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Section 06
Types of use
06
Types of use
The MIURA RS was developed and
tested for use solely as a paraglider for
foot launch and for winch launch. Any
use other than as intended is
prohibited.
Winch launch
The procedure for a winch launch is
similar in its initial stages to a forwards
launch. After the canopy has been
pulled up to its highest point, the pilot
rises from the ground by the tension of
the tow line. Under no circumstances
should
the “start” command be given
before the glider is completely under
control. Major changes to direction
should be avoided during the launch
phase and before reaching a safe
altitude. After having left the ground,
the pilot will be slowly towed in a flat
angle up to the safe altitude of 50m.
During this phase, the pilot must
remain ready to run and must not sit
back in the harness, so that it is
possible to land safely in the event that
the winch or tow rope fails. Ensure that
the glider is flown with open brakes so
that the angle of attack is not
increased further by the brakes.
On a winch launch, the glider should if
possible be steered only by weight-
shifting. Brisk, forceful steering input
with the brakes can be used to help
correct direction, without braking the
glider too much and stalling it.
Winch-towing requires special training
and special regulations must be
observed. These are:
•
The pilot must have completed the
appropriate training and hold a
licence.
•
The winch and release must have a
certificate of compliance which
covers the towing of paragliders.
•
The winch operator must have
undertaken training which
includes the towing of paragliders.
•
The MIURA RS may not be towed
with a towline tension of more
than 100 daN.
WARNING
The paraglider must not under any
circumstances be towed by motor
vehicle or motor boat etc. if you do
not have the appropriate towing
equipment and a suitable winch
operator.
Attaching the towline release
system
The optimal attachment point for the
towline release should be as close as
possible to the system’s centre of
gravity. On a paraglider the ideal
attachment point is level with the
harness attachment point or directly
on the risers.
It is not essential to use a suitable tow
adaptor, but it is recommended and
TIP
For a winch launch too, laying out
the canopy in a half-moon shape will
help to ensure that it fills and rises
evenly on launch.
This considerably reduces the need
to make corrections during launch,
allowing a controlled and safe
launch.
PLEASE NOTE
SWING recommends that pilots use
an appropriate tow adaptor, which
gives greater safety margins during
towing.