YAKAMATE

 

Span:
Lenght:
Weight:
Surface:
Wing load:
 
Line angle
300cm
200cm
0.8kg
4.7m²
0.165
 
50° - 65°
 
Wind min:
Wind maxi:
Pull min:
Pull max:
 
Line used:
 
 
2.7 m/s )
8 m/s
1kg
16 kg
 
polyester 90 kg
polyamid 120kg

 

This is another kite derived from the Rokkaku, as the Crico. Each side sail is like a Rokkaku with additional clothe to form a hollow shape. Between the two spines, there is a flat sail with a hole in the lower part.
 
The shape of the side sails are providing to the Yakamate a natural stability in all winds. This shape gives also enough drag to avoid flying at too high line angle (line angles over 70° are usually ending with flying problems and it's not desired when kaping).
The two keels are acting as wind vane. It doesn't add much drag, but it increases the kite efficiency to stay in the wind direction.
Of course it is flying very well without the keels.

 

The two longerons are fitted in a sleeve on their all length to perfectly hold the sail. The cross-spars are slightly bowed for additional stability, even if the kite is able to fly without any bow.
Intended for light and medium winds, my Yakamate is equipped with an anti-draft bridle.
 
As is, it has a high aerodynamic efficiency. Its good line angle and big pull combined with a fair stability are giving the Yakamate a major role as kite for aerial photography.
 
I flew it the first time on 26th of march 2007. It's a real pleasure to fly it when wind is light and when some strong breezes and whirling winds are expected from times to times because it doesn't bother.