Wing foil and kite

Abstract

The invention relates to a hand-held wing foil (1) with a spoiler profile (36) that is formed substantially in the lower, tangential flow-receiving region of the leading edge (7). In addition, the invention relates to a kite (101) having a spoiler profile (116) that is formed substantially in the lower, tangential flow-receiving region of the leading edge (103).

Description

[0001] A first part of the invention relates to a (hand-supported) wing rig for wind-powered sports, for example foil surfing, according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Such a wing rig, also called "Foil Wing" or "Wing Foil", is a type of wing that is similar to a kite, with a leading edge front tube and a central center strut, which are preferably inflatable.

[0003] US Patent 4,563,969 shows a rigid wing rig in which the leading edge and boom are formed by a complex tubular structure that stretches a canopy. The leading edge is curved in a plan view. The boom is supported at the leading edge by a multitude of struts. These struts are designed to give the leading edge a concave shape in a front view (i.e., viewed in the direction of airflow over the wing rig), with the wing rig tips splaying upward from a central apex of the leading edge.

[0004] One disadvantage of this solution is that the complex construction of the boom and leading edge results in a very high overall weight for the wing rig, making its use in watersports possible only with appropriate buoyancy aids. Another drawback is that assembling and disassembling the wing rig is time-consuming due to the complex tubing structure. The rigid tubing of the leading edge and boom also poses a significant risk of injury to the user in the event of a catapult fall, and the aerodynamics of this rig are not optimal due to its complex design.

[0005] A similar rigid wing rig is shown in WO 95 / 05973 A1. In this design as well, the leading edge and boom are formed by a complex tube structure. The design exhibits the same disadvantages as the wing rig according to US 4,563,969 discussed above.

[0006] Document US 5,448,961 describes a flat wing rig with a closed frame structure - such a solution is also unsuitable for water sports due to the high weight, the time-consuming assembly / disassembly and the risk of injury.

[0007] Accordingly, the solutions mentioned at the beginning have prevailed, in which the wing rig is designed with an inflatable centerstrut featuring handholds. These concepts are characterized by low weight and comparatively high lift, but do not meet higher aerodynamic requirements.

[0008] As explained, these wing rigs are typically operated by hand, with the angle of the wing rig constantly being adjusted relative to the wind depending on wind speed and direction, as well as the planned maneuver. Depending on the angle of attack to the water's surface and relative to the user's vertical axis, the grip position, particularly of the rear, trailing-edge hand, can change. However, the standard hand loops make such adjustments to the grip position difficult.

[0009] In WO 2020 / 152198 A1, which also originates from the applicant, an improved wing rig is described in which a rigid boom is used instead of or in addition to an inflatable center strut, which makes handling much easier, since this boom can be gripped according to the surfer's preference and the surfer does not have to orient themselves to the usually provided hand straps.

[0010] The applicant has also filed several subsequently published patent applications that further develop the generic wing rigs with regard to aerodynamics and handling. For example, DE 10 2020 122 143 describes a wing rig with a stiffened leading edge. DE 10 2020 122 145 discloses a wing rig in which grip recesses are formed on the inflatable center strut, which are extended by handles. Replaceable handles are described in DE 10 2020 121 553.

[0011] All of these latter solutions have been very successfully introduced to the market and have successfully further developed the original concept.

[0012] Further state of the art is also known from US 4 927 100 A, which discloses a kite, from DE 10 2005 002 941 A1, which discloses a kite with a Venturi section, from DE 10 2004 051 708 A1, which discloses a variably adjustable kite, and from WO 2017 / 059 275 A1

[0013] Finally, inflatable wing rigs are also known from the following two online publications: "FreeWing Air", Internet publication, June 17, 2020 (2020-06-17), XP009559395, URL: https: / / freewing.starboard.com / de / freewing-air / , and "Drift Surf Wing", Internet publication, April 13, 2021 (2021-04-13), XP009559396, URL: https: / / switchkites.com / products / drift-surf-wing.

[0014] Nevertheless, there is a desire to further improve the performance of such wing rigs. Accordingly, the invention is based on the objective of developing a wing rig with improved propulsion or flight characteristics.

[0015] This problem is solved by a wing rig with the features of claim 1.

[0016] Advantageous further developments of the first part of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and are explained below.

[0017] The hand-guided wing rig according to the invention has an inflatable leading edge leading tube and a rigid or inflatable center strut, the latter optionally having at least one handle. Hybrid configurations with at least one handle / boom and an inflatable center strut are also possible. The center strut and the leading edge together form a canopy. According to the invention, a radially projecting profile lip, hereinafter referred to as a spoiler profile, is formed in the area of ​​the leading edge and extends along a portion of the leading edge / leading edge approximately transversely to the center strut. This spoiler profile is preferably designed such that flow separation occurs in the area it covers. The spoiler profile (profile lip) thus acts similarly to a spoiler.The spoiler profile is at least 5 mm high and is designed to create a flow separation or flow transition (laminar / turbulent) on the underside of the wing rig.

