Numerical and Experimental Results of the Airflow in the Delft University KiteLab

[Abstract] This paper presents the results of wind measurements taken in the ASSET KiteLab. KiteLab is a test facility on the roof of the faculty building where experimental kites can be flown and tested. It is a controlled environment where sensors and cameras collect data during flight test operations. The wind data was analyzed and together with telltale tufts it was used to validate a numerical model for the flow over the roof of the faculty building. This model was then used to study the flow in the KiteLab and identify a suitable test region in which kite tests can be conducted. What makes such a region suitable is a low wind path angle, allowing the kite to fly at an angle of attack which is close to its pitch angle.