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KitePlanes in Passive Dutch-Roll Oscillation

Speaking of kiteplanes, the pendulum behavior given by empennage mass is a nice opportunity. Kiteplanes naturally fly figure-of-eights as Passive Dutch-Roll, with advantages over the circular loop:

  • less crash risk

  • symmetric-handed flight pattern

  • works kite-window power-zone best.

Passive Dutch-Roll oscillation can drive a pumping cycle or rocking-cycle "A-frame" tether and teeter-totter or "stem" lever. Line swivels take twist out if loops occur.

This vintage KiteLab clip shows the dynamics. Note use of a Pilot-Lifter kite for passive flight control:

http://www.energykitesystems.net/DaveSantos/nemo.mpg 

A Mexican-Roll is a 180 degree half-roll followed by loud snoring.

FairIP/CoopIP                       ~Dave Santos             July 20,2010        M1843


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