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PARASAILING MANUAL
INTRODUCTION |
This excellent Aero
Sports of Parasailing is one of the cheapest and the safest of all Aero
Sports which permit men to fly through the air. Parasailing is one of
the family to which Powered flying, Para Gliding, Hang Gliding,
Parachuting etc., belongs. The difference being the ease, with which
this sport can be picked up, it economics and the safety factors as
compared to other Aerial Sports.
Unlike other Aerial
Sports including Powered Flying, Para Gliding or Hang Gliding where once
of the ground, the sportsmen is on his own in Parasailing, the take off
flight and descent of the sportsmen can be controlled from the ground.
Responsibility for the safety of the sportsmen therefore devolves to a
very large extent on the team helping out in this sport. Before any
launch do ensure that sportsmen and the equipment are fit in all
respects.
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Equipment |
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equipment used for this sport comprises of:- |
- The Ascending Parasail
Canopy.
- The Harness
- The Yoke Rope
- The Yoke
- The Prime Mover (Jeep,
Motor Launch)
- Helmet (Safety
Equipment)
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The Canopy |
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The
Canopy consists of 16 panels triangular in shape with their apexes
coming together at the center. The fabric of the panels is so arranged
that in the case of an accidental tear in one it will not find an easy
line of continuation into the next panel thus restricting the size of
tear.
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The Harness |
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The
Harness has triangles at shoulder level to which are attached the large
straps hooks which are connected to one of the front and rear risers
each. It is essential to ensure that these triangles are level, since if
one is lower than the other and the harness is not adjusted the flyer is
likely to dangle uncomfortable at a very slight angle to the vertical.
The harness is adjustable for individual. It must be ensured that the
harness fits the flyer properly and it should neither be tight not lose.
A final check must be carried out before take off to check that all
hooks and buckles have been properly locked into place. This must be a
physical as well as a visual check.
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The Tow Rope |
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The Tow rope is 1/2
inch diameter. It has a tensile strength of 3500 lbs or more.
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The Yoke |
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This is simple "Y" shaped strap with a
loop at the bottom and strong hook to each of the two top end. The loop
at the lower and is cow-hitched to the loop at one end of the Two Rope
and at the top end the two hooks are connected to the upper triangle of
the belt of parasail.
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The Prime Mover |
- Jeep
- Speed Boat
The Prime Mover in the
Sport when on land may be a jeep or a light van with its canopy or body
open so that the driver is afforded a clear view of the rear and top
thus permitting him to see the flyer at the time of launch, flight and
landing. The sport can safely be indulged in on a large open expanse of
water also. For this the use of a motor launch would be essential. The
vehicle should be capable of pulling 1200 to 1500 lbs comfortably at
speed upto 35 km.ph and should have a minimum 7.5 HP Engine. It is
essential that the vehicle or launch be capable of a smooth start, quick
pick up and easy maneuverability. Soundness of its engine and brake
system is essential.
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The Wind Speed |
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It is essential that wind
condition must be favourbale at time of launch and "LANDING" more so in
the case of students or inexperienced sportsmen. Such individuals should
be allowed only when wind speed do not exceed 3 to 6 knots per hour.
Trained sportsmen may be aloft in wind speed upto 10 knots (body weight
130 to 200 lbs). Experienced parasailist may even go up in the wind
speeds upto 15 to 20 knots only.
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Vehicle Speed |
The towing vehicle's forward
speed heading into the wind for launching the Parasailist will vary on
wind speed. An approximate table as follows:
- Nil Wind Condition
: Vehicle at 30 MPH/50 Kmph.
- 4 Knot Wind Speed
: Vehicle at 29 MPH/35
Kmph.
- 10 Knots Wind Speed
: Vehicle at 10 MPH/15 Kmph.
- 15 Knots Wind Speed
: Vehicle at 01 MPH/02Kmph.
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Rate of Descent |
The Parasailist will
normally descend in the same position and reverse manner of going aloft.
His rate of descent will decrease as he nears the ground if properly
controlled by vehicle speed. No tugging should be allowed with the front
of rear risers by the parasailist during controlled descent. The rate of
descent will depend on the suspended weight and will be approximately:-
- 10 feet per second
from 90 to 100 lbs or 40 to 45 Kgs.
- 13 feet per second
from 110 to 150 lbs or 50 to 70 Kgs.
- 10 feet per second
from 90 to 100 lbs or 40 to 45 Kgs.
