One of the test kites being used to create energy according to a method designed by Nature Technology Systems in Germany makes its first flight. The company -- which partnered with Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering -- said the system it created uses the same principles as wind turbines but is more efficient and environmentally friendly. (Source: Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA)
I have to agree. As much as I am a fan of alternative energy schemes - this one just seems to have too many nested if . . . then requirements to be ultimately viable.
I always have difficulty with what is and is not practical. Years ago, I thought airbags were the most illogical devices known to man and yet today, they save countless lives each year. This approach to harvesting the wind is definitely unique but as others have mentioned, the concept seems to be laden with complexities that would make the application very unreliable. Obviously a complement to existing power sources, I would imagine a "hit-or-miss" situation at best. Very interesting though and thanks Elizabeth for writing about this one.
Great article! I've been working on a documentary exploring whether airborne wind energy technology is a viable alternative energy source for the world to embrace. Please help spread the word on this dynamic and visually stunning documentary:
AWE (Airborne Wind Energy) is a film about a new technology with an exciting future and a surprising past. Inventors worldwide have a goal: Cheaper sustainable energy on a global scale. AWE inventors are driven by the huge potential of the upper atmosphere. Permanently recharging, high speed, high altitude power is an irresistible challenge. The solution is closer than many people dare to dream. Join in, lets explore this enticing and sociable engineering adventure.
Thanks for your comment, bobjengr. I hear what you're saying and think there are a lot of issues with this idea to be solved before it would actually be viable. But if anyone can come up with answers, the Germans can! They are doing remarkable things in wind energy. I guess time will tell.
Thanks for your comment, chasewhh. Your documentary sounds interesting and closely related to this project. I will definitely give it a look. Good luck!
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A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
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