In this SBIR, Windlift proposes to develop a rapidly-deployable renewable energy system that can be towed by an HMMWV and provides at least three quarters of a forward operating units energy needs in Class 2 wind areas. This development will be based on Windlifts Airborne Wind Energy (AWE) technology, which has been previously demonstrated. The AWE technology utilizes a flexible airfoil tethered to a mobile base station to harness power from the wind. The technology in its current state requires an operator to control the flight of the airfoil using a fly-by-wire interface. One of the key technical innovations of this SBIR will be the development of an automated control system that permits unattended operation. Another key innovation will be the development of a new control paradigm for the AWE system that enables a smaller and lighter footprint while increasing the power output. The proposed AWE system will have a rated capacity of 23 kW and will be coupled to a 40 kW-hr battery pack. Both the system and the battery will be mounted to an LTT trailer that is towable by an HMMWV. The system will be hybridized with a 5 kW generator to ensure reliable power delivery.
Benefit: Windlifts proposed AWE system will reduce the dependence of forward operating units on petroleum for electricity generation. This will reduce the number of supply convoys required to deliver fuel to the front and the number of soldiers placed in harms way. As the technology matures and costs decrease, the AWE systems will become attractive to NGOs and international governments for post-conflict stabilization and reconstruction and mobile off-grid power generation. The technology will also find applications in disaster relief and remote mining and drilling operations. Windlifts goal is to provide mobile renewable power systems at a cost of less than $3000 per kilowatt. This corresponds to a price of under $70,000 for the proposed 23 kW rated system. This price target will allow the company to go head-to-head with existing small wind systems that do not offer the additional benefit of portability.
Keywords: Wind Power, Wind Power, Renewable Energy, Mobile electric power, wind turbine, green energy, airborne wind energy, Generator
