A Quantitative Energy and Systems Analysis Framework for Airborne Wind Energy Conversion using Autorotation

The principle of autorotation could potentially be utilized for harvesting energy from strong wind fields. Autorotation is a well-known phenomenon where a rotor in a strong wind field experiences significant lift force and aerodynamic torque. With recent works indicating immense, persistent availability of wind energy at high altitudes, autorotation could be used for harvesting wind energy from such altitudes. In this paper, we build upon our previous work and implement a more detailed model of autorotation from one of the seminal works on this topic. The model is computationally challenging but yields steady operating conditions. We enhance this model by incorporating power generation in a manner that is consistent with the governing aerodynamics. This modification helps in quantifying the effects of energy harvesting on the characteristics of autorotation, a study that is not present in the literature. Furthermore, the high spatial resolution of this refined model will help in design-optimization and in control-actuation.