Project Summary

The SKYTUG project aims to validate remote, mechanised launch, control, and recovery of kites using a small-scale prototype. Prior work demonstrated the system’s principles, including stable kite array flight, hydrodynamic performance, and feasibility. Successful mechanical tests have been conducted on the kite handling systems. Through TRIG, the project will look into building and demonstrating working prototypes of new, lightweight airborne systems. The soon-to-be-patented launch, flight, and recovery process will be showcased, where kites are added one by one to create a high-powered wind propulsion system.

Project Achievements

• Prototyped and developed runners for kite launch transit. • Tested aerodynamic devices and determined best options and setup. • Determined force and power requirements for kite steering. • Validated parts for kite control units and finalised design. • Prototyped and developed kite control units. • Planned for flight trials to take place soon.

Conclusions

• Functionality of runner system and kite control units is good. • Electromechanical kite control at small scale is possible. • Weather constraints severely limit testing opportunities. • Future work needs to bring forward development of tools, aids and mechanisms to improve ground handling of kites in varied weather.

Next Steps

• Complete successful proof of concept trials. • Brief known and new potential investors about success and secure additional funding. • Pursue engineering development of full-function kite system and integrated seagoing demonstrator. • Further pursue discussions which are currently under way with potential partners about system integration into vessels. • TRIG has enabled a lot of engineering work for the prototype kite system, and raised exposure of SKYTUG and credibility with industry.