Guide · Nullwind · Ratgeber · RC Gleitschirm · Starten · Sep 26, 2024

Zero-wind starts with the RC paraglider: A detailed guide for successful starts in calm conditions

Introduction

Properly launching an RC paraglider is a fundamental skill that every pilot must master. In practice, it turns out that the less wind there is, the more challenging the launch becomes. This applies to both manned paragliders and RC paragliders. While small errors are forgiven in light to moderate wind, they can have significant consequences in zero wind.

From my time as a manned paraglider pilot, I remember well how much there was to be considered when there was absolutely no wind on the mountain. We often waited for light updrafts from the valley to climb up the slope so that we could take advantage of a short period of light wind for takeoff—especially on flatter takeoff terrain. The less wind there was, the more preparation and attention was required.

Nowadays, due to changing weather conditions, we often have to deal with strong winds, so zero-wind starts are becoming increasingly rare. When good weather and time to fly do come together and the wind on the plain has completely died down, we often lack practice. This unfamiliar situation can quickly lead to uncertainty.

This gave me the idea to write a detailed guide explaining the special features of a zero-wind start compared to starts in light or medium wind. In particular, I would like to explain what we can do and what we need to pay particular attention to when there is really no wind at all. This raises important questions:

What is the optimal take-off weight in zero or almost zero wind?
How does the mental stress factor affect the start when we know that it will be more demanding?

The mental aspect plays a big role and is often neglected, although it has a significant influence on the success of the launch.

In this post we will look at two main problems that often arise during zero wind starts:

The RC paraglider cannot be moved into the air: it breaks away immediately, does not rise above the pilot or collapses immediately after being released.
The takeoff is initially successful, but the motor does not reach the necessary speed in time: the paraglider is pushed into the air, the motor slowly starts up, but before it delivers sufficient thrust, the RC Para Pilot is already on the ground.

But one thing at a time.

When launching an RC paraglider on the flat with zero wind, even the smallest errors can have significant consequences. In light or medium wind, these errors often do not play a major role, as the launch process is then more forgiving. It is therefore clear that

that RC paraglider launch is a complex matter that can be influenced by many parameters.

If we consider certain factors beforehand, we already contribute 70% to a successful takeoff. In this article, I would like to highlight the most important points that have a major impact on a zero-wind takeoff. The aim is to give you detailed instructions on how to master the challenges of a zero-wind takeoff and get into the air safely.

RC paraglider pilot sorts the lines of a red RC paraglider

I. Challenges of zero-wind starts

When launching an RC paraglider in no wind, specific problems arise that make successful takeoff difficult. These challenges are very different from those encountered in light or moderate winds and therefore require special attention.

The parachute does not rise properly

Breaks out or collapses immediately: Without the supporting effect of the wind, the RC paraglider may not rise above the pilot. After letting go of the canopy, the glider breaks out sideways or collapses immediately. This can be due to incorrect adjustment of the brake lines, asymmetrical line guidance or inadequate technique when pulling up.

The engine does not reach full speed in time

Model loses altitude before sufficient thrust is available: Even if the parachute is initially inflated successfully, another problem can arise. If the motor starts up too slowly after the parachute is released, there is often not enough time for the drive to reach the required speed and thus the necessary thrust. In the meantime, the RC pilot sinks to the ground before the motor delivers sufficient power.

These two main problems show that a zero-wind start presents special challenges. The smallest mistakes, which are forgiven in light or moderate wind, can be crucial here. Without wind, the start process is less forgiving and the consequences of carelessness become more apparent.

II. Preparation is the key to success

A successful zero-wind takeoff with an RC paraglider requires particularly thorough preparation. In situations without wind, even the smallest mistakes can have significant consequences, which are hardly significant in light or moderate winds. The reason for this is that the takeoff process without wind is much less forgiving. It is therefore crucial to consider all relevant factors in advance.

Launching an RC paraglider is a complex matter that can be influenced by many parameters. These range from the correct setting of the equipment to the physical and mental condition of the pilot and the specific techniques used when inflating the glider. If we pay attention to certain parameters in advance, we contribute about 70% to a successful launch.

The importance of thorough preparation cannot be overestimated. It is not only about setting up the technical equipment correctly, but also about mentally preparing for the more demanding takeoff in zero wind. Every step we carefully plan and implement in advance minimizes the risk of errors during the takeoff process.

Below we will discuss in detail the most important points that have a high impact on a zero wind start. By carefully paying attention to these aspects we will significantly increase the probability of a successful start.

