Power Kite Actuation System with Differential Cable Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for converting wind energy into electrical or mechanical energy using power kites face inefficiencies due to cable wear and management issues, particularly with fixed cable lengths and lack of control over kite flight dynamics, which limits energy conversion efficiency and kite operation safety.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a single low-power or high-power motor system with an energy accumulation and transmission system for fixed cable operations, and a second actuation system on the kite for varying angle of attack and geometry, along with improved cable winding and lifting/retrieval mechanisms using dual cables for enhanced control and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If fixed cable lengths are used in power kite systems, then the system structure is simplified, but cable wear increases and energy conversion efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from fixed cable lengths to variable cable lengths that can be dynamically adjusted during operation. The cable winding and unwinding mechanism allows the cable length to change based on operational requirements, reducing wear and improving energy conversion efficiency while maintaining system functionality.
2Ease of operation
If fixed cable lengths are used, then the system is easier to control, but energy conversion efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables dynamic adjustment of cable lengths through winding and unwinding operations, allowing optimization of energy conversion efficiency during different phases of operation while maintaining controllability through the actuation system that manages cable length variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of cable length from fixed to variable, allowing the system to adapt cable dimensions to operational conditions. This parameter change enables improved energy conversion efficiency while the control system manages the complexity of variable length operations.
3Device complexity
If a single motor system is used for differential control, then device complexity is reduced, but control precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a differential mechanism as an intermediary between the single motor and the cable system. This differential allows the single motor to produce precise differential control by distributing power appropriately between the two cable sides, maintaining control precision while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single motor system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can wind and unwind cables, create differential length variations, and control kite position. This multi-functionality achieves precise control without requiring separate dedicated motors for each function, thereby reducing device complexity.
4Reliability
If dual cables are used for enhanced control and safety, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions for both cables into a single integrated actuation system. The differential mechanism combines the operations of two separate cable control systems into one unified system that manages both cables simultaneously, improving safety through dual cable configuration while avoiding the complexity of two independent control systems.
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
This approach reduces cable wear, improves energy conversion efficiency, enhances kite control, and ensures safer lifting and retrieval operations by utilizing a single motor for differential control and energy accumulation, while allowing for variable cable lengths and onboard control systems to optimize aerodynamic forces.
Implementation Method 1
conversion of wind energy into electrical or mechanical energy through the flight of the aforesaid power kite
Implementation Method 2
generate appropriate aerodynamic forces and momenta on the kite itself
Implementation Method 3
a single actuator motor 3, which drives, via a gear (not illustrated) and respective racks
Data Source
AI summary
An actuating system for controlling the flight of a power wing profile or kite controlled via at least two cables for conversion of wind energy into electrical or mechanical energy, includes a first unit for exerting an action of unwinding-winding of the cables to the same extent, and a second unit set between the power kite and the first unit for providing an action of differential control of the cables. The system employs a single motor or motor/generator.