[0018] Surprisingly, it was found that this spoiler profile, located in the airflow area around the wing rig, significantly improves the wing rig's performance compared to conventional solutions. The spoiler profile according to the invention significantly simplifies the handling of the wing rig during a turn, as the lift generated is greater than with conventional solutions, thus simplifying the change of grip during the turn. The roll of the wing rig during this turn is also simplified by the improved aerodynamics according to the invention. At the same time, the roll or pitch stability of the wing rig during flight / travel is also improved, with the latter even being able to be reversed from negative to positive (unstable to stable) compared to conventional solutions.Another advantage is that the wing rig can be held very stably on the leash or handle, for example when riding a wave. Furthermore, the speed can be significantly increased compared to a conventional wing rig.

[0019] In summary, it was surprisingly shown that the spoiler profile formed along the longitudinal extent of the leading edge significantly improves the performance of the wing rig compared to conventional solutions.

[0020] It is particularly preferred if the spoiler profile is formed on the underside, i.e. the side facing the user / surfer / surferwoman, which is preferably subjected to approximately tangential flow during use (underside) of the leading edge or wing rig or front tube.

[0021] The spoiler profile is located in the apex area of ​​the leading edge of the wing rig, i.e., in the area that is subjected to approximately tangential airflow during use.

[0022] In a preferred solution, the spoiler profile follows, at least in sections, approximately the contour of the leading edge of the wing rig in its longitudinal direction. The spoiler profile can be continuous or interrupted in sections.

[0023] According to a further development of the invention, the aerodynamics are further improved if the spoiler profile has a height of less than 15 mm, preferably less than 10 mm, relative to an outer skin of the front tube. That is, the projection of the spoiler profile above this outer skin is relatively small. Preferably, however, the spoiler profile has a height of more than 5 mm.

[0024] In one embodiment, the spoiler profile is selected based on the outer skin material. For example, with a textile material, particularly a woven material such as Dacron®, the spoiler lip height can preferably be greater than or equal to 6 mm. When using a film-like material or a laminate for the outer skin, the height is preferably somewhat greater than with woven materials and can then be approximately ≥ 7 mm, preferably ≥ 8 mm.

[0025] It is particularly preferred if the spoiler profile is formed by a seam that may be covered by an outer skin or a reinforcement. This seam can then also form the closing seam of the outer skin. In the case of a hybrid material where the base material (textile / laminate / film) of the front tube consists, for example, of a laminate / film material with textile (Dacron®) reinforcements in the seam area, the height of the spoiler profile preferably corresponds at least to the height of the base material in the seam area and is preferably increased accordingly in the reinforced areas.

[0026] The canopy and the leading edge of the wing rig are typically composed of several panels. Accordingly, the seam forming the spoiler profile can be slightly higher in the area of ​​the panel segment transitions, which are also joined by seams, than in the adjacent areas. For example, the seam, and thus the spoiler profile, can essentially have a minimum height of approximately 5 mm (or, for example, 6 mm) and then be somewhat higher in the area of ​​the segment transitions between the panels, for example, with a height of 5.5 mm (6.5 mm). When using films / laminates (Aluula®), the seam height, as explained, is preferably somewhat higher, so that it is predominantly 7 mm, for example, and a spoiler profile height of 7.5 mm is then achieved in the segment transition due to the doubling of the material.

[0027] The spoiler profile can therefore be designed, for example, as a seam, optionally with a double layer of material, a cover, or the like. Alternatively, a spoiler profile body is attached to the leading edge of the wing rig. This can be, for example, a plastic / piping profile that is suitablely connected to the outer skin of the leading edge or is formed integrally with it. This spoiler profile can then be fixed in position, for example, by gluing and / or sewing.

[0028] In one embodiment of the invention, the spoiler profile is formed by a profile body that is covered by a cover. This cover improves the aerodynamics and also ensures improved positional fixation.

[0029] In one embodiment of the invention, the spoiler profile extends into the area of ​​the leading edge that lies between the tips of the wing rig.

[0030] It is particularly preferred if the spoiler profile is not rounded, but forms a flow separation edge.

[0031] In one embodiment of the invention, the spoiler profile is provided with an adhesive layer for subsequent attachment to a conventional wing rig. Accordingly, the spoiler profile can then be designed with a wider base.

[0032] Furthermore, it is advantageous if several spoiler profile sections are spaced apart from each other and / or designed with different heights.

[0033] Furthermore, a second aspect of the invention relates to a kite for wind-powered sports, for example kitesurfing, according to claim 8.

