K60 - Shiznit Prototype #1

Inspiration

This is the first prototype for my indoor dual line kite, which I am calling the Shiznit. This first version is based heavily on the iTrix by Wolfgang Seibert. It’s basically a larger version of the iTrix. I always liked the iTrix, but I found it to be a little too quick, and a little too stiff. By increasing the size, I’m hoping to address both of those concerns.

Panel layout design

I thought a lot about designing the panel layout, and I came to this layout after thinking back to the panel layout for the Breeze and Essentials. That panel layout was done to maximize the strength of the sail by changing the bias of the fabric based on the direction of tension in different parts of the sail. When I applied that approach to a dual line, this is what I ended up with, and I think it looks pretty cool.

Framing

I kept this on the same frame as the iTrix: 4mm pultruded carbon. I’m hoping that this will feel a bit more flexible on the larger sail.

Bridle

As a starting point, I’ve just made a simple 3 point bridle with roughly equal dimensions. I’ll have to adjust this as I fly it to come up with a more ideal bridle.

Fittings

All the fittings for this kite are modeled and 3d printed by me, which I think is a nice touch.

Sleeve

The sleeve is embroidered, as I’ve been doing for a short while. I’ve gone a step further and added velcro inside the top of the sleeve instead of building in a flap. Seems like that might be a nice approach to use moving forward.