Ram-air kite airfoil and reinforcements optimization for airborne wind energy applications
P. Thedens (TU Delft - Wind Energy)
Gael de Oliveira Andrade (TU Delft - Wind Energy)
R Schmehl (TU Delft - Wind Energy)
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Abstract
We present a multidisciplinary design optimization method for the profile and structural reinforcement layout of a ram‐air kite rib. The aim is to minimize the structural elastic energy and to maximize the traction power of a ram‐air kite used for airborne wind energy generation. Because of the large deformations occurring during flight, a fluid‐structure interaction (FSI) routine is included in the optimization, which determines the actual deformed rib geometry and its corresponding aerodynamic characteristics. A qualitative comparison between FSI inclusion and exclusion in the optimization is given. Discrepancies in airfoil profile and structural layout are observed.
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