Modeling and simulation of kite power systems

Effect of design parameters on the flight dynamics of a Kiteplane

An engineering methodology for kite design

Kites have seen substantial development in the last 10 years, going from mostly toys to high-performance sports-related equipment for e.g. kite surfing. The design process of these kites, however, is mostly a trial-and-error affair. Ten years after the sports-related kite revolution a new development is is emerging: Industrial applications for...

Material selection and joining methods for the purpose of a high-altitude inflatable kite

This paper discusses the requirements for fabrics and joints for use in a long-endurance, high-altitude inflatable kite. Calculations of the expected stresses as well as the consequences of scaling with respect to these stresses are discussed. An overview is given of currently available kite fabrics and their joining methods. Suitable fabrics...

Analysis of complex inflatable structures using a multi-body dynamics approach

This paper outlines a simulation of inflatable structures through the use of multi-body dynamics. Beams are approximated by rigid elements, connected by spherical joints and 3-dimensional torque vectors. The stiffness of the torque vector determines the bending behavior of the beam. The stiffness is a variable stiffness with deflection. It is...

A multi-body dynamics approach to a cable simulator for kites

For the purpose of ultimately building a fully dynamic simulation of kites, an investigation is launched into a viable model of the cable with which the kite is attached to the ground. In the model proposed in this paper, only the slow modes of motion are taken into account due to the fact that only the slow motions have a real effect on the...

Design of a large inflatable kiteplane

This paper presents the various structural considerations in designing a large inflatable kiteplane. Material issues are addressed and a departure from conventional inflatable kites is suggested by using a single material instead of a structural foil and an internal gas barrier. Furthermore, rigging the kite using bridle lines is given attention...

Numerical and experimental results of the airflow in the Delft University KiteLab

Kite launch using an aerostat

Past, present and future of kites and energy generation

Tethered "kiteplane" design for the Laddermill project

The Laddermill is an innovative concept for generating energy from wind using large kite-like wings on a tether. The wings are able to fly in both the regime of airplanes and kites. We therefore call these structures "kiteplanes". By providing a recurring motion with a large lift during ascending and a lower lift during descending, energy can be...

The Laddermill: Work in progress