III. Important factors for a successful zero-wind start

1. Paraglider and equipment

a) Optimal setting of the RC paraglider

brake line adjustment

Ensuring the correct length
The correct adjustment of the brake lines is crucial for a successful zero-wind takeoff. Please check carefully whether the brake lines are the right length. The paraglider must not be braked slightly, as this has a negative effect on the inflation behavior. Asymmetrical brake line lengths can also lead to the glider not rising symmetrically or breaking out to the side.
Avoiding braked or asymmetrical lines
A braked trailing edge makes it difficult to fill the canopy with air and affects lift. Make sure that both brake lines are the same length and that the trailing edge is free of tension. This allows the canopy to inflate symmetrically and smoothly.
Reference to manufacturer information in the manual
Follow the manufacturer's instructions in the manual carefully. The brake line settings recommended there are tailored to the specific model of your RC paraglider and have been extensively tested.

wind-up exercises before takeoff

trailing edge control and steering reactions
Before you actually take off, carry out some pull-up exercises to check the adjustment of the brake lines. Important: Deactivate the motor by pressing the motor switch, disconnecting a phase from the motor or removing the propeller. When pulling up the glider, make sure that the trailing edge is free and not pulled by the control lines. Observe how the glider reacts to control impulses. These should be instantaneous and symmetrical.
Adjustment if the free travel on the joystick is too long
If you notice that you have a lot of free travel on the control stick, the brake lines are set too long. This leads to delayed control responses and makes it difficult to control the glider, especially during takeoff. In this case, correct the length of the brake lines until the control impulses are implemented directly and precisely.

b) Optimal layout of the paraglider

A crucial factor for a successful zero-wind launch is the correct positioning of the RC paraglider on the ground. In the absence of wind, the positioning of the paraglider plays an even more important role, as there are no natural air currents to help fill the canopy and ascend.

curved leading edge
Lay out the RC paraglider so that the leading edge forms an arched shape. This arched shape corresponds to the natural flight shape of the glider and supports symmetrical inflation. A correctly shaped leading edge makes it easier to fill the cells with air and promotes a uniform ascent of the glider.
Method: Pull the outer ribs outwards
To achieve the curved leading edge, proceed as follows: After laying the canopy on the ground, pull the canopy ends slightly outwards, alternately on the outer ribs. This will create the natural curved shape of the leading edge. Make sure that the canopy is spread out evenly and without twisting.
Advantages for the winding process
The curved design of the leading edge has several advantages:

Improved filling behavior: The air can flow more easily into the cells, which means the umbrella inflates faster and more evenly.
Symmetrical ascent: A correctly designed parachute minimizes the risk of it breaking out sideways or ascending asymmetrically.
Reduction of launch errors: By optimally positioning the wing, you reduce possible disturbances during inflation, which is particularly crucial in zero wind.

This preparation minimizes possible sources of error and makes the entire start-up process much easier.

c) Free leash guidance

A free and correct line guide is crucial for a successful zero-wind takeoff. The A-lines of the RC paraglider play a particularly central role here, as they are the first to come under tension during inflating and determine the correct angle of attack of the glider.

Check A-line level
Be extremely careful to ensure that the A-level is completely clear. This means that no line is swung or twisted over another. In particular, no B-level line should be laid over an A-line. Check all lines carefully for possible tangles or crossings before beginning the launch procedure.
Avoiding crossings with B-lines
When an A-line is swung over a B-line, these lines must separate from each other during takeoff. This separation process requires additional energy and time, resulting in energy loss . In the critical phase of the zero-wind takeoff, this can prevent the wing from climbing correctly and lead to launch problems.
Minimize energy loss and starting problems
By carefully checking the A-line plane and keeping it clear, you minimize energy loss when inflating the wing. Any unnecessary friction or tangling of the lines impairs energy management during takeoff. An optimal takeoff requires that all lines can work unhindered to get the wing into the air efficiently and symmetrically.

By checking the line routing thoroughly and making sure that the A-line plane is clear of any obstructions. This careful preparation will go a long way in avoiding takeoff problems and ensuring a safe flight.

d) Free-running accelerator

If your RC paraglider is equipped with an accelerator, its correct function plays a crucial role in a successful zero-wind takeoff. A faulty or blocked accelerator line can significantly affect the glider's inflation behavior.

