| In this thesis, the longitudinal dynamic stability modes, namely Phugoid and Short-period of delta kite with single tether are examined, for different aspect ratios (A) and flow conditions. The equations of motion, of kite are solved in polar-inertial wind frame and the tether is approximated by straight line elements. The vortex lift and induced drag due to leading edge vortices are calculated using Polhamus leading edge suction analogy. The Polhamus proportionality constants (Kp, Kv) are used to estimate the overall coefficient of lift and drag (C L, CD) and are computed using Multhopp lifting surface theory.;The values of total coefficient of lift and drag (CL, CD) are examined for a wide variety of aspect ratio of delta kite and are validated by comparing with the experimental data. Linear stability analysis is performed for the chosen design variables to ensure the nominal design has stable longitudinal dynamics. A plot of the root locus of the system matrix for longitudinal dynamics as a function of geometry and flight conditions, provided an intuitive understanding of the flight modes of the kite, with respect to design parameters of interest. |
