[Semper Fidelis]

HANGGLIFTER FOR FUN.jpg (48.07 KiB) Viewed 391 times

[JoeF]

Someone might choose a "Seven-Nests Hex Pack" and use the cusp spaces for holding some rib parts. The hexagonal global resultant pack strapped is quite stable; kited end plates could stop nested concentric tubes from slipping out during transport. The seven nests may provide a more economic selection of tube ODs/IDs for sections that will join often with Joe Cups.

SevenHexPackTeaser01forSomeTPHG001.jpg (59.7 KiB) Viewed 390 times

[JoeF]

And:
https://www.dyneema.com/sectors/sports-and-consumer-products/sailing-lines

What will be the full story in decades to come about lines used in TPHGs?

==================================================================================================

[JoeF]

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Florian will show and tell about his TPHG 4.6 on Saturday, November 16, 2024, someplace at or near Sylmar Flight Park:

SylmarFlightParksm.jpg (111.1 KiB) Viewed 385 times

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Florian's TPHG will be shown Sunday, November 17, 2024, someplace at or near:

AndyJacksonAirparksm.jpg (101.42 KiB) Viewed 385 times

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And on Monday, November 18, 2024, at Dockweiler Hang Gliding Park:

DockweilerVisit.JPG (22.04 KiB) Viewed 385 times

[JoeF]

Playing in various AIs .... so be aware of possible gross errors of understanding. Use the study only for teasing progress in TPHGs.
======================================================================
Model A

pLEASE DESIGN THE DETAILs of a practical hang glider that weighs 25 lb and packs for bus tote in 1 cu ft with length dimension of 4 ft for its CF tubes. Focus on concentric nested tubes in 7 parent largest tubes. Name wall thickness changes. The hang glider would be only for conservative gliding in conservative weathers and wind.



Design of a Compact, Lightweight Hang Glider

Objective:
To design a practical hang glider that:

Weighs no more than 25 lb.
Packs into a 1 cubic foot volume for bus transport, with the longest dimension being 4 ft.
Utilizes concentric nested carbon fiber (CF) tubes in 7 parent largest tubes, with specified wall thickness changes.
Is intended for conservative gliding in calm weather conditions.
1. Frame Structure
Material Selection:

Carbon Fiber (CF) Tubes: Chosen for their high strength-to-weight ratio, stiffness, and durability.
Concentric Nested Tubes:

Design Approach: Use tubes of decreasing diameters that nest inside each other for compact storage.
Number of Tubes: 7 primary tubes, forming the main structural elements of the glider.
Tube Specifications:

Tube Number Outer Diameter (OD) Wall Thickness Length
Tube 1 2.00 inches 0.100 inches 4 ft
Tube 2 1.85 inches 0.090 inches 4 ft
Tube 3 1.71 inches 0.080 inches 4 ft
Tube 4 1.58 inches 0.070 inches 4 ft
Tube 5 1.46 inches 0.060 inches 4 ft
Tube 6 1.35 inches 0.050 inches 4 ft
Tube 7 1.25 inches 0.040 inches 4 ft
Note: The outer diameter (OD) and wall thickness decrease incrementally to allow each tube to nest within the previous one.

2. Wing Design
Wing Configuration:

Type: Delta wing, common in hang gliders for stability and ease of control.
Wingspan: Approximately 20 ft when assembled, providing sufficient lift.
Sail Material:

Fabric: Lightweight, high-tensile materials such as ripstop nylon or polyester laminate.
Features: UV resistance, tear resistance, minimal stretch.
Sail Attachment:

Sleeves and Pockets: Reinforced areas where tubes are inserted.
Tensioning System: Cords or straps to maintain sail tension during flight.
3. Control Frame
A-frame Assembly:

Components: Two upright tubes and a base tube forming an 'A' shape.
Materials: Smaller diameter CF tubes, compatible with nesting system.
Connections: Hinged joints or quick-release pins for assembly/disassembly.
Control Bar:

