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3 CONSTRUCTION
The glider is constructed with a top and bottom surface, connected by ribs.
One top and bottom panel, together with the connecting ribs is called a cell.
Each cell has an opening on the front lower part. The cells fill with air forcing the panels to
take the shape dictated by the airfoil (rib) section.
On either side the wing ends in a stabilizer or wing tip, which provides straight-line (Yaw)
stability and produces some outward lift to keep the span-wise tension.
The front part of the ribs use APCO's FLEXON batten system to keep the leading edge
shaped at high speeds and in turbulent air. They also improve the performance and the
launch characteristics of the glider.
4 MATERIALS
The glider is made from tear resistant Ripstop Nylon cloth, which is P.U. coated to zero
porosity and then siliconized to give the fabric high resistance to the elements. Different
cloth is used for the top, bottom and ribs due to their different functions.
The lines are made of superaramid covered with a polyester sheath for protection against
UV, wear and abrasion.
The bottom section of the brake lines is made of polyester because of its better mechanical
properties.
The maillon quick links that attach the lines to the risers are made of stainless steel.
5 FLEXON® Batten system:
New generation FLEXON ® batten system incorporated (see below) in the leading edge of
the ribs, insuring perfect profile shape (instead of traditional Mylar reinforcement). FLEXON
® battens reduce the weight of the glider by an additional 500gr. and unlike Mylar
reinforcement will guarantee no deterioration in performance or launch.
Additional advantage of FLEXON batten is that it is practically indestructible, safeguarding
the performance and launch over the lifespan of the glider.
