Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations of objects like the Kitepower V3A Leading Edge Inflatable (LEI) kite require accurate experimental data for validation. However, for these kites, particularly in steady-state simulations, such data is scarce. LEI kites are soft and deform continuously during flight, making validation complex. To address this, a unique experiment in the Open Jet Facility (OJF) at TU Delft, testing a rigidized subscale model of the V3A kite, marking the first wind tunnel test on a rigid kite.

The rigid model was made of carbon fiber reinforced polymer and mounted on a custom support structure that allowed adjustments to the kite’s angle of attack and sideslip. Aerodynamic forces and moments were measured at different wind speeds and orientations, with and without zigzag tape to study its effects on low Reynolds number flow.

The results were compared to existing CFD simulations, including Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) and vortex step methods. The experimental data aligned well with these simulations at low Reynolds numbers, validating the setup. However, some discrepancies highlighted areas for improvement, such as reducing interference from the support structure and better matching Reynolds numbers between simulations and experiments.