Function: Pilot grip for weight-shift control.
Design: Ergonomic shape with anti-slip grip material.
4. Assembly Mechanisms
Tube Connections:

Sleeve Joints: Reinforced areas where tubes slide together.
Locking Mechanisms: Spring-loaded pins or twist locks to secure tubes.
Hardware:

Materials: Lightweight metals like aluminum or titanium for fittings.
Corrosion Resistance: Anodized or treated surfaces to prevent degradation.
5. Wall Thickness Changes
Rationale for Thickness Variation:

Strength vs. Weight: Thicker walls in larger tubes for load-bearing capacity; thinner walls in smaller tubes to reduce weight.
Nesting Compatibility: Ensures tubes fit snugly within each other without excessive play.
Wall Thickness Details:

Tube 1 (Largest): 0.100 inches
Tube 2: 0.090 inches
Tube 3: 0.080 inches
Tube 4: 0.070 inches
Tube 5: 0.060 inches
Tube 6: 0.050 inches
Tube 7 (Smallest): 0.040 inches
6. Weight Management
Target Weight Distribution:

Frame Tubes: Approximately 15 lb total.
Sail Material: Around 5 lb.
Hardware and Accessories: Remaining 5 lb, including fittings, harness attachments, and control bar.
Optimizations:

Material Efficiency: Use high-modulus carbon fiber for maximum strength with minimal material.
Design Simplification: Eliminate unnecessary components without compromising safety.
7. Packing and Portability
Packing Dimensions:

Total Volume: Designed to fit within 1 cubic foot.
Longest Dimension: 4 ft, matching the length of the nested tubes.
Packing Order:

Tubes: Nest from smallest (Tube 7) to largest (Tube 1).
Sail: Folded compactly around the nested tubes.
Hardware: Placed in protective pouches within the tote.
Tote Bag: Durable material with handles for easy transport.
8. Safety Considerations
Structural Integrity:

Load Testing: Ensure all components withstand expected stresses with a safety margin.
Quality Control: High manufacturing standards for consistent performance.
Pilot Harness System:

Attachment Points: Secure connections between harness and glider frame.
Adjustability: Accommodate different pilot sizes while maintaining balance.
Operational Guidelines:

Weather Limitations: Suitable only for calm conditions with light winds.
Flight Training: Pilots should be certified and familiar with the glider's handling characteristics.
Maintenance Schedule: Regular inspections for wear, damage, or fatigue.
9. Compliance and Recommendations
Regulatory Compliance:

Aviation Authorities: Adhere to regulations set by bodies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or local equivalents.
Certification: Seek approvals or certifications necessary for ultralight aircraft.
Professional Consultation:

Engineering Review: Engage with aerospace engineers to validate design specifications.
Stress Analysis: Perform computational simulations and physical tests.
Conclusion
This hang glider design prioritizes portability, lightweight construction, and safety for conservative gliding activities. By utilizing concentric nested carbon fiber tubes with varying wall thicknesses, the glider achieves compact storage without sacrificing structural integrity. The careful selection of materials and components ensures the glider meets the target weight while providing a stable and controllable flight experience in suitable weather conditions.

Disclaimer: Always consult with professional engineers and adhere to all safety standards and regulations when designing and constructing aviation equipment. This design is a conceptual guideline and should be thoroughly tested and certified before any actual use.

===============================================
Model B

Designing a practical hang glider that meets the specified requirements is an exciting challenge. Here's a detailed design concept for a hang glider weighing 25 lbs, with a bus tote pack size of 1 cubic foot, and a length of 4 feet for its carbon fiber (CF) tubes. The design will utilize concentric nested tubes within 7 parent largest tubes, with varying wall thicknesses to optimize strength and weight.

