In the sketched arrangement, the Rogallo parachute kites will have difficulty deploying, being in each other’s way. This was demonstrated by testing four small parachutes attached to each other as shown in the photo, opening and inflating at the same time for only a fraction of a second due to the interaction of kite traction.
So Airborne Wind Energy System based on steerable Rogallo rescue parachute is updated.
The turn radius can be a significant element in order to optimize the power to space use ratio.
The turn radius (or the radius of a turn) is the horizontal distance required for an aircraft to turn. It varies according to the bank angle and the square of the true airspeed.
To extrapolate by simplifying, the heavier a kite is for the same wing loading, the faster it must fly to ensure its lift and maximize its performance.
As an example, a very efficient rigid wing with a high wing loading will fly quickly so as not to fall and maximize its efficiency. As a result, its turn radius will increase considerably (to the square of the airspeed). So the power to kite area ratio will be maximized, unlike the power to space use ratio.
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The work around of course being to tie kites together.
This reduces their turn radius and keeps speed high