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Ascent |
In case of higher wind
velocity the rate of ascent will be vary high. In certain cased where
wind speed is more that parasailist's required take of speed the
sportmen may not descend even if the towing vehicle comes to a stand
still. This will happen for extremely light weights in normal wind speed
also. A approximately table for remaining aloft even when traction is
stopped is:-
- Wind Speed of 15 knots
is sufficient to keep aloft body weight of 150 lbs or 70 Kgs.
- Wind Speed of 10 knots
is sufficient to keep aloft body weight of 90 lbs or 40 Kgs.
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Preparation of
Equipment |
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To operate the Canopy if it
is placed on the ground with panel no.1 (indicated as UP) uppermost and
centerd, with the suspension lines extended in the ground and into the
direction of flight, facing the wind. Lines No.1 and 16 are straightened
from panel no.1 toward the risers. All suspensions lines are considered
to be in order if lines no.1 and no.16 form panel no.1 can be tracked
form Canopy to risers without interference and with no twists.
The Harness should wear by
tucking leg loops and adjustable loops through buckles to make sure that
there is no twist. After wearing the Harness the Parasailer should feel
comfortable. The Yoke is now attahced to the Rope. The Yoke's loop end
pulled through the loop of the rope, and the yoke passed through its own
loop, thus achiveing a "cow hitch". It is pulled snug. The tow line is
laidat into the wind and the other attached to the tow hook of the
towing vehicle.
The canopy is now attached
by placing the hook on the right riser into the lower triangle on the
right side of the harness keeping the hooks forward. This is repeated on
the left side. While attaching the Yoke, it must be ensured there are no
twist and the hooks are kept facing down and than hooked into the
triangle on the right and left upper riseres.
The Parasail is now ready
for use.
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Control
Organisation of Crew |
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A small, simple but
essential minimum organisation is required to conduct the sport. The
basic essential requirements are as under:-
A.
Controller
B. Tow
Crew
C.
Launch Crew
D. End
Helpers Crew
The Controller is the key
part of the crew. The controller should be located in the towing vehicle
so that he can effectively control all launches.
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Commencement of the
Sport |
- Be sure that the
towing vehicle is favourable and fully functional.
- Be sure that the
course is suitable for the sport and is clear of obstacles.
- Be sure that the the
sportsmen is medically fit to take part in the sport.
- Be sure that the each
sportsmen he submitted a "no claim/indemnity bond"
- One or more dummy runs
required to check the wind and ground before commencing Parasailing
for the day.
- Be ensure before each
launch that the equipment to be used is serviceable in all respect.
- Be ensure that the
Parasailor is correctly Harnessed.
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Tow Crew |
The tow crew consists of the
following:-
- Driver
- Observer
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The Driver |
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The Driver of the vehicle is
the real Pilot of Parasail. He should be proficient at moving off and
accelerating smoothly and stopping gently, without any jerk. At no stage
should a weak or inexperienced driver be used as it may constitute a
risk to the Parasailor. The driver will move the tow vehicle directly
into the wind until the tow rope is laid out to its full length and then
wait for a signal from the controller to proceed with the life off. A
smooth easy take off and climb without excessive speed is safest and
most pleasant. A stable climb obtain by keeping a steady relation
between the load and pull on the tow line. To land the parasailor the
tow line must be kept taut and the towing vehicle slowed gradually
allowing the Parasail to descend. This holds up most of the Parasailor's
weight giving him soft, stand up landing. As soon as the Parasailor
touches the surface, the should be stopped.
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The Observer |
His duty can also be carried
out by the controller in addition to his own duties. The observer has
two main duties:-
- To observer the sky
all round and ensure that no Aircraft is operating in the vicinity of
the field. If on water, to ensure that no Craft or Water Skiers
crossing the path.
- Hw will watch the
sportsmen in order to interpret are signals given by him and realy
these to the driver. For this purpose, a suggested list of signals are
given in a later list. It is imeprative that the observer/controller
and the Parasailor are absolutely familiar with these signals.
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Launch Crew |
The following individuals
are required to assist the Parasailor in fitting the Harness and to
position and guide the Canopy during the launch. Their exact duties are
as follows:-
- Strengthen lines and
risers, make sure to keep the Canopy right side out. (This is ensured
by keeping the numbers printed on the Canopy on the outside).
- After checking the fit
of the Harness, they will ensure that all hardware are secured and the
tow rope is straight. They will then connect the snaps to the "D" Ring
on the risers.
- They will ensure that
the number 16 lines with red colour on the left side (i.e. facing the
toe line), and the line number 1 is on the right side. These lines
will be held by the ground assistants until the Canopy inflates.
