A NASA with an inflatable leading edge

I am thinking of building an NASA with an inflatable leading edge, could this work as the ultimate cheap bodydrag-kite? Would such an inflatable edge affect the aerodynamics of the NASA?

Keep on kiting!!! Jordi

Hi Jordi, The Npw is probably the ultimate cheap bodydrag kite already. I have tried an inflatable nose section and it does indeed affect the aerodynamics. It affects the low-wind properties as the leading edge is heavier, this does make quite a difference. In higher winds the affect becomes much less noticeable. Also an inflated edge is basically a round one and this isn't the ideal shape aerodynamically. If you could make an elliptical inflated leading edge it may be an improvement. I say may be as it's anybody's guess what happens to the airflow which keeps the nose inflated. If you create turbulence in the stagnation bubble behind the nose then it won't fly as well but if you avoid this it may be better. You might, on the other hand, hit upon the exact right nose dimension, so don't let me put you off. The nose shape and size is critical though and may take a deal of experimenting.

I'm convinced (along with many others) that there is a lot which can be done to further improve this wing so go ahead and experiment, let us know your results. Try to do any experiments on the same wing or same size, material, bridle etc. wing so you can compare the outcome.

Good luck

could Hi, I've never tried it but I read somewhere that putting an inflated modelling balloon (the sort you twist together to amuse children) in the nose section improves matters. I guess it would fit behind the restraining tapes, however, good luck if you attempt to blow one of those things up! Regards, Roger Parry

Before you buy.

I am not planning to build any inflatable parts on the nose, I am more aiming at the wingsides and maybe along the inner bridles (like a V)next to the square section, so that you have two seperate inflatable parts divided with the middle square section

Jordi http://people.zeelandnet.nl/jordikr

aerodynamics. It affects the low-wind difference. In higher winds the affect shape aerodynamically. If you could may be as it's anybody's guess what turbulence in the stagnation bubble behind of good (my single attempt that is). don't let me put you off. The nose done to further improve this wing so experiments on the same wing or same size,

Go for it, I made one with a carbon fibre rod for a LE (with other modifications) and the kite rocks...let us know how you go.

Hazza, how did yours turn out? A success?