U-Turn AFS, Owner'S Manual

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AFS system and new features
The principle of the pre-tensioning of the canopy led Strobl to more
design improvements. AFS works best in combination with the geometric
setting of the profiles. This means that the profiles do not run lengthwise
along the canopy (90 degrees to flight direction), but at an angle between
80 and 100 degrees, allowing every cell to perform in the optimal way.
Furthermore, Strobl did not design the width of the cells uniformly; he
used a very fine tuned asymmetry that also required lots of computer
power to calculate. Strobl calls this dynamic cell-width reduction. In a
third step the whole system works more efficiently by using a swept-back
design of the wing tips.
Together these innovations lead to better characteristics under normal
flight conditions. “First I have to mention the optimal start behaviour,”
says Strobl, “The first glider providing the new system is called BODY-
GUARD; a DHV 1 glider that will set fantastic benchmarks. The BODY-
GUARD is easily to inflate in all kinds of wind; there is no need for pul-
ling the A-risers or other tricks and it is impossible for the canopy to beco-
me stuck before the overhead position. Inflation is easy even for begin-
ners and due to the AFS-System the canopy sits right above the pilot. If
the canopy falls backwards, the BODYGUARD comes up immediately
after releasing the brakes – even at angles where other gliders give up”.
The new construction principle also automatically improves the stall cha-
racteristics in flight. Pilots can slow down the BODYGUARD to very low
speed without having to lose manoeuvrability. The newcomer will come
to terms and feel comfortable with an AFS-glider on the first flight for
another reason: “The wing tip comes slightly forward when the brakes
are pulled”, Strobl explains, “the canopy sits right above the pilot and this
effect can even be seen while Paramotoring, this is what inexperienced
pilots will appreciate”.