Kite Power is a cost-effective renewable energy solution with a low ecological footprint. The inflatable wing and the traction belt are made of lightweight yet flexible materials. In contrast to conventional wind turbines, this traction structure does not obstruct sight. It is an ideal base for a very mobile wind energy system. The heavy generator is placed at ground level, which facilitates service and also minimizes structural forces. Direct force transmission at the ground station eliminates the need for bending resistant foundations, which is particularly interesting for deploying offshore deep waters. The technology demonstrator at the Delft University of Technology uses an airborne unit to control the kite's flight, which can reach altitudes well above the limit of conventional wind turbines (200 m). The wind at these altitudes is stronger and more stable, which increases the capacity factors of the system to about 60%. Currently conventional wind turbines reach values of 20-35%.
Basic limitation of horizontal axis wind turbines Functional separation of rotor blade and generator, transmission of tensile force and torque generation by cable drum Concept of pumping kite: power generation during the winding phase and Energy consumption during the winding phase Components of the kite energy system
How does it work?
The system is operated in periodic pumping cycles, alternating between the coil and the spool. During the reel-out, the kite is floating in figure eight maneuvers at high speed (70 to 90 km / h). This creates a high tensile force (3.1 kN at 7 m / s wind speed) which is converted into electricity by the drum and the connected 20 kW generator. Upon reaching the maximum length of the belt, the kite is deactivated by releasing the rear (steering) lines so that the entire wing rotates and aligns with the apparent wind. Using the drum / generator module as a winch, the kite is pulled back to the starting position to start the next pumping cycle. The disconnection reduces the tensile force during winding by 80% and for this reason the energy consumed during the winding is only a fraction of the energy generated during winding. Crucial element of the technology is the automatic control and synchronisation of the drum / generator module and the kite flying dynamics.
Kitenergy Srl was created to respond to one of the main challenges facing all developed and developing countries in the near future. This challenge is represented by the production of energy from renewable sources at lower costs than fossil fuels, in order to cope with the growing global energy demand on the one hand and the growing pressure on industry on the other Energy related to climate change issues. Kitenergy consists of a group of professionals ranging from a variety of disciplines including engineering, physics, mechanics, environmental sciences, business management.
The professionals of Kitenergy have worked on the development of high altitude wind technologies since 2005 and are recognized internationally as pioneers in this field. Kitenergy Srl's vision is to develop high-altitude wind power technology at a level where large-scale industrialization and marketing are attractive .