### Hang Glider Design Specifications:
1. **Total Weight**: 25 lbs
2. **Pack Size**: 1 cubic foot for bus tote
3. **Length of CF Tubes**: 4 ft
4. **Primary Structure**: Concentric nested tubes within 7 parent largest tubes
5. **Intended Use**: Conservative gliding in mild weather and wind conditions

### Materials:
- **Carbon Fiber Tubes**: Chosen for their high strength-to-weight ratio.
- **Fabric**: Light-weight, durable, and weather-resistant fabric (e.g., ripstop nylon).
- **Foam Core**: For the wing's sandwich structure, providing rigidity and lightweight strength.

### Structural Design:

#### 1. **Wing Structure**:
- **Wingspan**: Approximately 18-20 feet for sufficient glide ratio.
- **Cell Structure**: Utilizes a combination of diamond and rectangular cells to optimize strength and stability.
- **Foam Core**: Sandwiched between two layers of fabric, providing rigidity without significantly increasing weight.

#### 2. **Tubes Configuration**:
- **Number of Tubes**: 7 parent largest tubes, with multiple concentric nested tubes inside.
- **Outer Tubes**: 7 main CF tubes, each 4 ft long, arranged in a circular pattern forming the wing's skeleton.
- **Nested Tubes**: Smaller concentric tubes nested within the outer tubes, providing additional internal support.

#### 3. **Wall Thickness Variations**:
- **Outer Tubes**:
- **Diameter**: 2 inches
- **Wall Thickness**: 0.1 inches (for initial outer tubes)
- **Nested Tubes**:
- **Diameter**: 1.5 inches, 1.2 inches, 1 inch, 0.8 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.2 inches
- **Wall Thickness**: 0.05 inches, 0.04 inches, 0.03 inches, 0.02 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.01 inches, 0.005 inches respectively

### Packability:
- **Folding Mechanism**: The wings and control lines can be folded and secured with elastic bands and bungee cords.
- **Packing**: The hang glider can be packed into a bus tote that measures within 1 cubic foot. The tubes can be slightly compressed during packing, and then restored to their original shape once assembled.

### Assembly and Deployment:
1. **Unpack**: Remove the hang glider components from the bus tote.
2. **Assemble Tubes**: Connect the nested tubes within the outer tubes, ensuring alignment and stability.
3. **Attach Fabric and Foam**: Secure the fabric and foam core to the tube structure, creating the wing shape.
4. **Attach Control Lines**: Connect the control lines to the appropriate points on the wing and harness.

### Safety and Performance:
- **Conservative Gliding**: The design focuses on stability and ease of use, making it suitable for beginners and experienced gliders in mild weather conditions.
- **Durability**: The carbon fiber tubes and strong fabric ensure the hang glider can withstand regular use without significant wear and tear.

This design ensures the hang glider is lightweight, easy to pack, and capable of safe and enjoyable gliding in conservative weather conditions. The use of concentric nested tubes optimizes structural integrity and weight distribution, making it a practical and efficient design for its intended use.

===================
Another AI experiment:

User:
Give the details and specifications for making a hang glider for glide ratio of 8, but the glider weighs but 25 lb, made of CF tubes, and can be compactly toted using 1 cubic ft of volume and no frame element longer than 4 ft.
Meta AI:
[h2]Hang Glider Specifications[/h2]
To achieve a glide ratio of 8 with a lightweight and compact design, here are the details and specifications for making a hang glider:
Weight: 25 lb (11.3 kg)
Materials:
CF (Carbon Fiber) tubes for the frame
Dacron sailcloth or similar lightweight material for the wing
Design Parameters:
Wing Span: 24 ft (7.3 m)
Wing Area: 140 sq ft (13 sq m)
Aspect Ratio: 4.3
Cambered Surface: 35%
Sail Billow: 12%
Nose Angle: 120 degrees
Tail Angle: 90 degrees
Frame Design:
CF tube diameter: 1.5 in (3.8 cm)
CF tube wall thickness: 0.05 in (1.3 mm)
Frame elements:
2 x A-frame tubes (4 ft long)
2 x boom tubes (4 ft long)
1 x kingpost (3 ft long)
1 x control bar (3 ft long)
Compact Design:
The glider can be disassembled and stored in a compact volume of 1 cubic ft (28 L)
No frame element longer than 4 ft (1.2 m)
Performance:
Glide Ratio: 8
Best Lift-to-Drag Ratio (L/D): 8:1
Stall Speed: 15 mph (24 km/h)
Optimal Flying Speed: 20-30 mph (32-48 km/h)
Please note that these specifications are theoretical and may require adjustments during the manufacturing process to ensure optimal performance and safety. Additionally, it's crucial to consult with an experienced hang glider designer or engineer to review and validate these specifications before building the glider.
Remember, safety should always be the top priority when designing and building a hang glider!

