Rising from the fires of the Gaastra design team, the Phoenix has arrived to dominate the skies and change the face of kiteboarding. Simply put, the Gaastra Phoenix is the most advanced piece of kiteboarding equipment on the market. The Phoenix will change the current approach to kite design with Gaastra’s patent pending SST2 (SHAPED SPAR TECHNOLOGY), and 3D RADIAL panel layout. Offered in sizes 17.5, 21, 25 m2 and designed as a high-performance 4-line inflatable kite, the Gaastra Phoenix delivers never before seen speed, unmatched power, precise control and an almost unlimited range.
SST
Shaped Spar Technology is a revolutionary concept in kite design derived from exploiting the 2 most important factors in aero design, LIFT and DRAG.
1) LIFT
Lift is defined as a force exerted on an airfoil, perpendicular to its path of travel. This is the force that enables kites to fly, so we want as much of it as we can generate and handle, without running into adverse effects.
2) DRAG
Drag is defined as a force exerted on an airfoil in a direction opposite to the foil's path of travel. Since drag is a force that opposes the foil's motion in the desired direction, we want to minimize this force as much as possible.
The Phoenix leading edge is constructed in an elliptical shape that is achieved by using 2 reduced diameter chambers. SST (SHAPED SPAR TECHNOLOGY) reduces the leading edge diameter approximately 20% over conventional single chamber leading edge designs. The reduced diameter enables a faster flying, more efficient kite . . . it maximizes LIFT and reduces DRAG.
3) LIFT to DRAG RATIO
There is a relationship between the lift and the drag produced by a given foil, and often there is a trade off between these two effects. One is therefore faced with the challenge of creating the desired amount of lift without too much resulting drag. The Phoenix’s optimal LIFT to DRAG RATIO generated from SST (SHAPED SPAR TECHNOLOGY) is not attainable though current single leading edge designs.
The benefit gained by the SST construction is not only a more efficient profile but also in providing a more rigid air frame. Strength and rigidity are increased by constructing the leading edge with 2 smaller chambers. When SST is compared to a conventional single chamber, large diameter leading edge the differences are significant. The Phoenix airframe reduces the amount of distortion that is viewed as acceptable in current kite design, therefore delivering efficiency that is passed on to the rider through more power, more range, more speed, and more response.
SST2 Advantage:
Complete domination in 8 knots of wind. Elliptical shape reduces leading edge diameter approximately 20% over conventional single chamber leading edge designs. Optimal LIFT to DRAG Ratio. Delivers the most rigid air frame for maximum efficiency in all conditions.
3D Radial Panel Layout
Most fabric structures are assembled from a set of individual shaped "panels". The final shape of the foil is achieved through the shaping of the edges of the adjoining panels. The seams between these panels can be oriented in such a way as to allow the careful alignment of principle thread directions with the main loads in the structure. The general arrangement of the seams, panels and thread directions in a fabric structure are collectively referred to as the "panel layout". A good panel layout can go a long way towards achieving a good flying shape, while a poor panel layout can ruin even a very good design shape.
The 3D Radial layout optimizes Phoenix efficiency. Plan forms and cross sectional shapes are chosen to maximize lift and minimize drag. Load paths are calculated and materials chosen and oriented in such a way as to minimize distortion. Cutting edge analytical software tools are used to assess loads, load paths, and appropriate foil shapes, materials and panel layouts.
Fluid Drive Wing Tip
The Fluid drive wing tip functions as a single continuous leading edge energy transmitter. Regardless of angle of attack, the wing tip maintains an efficient shape with no “folding†or distortion. The Fluid Drive wing tips are additionally reinforced with a double ply Dacron/Monofilm sandwich for added efficiency.
Flight Connectors
The Phoenix is offered with 3/2 Flight connectors with multiple line attachment points for turning speed adjustment.
Phoenix Construction:
The Gaastra Phoenix is finished down to the smallest details with the goal of keeping the kite in the air and the rider on the water for a long as possible. The SST leading edge is constructed with a Flat Seam to prevent canopy chaffing. Flight Tape and Aero Tape is included for added longevity. A layer of Dacron Flight Tape is adhered to the canopy above each strut seam to prevent chaffing. Aero Tape is added to the trailing edge for stability and durability. All Phoenix seams are constructed with Super Seam Technology: everything is glued and stitched for long life.
Leading edge and strut bumpers (Crash Pads) provide added protection for crashing and dragging. The Phoenix is Air Leash compliant: Attach your pump to the Air Leash for hands free inflation.
The Gaastra Phoenix is setting the kite world on fire. Phoenix features such as patent pending SST2 and 3D Radial Panel Layout will give the rider every advantage: through materials and performance, from your home break to the World Cup, in any conditions Mother Nature will deliver. Gaastra Kiteboarding . . . Rising from the Fire.