What is a Paraglider
A paraglider is an eliptical airfoil which uses leading edge ram air pressure to maintain its
shape. What the?? Paragliders are typically constructed of nylon or related materials. The nylon is specially
coated to reduce porosity(to stop air going through the material).
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Here is a great image from the website: how stuff works. showing the parts of a
paraglider.
The risers(strings) are all critical in length to hold the wing in its required shape. Early
gliders were squarer in shape and only had A ans B lines.
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The airfoil designs of a paraglider are many and varied. One generalisation that can be made
however, is that low performance paragliders have a relatively low aspect ratio (they are shorter in span and wider
through the chord), while higher performance wings are higher aspect ratio (longer in span, while shorter through
the chord. some look more like a skinny banana than a wing!)
Here are some pics of flyers often described as paragliders(and what they actually are).
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Hang Gliding.
While similar in function, hang gliders are not as portable as paragliders, they take
considerable time to set-up and dismantle. But they have an edge in speed and glide ratio as they
are more efficient. They can operate in a wider range of conditions. (stronger
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Parachuting
Though Paragliding owes its origins to this sport, paragliding has evolved away from the
parachute. Parachutists rely on another aircraft to carry them aloft, then leaping into freefall
before deploying the chute to arest the fall and control the descent.
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Parasailing
This sport also owes its history to parachutes, but relies on a tow vehicle, (boat or car) to
remain aloft. The pilot has very little control of the aircraft.
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Paraplane or powered parachute.
This is actually closer to paragliding than the others, as the aircraft depends on the airfoil
of the wing to stay aloft. Naturally the engine works hard as drag is relatively high. Easily
transported powered aircraft.
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And finally the real thing!
A pair of paragliders enjoying the updraught caused when a sea breaze hits a coastal hill.
Paragliders can stay aloft here for as long as the wind keeps blowing(and doesnt get too
strong)
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The information in this guide is of a general nature only. Paragliding is a
potentially dangerous sport. Get professionally qualified instruction before buying any gear and flying. Your
professional advice superceeds anything on this site.
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