==========================================================
Another effort with some errors: Caution
Note: This effort by the AI had already some history with me, so it replied with such as "Joe Cups".

Designing a TPHG (Tiny Packed Hang Glider) for Efficient Urban Transport

Designing a **Tiny Packed Hang Glider (TPHG)** for efficient assembly, disassembly, and compact urban transport requires a focus on modularity, lightweight materials, and a reliable, durable system for joining telescopic spar segments. Below is a design outline for achieving these goals:

1. Packing and Size Considerations

- Target Packed Size: The TPHG should fit within a 4-foot long tote, which is the maximum dimension allowed for urban transportation on buses or trains. To achieve this:

• **Spars:** Use telescopic spar segments that can nest within one another. This minimizes the total length and allows efficient use of space. Each spar segment should be around 4 feet in length, with no individual spar exceeding this length.
  
• **Wing Components:** The wings should be detachable and foldable or rollable to fit within the compact packing size. Use segmented wing ribs that can be folded or nested in the same manner as the spars.
  

2. Spar Design

The glider will use **telescopic carbon fiber spar segments**. These spars should be lightweight and strong, able to endure compression and flight stresses.

- Telescopic Spars:

• Design two spar sets: one for the left-wing and one for the right-wing.
  
• **Segment Lengths:** Each spar set consists of 8 segments, which are grouped into two sets: fore spars (A, C, E, G) and aft spars (B, D, F, H).
  
• **Telescoping Mechanism:** Each segment should be nested into the next, with the segment lengths varying slightly for compact packing. This setup maximizes space savings while maintaining structural integrity.
  

- Connection System:

• Use **Joe Cups** (or Joe Couplers), a modular coupler system for joining telescopic segments. These couplers will serve to:
  
  • Protect the ends of each spar segment.
    
  • Limit the insertion depth of the child segment into the mother segment, ensuring they lock securely.
    
  • Minimize wobble by filling any gaps at the joint.
    
  • Provide anchoring points for rigging and crosslines.
    
• **Compression Adaptation:** Joe Cups should be designed with integrated rubber or elastomeric washers that cushion axial loads during flight, distributing compression forces evenly along the spar.
  
• The **Joe Cups** can also be used to enable easy assembly and disassembly of the spars. These should be modular, with easy-to-operate locking mechanisms that allow for quick release or connection.
  

3. Wing and Sail Design

- Wing Socks: Use left-wing and right-wing socks (fabricated from lightweight, durable material) that can be easily slid over the spars after they are assembled.

• These socks should be slightly elastic to accommodate the shape of the wing, and the tightness of the socks should be adjustable to control the airfoil shape.
  
• Wing Folding Mechanism: Use segmented wing ribs that can either fold or nest for packing. Each rib can consist of smaller, telescoping sections that can be compactly stored within the wing sock.
  

- Rigging:

• Use **crosslines** for stability. The number of landing and flying crosslines should be minimized to keep the wing structure lightweight but stable under flight loads.
  
• Design the wing attachment system so that the lines can be quickly connected or disconnected, with easy-to-use loops or clasps that do not require tools.
  

4. Compression Sticks and Frame Components

- Compression Sticks:

• Use a combination of lightweight but stiff materials (such as carbon fiber or aluminum) for the compression sticks that stabilize the glider frame and maintain the correct geometry when assembled.
  