[0034] Conventional kites used for kitesurfing or land kiting are either tube kites or foil kites with air-filled chambers. Tube kites have the major advantage in kitesurfing that they float in the event of a crash and can therefore be relaunched without major problems.

[0035] Tube kites typically have a supporting structure with an inflatable leading edge and inflatable struts arranged transversely to it, which together form a canopy. Such a tube kite is, for example, marketed by the applicant under the trademark Rebel®. Different versions of this concept are described in publications DE 20 2004 005 792 U1 and DE 10 2004 042 669 A1.

[0036] Kites that require maintaining a predetermined, aerodynamically optimized profile during various maneuvers, such as high-performance kites like the Rebel® or Vegas®, typically use multiple struts to stabilize the airflow. Lighter kites usually use fewer struts, with a single center strut sometimes being sufficient. Strut-free solutions are also available.

[0037] Despite the successful introduction of such concepts to the kite market, there is still a drive to further improve the performance of these kites. Accordingly, the invention aims to develop a kite with improved flight characteristics.

[0038] This problem is solved by a kite having the features of claim 8.

[0039] Advantageous further developments of the second part of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and are explained below. These further developments build upon those of the first part and, for the sake of completeness, are also explained in detail below with regard to the second part.

[0040] The kite according to the invention has an inflatable leading edge tube and at least one strut. Preferably, the at least one strut is inflatable. The strut(s) and the leading edge tube together form a canopy. According to the invention, a radially projecting profile lip, hereinafter referred to as a spoiler profile, is formed in the area of ​​the leading edge and extends along a portion of the leading edge / leading edge tube approximately transversely to the center strut. This profile lip is preferably shaped such that flow separation occurs in the area provided with the spoiler profile. The spoiler profile (profile lip) thus acts similarly to a spoiler. The spoiler profile is at least 3 mm high and is designed to generate flow separation or a flow transition (laminar / turbulent) on the underside of the kite.

[0041] It was also surprisingly evident with regard to the kite that this spoiler profile, located in the airflow area around the kite, significantly improves the kite's performance compared to conventional solutions. The spoiler profile according to the invention significantly improved the kite's handling during maneuvers, as lift and flight stability are greater than with conventional solutions.

[0042] It is thus surprisingly evident that the spoiler profile formed along the longitudinal extension of the front tube significantly improves the performance of the kite compared to conventional solutions.

[0043] It is particularly preferred if the spoiler profile is formed on the underside, i.e. the side (underside) of the leading edge (front tube) of the kite facing the user / surfer / surferwoman, which is preferably subjected to approximately tangential flow during use.

[0044] The spoiler profile is preferably located in the apex area of ​​the kite's leading edge, i.e., in the area that is subjected to approximately tangential airflow during use.

[0045] In a preferred solution, the spoiler profile follows the contour of the kite's leading edge, at least in sections, in its longitudinal direction. The spoiler profile can be continuous or interrupted in sections.

[0046] According to a further development of the invention, the aerodynamics are further improved if the kite's spoiler profile has a height of less than 15 mm, preferably less than 10 mm, relative to the outer surface of the leading tube. This means that the spoiler profile's projection beyond this outer surface is relatively small.

[0047] In one embodiment, the spoiler profile is selected based on the outer skin material. For example, with a textile material, particularly a woven material such as Dacron®, the spoiler lip height can preferably be greater than or equal to 5 mm. When using a film-like material or a laminate for the outer skin, the height is preferably somewhat greater than with woven materials and can then be approximately ≥ 5 mm, preferably ≥ 6 mm, and more preferably ≥ 7 mm.

[0048] It is particularly advantageous if the spoiler profile is formed by a seam that can be covered by an outer skin. This seam can then also form the closing seam of an outer skin of the front tube.

[0049] In the case of a hybrid material where the base material of the front tube consists, for example, of a laminate / film material with textile (Dacron®) reinforcements in the seam area, the height of the spoiler profile preferably corresponds at least to the height of the base material (textile / laminate / film) in the seam area and is further preferably increased accordingly in the reinforced areas.

[0050] The canopy and the leading edge are typically composed of several panels. Accordingly, the seam forming the spoiler profile can be slightly higher in the area of ​​the panel segment transitions, which are also joined by seams, than in the adjacent areas. For example, the seam, and thus the spoiler profile, might have a height of approximately 3 mm (or 5 mm) and then be slightly higher, for example, 3.5 mm (5.5 mm), in the area of ​​the segment transitions between the panels. When using films / laminates (Aluula®), the seam height, as explained, is preferably somewhat higher, so that it is predominantly 5 mm, for example, and a spoiler profile height of 5.5 mm is then achieved in the segment transition due to the doubling of the material.

