Modeling of Optimal Power Generation using Multiple Kites

Modeling of Optimal Power Generation using Multiple Kites

Williams, P.
Lansdorp, B.
Ockels, W.J.

Aerospace Engineering

Aerodynamics & Wind Energy

2008-08-01

Kite systems have the potential to revolutionize energy generation. Large scale systems are envisioned that can fly autonomously in “power generation” cycles which drive a ground-based generator. In order for such systems to produce power efficiently, good models of the system are required. This paper focuses on the development of optimal open-loop trajectories for kite systems. In large-scale power generation, multiple kites connected along the same line will be able to produce significantly higher power due to the increase in the line tension. The equations of motion for a multikite power generating system are derived that take into account the key system parameters. Two different configurations are modeled: all kites are connected to the same line, multiple kites are connected to branches in the cable. The model can be used to estimate the power generation capabilities of various systems through dynamic optimization studies.

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:dfc4ab72-9c40-4597-a4c1-5a11b134551e

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics

AIAA Modeling and Simulation Technologies Conference and Exhibition, Honolulu, Hawaii, 18-21 August, 2008

Institutional Repository

conference paper

(c) 2008 The Author(s)