A key AWE tuning parameter is to modulate flight altitude to match ideal windspeed. Generally one flies higher in lighter wind & lower in higher wind, landing as conditions become overblown. Previously circular anchor fields were described where arched crosswind arrays are belayed around the compass to match wind direction. Only limited height variation was possible as an over-tall array is prone to self-interference.

The latest anchor-field concept allows the width of the arched array to grow as it climbs. The low capital-cost version is comprised of concentric anchor rings where the belays occur radially as well as in rotation. Anchor/winch vehicles are a very flexible method to widen or narrow the stance of an array. Radial & circular anchor track networks may prove ideal in many instances.

CoopIP/FairIP                             ~~Dave Santos         May 13, 2010         M1521

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