Rear Line Loads
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We’ve been curious about the distribution of rear line loads, and have recently been collecting load data from both lines. The result is a bit of a surprise. As expected, the “top” rear line has a higher load, but the difference between the top and bottom lines is smaller than anticipated: typically only a few kgf, out of a total rear line load of up to 120 kgf.
The top attached histogram shows the distribution of the total rear line loads. The second histogram shows the difference between the right and left lines when on a starboard tack, and the third histogram shows the same for port tack. This data comprises the entire test on March 5 during which the 18m kite was moving the boat. The windspeed during this period was 14-20kts, and the boat speed peaked at 33kts with several other runs near 30kts.
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