Patent · US Active

Methods and systems for managing power generation and temperature control of an aerial vehicle operating in crosswind-flight mode

US9422918B2 · kind B2 · utility

6Cited by
4References
15Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateDec 27, 2013
Grant dateAug 23, 2016
Priority date
Expiry dateMar 10, 2034

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY02E10/728
  • WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Methods and systems described herein relate to power generation control for an aerial vehicle of an air wind turbine (AWT). More specifically, the methods described herein relate to balancing power generation or preventing a component of the aerial vehicle from overheating using rotor speed control. An example method may include operating an aerial vehicle in a crosswind-flight mode to generate power. The aerial vehicle may include a rotor configured to help generate the power. While the aerial vehicle is in the crosswind-flight mode the method may include comparing a power output level of the aerial vehicle to a power threshold and, based on the comparison, adjusting operation of the rotor in a manner that generates an optimal amount of power or minimizes overheating of the aerial vehicle.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.