Wind energy plant with a steerable kite
US7504741B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 30, 2007 |
| Grant date | Mar 17, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 5, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P80/10
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention provides a device for converting wind flow energy into mechanical energy, comprising a wind-engaging member having an aerodynamic profile which generates an uplift force in the direction of a load cable when the airflow direction is perpendicular to the load cable, a steering mechanism configured to produce a steered movement about a first axis or in a first direction of the wind-engaging member and about a second axis or in a second direction that is different from the first direction or axis of the wind-engaging member, relative to the airflow direction, and a control unit configured to use the steering mechanism to move the wind-engaging member along a predetermined flight path in a flight plane perpendicular to the load cable. The present invention further provides a method for converting wind flow energy into mechanical energy and a docking station for use with the device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.