🪂 Paraglider Control Mechanisms
A paraglider is controlled using two fundamental principles: Aerodynamic Control and Balanced Control. ▶ 🌬️ Aerodynamic Control: This is activated by moving or bending specific parts of the wing's surface. By doing so, the pilot changes both the magnitude and the direction of the aerodynamic forces acting on the wing. ▶ ⚖️ Balanced Control: This involves shifting the alignment between the weight force G and the aerodynamic force R until a new equilibrium (flying mode) is established. The aerodynamic force acts on the Centre of Pressure (CP), while the weight G originates from the Centre of Gravity (CG), located near the pilot’s midsection. This control is achieved through weight shifting.
🛑 The Braking System: Mechanics & Applications
The brakes serve as the primary aerodynamic controls. They function as follows: ▶ The Mechanism: Pulling both brakes evenly folds down the trailing edge of the wing, creating additional drag. This slows the wing down relative to the pilot, increasing the Angle of Attack (AoA). While this temporarily boosts lift, it eventually slows the entire aircraft. ▶ New Flight Modes: If the brakes are held in a specific position, the glider stabilizes into a new flight mode characterized by a steeper gliding trajectory, lower airspeed, and a higher angle of attack.
