Basically, a large hour-glass, with sides designed to allow sand to blow in, but not out, with a turbine under the spout. These would be used in conjunction with windmills to help power desert communities, where frequent sandstorms can make large quantities of sand airborne in very short amounts of time.
-- 21 Quest, Jul 08 2008

Wow. I wish the boner would at least have the sack to claim it... what a wuss. Oh well, guess I'll throw in my own + for kicks.
-- 21 Quest, Jul 08 2008


As is your inalienable right [21].

Would this be any more efficient than basic wind power though? Indeed, would it not just necessitate a greater level of maintenance? [ ]
-- theleopard, Jul 09 2008


What happens when the glass is filled with sand (it can't get out according to this idea)? Why not use just the wind?
-- Murdoch, Jul 09 2008


I fishboned it without comment because I find it difficult to believe:
1) You'd capture much sand,
2) Sandstorms are common enough to justify the cost, and
3) People would want to live anywhere near where sandstorms are common enough to justify the cost.

Might as well make an earthquake- or volcanic eruption-powered generator.
-- phoenix, Jul 09 2008


If it's gonna be done, this is the way. I think the top half should have holes in it. Reduced air currents would allow the sand to settle, not fly right back out.

People have brought to light some simple problems. Fir instance, when the bottom fills with sand just drain it, hello. And, as far as capturing enough sand? It's gonna be a trial and error process based on location, design, and time. Sandstorms would not be the only suppliers of this sand, as desert wind typically carries enough sand to shift dunes on a consistent basis. Finally, who said anything about people living close to the things? Transmission lines are efficient enough for free power 50 miles away.
-- daseva, Jul 09 2008



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