• Compression Stick Design: The compression sticks should have two regions: a bendable front third to allow flexibility under compression, and a stiffer rear section to provide the necessary support. The bendable front section can help adjust the camber of the wing.
  
• Compression Stick Attachment: The compression sticks should be attached to the spars using modular T-fittings that allow for length adjustment and quick locking. These T-fittings should be capable of securing the compression sticks tightly during flight but be easily released for packing.
  

5. Hinge and Adjustable Mechanism for Wing Shape

- Adjustable V-wing Geometry:

• Design a **chordwise stick with a hinge** that can be adjusted using a pull line. This will allow the pilot to modify the **V-angle** of the wing for aerodynamic control, adjusting camber for different flight conditions.
  
• The pull line system can be attached to the compression sticks or spars, allowing for tension adjustments without requiring significant tools or time.
  

6. Materials Selection

- Lightweight Materials: The use of carbon fiber for the spars and compression sticks will provide strength without adding unnecessary weight.

• The wing socks can be made from **Dyneema or other high-strength synthetic fabrics** that are both lightweight and durable.
  
• **Carbon Fiber Protective Sleeves** can be used for the spar segments to reduce wear and tear during use, especially where segments are nested.
  

- Durability Considerations: All connections (such as the Joe Cups and compression fittings) should be designed with durability in mind. To resist cracking and splitting, use **Dyneema-fiber potting paste** or similar materials to reinforce these joints.

7. Assembly and Disassembly Process

- Modular Assembly: Each segment should be clearly labeled (A, B, C, etc.), allowing for quick and intuitive assembly. The process of fitting the spar segments together should be straightforward, with the use of tools minimized (e.g., no tools needed to connect Joe Cups, simply insert and lock).
- Wing Assembly: After the spars are connected, the wing socks can be slid over the spars and adjusted for tightness. The flying crosslines and rigging can be quickly attached or detached with pre-installed loops.
- Compression Sticks: After assembly, the compression sticks should be adjusted and locked in place to give the glider its final shape.

8. Packing Process

- Packing the Glider: After disassembly, the spars and wing components should nest within each other for the most compact pack. The compression sticks can be disassembled or folded for easy storage.

• The entire TPHG, once disassembled, should fit into a **4-foot tote**, with the segments nested in a compact manner to ensure ease of transport.
  
• The glider should be packed in layers, with the shortest components (such as the compression sticks) packed last to reduce wasted space.
  

9. Final Design Features

- Modular Spar System: Quick and easy assembly/disassembly with **Joe Cups** and telescopic design.
- Lightweight and Strong Materials: Carbon fiber for spars, compression sticks, and wing ribs; Dyneema or synthetic fabric for wing socks.
- Efficient Wing Folding: Segmented wing ribs that fold or roll to fit into the compact tote.
- Adjustment Mechanisms: Simple pull lines to adjust the wing's camber and V-angle during flight.
- Compression Adaptation: Rubber or elastomeric washers in Joe Cups to distribute axial compression forces.

This design balances ease of use, durability, and compact transport, making it an ideal solution for urban hang glider transport.

.

[JoeF]

I bet it would be an effective learning process to criticize all the errors, confusing suggestions, misapplications, and insufficiencies findable in the above AIs responses.
===============================================================
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A striking first confusing deal regards the seven parent tubes.
In pack it was suggested that the hang glider could have a multitude of element tubes that would find a position in one of seven parent tubes. When a parent tube has tubes nested concentrically inside the parent tube, such forms one nest for packing. The nested tubes in one parent could be quite distinct in specifications from the tubes in one of the other parent tubes. Indeed, the seven larger parent tubes need not match in OD or ID; each parent tube could be distinct in specifications from the other visible parent tubes. "visible" because in pack one sees in large the parent tubes; one does not see in pack but the ends of interiorly nested tubes. And nested interior tubes need not be 4 ft long; indeed, e.g., there could be two tubes of identical OD that are each 2 ft long and stack to become an interior stack reaching net 4 ft.: 2 ft + 2 ft = 4ft. There could be a 3 ft tube nested, for example, etc.

