Upon reviewing available literature and patent databases, I have identified several patents and research developments related to airborne wind energy (AWE) from the 1940s to the 1970s. Below is a summary of these findings, with inline citations for each claim.
Patents and Research Developments (1940s–1970s)
1. Aloys van Gries’ 1938 Patent
In 1938, Aloys van Gries filed a patent (GB 489139) for a wind-driven power apparatus utilizing high winds and interconnected kites. This design allowed for the generation of wind energy by employing a system of interconnected kites, where each kite carried only a portion of the tether connecting it to the next lower kite. This approach aimed to increase the lifting power by coupling multiple kites together, thereby reducing the strength requirements of the tether, especially towards the upper end. (Wisdom Library)
2. Hermann Honnef’s 1939 Design
In 1939, Hermann Honnef described a design for wind turbines atop a tower approximately 300 meters in height, intended to take advantage of the faster winds found at high altitudes. This concept reflects early interest in harnessing high-altitude wind energy, although it did not involve airborne systems. (MDPI)
3. Hermann Oberth’s 1977 Proposal
In 1977, Hermann Oberth presented a design for a “kite power plant,” which involved a wind turbine lifted to an altitude of 12,000 meters by a balloon and secured by a long tether to the ground. This proposal represents one of the early conceptual designs for airborne wind energy systems. (MDPI)
4. Charles McCutchen and Peter R. Payne’s 1975 Patent
In 1975, Charles McCutchen and Peter R. Payne filed a patent (US 3987987) for a self-erecting windmill. Their design aimed to utilize wind energy more efficiently by employing a self-erecting mechanism, which could potentially be adapted for airborne wind energy applications. (Wikipedia)
Summary
The period from the 1940s to the 1970s saw conceptual and theoretical developments in airborne wind energy, primarily in the form of patents and designs. These early works laid the groundwork for later advancements in the field. However, it wasn’t until the late 1970s and beyond that more practical experiments and implementations began to emerge, driven by advancements in materials, control systems, and a growing interest in renewable energy sources.
If you require more detailed information on any of these patents or developments, or if you’re interested in later advancements in airborne wind energy, feel free to ask.