Abstract: A traction kite having a variable geometry leading edge that defines a high projected central propulsive region of increased surface area along the top portion of the kite, and lateral control regions of decreased surfaces area extending on opposite sides of the propulsive region. The leading edge thus defines a concave shape when viewed from the side while in flight. Providing a variable geometry leading edge maximizes propulsive forces due to increased surface area, while enhancing control and turning performance by minimizing the surface area of the control regions, namely those generally vertically disposed regions that begin at the tips and end at the propulsive region.

Abstract: A control sail for a kite has an airfoil with a leading edge and a trailing edge, and a tube system comprising a front tube which extends along the leading edge and at least one transverse tube which extends between the leading edge and the trailing edge. The front tube is situated in a freely movable manner within a chamber which extends along the leading edge of the airfoil whereby an aerodynamically advantageous profile at the leading edge may be continuously maintained, even when the angle of attack of the control sail changes. The invention further relates to a kite having a control sail according to the invention, with control lines connected to the control sail.

Abstract: A traction kite having a variable geometry leading edge that defines a high projected central propulsive region of increased surface area along the top portion of the kite, and lateral control regions of decreased surfaces area extending on opposite sides of the propulsive region. The leading edge thus defines a concave shape when viewed from the side while in flight. Providing a variable geometry leading edge maximizes propulsive forces due to increased surface area, while enhancing control and turning performance by minimizing the surface area of the control regions, namely those generally vertically disposed regions that begin at the tips and end at the propulsive region.

Abstract: A leading edge inflatable traction kite wherein the leading edge structure includes a plurality of spaced segments that are fabricated from a material with a higher elasticity, thus allowing for a greater amount of twisting and bending. The inflatable leading edge includes a series of elastically deformable segments disposed throughout the length thereof to facilitate selective torsional deformation of the leading edge and resulting overall angle of attack of the kite. These elastically deformable segments are preferably integrally formed as part of the leading edge support and are comprised of a material with a high elasticity, namely a higher elasticity than the remaining leading edge segments. Providing elastically deformable segments of high elasticity dispersed along the leading edge combined with regions of lower elasticity maximizes responsiveness and control by allowing leading edge deformation in response to user applied force, while the providing sufficient support to maintain kite stability.

Abstract: A traction kite having a variable geometry leading edge that defines a high projected central propulsive region of increased surface area along the top portion of the kite, and lateral control regions of decreased surfaces area extending on opposite sides of the propulsive region. The leading edge thus defines a concave shape when viewed from the side while in flight. Providing a variable geometry leading edge maximizes propulsive forces due to increased surface area, while enhancing control and turning performance by minimizing the surface area of the control regions, namely those generally vertically disposed regions that begin at the tips and end at the propulsive region.

Abstract: A leading edge inflatable traction kite wherein the leading edge structure includes a plurality of spaced segments that are fabricated from a material with a higher elasticity, thus allowing for a greater amount of twisting and bending. The inflatable leading edge includes a series of elastically deformable segments disposed throughout the length thereof to facilitate selective torsional deformation of the leading edge and resulting overall angle of attack of the kite. These elastically deformable segments are preferably integrally formed as part of the leading edge support and are comprised of a material with a high elasticity, namely a higher elasticicity than the remaining leading edge segments. Providing elastically deformable segments of high elasticitity dispersed along the leading edge combined with regions of lower elasticity maximizes responsiveness and control by allowing leading edge deformation in response to user applied force, while the providing sufficient support to maintain kite stability.