[JoeF]

If a TPHG is using very snug telescopy assemble major wing spars, then there could be assembly and disassembly environments that threaten with disturbing sand or dust or dirt or water. The time and attention to such matters could affect design choices. Care for cleaning, de-sanding, de-dusting, de-dirting, de-watering could become substantial. Just how to assemble and disassemble the TPHG when dealing with such challenges could be an art in itself. Note: Personally, I am aiming for non-snug telescopy and use of Joe Cups; such may reduce the care cost needed for environmental challenges, as there would be larger air gaps in tube concentric nesting, but cleaning will still be important.

Ground cloths? Color recommendation: clean no-decorations white, so sand, dirt, and other matters may be seen with good contrast. Segments of ground cloth instead of one giant spread might serve better.
Cleaning cloths? Color recommendation: white again without decorations.
Degreaser that does not disturb the chemistry of the glider parts.
De-static blower?
Grounding copper line?
Brush for cleaning the inside of tubes?

I fed the challenge with notes to ChatGPT:

Essential Environmental Care for TPHG Assembly and Maintenance

Overview: If a TPHG uses very snug telescopy to assemble major wing spars, environmental conditions such as sand, dust, dirt, and water can pose threats. Addressing these factors could impact design choices and require dedicated tools and techniques. Clean, careful assembly and disassembly are crucial. Below are recommendations for managing these environmental challenges, with a focus on maintaining a TPHG's efficiency and longevity.

1. Preventive Ground Covering
To protect the TPHG from sand, dirt, and moisture during assembly and disassembly:
- Ground Cloths: Use clean, no-decoration white ground cloths for high-contrast visibility of debris.
- Recommendation: Opt for multiple smaller sections instead of a single large piece to allow flexibility in various environments.

2. Cleaning Tools and Supplies
Essential tools for removing dust, dirt, sand, and water effectively:
- Cleaning Cloths: White, undecorated cloths help make any dirt or debris highly visible.
- Degreaser: Use a gentle, non-reactive degreaser that won’t interfere with TPHG’s material chemistry. Make sure it’s safe for any specialized coatings on your glider.
- Brush for Inside of Tubes: Consider a soft, non-scratching, extendable brush designed to clean snug telescopic tubes without damaging internal surfaces.

3. Static and Grounding Measures
To prevent static buildup that could attract dust or debris:
- De-static Blower: Use a portable de-static blower to reduce dust attraction during assembly.
- Grounding Copper Line: Attach a copper grounding line to safely discharge static electricity, minimizing dust buildup on TPHG parts.

4. Environmental Inspection and Maintenance Checks
Establish a routine for cleaning, inspection, and care before and after each assembly:
- Routine Cleaning and Inspection: Develop a checklist to confirm all parts are free of dust, dirt, and moisture before assembly.
- Storage Precautions: Use sealable, protective covers or cases to shield components from environmental exposure between uses.

Using these recommendations should help maintain your TPHG’s functionality and longevity in a variety of environmental conditions.

======================

Best Ways to Dry Carbon Fiber Tubes Exposed to Ocean Spray or High Humidity

To dry carbon fiber (CF) tubes that have been exposed to ocean spray or high humidity, it's important to prevent salt buildup, avoid corrosion at connectors, and minimize heat exposure. Here are the best methods to dry CF tubes efficiently:

Recommended Drying Techniques

1. Freshwater Rinse
- Purpose: Removes salt residue from ocean spray, which can cause corrosion over time.
- Method: Gently rinse the CF tubes with fresh, clean water. Avoid strong pressure that could push salt into tube joints.
- Tip: Follow this with a quick drying process to prevent moisture from sitting inside.