Check the speed lines
Check carefully that the speed lines are completely free and lead up from the riser without obstruction . There must be no tangles, knots or obstacles that could affect the free movement of the lines. A damaged speed line can exert undesirable forces on the glider and prevent it from ascending symmetrically.
Ensuring uninterrupted guidance on the carrying strap
Make sure that the speed lines are not taut behind the risers or caught anywhere. They should run freely and without tension upwards along the risers. A correctly guided speed line ensures that no unwanted forces act on individual line levels during the inflating process and that the glider can ascend symmetrically.
Effects of disturbed lines on the start
If a speed line is not free to move during takeoff and is, for example, stretched behind the riser, it can pull the A-plane of the glider downwards. This causes the glider to accelerate asymmetrically for a short moment. During the inflation process, this can cause the glider to break out sideways or rise unevenly until the line is released again. This uncontrolled situation can endanger the takeoff and should be avoided at all costs.

By carefully checking the speed lines before takeoff, you can minimize the risk of such problems. Take the time to check the line routing carefully and make sure everything is clear and correctly arranged.

e) Controller settings for the engine

The optimal setting of the motor controller is a decisive factor for a successful zero-wind start with the RC paraglider. The importance of this point is often underestimated, although it has a significant influence on how quickly the motor accelerates to the required speed and thus delivers the necessary thrust.

Fast start-up of the engine
Every electronic speed controller (ESC) ramps up the motor according to a predetermined characteristic curve. This characteristic curve is designed to ensure that the motor and the controller are not overloaded and to keep the starting currents at a harmonious level. However, when starting with no wind, it is essential that the motor gets up to speed in the shortest possible time. A quick ramp-up ensures that there is immediately sufficient thrust to keep the RC paraglider in the air and prevent it from descending or landing prematurely.
significance for the startup process
If the motor starts up too slowly, there will be a delay during which the propeller will already be turning and making noise, but will not yet be providing enough thrust. This is because the propeller only generates a clean flow on the propeller profile at a certain speed. Since the propeller basically acts like a wing, the airflow around it must be fast enough to generate effective thrust. Starting up too slowly can result in the RC paraglider touching the ground before the motor has developed enough thrust.
Adjusting the start-up curve in the controller setup
Most controllers offer the option of individually adjusting the engine's starting behavior. By setting the starting curve, the pilot can determine how quickly the engine will reach the desired speed. For zero-wind starts, the controller should be configured to reach maximum speed in the shortest possible time. This minimizes the time between switching on the engine and achieving the necessary thrust.
Example setting for YGE controllers
With YGE brand controllers, the motor's start-up behavior can be set in the setup menu. Here, you can set the start-up time using a slider. It is recommended that you set this value to 0.3 seconds . This setting allows the motor to start up very quickly, providing the required thrust almost immediately. This prevents the RC paraglider from losing altitude before the motor develops its full power.

Note: When adjusting the controller, always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overloading or damaging the motor and controller. It is advisable to perform a test run after adjusting the settings to ensure that everything is working correctly.

By carefully adjusting the controller settings, you can ensure that the motor starts up quickly enough and that the glider receives sufficient thrust during the critical moment of takeoff. Optimum motor performance therefore contributes significantly to a successful and safe takeoff.

2. The Pilot / Human

a) Mental factors

The success of a zero-wind takeoff depends not only on the technical preparation and equipment, but also on the pilot himself. Mental factors play a crucial role and have a significant impact on the takeoff process. It is important to be aware of these influencing factors and to pay attention to them accordingly.

patience and discipline
In zero wind conditions, the takeoff requires a lot of patience and discipline. It is important to carry out all preparations carefully and without rushing. Since the zero wind start is more demanding, you must be prepared to invest more time and attention in the preparation. Hasty actions or carelessness can lead to mistakes that jeopardize the takeoff.
Realistic expectations
As with any new skill, don't expect everything to work right away. Be patient with yourself and be prepared for the fact that it may take several attempts before you get off to a smooth start. Having realistic expectations will help avoid frustration and motivate you to continually work on improving.
Dealing with possible false starts
False starts are not uncommon, especially in zero wind, and should not be discouraging. See them as part of the learning process. After each false start, analyze what went wrong and think about how you can do better next time. This reflective approach promotes learning and the further development of your skills.
stress management
Knowing that taking off in zero wind conditions is more challenging can cause mental stress. It is important to recognize this stress and actively manage it. The more stressed you are, the more sources of error creep in. Take time to calm down before taking off. Breathing exercises or short relaxation phases can help reduce inner tension.
Avoiding mistakes through calm and concentration
Calmness and concentration are key components for a successful launch. By focusing on the moment and taking each step consciously and attentively, you minimize the likelihood of mistakes. Don't let yourself be distracted by external factors or inner turmoil. A focused approach will go a long way toward making the launch safe and successful.

b) Physical factors

The pilot's physical preparation and posture are crucial elements for a successful zero-wind takeoff with the RC paraglider. Correct posture and positioning not only ensure optimal control of the glider, but also minimize the risk of takeoff errors.

