Patent ID: 6062510
Filing Date: 2000-05-16
Classification: A63H

Abstract:
A kite comprising:a frame structure having a front side and a rear side and including:a plurality of elongate rods each including a distal end and a proximal end; andat least one joint for interconnecting said proximal ends of said plurality of rods to thereby facilitate assembly of said frame structure;primary tensioning means for stiffening said frame structure and for increasing resistance against bending and breaking of said plurality of rods when said frame structure is subjected to a wind force;secondary tensioning means for absorbing the wind force exerted on said frame structure, thereby providing resistance to deforming of said frame structure when under stress;a net fixed to said front side of said frame structure and defining a front face of said kite, said net being structured and disposed to air flow therethrough, thereby providing minimal wind resistance;at least one panel formed of a film material and including a front side and a rear side, said at least one panel being removably positionable on said front face, with said rear side against said net, to thereby define a wind confronting surface on said front face of said kite and said at least one panel being releasably held against said net by the wind force exerted on said front side of said frame structure;a plurality of control lines attached to and extending from said frame structure; anda handle including means for attaching said plurality of control lines thereto at any of a plurality of selected positions, wherein each of said plurality of selected positions provides a distinct degree of control of the speed of movement of the kite through the air upon manipulating the handle with one hand, thereby providing means for adjusting the responsiveness in the control of the speed and maneuverability of the kite in accordance with the skill of the user.