|
Angle of attack
|
The angle created by the relative wind and an
airfoil's mean aerodynamic chord line. |
|
Aspect ratio
|
Expressed as span (tip to tip) divided by chord
(nose to tail). The Classic A/R is approx.
1.8:1. |
|
Assembly
|
For the purpose of this manual, attachment of
the canopy to risers, threading the suspension lines/steering
lines through the slider to the connector links/risers. |
|
Cascade
|
The point where a suspension line branches out
into two load carrying lines. |
|
Chord
|
The distance from the leading edge (L.E.) to the
trailing edge (T.E.), drawn along the mean aerodynamic
chord (M.A.C.) line. |
|
Exit Weight
|
The weight of the jumper, his clothing, harness,
parachutes and all equipment. |
|
FAA Parachute Rigger
|
A person certificated by the FAA for packing and
maintenance of reserve/emergency parachutes, generally
competent to assemble the parachute and determine
if the system is compatible with specific manufacturer's
requirements. |
|
Glide ratio
|
A function of the lift to drag ratio; the lift
generated by an airfoil divided by the drag produced.
Varies with the deflection of the tail of a ram air
canopy. |
|
Leading Edge (L.E.)
|
The forward surface of an airfoil. For a ram air
canopy, this is a projection, the point where free
stream air is deflected by "stagnant" ram air. |
|
Load bearing ribs
|
Ribs to which suspension lines are attached, bearing
the weight of the jumper. |
|
Lower steering line(s)
|
The lines, which join the upper steering lines
to the jumper's steering handles/toggles. |
|
Non load bearing rib
|
A rib between two load bearing ribs; maintains
airfoil shape. |
|
Soft cell
|
A half cell, fourth inboard from the wingtip,
with a port cut on the bottom skin surface. Reduces
inner cell pressure, modifying flight and steering
characteristics. |
|
Span
|
The distance from one wingtip to the other wingtip;
the left to right dimension of an airfoil. |
|
Suspension line
|
Load bearing line, which connects the canopy to
the risers. |
|
Trailing edge
|
The rear edge of the canopy, where top skin and
bottom skin join. Upper steering lines attach here. |
|
Wing loading
|
The weight supported by an airfoil, expressed
as a ratio; e.g., pounds per square foot. |
|
Wingtips
|
Frequently referred to as the "stabilizers." The
wingtip is a crucial component which influences lift,
drag, and control response. |