Kite Wing Mechanical Coupling for Local Energy Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing kite systems face complexity, weight, and vulnerability issues due to the need for power lines to operate electrically driven devices, especially in larger kites, which can be costly and difficult to repair.
Innovation Solution
A kite apparatus with a control arrangement and energy extraction system that uses a mechanical coupling between the kite's wing and a generator to harness wind energy through alternating movements, eliminating the need for power lines by locally generating and storing energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electrically operated devices are used to control the kite, then the control precision is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase due to power line requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power supply function from the ground-based power line system and relocates it to the kite itself through a generator. The generator is mechanically coupled to the kite's wing and harnesses the alternating movement of the wing during flight to generate electrical energy locally, eliminating the need for external power lines and reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The kite system becomes self-sufficient by generating its own power through the generator attached to the wing. The mechanical energy from the wing's alternating movement during flight is converted into electrical energy that powers the control devices, allowing the system to service itself without external power supply infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If power lines are extended to larger, high-flying kites, then the control capability is improved, but the vulnerability and repair costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the vulnerable power line component from the system by extracting the power supply function and relocating it to the kite. The generator on the kite converts mechanical energy from wing movement into electrical energy, eliminating the need for long power lines that are susceptible to damage during high-flying operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The kite generates its own power through the generator, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating dependence on ground-based power lines. This self-powered approach significantly reduces vulnerability to line damage and eliminates repair costs associated with damaged power lines.
3Speed
If electrically driven servos are used to control aerodynamic controls, then the control responsiveness is improved, but the weight of the kite increases
Solution Approach 1:
The generator attached to the kite's wing harnesses the mechanical energy from the wing's alternating movement during flight to generate electrical energy. This self-generated power supplies the electrically driven servos, enabling responsive control without requiring additional weight from external power sources or large battery 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 solution enables efficient energy extraction from wind, reduces system weight and vulnerability, and allows for independent control of kite flight using locally generated power, enhancing the reliability and cost-effectiveness of kite operations.
Implementation Method 1
a generator configured to extract energy from said alternating movement
Implementation Method 2
a control arrangement comprising at least one aerodynamic control element in, or coupled to, the kite for aerodynamically controlling at least aspects of the flight of the kite
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus for a kite, comprising: a control arrangement comprising at least one aerodynamic control element in, or coupled to, the kite for aerodynamically controlling at least aspects of the flight of the kite, a tether connector for connecting the kite to a tether; and an energy extraction arrangement comprising a mechanical coupling to a wing of the kite and a generator, wherein the control arrangement is configured to control the wing so as to cause an alternating movement of the mechanical coupling to the wing with respect to the tether connector and the generator is configured to extract energy from said alternating movement. Also provided is a method for controlling a kite comprising a wing in order to extract energy from the wind locally at the kite using an apparatus comprising: a control arrangement comprising at least one aerodynamic control element in, or coupled to, the kite for aerodynamically controlling at least aspects of the flight of the kite, a tether connector for connecting the kite to a tether; and an energy extraction arrangement comprising a mechanical coupling to the wing and a generator, the method comprising: operating the control arrangement to control the wing so as to cause an alternating movement of the mechanical coupling to the wing relative to the tether connector, and extracting energy, using the generator, from the alternating movement of the mechanical coupling to the wing relative to the tether connector.