- They will check that
lines are clear, the air and surface area is clear of traffic and the
Parasail is ready. They will then signal the driver to advance.
- Both ground assistants
will move forward with the Canopy until the inflates fully. They
should hold the guide lines evenly and walk forward with the
Parasailor as required. When the Canopy is fully inflated, the
nominated crew member was Shout "GO" on which both crews will step
clear and simultaneously release the Canopy to ensure a straight
lift-off. A diagonal lift-off will result the ground assistant do not
release the guide lines simultaneously or the crew of the Canopy tilt
to either side during the lift-off.
- Recorder:- To fill up
the record book, if required.
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End Helpers |
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At least two individuals are
required to assist the Parasailist immediately after his descent and on
touching the ground. The end helpers will first deflate and drop the
Canopy and help the Parasalist to unhook himself. These helpers will
then assist in the rolling up of the Parasail and Tow Rope in
preparation for the next launch.
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The Launch |
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The Parasailor himself
should check to see that lines and risers are straight and clear, the
Canopy is in the correct position and two lines straps are correctly
fastened. Only then should he signal/indicate that he is ready for the
launch. If there is a breeze, the Canopy will fill and Parasailor will
lift off immediately. If there is no breeze, the Parasailor should take
two or three long strides after the tow lines has become taut due to the
tow vehicle having started moving. The Parasailor should never try to
aid the lift off any way but let the Canopy lifting. The Parasailist
must be advised to continue running along ground while under tow and
until lifted off by the Canopy.
The Launch consists of three
parts:-
- The Take Off
- The Flight
- The Landing
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Take Off |
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After a final check of
Harness, Risers, Lines and Rope the observer will instruct the driver to
ease forward and draw the rope taut. The launch crew should hold aloft
each side of the Canopy by grasping lines No.5 and 6 and lines No.19 and
20 of stabilizer panels light, in a manner that will promote Canopy
development or inflation. On seeing that the Canopy is properly inflated
and the sportsmen is ready, the controller orders the driver to
accelerate At this time it is important that the launch crew release
their hold simultaneously to prevent Canopy rotation. As the Canopy fill
and tends to lift, the designated launchers shouts "GO" and both
launchers release the Canopy. If the sportsmen slips or falls, the toe
rope will be released or the tow vehicle stopped immediately.
A Smooth, easy take off
and climb without excessive speed is safest, if there is a slight breeze
the Parasail will life off immediately. If there is no breeze the
Parasailor should be prepared to take two or three longs strides/along
with the tow vehicle as it begins to accelerate. The Parasailor
should not try to aid the lift off by jumping or pailing up his feet.
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Flight |
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During flight the controller
is responsible for giving the Parasailor a smooth ride. The flight of
the Parasail is controlled by the effective speed of the vehicle
combined with the wind speed. If the vehicle is going too fast the front
edge of the Canopy will tend to flap inwards in which case the
controller should release speed immediately. While in flight the
Parasailr must not meddle with or pull on the risers since this may
result in abrupt rotation or even collapse of the Canopy. In case the
Canopy rotates more than 45 degrees to right or left, the vehicle will
be slowed immediately and the Parasailor should act ready to land.
Release over land may be effected after considerable experience only.
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Landing |
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For any landing, weather
on land or water, the vehicle will be slowed down and the Canopy allowed
to descend. The line will however, be kept taut and the Parasail under
tow. The vehicle should come to a gentle stop, when the rider is about
two feet form the surface. This will permit the sportsmen to descent to
a gentle stand up landing. It is important that the Parasailor should
not disconnect himself form the Harness prior to landing whether on land
or water.
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Safety Precautions |
The controller will check
and ensure the following:-
- All equipment brought
into use including the tow vehicle are in a serviceable and functional
condition.
- The course and track
are sooth enough to run the vehicle and that no obstacles exist on it
i.e. trees, poles, telephone lines, houses etc.
- He will always keep
observing the Parasailor during the launch.
- No launch will be made
when the winds are gusty or turbulent, or directions changes
frequently. Wind speeds upto 10 kmph are constant.
- It will be ensured
that all members of the Control Organisation conversant with their
individuals duties.
- All must be thoroughly
acquainted with the Hand Signals invariably be rehearsed before the
commencement of the sport.
- For launches over
water ensure use of life jackets for all concerned.
- It will be ensured the
prior to the launch, the canopy is properly opened and there is no
snags or twists in the suspensions lines.
- Take off will always
be made directly into the wind as the Canopy collapse in a cross wind.
- In case the Parasailor
trips or falls at take off the tow vehicle should immediately be
stopped.
