Makani - Model M600 - Airborne Wind Energy Technology
Makani's airborne wind energy technology integrates advances in aerospace engineering, materials science, and autonomous controls.
Details
Technology designed for large generating capacity
A suite of simulation tools have guided the design and development. Computational models of kite aerodynamics, structural loads, and the g-forces of flight have informed the design of the 26-meter carbon fiber wing and high-strength tether.
- Model: M600
- Year Designed: 2014
- Wingspan: 26 m
- Rated Power: 600 kW
8 rotors are spun by the wind in energy-generating crosswind flight. Each rotor drives a permanent magnet motor/generator that generates electricity onboard.
System designed for autonomous flight
The kite’s flight path is controlled by onboard computers running custom flight controller software. Data from GPS and other sensors help the software steer the kite.
- Model: M600
- Year Designed: 2014
- Wingspan: 26 m
- Rated Power: 600 kW
The 0.5-kilometer-long flexible tether constrains the kite in flight.
How it Works
When sited on land, the kite rests on a base station atop a concrete foundation. Offshore, the base station is bolted to a steel spar buoy. The mooring system comprises a single line and a gravity anchor.
The kite positions itself downwind and climbs to a...
The kite positions itself downwind and climbs to an altitude dictated by the flight controller, with the hybrid motor/generators initially consuming a small amount of energy.
The kite then transitions into crosswind: flying a...
The kite then transitions into crosswind: flying autonomously in a circular path optimized for maximum power generation by the flight controller.
As the kite flies, wind spins the rotors. This dri...
As the kite flies, wind spins the rotors. This drives onboard generators to produce electricity which is transferred down the tether and to the grid.
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