Steering Unit for Wing Element with Moveable Attachment Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large-scale aerodynamic wind propulsion systems face challenges in controlling the flight of high-altitude wing elements due to weight and inertia issues, and the risk of uncontrollability from signal transmission interruptions, particularly when using a single tractive cable and multiple tractive lines.
Innovation Solution
A steering unit with moveable attachment points and actuators that alter the geometric shape of the wing element, combined with a lightweight support frame and fiber roving structures for efficient force transmission, and an integrated control system with sensors and a controller for autonomous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the size of the aerodynamic wing element is enlarged to broaden application field and efficiency, then the wind propulsion system can tow larger cargo ships and generate more tractive force, but the control of flight becomes more difficult and the weight of attachment means increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into a base control unit on the ground/vessel and a steering unit with remote control unit on the wing element. This segmentation allows the large wing element to be controlled through distributed control points, making flight control more manageable despite the increased size and complexity of the wing element.
2Measurement precision
If multiple tractive lines are used to connect the wing element to the ground attachment point, then the control precision is improved, but the weight of the attachment means increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tractive lines are merged into a single tractive cable that connects the steering unit to the base attachment point. The steering unit integrates the functions of multiple attachment points while using a single cable connection, thereby maintaining control precision through the steering mechanism while reducing the weight of attachment means compared to using multiple separate cables.
3Productivity
If the weight of the gondola is minimized to improve maneuverability and reduce inertia, then the tractive force transferred to the base attachment point increases, but the capability to withstand and transmit high tractive forces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The gondola/steering unit structure is designed with local quality optimization where critical load-bearing components use high-strength materials and optimized geometries to withstand high tractive forces, while non-critical components use lightweight materials. This allows the overall weight to be minimized while maintaining sufficient strength at the locations where forces are transmitted.
4Ease of operation
If control signals are transmitted from the base control unit to the steering unit in the gondola, then the wing element can be controlled from a remote location, but the risk of uncontrollability increases if signal transmission is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The steering unit includes a remote control unit with control capabilities that serve as a backup or alternative control method. This beforehand cushioning ensures that if signal transmission from the base control unit is interrupted, the wing element can still be controlled through the remote control unit, thereby maintaining control reliability despite the remote operation capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a steering unit for a wind propulsion system, the steering unit comprising a first fixed attachment means for securing a first end of a tractive cable the second end of which is secured to a device or a vehicle to which a tractive force shall be transferred, a second attachment means for attaching a number of tractive lines, the second end of which being secured to an aerodynamic wing element, a mechanical support frame connecting the first attachment means to the second attachment means for transferring a tractive force. The invention aims at providing such a steering unit with improved design for better maneuverability and stability. According to the invention the second attachment means of the improved steering unit comprise at least one upper fixed attachment point, a left moveable attachment point, a right moveable attachment point, and steering actuator means for varying the distance between the upper fixed attachment point and the left moveable attachment point and for varying the distance between the upper fixed attachment point and the right moveable attachment point.