- In case the fore-side
edge of the Parasail begins to flap and for breath while in flight,
the speed of tow will be slowed down till the Canopy get stable.
- In case the Parasail
rotates more than 45 degrees the towing vehicle slowed and landing
procedure put into operation.
- The Parasailor will
under no circumstances pull on while during flight, as this may cause
rotation or even or even collapse of the Parasailor.
- Do not use a damaged,
torn, frayed or faulty Parasail as it is dangerous.
- After use ensure the
correct maintenance and storage of Parasail.
- To maintain s slow but
steady rate of descent. Remember to keep the tow top taut.
- Ensure that the
Parasail is fully collapsed before disconnecting the tow from the
Parasailor.
- For Protection it is
preferably that the Parasailist wears a crash helmet, with a chin
strap, ankles protecting properly laced, rubber soled boots, gloves
and thick clothing which will protect knees, elbows and backside
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Emergencies |
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Falling of
Parasailor |
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On this happening, the
vehicle will be stopped instantly. Simultaneously the quick release
operations may be applied on the Parasailor.
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Opening Canopy |
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The tow will be slowed
immediately to permit the Canopy round off.
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Change in Wind |
- Prior to take
off In this case DO NOT LAUNCH.
- During Flight: keep
tow steady and be prepared for extra power in tow. Don't change the
direction of the vehicle unless certain of a steady changed wind
direction.
Immediately on
launching or a little after having taken flight the Parasail at time
tends to swing to left or right instead of following exactly behind the
tow vehicle despite launch having been made exactly into wind. This may
be due to a slight variation in time to release by any one member of the
launch crew. Secondly, it may be due to a shift in wind direction which
mat not be felt at ground level but could be effective in a higher air
layer above the ground. It must be remembered that wind shifts can exist
even in every 50 feet or 100 feet layers above the ground. Under these
circumstances it is advisable for he controller to first steer the
vehicle towards the direction in which the Parasalist has shifted. And
re launching procedure may be repeated for take off the Parasail.
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Signals Used |
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SIGNALS |
INTERPRETATION |
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Right hand is raised
with palm facing forward.
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Raised hand is moved
from right to left and back a few times.
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Raised hand is dropped
backwards then swung back to the over head position are held there.
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Raised hand is dropped
backwards and kept down.
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Right hand is raised
and swung down quickly three or four times.
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Raised hand is raised
to the side unto shoulder level and moved up and down in the sideways
position.
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Action given in serial No.
(a) above is repeated.
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Right hand is extended
side ways and moved repeatedly from right to left across the chest.
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Scissoring motion is made
with both lags.
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Controller and driver get ready.
Driver starts the Engine of
the tow vehicle but does not move forward.
Driver moves the vehicle
forward and takes up slack to tow rope.
Driver moves forward
slowly into the wind.
Driver gains speed and
continues till maximum height is gained.
Driver slows down
permitting Parasailor to descend.
Driver speeds upto permit
the Parasailor to gain height.
Driver commence slowing down
and brings the Parasailor down to earth (the tow rope will not be
permitted any slack).
Driver goes through the
touch down (the tow rope will not be permitted any slack). Driver will
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Maintenance and
Repair |
The following points are
required to attend to:
- Always keep the
Parasail in a clean and dry condition.
- After use, straighten
the suspension line and draw the Canopy together at the mouth by
drawing the lines together. "Daisy Chain" the lines to prevent tangles
and lock the last loop of the chain with the risers.
- After use always pack
the Parasail back into its plastic pack or container.
- After many flights,
the nylon fabric and suspension lines tend to stretch, this stretching
is uneven and results in a titled position in flight. To correct this,
draw the center of one or move vents together with a sturdy chord,
through the grommets provided for this purpose. Make several turns
through grommet and tie with a secure knot. If the Canopy tilts to the
right close on vent on the left side. if level flight is still not
achieved close another vent and so on until the desired result is
achieved. Close only one vent at a time always be fly as a safety
check. All trial flights will be carried out with an inert load.
When Used on water, the
following additional precautions will be taken:
- Under no circumstances
should a wet Parasail is pack.
- The Parasail should
only be dried in the shade as prolonged exposure to the sun tends to
deteriorate the material.
- After use in salt
water, the Parasail and Harness including the hardware must be
thoroughly wash in fresh water to prevent corrosion.
If any wear and tear
occur during take off, it is advised do not used the Parasail until it
is repaired or the panel replaced. Please don't repair the Parasail
yourself. The parasail may be sent to us for any repair/replacement or
problem you may feel.
It is advised that the
Parasail should not be washed roughly.
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