| Improved Varidrogue
Conical canopy varidrogues are the simplest class of AWE method, with
generally underappreciated virtues. Its biomimetic model is the jellyfish,
which is the most ancient swimming creature, jet-propelled no less, &
still thriving (lowest biological "capital cost"). To get the most of a
varidrogue a short-stroke cycle is best, but the apex-pulling method is
rather slow to flip-flop & requires quite a bit of line travel.
A novel method of cycling a varidrogue is to fly the skirt margin in and
out by varying its angle of attack (AoA). A bit of reflection suggests
various ways of rigging a doubled risers, and maybe tiny embedded spars,
so that the skirt flies smartly in and out with just a tiny input to the
risers. It might be that such varidrogues operate with a rhythmic popping
sound like the pop of a skydivers chute (opening shock).
CoolIP
~Dave Santos Dec.
17, 2010
M2734
Comment and development of this topic will be occurring here.
All, send notes, drawings, and photographs!
Terms and aspects:
Related links:
Commentary is welcome:
|