초록 ▼

A wind-operated power-generating module for operation at high altitudes such as 1000 meters comprising a frame structure mounting a pair of vertically-separated parallel shafts around which pass endless belts supporting a series of parallel, elongate wing-like elements for movement around a closed p

A wind-operated power-generating module for operation at high altitudes such as 1000 meters comprising a frame structure mounting a pair of vertically-separated parallel shafts around which pass endless belts supporting a series of parallel, elongate wing-like elements for movement around a closed path including the parallel shafts. Wind flow drives these elements around the closed path, to enable electrical power to be generated, and also provides lift to hold the module up at the appropriate high altitude. A number of such modules are tethered in fixed positions in the sky, and are controllable as is appropriate to accommodate changing wind conditions.

대표청구항 ▼

Apparatus for extracting energy from air currents at high altitude, comprising: frame means at said high altitude; endless belt means supported by said frame means and arranged for movement around a closed path having an ascending leg and a descending leg; a plurality of air-foil elements secured to

Apparatus for extracting energy from air currents at high altitude, comprising: frame means at said high altitude; endless belt means supported by said frame means and arranged for movement around a closed path having an ascending leg and a descending leg; a plurality of air-foil elements secured to said endless belt means for movement around said closed path; flexible tether means securing said frame means to the surface of the earth; said air-foil elements being oriented with respect to said endless belt means so as to apply forces from said air currents to said endless belt means effecting (1) motion of said endless belt means around said path, and (2) a lifting force on said frame means tending to move the frame means up and to apply tension to said tether means; and means responsive to the movement of said endless belt means around said path for transmitting power to the surface of the earth.