[0051] The spoiler profile can therefore be designed, for example, as a seam, optionally with a material reinforcement, cover, or similar. Alternatively, a spoiler profile body is attached to the front tube. This could be, for example, a plastic / welt profile that is appropriately connected to the outer skin of the front tube or is formed integrally with it. This spoiler profile can then be fixed in position, for example, by gluing and / or sewing.

[0052] In one embodiment of the invention, the spoiler profile is again formed by a profile body which is covered by a cover. This cover improves the aerodynamics and also ensures improved positional fixation.

[0053] In one embodiment of the invention, the spoiler profile extends into the area of ​​the leading edge that lies between the tips of the kite.

[0054] It is therefore particularly preferred if the spoiler profile is not rounded, but forms a flow separation edge.

[0055] In one embodiment of the invention, the spoiler profile is provided with an adhesive layer for subsequent attachment to a conventional kite. Accordingly, the spoiler profile can then be designed with a wider base.

[0056] Furthermore, it is advantageous if several spoiler profile sections are spaced apart from each other and / or have different heights (h).

[0057] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. These show: Figure 1 a schematic representation of a wing rig used to propel a foilboard; Figure 2 a partial underside view of a wing rig according to the invention in a first embodiment; Figure 3a detailed representation of the wing rig according to Figure 2 ; Figure 4 a second embodiment of a wing rig according to the invention with a spoiler profile extended by a cover; Figure 5 an embodiment in which the spoiler profile is formed by a seam construction, Figure 6 a detailed representation of a spoiler profile with radially angled seam construction, Figure 7 a schematic diagram of a kite; Figure 8 a partial underside view of a kite according to the invention and Figure 9 A detailed representation of a spoiler profile with radially angled seam construction.

[0058] In Figure 1The use of a wing rig 1 according to the invention (also called "wing", "foil wing" or "wing foil") for propelling a foilboard 2 is illustrated. A surfer 4 typically holds the wing rig 1 with their hands and adjusts it relative to the wind depending on the desired direction of travel (upwind, beam reach, downwind) or the required lift, for example when jumping or adjusting the riding height.

[0059] The wing rig 1 has an inflatable leading edge tube 6 with a leading edge 7 on the upstream side, which in the top view (from above) is in the Figure 1 and 2) is approximately arc-shaped, preferably approximately delta-, C- or U-shaped, and extends with its tips 8, 10 to a trailing edge 12 of a canopy 14 of the wing rig 1. As explained below, this canopy 14 is supported on the one hand by the leading edge tube 6 and on the other hand by a boom / centerstrut 20, which will be explained in more detail below (see Figure 2 ) is stretched out. The surfer 4 holds the wing rig 1 mainly on the boom / center strut 20, which points downwards (view towards). Figure 1 ) cantilevers outwards. The front tube 6 is preferably angled in an approximately V- or U-shape in both a top view and a front view – seen in the direction of the flow – with the V / U widening upwards in the front view, i.e., away from the surfer 4. How Figure 1 The Trailing Edge 12 is also removable, and thus the entire canopy surface is angled in a V (or U) shape in the front view.

[0060] Reference numeral 16 designates, by way of example, a handle that is centrally located in the area of ​​the leading edge 6. This handle 16 is used, for example, when the wing rig 1 is held to leeward while riding a wave without propulsion. This handle 16 is also used when handling the wing rig 1 on land or when starting or ending a ride (water landing). As explained below, further handles may be positioned on the wing rig 1.

[0061] In the representation according to Figure 1 A safety leash 17 is also shown, which is attached, for example, to the wrist of the surfer 4 and whose other end section attaches to the front tube 6.

[0062] Figure 2Figure 1 shows a bottom view of the wing rig 1, in which a centerstrut 20 is visible, which is attached to the leading edge 6 at the area of ​​a vertex 22. In this embodiment, the centerstrut 20 is inflatable, and inflation is carried out via a one-pump system 25, which is also used to inflate the leading edge 6. Detachable handles 24 are attached to the centerstrut 20, the basic design of which is described in the aforementioned DE 10 2020 121 553. These handles 24 are made of a rigid material, for example, fiber-reinforced plastic, and are detachably screwed to the centerstrut 20 via adapters 26. In the illustrated embodiment, two handles 24 are provided. Of course, additional handles can be arranged. In principle, it is also possible to attach a larger handle that, like a continuous tree, covers the area stretched over by the handles 24.

[0063] As explained earlier, another handle 16 is attached in the area of ​​the apex 22, this one being made of a flexible material and attached to the front tube 6. Naturally, an interchangeable handle 24 can also be arranged in this area.

[0064] The front tube 6 curves in the view Figure 2 approximately U- or C-shaped towards two tips 8, 10, which in the illustrated wing rig 1 are not curved or significantly less curved than the curved leading edge section 34 extending to the apex 22. Of course, the wing rig 1 can also be designed with a different leading edge geometry.