Ensuring safety before takeoff

Motor switch OFF: The motor switch must be turned OFF during the entire preparation time. This prevents injury from the propeller starting accidentally.
Safe stance and posture
Make sure you have a stable and secure stance with good body tension. A firm posture allows you to react quickly and precisely to movements of the glider. This is especially important in zero wind, as the glider is more sensitive to physical influences without wind support.
Foot position and alignment (for right-handers)
For right-handed people, the following foot positioning is recommended:

Right foot: Place your right foot parallel to the umbrella, standing in the middle. This foot serves as a stable anchor and gives you support.
Left foot: Place the left foot forward with a small lunge, turned approximately 45 degrees. This will help you maintain balance and allow a natural movement when raising the parachute.
Hands: Move your right hand backwards to hold the nacelle (the RC pilot). This will give you optimal control of the aircraft during takeoff.

body tension and balance
Maintain good body tension throughout the launch process. This will help you maintain balance and react to sudden movements of the wing. An active body position also supports control of the gondola and the lines.
Positioning to the gondola and the parachute

Align the nacelle to the center of the canopy: Make sure the nacelle is positioned exactly in the center of the canopy. You can do this by looking from the center of the nacelle across the canopy with one eye. Many canopies have a marking on the center cell (e.g. the word "RAST" on the trailing edge) that serves as a guide.
Your own position: Remember that you do not have to be in the middle, but that the gondola is centered in relation to the canopy. Your position can vary slightly to ensure optimal alignment.

Ensure symmetrical line tension

Pre-tension the lines: Tighten the lines slightly by gently pulling the gondola backwards. Pay attention to which side tightens first.
Check the tension: If one side (e.g. the left) is tensed first, you are not yet optimally aligned. Asymmetrical tension can lead to the glider being loaded on one side during takeoff and rising asymmetrically.
Correct position: To equalize the tension, move a few centimeters forward or sideways until both sides are equally tensioned. Repeat the test until the line tension is symmetrical.

Checking the straps and alignment

Align the carrying handle parallel to the glider: Make sure that the point at which the risers of the RC paraglider are attached to the gondola (the carrying handle) is really parallel to the glider. This promotes symmetrical inflation and prevents one-sided loads.
Final check before takeoff: Make sure all equipment is correctly aligned and secured. A final check of the risers and lines can prevent potential problems.

By paying attention to these physical factors, you can significantly optimize your starting position. A stable posture, correct foot position and precise alignment with the gondola and the glider allow you to inflate the paraglider in a controlled and safe manner.

Remember that every step in preparing for takeoff is important. Taking the time to carefully check your position and orientation will lay the foundation for a successful flight and allow you to fully enjoy the RC paragliding experience.

Final security check

Check your surroundings: Take a look at your surroundings to make sure there are no people, animals or obstructions in the take-off and flight area.
Be aware of weather conditions: Even if there is no wind, you should be aware of sudden changes such as light gusts or thermal updrafts that could affect takeoff.

Trust in the equipment and yourself

Calm mindset: Through careful control, you gain security and confidence in the upcoming start. A calm and focused demeanor minimizes stress and reduces the susceptibility to errors.
Ready to start: If all checks are completed and no problems have been detected, you can proceed with the start with confidence.

Only now is the engine protection switch activated. Caution: If you were to push the throttle stick forward now, the engine would start.

By carrying out this thorough check before starting, you can ensure that all components are functioning optimally and that no unexpected problems occur.

3. Force progression and winding impulse

a) Phases of raising

A successful zero-wind launch requires an understanding of the force progression when inflating the RC paraglider. Inflating takes place in several phases, and the force applied is not constant. The correct dosage of pulling force in each phase is crucial to getting the glider into the air efficiently and stably.

initial impulse

effort required to fill the umbrella
A strong initial impulse is necessary at the beginning of the winding process. This increased effort enables:

Filling the umbrella with air: The initial pull opens the cells of the umbrella and allows it to quickly fill with air.
Flow at the leading edge: The leading edge of the profile is immediately well flown, which is important for aerodynamics and lift.
Free unfolding of the lines: The lines are stretched and can unfold freely, thus avoiding tangles.
Detaching the umbrella from the ground: The umbrella is initially detached from the ground, allowing it to reach an upright position.

