Bridle Sheave Roll Control for Airborne Wing Wind Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing airborne wind energy systems face challenges in accurately controlling the roll angle of airborne wings due to continuous variation with changing wind conditions, affecting power generation efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A bridle system with a roll control sheave and motor, connected to an electronic controller, adjusts the relative lengths of medial bridle segments to precisely control the roll of the airborne wing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the roll angle is allowed to vary continuously with wind conditions, then the system can adapt to changing wind conditions, but the control precision and stability of the roll angle deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic roll control system where the bridle configuration can be actively adjusted in real-time. The roll control mechanism allows the bridle to transition between different configurations (symmetric and asymmetric) based on wind conditions, enabling the system to adapt dynamically while maintaining precise control through active management of the roll angle
2Measurement precision
If a roll control mechanism is implemented, then the roll control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The roll control sheave serves multiple functions: it guides the bridle segments, provides the rolling motion necessary for roll control, and works in conjunction with the bridle configuration changes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving precise roll control
3Speed
If the bridle configuration is changed to control roll, then the roll control speed is improved, but the structural complexity of the bridle system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bridle is pre-configured with specific attachment points and segments (lateral and medial segments) that are positioned to enable rapid roll control. The roll control sheave is pre-positioned within the fuselage with grooves that guide the bridle segments, allowing the system to execute roll commands quickly without requiring complex real-time reconfiguration of the entire bridle structure
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables quick and accurate roll control of the wing, enhancing power generation efficiency by aligning lift forces with changing wind conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A roll control motor is preferably connected to the sheave and is controlled by an electronic controller to rotate and change the relative lengths of the medial bridle segments
Implementation Method 2
This rolling orients the lift force of the wing to balance other forces on the vehicle and generate required centripetal accelerations for turning
Data Source
AI summary
A bridle system and roll control sheave for quickly and accurately directing the roll of an airborne wing in an airborne wind energy system is disclosed. A pair of medial bridle segments are connected to a sheave which is placed within the fuselage. A roll control motor is preferably connected to the sheave and is controlled by an electronic controller to rotate and change the relative lengths of the medial bridle segments.