Design and Fabrication of a High Altitude Kite-Powered Water Pumping System

Presenter

Ryan Huit

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Matthew Lackner, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 2, 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A98, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 5 (A81-A100) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

High altitude kite generators have been investigated as possible alternatives to traditional wind turbines because they may be able to access faster, higher altitude winds than modern turbines. This project focuses on a water-pumping application of kite power, rather than electrical generation. A prototype kite-powered pump is designed, fabricated, and tested. If successful, the technology may offer a scalable, emissions-free, and hands-off solution to pumping water, which may be particularly useful for regions of the world with restricted access to electrical grids and reliable fuel sources. In a world where fossil fuels begin to lose favor over fears of the ongoing climate crisis, kite power could be the next step in the global transition to clean and accessible power. Considering also the technology’s unique advantages over turbines, it may prove to be a lucrative business opportunity as well.

Keywords

Kite power, wind energy, renewable energy, climate change

Research Area

Engineering

SIMILAR ABSTRACTS (BY KEYWORD)