It may be something as simple as designing inflatable kites that lift when inflated to a certain pressure and dive when the pressure is reduced. Taking altitude-dependent external air pressure into account could easily be as simple as installing orifices at a number of locations along the string to gradually reduce the pressure delivered to the next-higher group of kites. The pressure (and lift coefficient) of inflatable kites could be computer-controlled, or perhaps even automatically controlled mechanically by valves that are actuated at the desired limit of retraction and extension of the tether. There are a lot of ways to skin that particular cat. Depending on the lift generated by each kite the upper tethers can be very thin and lightweight, while the lower segment of tether may have to be pretty beefy to have the appropriate tensile strength. If the tubing used to pressurize the kites can be incorporated into the tether, that would simplify things a bit more.Danger said:I can foresee some awesome work needed to synchronize all of the individual lift factors.
Not actively, a simple taper.Danger said:Okay... I'm pissed as a nit right now... leftover from the Legion Remembrance Day party. I still don't see how you would vary the thickness of the tether during its course.
A Laddermill is a new type of windmill design that operates on the principle of a ladder turning in a vertical position. The blades of the windmill are attached to the rungs of the ladder and as the wind blows, the ladder rotates, generating electricity. This design allows for more efficient use of wind energy compared to traditional horizontal axis windmills.
Unlike traditional windmills that have a horizontal axis and rely on the wind to turn the blades, a Laddermill has a vertical axis and uses the force of the wind to rotate a ladder-like structure. This design allows for a smaller footprint and higher energy output, making it more cost-effective and efficient.
One of the main advantages of using a Laddermill is its ability to produce more energy in lower wind conditions. This is due to the vertical axis design that allows the windmill to capture wind from all directions. Additionally, the compact design of the Laddermill makes it ideal for urban areas where space is limited.
One potential drawback of the Laddermill design is the complexity of its structure. The ladder-like design may require more maintenance and specialized equipment for installation and repairs. Additionally, the cost of the initial investment may be higher compared to traditional windmills.
Yes, the Laddermill design is considered environmentally friendly as it uses renewable energy from the wind to generate electricity. It does not produce any harmful emissions or pollutants, making it a clean and sustainable energy source. Additionally, the compact design reduces the impact on the surrounding environment.