K127 - Tempest Prototype #4

Another Tempest prototype, this time a heavy wind version. This prototype will first be used to test a non-vent heavy version of the kite, and will later be modified to test venting configurations.

Framing

This is currently framed as follows:

Spine: Skyshark P400XL
Lower LE: Skyshark P400XL
Upper LE: Skyshark 7pt
Upper Spreader: 5mm pultruded carbon
Lower Spreader: Skyshark 7pt
Standoffs: 3mm Fiberglass

Compared to the standard, I am trying to make the leading edge and spine more stiff so that they do not distort under pressure and impact precise flying. I wanted to keep the lower spreader and standoffs the same so that the spine can still fll back under pressure to reduce pull. An alternative approach that I will try later will be to use Skyshark XLS and XLT for the leading edge, which are a wider diameter and therefor stiffer.

Sail

The sail is a mixture of Icarex and Ottertex Ripstop Nylon. The Ottertex is a heavy (1.9oz) nylon that is also much softer than Icarex. I've used this on other heavy wind kites and appreciated how the softness smoothed out gusts and added weight to reduce the pull in heavy wind. Icarex is less stretchy than the Ottertex, so I use it in places of high tension like along the spine and between the spine and standoffs.

I also added a bit more reinforcement around the tail and wing tips.