2. Air Drying with Gentle Flow
- Purpose: Allows tubes to dry without risking heat damage to resin or fibers.
- Method: Lay tubes horizontally on a clean, absorbent surface or hang them vertically. Use a fan to circulate air around the tubes or place them in a dry, shaded area to air dry.
- Tip: Rotate tubes periodically to allow full airflow and avoid water pooling.

3. Absorbent Cloth Wipe-down
- Purpose: Speeds up drying on external surfaces and removes any remaining moisture quickly.
- Method: Use a white, lint-free microfiber cloth to gently wipe down the tubes, especially around connectors and ends where moisture can collect.
- Tip: Use a fresh, dry cloth as soon as the first one becomes damp to maximize absorption.

4. Use of Desiccant Packs for Interior Drying
- Purpose: Draws out residual moisture from inside tubes.
- Method: Place a few silica gel packets inside each tube segment for storage or transport after wiping and initial drying.
- Tip: Only use in dry, sealed storage conditions, as desiccant packs are less effective in open, humid air.

5. Gentle Heat from a Dehumidifier or Hair Dryer (Low Heat)
- Purpose: Adds warmth to speed up drying without overheating.
- Method: Use a hair dryer on the lowest heat setting or place tubes near a dehumidifier. Move the dryer around to avoid prolonged heat in one area.
- Tip: Avoid direct heat over 120°F (49°C), as excess heat can degrade the resin over time.

6. Compressed Air for Internal Drying
- Purpose: Removes water droplets from inside tube sections.
- Method: Using an air compressor with a moisture filter attachment, direct airflow through the tubes to expel moisture. A portable, battery-operated air blower can also work.
- Tip: Hold tubes at an angle to allow any remaining water to flow out.

Thorough Cleaning at Home
If time and conditions at the flying site don’t permit a full cleaning, it’s best to take the TPHG pack home for a more thorough process. This might include a careful freshwater rinse, extended drying, and closer inspection for any salt or dirt deposits.

[JoeF]

TPHG compactness has plusses and minuses. This not looks briefly at theft quotient compared to car-topping long packs.
Compact TPHG may be enclosed in cars; that means breaking into the car and fetching the compact TPHG is possible. Then hiding the pack by the thief is easier than if the thief had to deal with a long pack.
Long packs on car top may be removed by a thief, but the challenge of the long pack may discourage taking a glider.
A compact TPHG may be toted inside stores and restaurants whereas a long pack on car top might stay in a parking lot.

I fed some notes to an AI assistant and it gave an offer:

Comparing Compact TPHG Packs vs. Long Packs for Hang Gliders: Key Pros and Cons

1. Theft Risks and Security

• Compact TPHG Pack: A TPHG that’s small enough to fit inside a car has both advantages and disadvantages in terms of theft risk. Storing the compact TPHG inside the vehicle helps avoid exposure on the rooftop, which can deter opportunistic theft. However, if a car break-in does occur, the smaller TPHG is relatively easy to remove quickly and can be hidden or transported by a thief more easily than a long, bulky pack.
  
• Long Pack (Car-Top Mounted): Traditional long packs mounted on car roofs can also attract theft, yet the size and awkwardness of the pack may deter some potential thieves. A long pack is more conspicuous and harder to transport covertly, making it a less desirable target. Additionally, the weight and length of the pack can make quick theft attempts difficult.

2. Versatility in Everyday Situations

• Compact TPHG Pack: A major advantage of the TPHG’s compact design is its portability in environments beyond the flying site. A compact pack can be easily carried into restaurants, cafes, stores, and other public places where a larger, more cumbersome pack would be impractical. This ability to bring the TPHG into secure spaces reduces the risk of theft since there’s no need to leave it unattended in a vehicle or on a roof rack.
  
• Long Pack: In contrast, the long pack is largely impractical to bring into stores or public spaces, as its size and shape make it difficult to carry through doors, fit into indoor spaces, or secure in crowded environments. This typically leaves long packs stored on a roof rack in parking lots, making them somewhat more vulnerable to theft or environmental exposure.

