Canopy collapses, Asymmetric collapse, Cravat / glider wrapped around lines – GIN Boomerang 10 User Manual
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Boomerang 10
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Canopy collapses
Collapses of the canopy can occur in strong turbulence. The Boomerang 10 will recover with
pilot input through weightshift and B-riser control in almost all situations. Only if the wing
surges very fast in front of you should you stop it with the brakes. However, it is recommended
that you follow the advice below in order to help the wing recover more rapidly.
Asymmetric collapse
In the event of encountering strong turbulence and suffering an asymmetric collapse on one
side, the Boomerang 10 will promptly and easily re-inflate without interference from the pilot,
but the wing will turn slightly towards the collapsed side. This might be unwanted close to the
ground or other gliders. Maintain your course by weight shifting away from the collapsed side.
This action can be aided by applying a little gentle force on the B-riser or brake opposite to the
deflation. This will normally be sufficient for recovery. However, it is sometimes necessary to
pump out the deflated side with a firm and smooth pumping motion. Let the glider regain its
flying speed after it has re-inflated.
It is important not to apply too much brake input, as this increases the risk of deep stall.
If you have a big collapse - especially when flying accelerated - you must observe the following:
When a big collapse happens, due to the difference in weight and inertia of the canopy and pilot,
the pilot will continue to travel forward and the canopy will fall behind the pilot, especially
when flying accelerated. You must wait until you pendulum back below the canopy before
reacting and carefully counter-braking the open side of the canopy. If you react too early, you
risk stalling the collapsed canopy completely and this can lead to a cascade of further collapses.
When you have a big collapse in accelerated flight you must first release the speed bar
immediately. Check your position relative to the ground, and if you have enough space stay
neutral with your weight and brake to open side slightly to control the turn, but let the glider
turn, to maintain airspeed. Watch the open side of the wing, and apply brake to control and limit
the turn, but avoid applying so much brake that the open side of the wing starts to arc
backwards as this indicates the flying side of the wing is on the edge of stall. Once the turn is
stabilized weightshift heavily towards the open side of the wing so that you can limit the turn
or maintain direction without having to apply excessive brake. In most cases the collapse will
open on its own, but you may need to pump it out. This is the optimum action to avoid a spin or
stall and help your glider to recover as fast as possible.
Cravat / glider wrapped around lines
A cravat occurs after a severe deflation when the wing tip becomes trapped in the glider lines.
It can occur on the Boomerang 10, usually after big deflations or in cascading situations. The
pilot should be familiar with the procedure for correcting it. On the Boomerang 10, there is a
separate stabilizer/winglet main line that goes down to the A2 riser. This line usually becomes
slack in the event of a cravat. Pull it down completely until it becomes tight and the cravat
normally comes out.