[0065] According to the invention, the front tube section 34 is provided in the area where the front tube 6 bulges most with respect to the canopy 14, i.e. in Figure 2In the area of ​​the front tube 6 facing the viewer, a spoiler profile 36 - also called a bead or "Boundary Layer Trip Strip (BLTS)" - is arranged, which is shown in the illustration according to Figure 2 The spoiler profile 36 projects towards the viewer beyond the outer skin 38 of the front tube 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the spoiler profile 36 is designed as a plastic profile which is suitably connected to the front tube 6, in particular to the outer skin 38 of the front tube 6. This connection can be achieved, for example, by gluing, sewing, or by a suitable design of the front tube 6. The spoiler profile 36 can be continuous or formed from spaced-apart spoiler profile sections.

[0066] In principle, the spoiler profile 36 can also be designed with different heights to optimize flow separation.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, this spoiler profile 36 extends, as mentioned above, from the apex 22 towards the tips 8, 10. No spoiler profile 36 is provided in this area, since these tips 8, 10 are arranged more or less in the direction of flow.

[0068] On average XX of Figure 2The cross-section of the spoiler profile 36 is shown schematically. The outer skin 38 of the front tube 6 is visible, which preferably surrounds a bladder 40 in a manner known per se. If the outer skin 38 is gas-tight, the bladder 40 can be omitted. The cross-sectional profile of the front tube 6 is approximately circular or oval. The spoiler profile 36 is mounted in the area furthest from the canopy 14. In the illustrated embodiment, this is designed as a plastic profile body with a comparatively wide base 42, along which the spoiler profile 36 is connected to the outer skin 38. As explained, this connection can be made by gluing, sewing, or the like.

[0069] The spoiler profile 36 tapers from the base 42 to a separation edge 44 / flow separation edge, which in the illustrated embodiment is relatively sharp-edged, so that when using the wing rig 1 the flow indicated by reference numeral 46, which runs approximately tangentially to this area of ​​the leading edge 7, separates and / or changes from a largely laminar flow into a turbulent area and / or the flow separates downstream of the spoiler profile 36.Surprisingly, it was found that this change in flow direction in the area of ​​the underside of the Leading Edge 7 significantly improves the aerodynamics of the wing rig 1 compared to conventional solutions, so that on the one hand higher speeds can be achieved and on the other hand the "flight stability" is significantly improved during maneuvers in which the wing rig 1 is only held or pivoted by the Leash 17 or the Handle 16, making these maneuvers easier to perform.

[0070] In the illustrated embodiment, the height h of the spoiler profile 36 is preferably greater than 5 mm when used with an outer skin 38 made of Dacron®. In principle, other dimensions can also be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the trailing edge 44 is relatively sharp. In principle, it can also be somewhat rounded. The profile of the spoiler profile 36 is by no means limited to the shape shown; the profiling can also be achieved in other ways to produce the desired effect (for example, flow separation, flow detachment, or transition between laminar and turbulent flow).

[0071] Figure 3 Figure 1 shows an enlarged view of the wing rig 1, in which it is clearly visible that the spoiler profile 36 only extends to the tip 8 (or 10). Figure 3The inflow 46 with the flow separation caused by the spoiler profile 36 is shown schematically again. The widened base 42 and the tapered trailing edge 44 can also be seen in this illustration.

[0072] In Figure 4 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a wing rig 1, which in principle has the same construction as the one shown in the Figures 2 and 3 The wing rig shown is 1. The essential difference between the two variants is that in the embodiment according to Figure 4The spoiler profile 36, which projects towards the viewer and causes, among other things, flow separation, is covered by a cover 48. This cover can, for example, be designed like a tape that fixes the spoiler profile 36 to the outer skin 38 of the leading edge tube 6 and covers it. In this embodiment as well, the spoiler profile 36 extends into the area of ​​the two wingtips 8, 10. Such a variant is particularly well suited for retrofitting conventional wing rigs 1, whereby, for example, the spoiler profile 36 can be integrated into the cover 48, so that the spoiler profile 36 according to the invention can be attached like an adhesive tape. Of course, sewing or other fixing methods can also be used additionally or alternatively.

[0073] Figure 5Figure 1 shows an embodiment in which the spoiler profile 36 is, so to speak, integrated into the outer skin 38 of the front tube 6. In this embodiment, a seam 50 of the outer skin 38 is formed in the area of ​​the front tube 6 where the flow separation (or other flow change) is to occur. As explained, this area is located at the Figure 5 The underside of the leading edge 7, facing the viewer, is formed at a distance from the canopy 14. As explained above, this seam 50 lies in the approximately tangentially flowed area of ​​the leading edge 7. The seam 50 can be reinforced by material doubling or by angle according to Figure 6 The seam 50 must be designed and its geometry must be such that a spoiler profile 36, projecting away from the outer skin 38, approximately in the radial direction, is formed, which generates flow separation. Accordingly, the seam 50 is selected to produce a desired flow separation or other flow transition.

