Kite Wind Energy Converter with Rail-Driven Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind systems equipped with kites face inefficiencies due to complex structures, intermittent energy production, and lack of continuous energy delivery, as well as inadequate control systems for optimizing kite flight paths and energy conversion.
Innovation Solution
A wind system that utilizes rail modules dragged by kites, driven by a smart control system to optimize kite paths and energy extraction, employing both ropes and spoilers for traction, with onboard components for rope management and energy conversion, allowing continuous energy production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If complex structures with multiple ropes and winches are used to control kite flight, then kite control capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the driving function from the power rope by introducing separate driving ropes with spoilers. The power rope solely transmits traction force for energy conversion, while driving ropes control kite orientation and flight path through spoiler actuation. This separation resolves the contradiction by simplifying the power transmission system while maintaining control capability through dedicated control ropes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the rail module universal by integrating multiple functions into a single platform: energy conversion through the power rope, flight control through driving ropes with spoilers, and mechanical guidance through the rail system. This multi-functional integration reduces overall system complexity while improving operational capability.
2Device complexity
If intermittent energy production is accepted in existing kite systems, then system simplicity is maintained, but energy delivery continuity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves continuous energy delivery by ensuring the kite operates continuously on closed loops along the rail. The modular rail system allows multiple kites to operate in sequence, and the stored energy in the power rope during braking phases is recovered and used to maintain continuous motion. This eliminates intermittent operation while maintaining system simplicity through the modular rail architecture.
3Productivity
If optimized kite paths are implemented through smart control systems, then energy extraction efficiency is improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service control where the kite automatically follows optimized paths along the rail using feedback from sensors and onboard controllers. The smart control system adjusts spoiler positions and driving rope tension based on real-time wind conditions and position data, enabling the kite to self-optimize its flight path for maximum energy extraction without requiring complex external control infrastructure.
4Productivity
If rail modules with onboard components are used for energy conversion, then energy conversion efficiency is improved, but module weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the energy conversion system into modular rail units, each containing lightweight onboard components for local energy conversion. Instead of using a single heavy centralized conversion system, multiple distributed modular units convert energy locally along the rail path, reducing the weight of individual moving components while maintaining high overall conversion efficiency through cumulative effect.
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
The system achieves efficient and continuous energy conversion by maximizing wind energy extraction through optimized kite paths and integrated energy management, reducing structural complexity and enhancing energy output.
Implementation Method 1
a kite (2) immersed in at least one wind current (W) and connected through at least one rope (4) to at least one module (5) for generating electricity... the kites (2) are driven in order to drag the modules (5)
Implementation Method 2
the kites (2) are driven in order to drag the modules (5) to which they are connected and allow converting wind energy into electric energy
Implementation Method 3
each module (5) behaving like an autonomous generator that converts into electric current the wind energy captured at troposphere level
Data Source
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AI summary
A wind system (1) is described for converting energy comprising at least one kite (2) that can be driven from ground immersed in at least one wind current (W) and at least one module (5) adapted to translate on at least one rail (6; 7) placed next to the ground, such module (5) being connected through at least one rope (4) to the kite (2), in order to drag the module (5) on the rail (6; 7) and to perform a conversion of wind energy into electric energy through at least one electric energy generating system cooperating with module (5) and rail (6; I) 1 such rope (4) being adapted both to transmit mechanical energy from and to the kite (2) and to control the flight trajectory of the kite (2).