K69 - Shiznit Prototype #4

The fourth prototype so far. Changes since the third prototype:

## Moved the lower spreader up

I was rather annoyed with the lower spreader on the last prototype because it kept breaking at the center T. I could use along internal ferule to strengthen the two parts, but it was just too wide to do a single-piece lower spreader. When talking with Paul DeBakker, he suggested moving it up until it can be 48”, so I can do a single-piece. So that’s what I did, and I think it was a good idea.

Bent the leading edge a bit more

I was hoping that bending the leading edge a bit more would suck up some of the loose sail in the body of the kite, near the nose. I’m not really convinced that this helped in that regard though, so I might revert back on the next version.

Pulled the trailing edge in a bit

Because I pulled the lower spreader up, I felt I needed to pull up the trailing edge so the standoff doesn’t run at too sharp of an angle. I also still felt like the last prototype was pretty triangular, so cutting that in more helps with that.

Other interesting bits:

Center T opening with slits

When cutting out the Center T reinforcement, I had the idea of using slits instead of full holes. I think this could help with the integrity of the sail, but I’m not sure if there will be negative consequences. I can always cut it the rest of the way out if I need to.

Sewing behind spreader points on leading edge

I think this was a nice touch, which I’ll do on all dual lines moving forward. This just closes off the LE pocket between the cutouts for the standoff connection, and I think it makes things a bit more tidy.