[0074] At the in Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, longitudinal edge regions 52, 54 of the outer skin 38, which are sewn together, are angled approximately radially outwards, so that the spoiler profile 36 is formed by the radially projecting, angled longitudinal edge regions 52, 54. These can be covered with a cover to prevent damage.

[0075] The outer skin 38 can be made of a textile material, such as Dacron®, or a laminate or film construction, such as Aluula®. With a laminate / film construction, it is preferred that the height h of the spoiler profile 36 is somewhat greater than with textile materials.

[0076] As explained above, the front tube 6 and / or the canopy 14 is typically made up of several panels / segments that are also sewn together. In the area of ​​this segment transition, the spoiler profile 36 can then have a greater height than in the adjacent areas. These raised sections resulting from the segment transitions are, for example, in the range of 0.5 mm to 1 mm or more (depending on the material thickness). If, for example, a spoiler profile height of approximately 5 mm were chosen for a textile material, the height in the area of ​​the segment transition would then be 5.5 mm or more. For a film material or laminate, the spoiler profile 36 is preferably designed with a slightly greater height, which is then in the range of approximately 7.0 mm, so that a profile height of 7.5 mm or more is present in the area of ​​the segment transition.In the case of front tubes made of a hybrid material, where the front tube 6 consists, for example, of a laminate / film material reinforced in the seam area by textile strips (for example, Dacron®), the seam height and thus the height h of the spoiler profile 36 corresponds at least to the height of the base material in the seam area.

[0077] As explained above, the spoiler profile 36 is optimally arranged in the lower area, preferably in the approximately tangentially flowed area of ​​the front tube 6, so that flow separation occurs in the predetermined manner.

[0078] A seam profile in the lower area of ​​the front tube 6 with a profile forming a spoiler profile 36 is also unprecedented in the prior art. In the illustrated embodiment, this seam 50 also extends into the tips 8 (10). Otherwise, the embodiment corresponds to Figure 5the aforementioned examples of embodiment, so that further explanations are unnecessary.

[0079] In the previously described embodiments, the Centerstrut 20 is inflatable. Of course, an embodiment with a rigid boom or a hybrid design with a Centerstrut 20 and a boom can also be used.

[0080] In the embodiments described above, a trapeze rope or handle can be attached to the two handles 24, so that the wing rig 1 can then also be guided / held via a trapeze strap or with one hand.

[0081] Revealed is a hand-supported wing rig 1 with a spoiler profile 36, which is formed approximately in the lower, tangentially flowed area of ​​the leading edge 7.

[0082] Based on Figure 7The basic structure of a tube kite – hereinafter referred to as Kite 101 – is explained. Such a Kite 101 has a support structure 102 with a leading tube 104, which forms a leading edge 103. In the illustrated embodiment (Rebel®), a plurality of struts 108 extending towards a trailing edge 106 are attached to this leading tube 104. This support structure 102, with the leading tube 104 and five struts 108, spans a canopy 110 that forms the actual kite surface. In the illustrated embodiment, several batten-shaped stiffening elements 112 are provided in the area of ​​the trailing edge 106. To stabilize the profile, profile stabilizing elements 114 can also be provided in the area of ​​the leading tube 104, which shape the airflow area. Such stabilizing elements are disclosed, for example, in DE 20 2005 018 317 U1 of the applicant.

[0083] The Kite 101 is connected to the surfer via two front lines (not shown) and two steering lines, which are attached to Tips 115 of the Kite 101, as well as via a bar (not shown).

[0084] According to the invention, a spoiler profile 116 – also called a bulge or "Boundary Layer Trip Strip" (BLTS) – is formed in the kite 101 in an approximately tangentially flowed area of ​​the leading edge 104. It is particularly preferred if this spoiler profile 116 is formed in the lower area of ​​the leading edge 104, pointing towards the bar. In principle, such a spoiler profile 116 can also be additionally or alternatively implemented on the canopy side.

[0085] Figure 8Figure 101 shows a bottom view of the kite, revealing a center strut 108 attached to the leading edge 104 at a point 118. The leading edge 104 and the struts 108 are inflated using a one-pump system 136, which is also used to inflate the leading edge 104.

[0086] According to the partial sub-view in Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the spoiler profile 116 is designed as a plastic profile which is suitably connected to the front tube 104, in particular to the outer skin 120 of the front tube 104. This connection can be made, for example, by gluing, sewing, or by suitable design of the front tube 104. The spoiler profile 116 can be continuous or formed from spaced-apart spoiler profile sections.

