In recent years, wind power has become a major focus in the global energy sector. As a clean and renewable resource, wind energy is gaining increasing support from countries around the world seeking sustainable energy solutions. Recently, two young American engineers, Ben Glass and Adam Ryan, have developed an innovative wind turbine that floats in the air. This unique design resembles a large airship and offers greater efficiency while significantly reducing costs compared to traditional wind turbines.
Their low-cost wind turbine looks like a massive airship suspended in the sky. The outer shell is made of a strong fabric, filled with helium to keep it airborne, while the center houses a conventional three-blade turbine. The working principle is straightforward: as wind passes through the hollow structure, the turbine spins and generates electricity. Although it may appear slender compared to traditional models, this floating generator produces four times more power than conventional turbines. Ben Glass explained how the system achieves such high efficiency: "The higher you go, the faster the wind speed. And the faster the wind, the more energy you generate. The energy increase is proportional to the cube of the wind speed. So if the wind speed doubles, the energy output increases by eight times."
According to Glass's design, the electricity generated by the floating turbine is transmitted to the ground via a tethered cable. No additional control systems are required. Through multiple flight tests, the team refined the shape of the airship to better harness wind direction and speed. "The generator can lift itself into the air to find the best wind conditions without any control systems," Glass said. "Its housing and fins are designed based on aerodynamic principles, allowing it to automatically adjust to changing wind directions."
By eliminating the need for a traditional tower, the system is much cheaper to build and maintain. Adam Ryan, co-inventor of the device, noted that the generator is especially suitable for remote areas without access to the electrical grid. It could also be invaluable for emergency situations where rapid power supply is needed. "We don’t need to search for places with sunlight or wind—this generator is designed to provide affordable and sustainable energy to off-grid regions."
Currently, the company founded by Glass and Ryan has partnered with the U.S. Department of Energy in Alaska and plans to launch the first suspended wind turbine later this year. The next prototype will include communication equipment to improve high-altitude operations. (Reported by Pan Song and Ma Qiao)
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