RAeS Design Conference
SkywalkingFoot launched & very light flight
Ian Currer: Technical Officer
British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association
Who are the BHPA?7,500+ flyers who have formed one association to protect and promote safe and self-regulated flying.
Paragliding pilotsHang gliding pilotsParascendersMicrolight pilotsHuman powered pilots
We estimate a further 1,000 pilots are also flying in the UK
IC
Paragliders: Weigh around 10-20kg, back packable. Can be
powered, foot, or tow launched. Sink Rate 1.0m/sec Glide of 9:1
Hang gliders: Weigh around 30kgs, car transportable,
foot launched. Can be powered, towed or Aerotowed. Trim of 30mph, Top speed 60mph. Sink rate 0.8m/sec Glide of 15:1. Flexwing and rigid versions.
Speed wings, & Single skins: Weigh less than 4kgs,
Speed wings are small and fast but poor sink rate, single skins are slow and very light (1.5kg)
What are the design goals and challenges facing manufacturers of these aircraft?
1/ Economically viable
2/ Safe
3/ Performance
4/ Light weight
Economically viable.
Available and affordable components and materials
Easy to build and replicate accurately
What the market wants
Price point the market will be prepared to pay
Safety
Improved emergency systems.
Improved training
Understanding the behaviour of inflated wings. Including the recovery characteristics in instability situations
PerformanceImproving lift: Accurately controlling the airfoil, Slots, Diffuser tips, “Shark nose” Battens.
Reducing drag: Spars, Lines or cables, Skin friction, Pilot, Wheels
Powerplants: Efficient motors/ Batteries/ Propellers