic devices, temporary operational partial shutdowns are economically harmless. Operational safety in relation to maintenance:

[0177] All system components are standardized, resulting in minimal variations. This makes building maintenance rational and economical in terms of spare parts availability, service technology, crisis response times, and costs.

[0178] Each air cushion module (screen (30), chimney (22) and tower (21)) is equipped with bus-controlled sensors, is electronically monitored, analyzed and can be directly controlled from the control center or repaired promptly as a result of immediate technical information.

[0179] If air cushions (21, 22, 30) can no longer be repaired, the component module is repaired by deflation and blowing out the defective component cushions, replacement, installation, and inflation of the replacement cushions, and subsequent system migration. Individual air cushions can also be replaced during operation, as the overall statics are not affected due to the local arch effect of the surrounding cushions, and the internal sliding foils (23 + 32) ensure that the volume flow is not impaired or can escape.

[0180] All motors, pumps, valves, electronics and all turbines in a system circuit are preferably of the same type. Conclusion:

[0181] Due to these planning precautions, the solar thermal airflow power plant (1) is well prepared for all foreseeable and expected disruptions. If at all, a segment fails only briefly, the remaining power plant continues to operate unabated. Thus, a total outage is not possible. The power plant reliably supplies energy even in reduced operating mode. 6.0 Protection claimsNote on the claim structure:

[0182] The chronology of the claims (except for the main claim) follows the path of the airflow from the lower atmosphere through the confluence of the tower opening (2) down to the base (4), through the underground ducts (7), over the screen (9), and through the chimneys (3) back into the lower atmosphere. The comprehensive claims are located below.

