Kite Launch System with Propelled Support Frame
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current kite designs for wind power generation systems face challenges in meeting demanding wing load and longevity requirements, affecting efficiency and reliability, particularly in launch and retrieval operations at low wind speeds.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a second kite support frame with a propulsion system, including propellers, and a launch and retrieve system with guide apertures for main traction cables, optimizing the launch and retrieval process for improved reliability and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If structural re-enforcements are added to meet wing load and longevity requirements, then reliability is improved, but weight increases which deteriorates launch ability at low wind speed
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the launch and retrieval function into two separate support frames: a first support frame for stable ground-based cable guidance, and a second support frame with propulsion system for aerial launch and retrieval operations. This segmentation allows the kite assembly to be lighter while the support infrastructure provides the necessary stability and guidance functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The second kite support frame with propulsion system acts as an intermediary device that assists in launching and retrieving the kite assembly. The propulsion system provides the additional force needed for launch without requiring the kite itself to be heavily reinforced, thereby maintaining light weight while improving reliability during critical operations.
2Device complexity
If a single support frame is used, then device complexity is reduced, but launch and retrieval reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support frame system is segmented into two specialized frames: the first support frame handles ground-based cable guidance with guide apertures, while the second support frame provides aerial positioning with propulsion system. This functional segmentation improves launch and retrieval reliability by distributing tasks across specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
Each support frame is designed with multi-functionality to justify the increased complexity. The first support frame provides stable ground mounting and cable guidance through guide apertures. The second support frame combines aerial positioning, propulsion system operation, and cable guidance capabilities. This multi-functionality ensures that each component contributes to overall system reliability.
3Ease of operation
If propulsion system is added to second support frame, then launch ability at low wind speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion system is localized to the second kite support frame, which is specifically designed for aerial operations requiring active positioning. The first support frame maintains a simpler ground-based design with guide apertures for cable guidance. This local differentiation of complexity allows the propulsion capability to be added only where needed for launch operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion system on the second support frame performs preliminary actions by positioning the support frame and guiding the cables through guide apertures before the kite assembly is launched. This preliminary positioning and cable guidance setup creates optimal conditions for launch at low wind speeds, reducing the operational complexity during the actual launch event.
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 configuration enhances the launch and retrieval operations, ensuring better efficiency and reliability of the kite assembly, enabling effective power generation even at low wind speeds by providing vertical lift and precise control.
Implementation Method 1
The propulsion system comprises a plurality of propellers attached to the second kite support frame
Implementation Method 2
The propulsion system comprises a plurality of propellers attached to the second kite support frame for positioning the second kite support frame in combination with the kite assembly in a position remote from the first kite support frame
Implementation Method 3
a kite assembly connected to the generator via one or more (e.g. two) main traction cables
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Wind power generation system comprising a ground control unit (2) with a generator (3), a kite assembly (10) connected to the generator (3) via one or more main traction cable (5), and a launch and retrieve system (6). The launch and retrieve system (6) comprises a first kite support frame (7) provided with guide apertures (7a, 7b) for each main traction cable (5), and a second kite support frame (8) provided with guide apertures (8a, 8b) for each traction cable (5). The second kite support frame (8) comprises a propulsion system (9) for positioning the second kite support frame (8) in combination with the kite assembly (10) in a position remote from the first kite support frame (7).