3. Transport Convenience and Urban Mobility

• Compact TPHG Pack: The portability of the TPHG in urban settings is a core benefit. It’s small enough to be carried onto public transport, fitting easily into buses, trains, or even rideshare vehicles. This urban-friendly design suits pilots who rely on public transportation or who need to carry their hang glider in crowded urban areas. This flexibility also aligns with the trend toward eco-friendly, car-free travel.
  
• Long Pack: While long packs are often secured on car rooftops, they lack the flexibility needed for easy, portable urban travel. Long packs are typically too large for most forms of public transportation, and their length may also exceed legal or practical limits for transport on some vehicles, especially in urban environments. However, for those who have ready access to a private vehicle, this may be a manageable limitation.

4. Storage and Packing Considerations

• Compact TPHG Pack: Compact TPHG designs optimize for storage efficiency, allowing pilots to store their hang glider at home or in smaller spaces with ease. For travel, the TPHG’s reduced size is an asset, as it can often fit within checked luggage requirements for air travel, providing more versatility for those looking to travel with their glider.
  
• Long Pack: The long pack, while generally durable and straightforward to secure, demands dedicated storage space and can be challenging to transport across long distances without a personal vehicle. For pilots who fly frequently at distant locations or need to ship their hang glider, the long pack can be cumbersome and may incur additional transport costs or logistical issues.

5. Assembly Time and Complexity

• Compact TPHG Pack: One trade-off for the compact size of the TPHG is potentially more complex assembly requirements. Nested or segmented spar designs demand additional setup time, as each segment must be assembled and secured. This increased setup time might be inconvenient for quick, casual flights, though it’s a manageable compromise for those prioritizing compactness.
  
• Long Pack: Traditional long packs typically offer faster setup since they often come in fewer sections that can be quickly unfolded and assembled. This simplicity can be appealing for pilots who prioritize ease of assembly and reduced setup time.

Conclusion: The choice between a compact TPHG and a traditional long pack depends on the pilot’s priorities in terms of theft risk, transport convenience, assembly time, and specific use cases. For urban-dwelling, eco-conscious pilots or those frequently traveling on public transport, the TPHG offers a highly portable and adaptable solution. Meanwhile, for pilots with private transport and an emphasis on faster assembly, traditional long packs may still offer a compelling balance of simplicity and security, albeit with limitations on mobility and storage.

[Bob Kuczewski]

It looks like Florian will be on his way shortly. I sent the following email to all of our members:

Hello Fellow Hawks!

I'm writing to let you know that Florian will be visiting
several local California flying sites this coming week with
his 4.6 foot Tiny Packed Hang Glider. Here's his plan:

  Sylmar: November 16th
  Crestline: November 17th
  Dockweiler: November 18th

Florian has been working on this project for some time,
and he's been posting his work in the U.S. Hawks topic:

  https://ushawks.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1916

That's a very long topic, so here are a few high points:

  https://ushawks.org/forum/viewtopic.php ... &start=818
  https://ushawks.org/forum/viewtopic.php ... &start=918
  https://ushawks.org/forum/viewtopic.php ... &start=981
  https://ushawks.org/forum/viewtopic.php ... start=1006
  https://ushawks.org/forum/viewtopic.php ... start=1030
  https://ushawks.org/forum/viewtopic.php ... start=1050
  https://ushawks.org/forum/viewtopic.php ... start=1054
  https://ushawks.org/forum/viewtopic.php ... start=1069
  https://ushawks.org/forum/viewtopic.php ... start=1080

You can also visit his web site at:

  http://hangglifter.com

I hope you can make it to one of his showings.

Thanks as always for your membership in the U.S. Hawks!

Bob

I hope he gets a good turnout!!

[Semper Fidelis]

Geneva November 14th 2024 to go to Los Angeles.jpg (48.4 KiB) Viewed 242 times