James Stinnett  <>
writes:

Here is a link for an innovation power generator from an Italian
hang glider pilot:
http://www.wired.com/news/technology/0,71908-0.html?tw=wn_technology_2


When wind hits the KiteGen, kites spring from funnels at the ends of poles. For
each kite, winches release a pair of high-resistance cables to control direction
and angle. The kites are not your Saturday-afternoon park variety but similar to
those used for kite surfing -- light and ultra-resistant, capable of reaching an
altitude of 2,000 meters.


KiteGen's core is set in motion by the twirl of the kites; the rotation
activates large alternators producing current. A control system on autopilot
optimizes the flight pattern to maximize the juice produced as it sails on night
and day. A radar system can redirect kites within seconds in case of any
interference: oncoming helicopters, for example. Or small planes or even single
birds.


Fortunately for Sequoia, whose core business is sensor design and industrial
automation, employees take work home with them. Massimo Ippolito, head of R&D,
inspired by his weekend hobbies of hang gliding and kite surfing, started
mulling the idea that would become KiteGen. Six years and seven patents later,
he's leading a team of 20 to construct the giant, energy-creating carousel. The
team expects it to be up and running in about two years.