Collapses - Advance Epsilon 6 Betriebshandbuch

Collapses

Asymmetric collapse of the wing
The EPSILON 6 has a very stiff and stable canopy. With an active
flying technique collapses can be almost completely prevented in
normal flying conditions.
If the glider does, however, suffer a side collapse at trim speed, it
will respond to collapses of 50% or more with a slight to moderate
turning tendency, allowing heading to be easily held with light coun-
ter-steering. Normally, the wing will reopen without pilot action.
Due to higher aerodynamic forces during accelerated flight the
glider will respond to a side collapse more impulsively. The turning
tendency in fully accelerated flight will be more dynamic, but is still
well controllable.
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 that they produce cravats can lead to strong rotation
(spiralling). Stop an increase in rotation rate by just the right amount
of outside brake. Then open the cravated wingtip by pulling the
orange stabilo 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.
Symmetrical collapse (Front stall)
Following a spontaneous or deliberate front collapse the airflow will
break away from the wing which will pitch back, followed by the pilot.
The glider will reopen quickly by itself. After a large front collapse
reopening may be delayed, and excessive brake should not be used
to force the recovery, as there is then a risk of completely stalling the
airflow.
Caution: After a very strongly provoked front collapse in ac-
celerated flight (e.g.SIV training) it is possible that the front of
the wing will not open by itself. Help it to open with a quick
application to 75% brake travel within one second, and then
release immediately.
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