Collapses - Advance acoustic IOTA2 Manual

Collapses

The IOTA 2 features a very taut and stable canopy . With an active flying
technique in normal flying conditions, collapses can be almost com-
pletely prevented . The wing gives very precise canopy feedback and
makes it possible to sense an impending collapse early on, thus help-
ing timely pilot reaction . Should a collapse occur the wing will fold in a
predictable and progressive manner from wing tip towards the centre .
Asymmetric collapsing of the canopy
If the glider does, however, suffer a side collapse at trim speed, it will
respond to collapses of 50% or more with a slight turning tendency, al-
lowing heading to be easily held with light counter-steering . Normally,
the wing will reopen without pilot action . With an asymmetric collapse
in accelerated flight the wing will react more impulsively because of the
higher forces associated with higher airspeed . The turning behaviour
caused by a collapse at full speed is more dynamic, but can be well
controlled .
If a collapse is slow to reopen, a deep but fast pull on the closed side
brake will help . It is important to completely release the brake again
to let the glider keep its flying speed . Be careful with the brake on the
open side, and only apply enough to keep straight – so as not to stall
the wing .
Poorly flown wingovers can cause a wingtip to fold inwards from the
side, causing it to catch in the lines and create a cravat . Due to the
high drag they produce cravats can lead to strong rotation ( spiralling ) .
Stop an increase in rotation rate by just the correct amount of out-
side brake . Then open the cravated wingtip by pulling the orange sta-
bilo line . Clearing a cravat can be also done more quickly by 'pumping' .
The appropriate brake should be applied to 75% brake travel within a
maximum of two seconds, and then released immediately .
Caution: If you want to make an accelerated collapse during
safety training we recommend that you lead up to it slow-
ly – starting with unaccelerated and then partially accelerated
attempts .
Symmetric collapse ( frontstall )
After a spontaneous or A-riser provoked collapse the airflow breaks
away from the profile and the canopy will pitch back . The pilot swings
back underneath after a short delay . Wait, without applying brake, un-
til the wing is again above you and returns to normal flight . After a big
collapse reopening may be delayed, but do not forcibly encourage reo-
pening by the use of excessive brake, because of the risk of a fullstall .
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