An Aero-Structural Model for Ram-Air Kite Simulations

Similar to parafoils, ram-air kites are flexible membrane wings inflated by the apparent wind and supported a bridle line system. A major challenge in estimating performance of these using computer model is strong coupling between airflow around wing deformation structure. In this paper, we introduce staggered scheme combining structural finite element solver dynamic relaxation technique with potential flow solver. The developed method proved numerically stable for determining equilibrium shape under aerodynamic load thus suitable measurement estimation. was validated flight data provided SkySails Power. Measured forces on tether steering belt robotic kite control pod showed good resemblance simulation results. As expected solver, kite’s glide ratio overestimated 10–15%, measured elevation angle neutral scenario matched simulations within 2 degrees. Based obtained results, it can be concluded that proposed aero-structural used initial designs application airborne energy.