Abstract
This study presents an airborne approach to collecting wind energy from thermal updrafts using a glider mounted turbine. Given a single thermal updraft, altitude gain is achieved by climbing the thermal. During the descent from the thermal, wind energy can be collected using a turbine mounted on the glider. In order to minimize drag during the climb, the turbine is designed to be engaged during the descent only. A proto-type glider with a built-in turbine generator has been constructed. Flight data indicates significant wind energy may be collected using this system. This paper presents the system and flight data analysis and describes the possibilities of flying the glider given a single thermal updraft or within a preferred site of thermal updrafts.
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