Claims

[1] Solar thermal airflow power plant (1), characterized by , - that the operating principle of the downdraft or downdraft power plant is connected in series in a system-closed, gas-tight and air-tight manner, and is structurally compactly coupled and combined with that of the updraft power plant in a hybrid power plant; - that the solar thermal air flow power plant (1) is constructed radially symmetrically in the ground plan, ie that the tower of the downdraft unit (2) is arranged centrally in the plant and is mounted on the base structure (4); - that the vertical components of the tower (2) above the base structure (4) consist of identical standardised air and / or lifting gas-filled single- or multi-part tubular plastic cushion shaped components (21), which are each housed in a shape-stabilising vertically aligned assembly cover and are structurally connected to one another in a vertically stable manner by means of a special assembly technique and are mounted radially next to one another; - that in the interior of the tower (2) a facade film (23) is provided as a vertical, circumferential tower wall cladding, which is mounted vertically taut on the covers; - that the interior film (23) has a micro-perforation distributed over the surface and is provided with a coating; - that two adjacent vertical downdraft tower gas cushions (21) and the inner region film (23) each form a dynamic pressure chamber (51) and in the inlet region at the upper end of the tower (2) towards the inner region of the tower each have a discharge flap as an air supply opening; - that the outer area of ​​the tower cushions (21) is covered vertically with a reflective, light-tight outer facade film (24) which is mounted vertically tightly on the covers; - that a data bus sensor system is implemented in the cushions (21) and that a central compressed gas network is connected to each cushion; - that the ring platform 1 (10) is located at the inlet opening of the downdraft tower (2) as the upper end of the structure; - that vertically and diagonally guided safety ropes and straps are mounted on the tower structure (2) and are equipped with tension damping devices. - that starting from the base structure (4), channels (7) run underground under the umbrella structure (9) of the updraft unit in a normal and star-shaped manner outwards and open into the sectors (13) of the umbrella structure (9) in a fan-out manner via the inlet structure (8); - that starting from the inlet structure (8), the sectors (13) of the umbrella structure (9) are arranged in a spiral, clockwise or counterclockwise, around the power plant centre, each leading into an updraft chimney (3) and being tightly connected there; - that the chimneys (3) of the updraft units are arranged uniformly radially along the circumference of the downdraft tower (2) and end at a height below the inlet opening of the downdraft tower (2); - that within the system, electrical energy is generated simultaneously at several points in the power plant via rotors and turbines (5). [2] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to claim 1, furthermore characterized by , - that the base structure (4) is located in the centre of the overall system (1); - that in the center of the base structure (4) there is formed an upper circular central opening (37), in the center of which the diverter cone (12) with a single-stage or multi-stage turbine system (5) located at the top is located; - that at the lower end of the diversion cone (12) of the base structure (4), a turbine ring (6) which is annular in plan view and is set back outwards in a rim-like manner and has, in its vertical direction over the entire circumference, several evenly distributed circular outlet openings (38) directed obliquely downwards and outwards in several rows, in each of which one or more turbine systems (5) are mounted; - that the vertical cushion elements (21+22) of the downdraft tower (2) and the chimneys (3) are each based in a spherical segment-like structurally formed recess in the base structure (4) and are firmly anchored there. [3] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, furthermore characterized by , - that each turbine outlet (38) of the turbine ring (6) of the base structure (4) is connected to a channel structure (7) which runs outwards in a star shape below the screens of the updraft unit (9) and opens into the inlet structure (8) of the plant at the outer edge of the plant; - that before the channels (7) confluence with the respective inlet structure (8), the channel line is evenly divided into several smaller channel cross-sections; - that the duct layout is slightly parabolic in vertical section; - that heat exchange devices are provided in the ducts (7). [4] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, hereinafter characterized by , - that a separate, self-contained inlet structure (8) is structurally connected to each updraft umbrella segment (13); - that each inlet structure (8) is structurally separated from the adjacent inlet structures (8) in a gas-tight manner by two solid segment walls (18); - that the areas of the inlet structures (8) in contact with the ground are solid and the above-ground spherically shaped components consist of gas-filled plastic cushions (30) which are gas-tight and firmly mounted to the delimiting solid structural elements; - that all gas cushion components (30) are made of transparent plastic film and are filled with air and / or lifting gas; - that each cushion (30) is monitored by means of a data bus sensor system and is automatically controlled via a central compressed gas network with the corresponding medium; - that a controllable sealing device is installed in the area of ​​the inlet structures (8). [5] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, in addition characterized by , - that the screen structure (9) consists of several self-contained individual segments (13), which are each structurally separated from one another by the segment partition walls (18) and are mounted thereto in a gas-tight and fixed manner; - that the individual segments (13) are arranged in a spiral (clockwise or counterclockwise) around the central axis of the power plant and approach it up to the updraft chimneys (3); - that each segment (13) is separately and firmly connected to a respective updraft chimney (3) in a gas-tight manner; - that the individual segments (13) of the umbrella structure (9) are slightly oval and spherical in cross-section and taper in cross-section towards the power plant centre; - that the lower ground-contacting areas of the individual segments (13) of the umbrella structure (9) are solid and dark in colour and that these ground-contacting areas are provided with hot water piping over their entire surface; - that all cushion components (30) are made of transparent plastic film material and are filled with both air and lifting gas; - that all cushions (30) have the same geometry and size, are fitted to one another in a form-fitting manner and are triangular, hexagonal or trapezoidal in shape; - that the undersides of the cushions (30) are provided with a radiation-reflecting coating; - that an external device is provided for automatically cleaning the screen segments (13); - that a data bus sensor system is implemented in the cushions (30) and that a central compressed gas network is connected to each cushion. [6] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, furthermore characterized by , - that the vertical components of the chimneys (3) above the base structure (4) consist of identical standardised air and / or carrier gas-filled single- or multi-part tubular plastic cushion shaped components (22), which are each housed in a shape-stabilising vertically aligned assembly cover and are structurally connected to one another in a vertically stable manner by means of a special assembly technique and are mounted radially in series; - that in the interior of the chimneys (3) an interior facade film (32) is provided as a vertical, circumferential chimney wall cladding, which is mounted vertically taut on the covers; - that the interior facade film (32) has a micro-perforation distributed over the surface and is provided with a