Kite Messenger, 8mm rod, single sail

thingiverse

A kite messenger is a device that carries a payload while utilizing a sail to travel along the line of a kite. Once it reaches a specific point on the kite string, it releases the load and the sail loses tension, allowing the messenger to glide down for reloading. A bear with a parachute or a bag full of sweets can be used as a load, making this an entertaining way to engage kids. Years ago, I constructed a kite messenger using brass components and fiber tubes. Instead of pulleys, I employed hooks to enable gliding along the line. By switching to pulleys, I aim to reduce friction, thus requiring less wind for the kite messenger's travel. It's time to design one that can be 3D printed. This project remains under construction because I haven't yet conducted a test flight with the messenger. A potential weak point could be the 4mm trigger. I hope to conduct a thorough test fly of this device very soon. I studied several other kite messengers and was inspired by "Kite Messenger 1.2" from erwinha, available on Thingiverse (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:999536). However, I encountered difficulties finding a pulley that fit his design, so I created my own version with the option to incorporate your preferred pulley choice. Another modification I made was connecting the front pulley directly to the trigger rod, ensuring it cannot miss the stopper block in the line (I utilize a Champagne cork as a stopper block). I tested the messenger at 4 bft and it performed exceptionally well. You can find footage of this test at: https://youtu.be/0drmgC097VA