Kiteboat Tests

K2 Foil Offset vs Speed

9/16/13

We are now recording the foil actuator positions during tests. Looking at tow and kiting test data from last Thursday, we’ve plotted the relationship between the T-foil setting and the boat speed. The T-foil is controlled by the helmsman and is used in conjunction with the J-foils to control the pitch and ride height of the kiteboat. A relatively simple relationship between the two (as we see here) suggests that we may be able to automate the boat’s pitch stabilization, which would free the crew to concentrate on other tasks.

K2 Test – Sep 13

9/13/13

Another great test today. T-foil position adjustment was successful, and boat performance was excellent with 18 sqm kite. We initially tried to kite off Alameda Point, but the wind there was too low to foil reliably, so we packed up the kite and towed to Treasure Island, where the wind was better, and we hit a top speed of 28 knots near the San Francisco waterfront.

Kai View Data:
20130913-k2-18m.kai

K2 Test – Sep 12

9/12/13

After the successful tow tests this morning, we took the boat out again for a test with the 18 sqm red kite. Boat performance was good, and we hit a top speed of 30 knots off Alameda Point. The T-foil position was set so it was slightly biased toward more positive angles of attack, so tomorrow we will move its attachment point to shift the angle of attack range to a better position. Jerry Shalhoob, Earle Alldredge, and Nico Rousselon joined us again for this test.

Kai View Data:
20130912-k2-tow.kai
20130912-k2-18m.kai

K2 Test – Jun 20

6/20/13

Our first test since the move! We took K2 out today using our new boat launch equipment–Joe’s truck and the boom truck. We launched the kite off Alameda Point and kited within sight of the beach before heading through the gap to practice maneuvering in the protected area by the USS Hornet. We practiced foiling jibes and crew transfers (with Jason driving the Protector for the first time). We also rotated crew on the kiteboat several times so that Don, Joe, Greg, and Don’s friend Phil each spent time on both the kiteboat and the Protector. Greg’s brother Ben also joined us on this test.

 

K2 Test – April 23

4/23/13

A good test today in big chop with a lot of wind. We damaged the telescoping mast during launch, but were able to launch the 18 sqm on the first try with no mast. We then practiced sailing close to the wind on the east side of Treasure Island, which was somewhat protected. Afterward, we sailed around the island to the city side of the Bay Bridge, jumping and surfing the waves. A wet but successful test.