freefallr 0 #1 April 11, 2012 Hey everyone, I recently did my first solo jump, a static line, loved it. I plan on completing AFF course this summer. I'd like to learn more about the ram air parachute. Is there anywhere online or in a manual where I can get detailed drawings of the lines (heard instructors talk about ABCD lines), how the aerodynamics of the canopy works (what exactly is happening in the flare) etc. I want to learn about the cells, how they work, the safety devices and everything to do with the parachute really. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
NWFlyer 2 #2 April 11, 2012 Are you in the U.S. (or training at a USPA-affiliated dropzone outside the U.S.)? Then the USPA SIM will be a valuable thing for you to read. You can order a copy online, read it online, or download a PDF version for free. http://www.uspa.org/SIM.aspx Most of what is in here will probably go over your head right now, but there are some good graphics of the basic construction of a parachute. http://performancedesigns.com/docs/MainUsersManual.pdf This book goes into great detail on parachutes and how to fly them. http://bigairsportz.com/publishing.php#parachute Be careful trying to read or learn too much before you go into your training, though, especially trying to "learn to skydive online." It'll only drive your instructors nuts, and potentially overload you with information. Your student program is well-designed to introduce information on an "as needed" basis to help you gradually build your knowledge."There is only one basic human right, the right to do as you damn well please. And with it comes the only basic human duty, the duty to take the consequences." -P.J. O'Rourke Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
freefallr 0 #3 April 11, 2012 Thanks NWFlyer thats what I was looking for :) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
kenneth21441 0 #4 June 14, 2012 ABCD lines.... wow I remember when they used to be called A..and A casscade... and B... and B casscaede.... hahhaha... Also a good ideal is have a rigger walk and talk you throught he names of items as you draw them and write what they are... a detailed notes.. book... also the FAA parachute rigger handbook... i a good book... sure you can find the pdf file here..... on DZ....its got alot of good info.... hope that this helps...Kenneth Potter FAA Senior Parachute Rigger Tactical Delivery Instructor (Jeddah, KSA) FFL Gunsmith Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
excaza 1 #5 June 14, 2012 If you want to get even more in depth, you can also check out Poynter's parachute manuals, though they do cover a lot more than just ram-air. I've got both volumes at work to use as reference material, they're wonderful! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
erdnarob 1 #6 June 17, 2012 You should have a look at Brian Germain book : "The parachute and his Pilot ". There are plenty of diagrams showing the basics of aerodynamics of a parachute. The book also explains the theory of flight and different ways to fly the parachute according where the wind comes from. The ram air parachute is an airfoil and works like an airplane wing.Learn from others mistakes, you will never live long enough to make them all. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites