Variable Geometry Stem for Tropospheric Kite Take-off
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tropospheric wind generators face challenges in sail take-off, particularly at low heights, due to insufficient wind intensity and mechanical stress on components, and require artificial venting systems for windless conditions, leading to inefficiencies and component fatigue.
Innovation Solution
A variable geometry system with a pair of arms connected to a rotating base and hubs allows for adjustable wing opening and orientation, enabling sail take-off without ground wind and distributing load effectively, reducing mechanical stress through elastic deformation and sensor-controlled maneuvers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the sail operates at low height, then it can be deployed more easily, but wind intensity is insufficient for take-off
Solution Approach 1:
The stem is designed as a variable geometry system that can dynamically adjust its length and configuration. During take-off, the stem extends to elevate the sail to heights of 15-20 meters where wind intensity is sufficient. Once operating, the stem can be reconfigured to reduce height if needed. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between low height for easy deployment and high height for sufficient wind intensity.
2Strength
If stiff structural components are used to counteract traction forces, then structural strength is improved, but system weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The stem incorporates variable geometry capabilities allowing it to dynamically adjust its structural configuration. Rather than using permanently stiff components, the stem can adapt its rigidity and shape in response to varying traction forces from the kite. This dynamic adaptation provides necessary structural strength only when required, reducing overall system weight and complexity compared to a permanently stiff structure designed for maximum load.
3Device complexity
If the stem remains fixed in position, then structural simplicity is maintained, but mechanical stress concentrates on specific components
Solution Approach 1:
The stem is designed with variable geometry that allows it to dynamically reconfigure its position and shape in response to varying kite traction forces. When forces increase, the stem can adjust its configuration to distribute loads more evenly across its structure and mounting points. This dynamic adaptation prevents stress concentration on fixed components while maintaining relatively simple overall structural design.
4Adaptability or versatility
If artificial venting systems are installed to enable take-off in windless conditions, then take-off capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The variable geometry stem enables the system to adapt to different wind conditions by dynamically adjusting the sail's operating height and orientation. In weak or windless conditions, the stem can elevate the sail to higher altitudes where atmospheric winds are present, eliminating the need for artificial venting systems. This dynamic height adjustment provides take-off capability in various conditions while avoiding the complexity and cost of mechanical venting 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
The system enhances sail take-off efficiency, reduces mechanical stress on components, and eliminates the need for artificial venting by optimizing wing orientation and load distribution, allowing operation in low wind conditions and extending the range of wind energy capture.
Implementation Method 1
the stem allows absorbing the mechanical stress through a suitable elastic deformation, safeguarding the most delicate mechanical components
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
An infrastructure of a tropospheric wind generator is described, comprising a variable geometry system (1) for driving at least one sail (2). The variable geometry system (1) composed of at least one pair of arms (11, 12) adapted to deviate tethers (13) to be able to drive the sail (2) allows increasing a wing opening (21) of the sail (2) to favour its take-off.