[0087] In principle, the spoiler profile 116 can also be designed with different heights to optimize flow separation.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, this spoiler profile 116 extends, as mentioned above, from a vertex 118 (Arc) to the tips 115.

[0089] On average XX of Figure 8 The cross-section of the spoiler profile 116 is shown schematically. The outer skin 120 of the front tube 104 is visible, which preferably surrounds a bladder 122 in a manner known per se. If the outer skin 120 is gas-tight, the bladder 122 can also be omitted. The cross-sectional profile of the front tube 104 is approximately circular or oval. The spoiler profile 116 is mounted in the area furthest from the canopy 110. In the illustrated embodiment, this is designed as a plastic profile body with a comparatively wide base 124, along which the spoiler profile 116 is connected to the outer skin 120. As explained, this connection can be made by gluing, sewing, or the like.

[0090] The spoiler profile 116 tapers from the base 124 to a trailing edge 126, which in the illustrated embodiment is relatively sharp-edged. This causes the airflow, designated by reference numeral 128 and running approximately tangentially to this area of ​​the leading edge 103, to separate during use of the kite 101. The airflow then transitions from a largely laminar flow to a turbulent flow, and / or the flow separates downstream of the spoiler profile 116. Surprisingly, this change in flow pattern in the area of ​​the underside of the leading edge 103 / front tube 104 significantly improves the aerodynamics of the kite 101 compared to conventional solutions. This results in higher speeds and a considerably improved flight stability.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the height h of the spoiler profile 116 is preferably greater than 3 mm for an outer skin 120 made of Dacron®. In principle, other dimensions can also be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the trailing edge 126 is relatively sharp. In principle, it can also be somewhat rounded. The profile of the spoiler profile 116 is by no means limited to the shape shown; the profiling can also be achieved in other ways to produce the desired effect (for example, flow separation, flow detachment, or transition between laminar and turbulent flow).

[0092] Figure 9Figure 1 shows an embodiment in which the spoiler profile 116 is, so to speak, integrated into the outer skin 120 of the front tube 104. In this embodiment, a seam 130 of the outer skin 120 is formed in the area of ​​the front tube 104 where flow separation (or other flow change) is to occur. As explained, this area is located at the Figure 8 The underside of the leading edge 103, facing the viewer, is formed at a distance from the canopy 110. As described, this seam 130 lies in the area of ​​the leading edge 103 that is subjected to an approximately tangential flow. The seam 130 can be designed by doubling the material or by adjusting the angle and geometry of the seam such that a spoiler profile 116 is formed, projecting away from the outer skin 120, approximately in the radial direction, which induces flow separation. Accordingly, the seam 130 is selected to generate a desired flow separation or other flow transition.

[0093] At the in Figure 9 In the illustrated embodiment, longitudinal edge regions 132, 134 of the outer skin 120, which are sewn together, are angled approximately radially outwards, so that the spoiler profile 116 is formed by the radially projecting, angled longitudinal edge regions 132, 134. These can be covered with a cover to prevent damage.

[0094] The outer skin 120 can be made of a textile material, such as Dacron®<, or a laminate or film construction, such as Aluula®<. With a laminate / film construction, it is preferred that the height h of the spoiler profile 116 is somewhat greater than with textile materials. In particular, when using a laminate / film construction (e.g., Aluula®<), a bladder 122 can be omitted.

[0095] As explained above, the front tube 104 and / or the canopy 110 is typically made up of several panels / segments that are also sewn together. In the area of ​​this segment transition, the spoiler profile 116 can then have a greater height than in the adjacent areas. These raised sections resulting from the segment transitions are, for example, in the range of 0.5 mm to 1 mm or more (depending on the material thickness). If, for example, a spoiler profile height of approximately 3 mm were chosen for a textile material, the height in the area of ​​the segment transition could then be 3.5 mm or more. For a film material or laminate, the spoiler profile 116 is preferably designed with a slightly greater height, which is then in the range of approximately 5.0 mm, so that a profile height of 5.5 mm or more is present in the area of ​​the segment transition.In the case of front tubes made of a hybrid material, where the front tube 104 consists, for example, of a laminate / film material reinforced in the seam area by textile strips (for example, Dacron®), the seam height and thus the height h of the spoiler profile 116 corresponds at least to the height of the base material in the seam area.

[0096] As explained above, the spoiler profile 116 is optimally arranged in the lower area, preferably in the approximately tangentially flowed area of ​​the front tube 104, so that flow separation occurs in the predetermined manner.

[0097] A seam profile in the lower region of the front tube 104 with a profile forming a spoiler profile 116 is unprecedented in the prior art. In the illustrated embodiment, this seam 130 also extends into the tips 115. In principle, the spoiler profile 116 can also end before the tips 115.

