Netting-supported Sailcloth
for Extreme-scale AWES

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The original rip-stop design method, loosely netting-supported cloth could greatly reduce operating costs and extend service life of extreme-scale AWES. A netting and bridle skeleton can last several times longer than light panel-cloth, which could be specified even lighter than otherwise. Replacing only panel-cloth is a fraction of replacement-cost for fully integrated loadpath-cloth construction. Even cheaper would be as-needed "patchwork" replacement only of damaged panels.

This method went out of style for multiple reasons- tacking rigs with sails trading windward side, complex multi-sail tall-rigs, and relaxed economic margins of elite yacht sailing. Extreme-scale in soft-kite construction could bring this thrifty method back to economic advantage.
In theory, a fabric area the size of a dining room table is enough to power a household, in superior upper wind. Replacing the "tablecloth" portion every year or so would be economical.