coating; - that two adjacent vertical updraft chimney gas cushions (22) and the inner facade foil (32) each form a dynamic pressure chamber (51) which has a discharge flap as an air supply opening in the inlet area at the lower beginning of the respective chimney (3) towards the chimney interior area; - that the inner foil facades (32) of the chimney structures (3) are provided on the inside with a light and heat radiation reflecting coating; - that the outer area of ​​the fireplace cushions (22) is covered vertically with an outer facade film (33) which is mounted vertically tightly on the covers; - that all chimney components are made of transparent plastic film material; - that a data bus sensor system is implemented in the cushions (22) and that a central compressed gas network is connected to each cushion; - that a centrally controlled LED signaling system is implemented in the cushions (22); - that the ring platform 2 (19) is located at the outlet opening of the updraft chimneys (3) as the upper end of the structure; - that an exhaust air deflection device (40) is located on the ring platform 2 (19) above each chimney outlet; - that vertically and diagonally guided safety ropes and straps are mounted on the updraft chimneys (3) and are provided with tension relief devices. [7] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, further characterized by , - that the apron unit (47) is arranged outside the power plant (1), which consists of a close system of self-sufficient individual solid heat storage modules (14); - that these storage module blocks (14) all have the same shape and size and are aligned on a heat-insulating fill in a plane, flat, orderly and space-optimised; - that these storage modules (14) consist of a dense mineral composite material and each have a separately switchable charging circuit and a separately switchable supply circuit, both of which are designed within the solid storage bodies as a self-sufficient, liquid-carrying, spiral-shaped and system-central metal piping network; - that above each storage module (14) there is arranged an associated dark-coloured, solid, high-density absorber plate (17), which is supported on a thermal insulation layer and is thus thermally separated from the storage module (14); - that the piping network of the charging circuit is hydraulically connected to the absorber plate (17); - that the apron unit (47) is divided into apron segments (48) in blocks and that the supply circuits of all storage modules (14), each assigned to a apron segment (48), are connected in parallel and connected to a main supply line which consists of a supply line and a return line; - that each main supply line of each apron segment (48) is connected to the hot water piping of the respectively associated updraft unit (13); - that maintenance, technical and supply corridors (35) are provided below the storage modules (14). [8] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, furthermore characterized by , - that at the upper end of the tower (2) a spherically designed sail-like wind spoiler system (11) is rolled up in a storage device, which can be raised electromechanically via cable winches, pneumatically stabilized, positioned in different positions secured by a pull cable and retracted again in the opposite way; - that the wind spoiler system (11) is mounted on a lightweight assembly rotating device that can be moved axially through 360° within the ring platform 1 (10). [9] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, furthermore characterized by , - that in order to achieve the necessary conveying capacity, the process water is fed to the upper opening of the downdraft tower (2) via flexible hose lines with the aid of special density-reducing compressed air devices for the purpose of downdraft cooling; - that for this density reduction of the process water, parts of the updraft flows are diverted via branching devices on the base structure (4) and used in bubbling devices in order to break up the compact liquid structure of the water columns and to transport them with the updraft dynamics via flexible hose lines to the height of the ring platform 1 (10) into a collecting ring line; - that switchable compressors are provided to support the conveying process. [10] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, furthermore characterized by , - that in the base structure (4) in the tip region of the deflection cone (12) one or more rotor units (5), the blades of which preferably fill the entire cross-sectional area of ​​the tower (2), are arranged horizontally; - that when several rotor units (5) are connected one above the other, they are aligned in opposite directions; - that the angle of attack of the rotor blades of these rotors (5) can be changed electrohydraulically and is controlled centrally; - that the main rotors (5) each have an outer race (26) and that the edge suspensions of the rotor blade ends are integrated into this outer race (26); - that a haunch is formed on the inner wall surfaces of the base structure (4) at the level of each main rotor; - that stabilizing roller modules (27) are mounted at the necessary intervals on the coves and on the vertical wall extension above them, on which the outer race (26) of the respective main rotor (5) runs. [11] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, furthermore characterized by , - that the tower structures (2+3) can be pulled down and rolled up by means of cable winches and suction devices stationed in the base structure (4) via attachment points on the ring platforms 1+2 (10+19), so that ultimately both platforms (10+19) rest on the base structure (4). [12] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, hereinafter characterized by , - that the tower structures (2+3) are equipped with structural devices for generating and promoting an air flow swirl spin; - that these structural devices are in the form of internal tail units and downward / upward directed pressure jet nozzles. [13] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, furthermore characterized by , - that all film components of the system are equipped with flexible translucent bifacial photovoltaic elements. [14] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, furthermore characterized by , - that the gas cushion channels (42) with a circular cross-section are arranged several metres above the ground, are predominantly filled with lifting gas, are held in place by means of static elements (43) and have a gradient from the inlet structures (8) to the updraft chimneys (3); - that the round gas cushion channels (42) are preferably arranged in a star shape and in a normal straight line from the chimney structures (2) to the respective inlet structures (8); - that the round gas cushion channels (42) consist of the same standardized single element cushions (30) as those of the flat umbrella design. [15] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, further characterized by , - that the enclosing above-ground surface elements (2, 3, 13) of the power plant can also be made of mesh-like material. [16] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, furthermore characterized by , - that above the heating plate level (17) of the apron unit (47) at a height of several meters, a net (15) is stretched horizontally over supports (49), which is designed to be umbrella-like and slightly sloping outwards towards the apron edge and conversely slightly rising towards the umbrella edge (8) and is connected on the power plant side via a circumferential sheet metal rim (34) to the inlet structure (8), on which a row of turbines (16) is arranged radially. [17] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, furthermore characterized by , - that outside the power plant (1) there are heliostats which additionally direct daylight onto the power plant areas by means of reflecting plates via an automatic sun position control system. [18] Solar thermal air flow power plant (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, finally characterized by , - that the power plant (1) can also be constructed and operated as an offshore version on a lightweight floating structure.

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