[0098] Revealed is a Kite 101 with a spoiler profile 116, which is formed approximately in the lower, tangentially flowed area of ​​the Leading Edge 103. Reference symbol list:

[0099] 1Wing rig 2Foilboard 4Surfer / Surferin 6Fronttube 7Leading Edge 8Tip 10Tip 12Trailing Edge 14Canopy 16Handle 17Safety Leash 20Centerstrut 22Cret 24Handle 25One-pump system 26Adapter 34Fronttube section 36Spoiler profile 38Outer skin 40Bladder 42Base 44Tearing edge 46Inflow 48Cover 50Seam 52Longitudinal edge area 54Longitudinal edge area 101Tubekite 102Support structure 103Leading Edge 104Fronttube 106Trailing Edge / trailing edge 108Strut 110Canopy 112Stiffening element 114Profile stabilizing element 115Tip 116Spoiler profile 118Apex / Arc 120Outer skin 122Bladder 124Base 126Trailing edge 128Inflow 130Seam 132Longitudinal edge area 134Longitudinal edge area 136One-pump system

Claims

1. A hand-guided wing rig (1) comprising an inflatable front tube (6) forming a front edge (7) and a rigid or inflatable centerstrut (20) which together span a canopy (14), characterized by a radially projecting spoiler profile (36) which is at least 5 mm high, extends at least along a partial region of the front edge (7) or of the front tube (6) and is designed to generate a flow separation or a flow change from a largely laminar flow to a turbulent flow on an underside of the wing rig (1).

2. The wing rig (1) according to claim 1, wherein the spoiler profile (36) is formed on the underside of the front edge (7) which faces the user and is preferably subjected to approximately tangential flow during use, and / or the spoiler profile (36) follows the contour of the front edge (7) at least in sections in the longitudinal direction thereof.

3. The wing rig (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein an outer skin (38) of the front tube (6) consists of a textile material or a laminate or a film material or a hybrid material, wherein the height of the spoiler profile (36) is lower in the case of a textile material than in the case of a laminate or a film, wherein the height when using a textile material is ≥ 5 mm, preferably ≥ 6 mm, and when using a laminate or film material is ≥ 7 mm, preferably ≥ 8 mm, and in the case of a hybrid material preferably corresponds at least to the height (h) in the seam region assigned to the base material, such as textile, laminate or film.

4. The wing rig (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spoiler profile (36) is formed as a seam (50) or as an attached profile body, and / or wherein the spoiler profile (36) is covered by a cover (48).

5. The wing rig (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spoiler profile (36) extends substantially between tips (8, 10) of the wing rig (1).

6. The wing rig (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spoiler profile (36) forms a flow separation edge (44).

7. The wing rig (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spoiler profile (36) has a widened base (42) which is provided with an adhesive layer or the like, and / or wherein a plurality of spoiler profile sections are arranged spaced apart from one another and / or are formed with different heights (h).

8. A kite (101) comprising an inflatable front tube (104) forming a front edge (103) and at least one strut (108) which together span a canopy (110), wherein the kite (101) has a radially projecting spoiler profile (116) which is at least 3 mm high, extends at least along a partial region of the front edge (103) or of the front tube (104) and is designed to generate a flow separation or a flow change from a largely laminar flow to a turbulent flow on an underside of the kite (101).

9. The kite (101) according to claim 8, wherein the spoiler profile (116) is formed on the underside of the front edge (103) which faces the user and is preferably subjected to approximately tangential flow during use, and / or the spoiler profile (116) follows the contour of the front edge (103) at least in sections in the longitudinal direction thereof.

10. The kite (101) according to one of claims 8 or 9, wherein an outer skin (120) of the front tube (104) consists of a textile material or a laminate or a film material, wherein the height of the spoiler profile (116) is preferably lower in the case of a textile material than in the case of a laminate, wherein the height when using a textile material is ≥ 3 mm, preferably ≥ 5 mm, and preferably when using a laminate or film material is ≥ 5 mm, preferably ≥ 7 mm, and in the case of a hybrid material preferably corresponds at least to the height (h) in the seam region assigned to the base material, such as textile, laminate or film.

11. The kite (101) according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the spoiler profile (116) is formed as a seam (130) or as an attached profile body, and / or wherein the spoiler profile (116) is covered by a cover, and / or the spoiler profile (116) extends substantially between tips (115) of the kite (101).

12. The kite (101) according to one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the spoiler profile (116) forms a flow separation edge (126).

13. The kite (101) according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the spoiler profile (116) has a widened base (124) which is provided with an adhesive layer or the like, and / or wherein a plurality of spoiler profile sections are arranged spaced apart from one another and / or are formed with different heights (h).

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