Accelerated Fl Ight; Collapses - Advance SIGMA 7 Manuel D'utilisation

Accelerated fl ight
The SIGMA 7 wing remains extremely stable even in accelerated
fl ight. However, paragliders operate at a lower angle of attack whi-
le fl ying at their higher speeds, and the degree of stability is gene-
rally reduced. The higher aerodynamic forces involved at higher air-
speeds mean that a collapse can be more dynamic (see also section
«Collapses»).
When fl ying fast into very turbulent air fi rst fully release the speed bar,
before applying the brake you will need to control the wing. The SIG-
MA 7's high stability allows it to be fl own through moderately turbu-
lent air in accelerated confi guration. In this case active speed bar
should be used to control the angle of attack – instead of using the
brakes:
• when the angle of attack increases (wing goes back) briefl y
increase speed bar
• when the angle of attack reduces (wing goes forward) release
speed bar
As a result, pitching disturbances can be minimised, and good gli-
ding performance maintained. For more about accelerated fl ight see
section «Speed system».
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Tip: Make sure that brake is not applied at the same time as
speed bar, otherwise you will fi nd yourself in the worst poss-
ible gliding situation, without gaining any advantage.

Collapses

Asymmetric (side) collapse
The SIGMA 7 has a very stiff and stable canopy. With an active fl y-
ing technique collapses can be almost completely prevented in nor-
mal fl ying conditions.
If the glider does, however, suffer a side collapse at trim speed, it will
respond to collapses of 50% or more with a slight turning tendency,
allowing heading to be easily held with light counter-steering. Normal-
ly, the wing will reopen without pilot action.
Due to higher aerodynamic forces during accelerated fl ight the glider
will respond to a side collapse a little more impulsively. The severity of
the collapse in accelerated fl ight is softened because the wing collap-
ses from the wingtip towards the centre. The turning tendency in fully
accelerated fl ight will be more dynamic, but is still well controllable.
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04.06.2008 14:27:51 Uhr 04.06.2008 14:27:51 Uhr