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When thinking about entering the world
of Motorised Paragliding several options are available:
Build it | Buy it | Assemble
it |
Build it Overview
| Engine Types| Bar
Types | Reduction Ratios
In essence one may build a powered paraglider
out of many types of engines.
We have even made one out of a motorcycle engine. The gearbox is cut
off and replaces with a reduction ratio, to ensure the prop spins at
a convenient speed (within the props power band- usually around 2400-
2800-rpm) and the engine operates within its maximum operating band.
Reducing the size of the small one in relation to the large will increase
the ratio and hence torque. Increasing the size of the large one will
also achieve this same effect. The size of the large Vs small pulley
will alter the speed that the prop
spins (which is attached to the large one). For lighter pilots that
do not require lots of thrust, the prop may be attached directly to
the crank, i.e. a direct drive. Here a smaller prop may be also used
(in order for the engine to turn it at the required speed), and cage
may now also be reduced. Just monitor the prop RPM using a rev counter.
The engine may be mounted upside down provided a diaphram carburetor
is used or the engine and carburetor is designed for this purpose.
The prop size (both pitch and diameter)
will also effect the speed at which the prop spins by the varying degrees
of drag that is placed on the engine. I personally believe the most
efficient prop is long and thin which results in minimized drag. The
one disadvantage, which is viewed by some, is that the overall size
of the cage increases. Each prop will be specific for each reduction
ratio unless one uses variable pitches, which then may be altered for
different take off altitudes and reduction ratios.
The harness is simply to attach the overall
contraption to your back and the glider. Various systems may be used
(hang bars, direct attachment, integrated
bars in the harness and side J-bars). View this in this CD and
the PPG book. Overall speaking once you are hanging in the harness the
frame and prop must sit virtually vertically or 90 degrees to the horizontal
ground or slightly back. The lie of the overall set up may be changed
by clipping in higher, lower or using a foam wedge between the back
of the harness and frame or using various clip in points for the glider.
Always ensure a safety strap is used in case structural failure of one
or other items occur. One must at all times be attached to the wing
via your harness. (See below for various hanging
systems).
Various
canopies may be used, however usually higher performance wings
do not have now to be utilized as one is now not relying on the performance
of the wing to remain airborne. Additions worthwhile having fitted to
your wing are a speed bar (to alter the flying speed of the wing), foot
rest (to help get into the harness after take off) and trip tabs (to
alter the flying speed of the wing). Having the front risers of A riser's
split into to separate risers is also beneficial when inflating the
wing. By pulling on the center A lines only ensures that the center
of the wing will inflate first and outwards thereafter, making the inflation
more controlled.
Material. Either mild steel, stainless
steel (which may result in brittleness in some cases) or aluminum may
be used. With aluminum we use from 19mm diameter with a wall thickness
ranging from 1,6-2mm to 22mm diameter and similar wall thickneses. With
mild steel a 19-mm diameter with a 0,9-wall thickness also works well
and is just a light. The outer cage may be made using carbon fiber golf
or fishing rod material, which is rigid, light and flexible. (View this
on the CD). Aircraft aluminum may also be used however we do not believe
that it is as important as many manufacturers are led to believe.
The pulleys and faceplates are made from
high-grade aluminum and then may be chromes,
anadized or simply left plain. The belt is a simple off the
shelf poly V belt and bearings common sealed type.
Fuel is normal pump gas usually mixed
with two-stroke oil. (Either 100% synthetic or normal motorbike two
stroke). Check with the engine supplier first.
1. Always do a pre-flight check. Make
sure all nuts bolts are tight and locked (spring washers, lock tight
etc)
2. Always ensure there is a landing area below one and if not you have
enough height to glide to one.
3. Always land and take off into the wind.
4. STAY OUT OF ROTOR.
Alternate Design

Zander Potgieter on his home built
100cc KT Yamaha go cart engine
 
 
 
Customise your own



MAKE YOUR OWN PPG NETTING.
Different colours and choose your line thickness.
How to make your own netting designed for your ppg.
By Roland Raffray South Africa.










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