Ram-air kite airfoil and reinforcements optimization for airborne wind energy applications

Abstract

We present a multidisciplinary design optimization method for the profile and structural reinforcement layout of a ram-air kite rib. The aim is to minimize the structural elastic energy and to maximize the traction power of a ram-air kite used for airborne wind energy generation. Because of the large deformations occurring during flight, a fluid-structure interaction (FSI) routine is included in the optimization, which determines the actual deformed rib geometry and its corresponding aerodynamic characteristics. A qualitative comparison between FSI inclusion and exclusion in the optimization is given. Discrepancies in airfoil profile and structural layout are observed.