Significance for the canopy filling and flow
Effective canopy inflation and airflow to the leading edge are crucial to generating the necessary lift. Without the initial impulse, the canopy would not be able to take in enough air, which would lead to an unstable or incomplete ascent. The powerful initial pull ensures that the canopy ascends symmetrically and in a controlled manner.

adjustment of the pulling force

Reduction of force from approx. 20–25° climbing angle
As soon as the wing begins to generate lift and reaches a climb angle of about 20 to 25 degrees , the force applied can be reduced. In this phase:

If the canopy takes over part of the work through its lift, the canopy will now continue to rise on its own, supported by the lift generated.
Less muscle power is required: You can reduce the pulling force because the wing requires less support from the pilot.

guiding the parachute over the pilot
In this phase, it is all about actively guiding the parachute over you :

Adjusting the force: Adjust the pulling force so that the glider does not rise too quickly or too slowly.
Stable positioning: Guide the umbrella so that it is stable above you without breaking out to the side.

Fine control: Be prepared to make small corrections to maintain the symmetry and stability of the canopy.

b) Check before pushing the model into the air

After successfully launching the RC paraglider, a careful inspection of the canopy and lines is essential. This check ensures that both the lines and the canopy are in perfect condition and that there are no obstacles that could jeopardize takeoff. By taking these measures, you ensure safety and increase the chances of a smooth launch.

Checking the lines and canopy

Freedom from lines and no tangles

Visual inspection of the lines: Once the glider is stable above you, carry out a thorough inspection. Make sure that all lines are free and that there are no tangles or knots. In particular, check the areas where lines may cross.
Foreign objects in the lines: Make sure that there are no foreign objects such as small branches, grass or other objects caught in the lines. Such obstacles can affect the line guidance and lead to unpredictable flight behavior. If this is the case, abort the takeoff immediately. Put the canopy down in front of you and next to you and deactivate the engine OFF switch again.

checking the cap

Full canopy deployment: Make sure the canopy is fully deployed and has no wrinkles or folded areas. A correctly opened canopy ensures optimal aerodynamics and lift.
Symmetry of the canopy: Make sure that the canopy is symmetrical above you and that no side is sagging or pulled up. An asymmetrical canopy can lead to unexpected flight movements.

c) Pushing the RC paraglider model into the air

Now push the model into the air with moderate force and a small push. Make sure that you do not throw the gondola upwards, as this would relieve the strain on the lines and cause the canopy to collapse. So push it horizontally into the air with a little force. Give the model some energy so that the gliding angle is not too steep for the first few meters with the motor still switched off. The model will now fly in gliding flight with the motor still switched off.

d) Starting the engine

Only when both hands are back on the transmitter is it time to start the engine and begin the climb. The right timing and the correct procedure are crucial to ensure a safe and stable climb.

timing and procedure

Only start the engine after the parachute has been released

When to start the engine: The engine should only be started when the paraglider is gliding steadily one or two meters away from you and both hands are back on the transmitter.

Dosed throttle to avoid stalls due to pilot oscillation

Slow start of the engine

Avoid abrupt acceleration: Do not accelerate immediately, but increase the engine gradually and evenly . Accelerating too quickly can cause the gondola to shoot forward and the glider to have too high an angle of attack.
Risk of stalls: An angle of attack that is too high at low flight speed can lead to a stall . The wing suddenly loses lift and can fall backwards uncontrollably.

Controlled acceleration

Defined throttle: Only give as much throttle as is necessary to initiate a stable climb. The acceleration should be such that the aircraft climbs smoothly and in a controlled manner.

initiate climb

Flat to moderate climbing angle

Optimal climb rate: The goal is to fly the aircraft upwards at a flat to moderate climb angle . A climb angle that is too steep can impair flight stability and increase the risk of stall.
Balance between lift and speed: By setting an appropriate climb angle, you ensure that the wing has enough forward speed to fly stably while generating sufficient lift.
angle of attack
Look at the upper surface of the RC paraglider. The more surface area you see, the stronger and more critical the angle of attack.

Control of the model during the ascent

Continuous monitoring: Keep an eye on the model throughout the ascent and pay attention to its flight behavior. Be ready to make control corrections to maintain stability.
Active control: Keep both hands on the transmitter to be able to react quickly to changes. Active control is particularly important to guide the glider safely in the event of turbulence or slight changes in the wind.

By paying attention to these points when starting the engine and initiating the climb, you can ensure a safe and controlled ascent of your RC paraglider in zero wind conditions. A measured throttle and an appropriate climb angle help to avoid risks such as stalls and to complete the takeoff successfully.

Summary of key points:

Only start the motor when the glider is flying stable and both hands are on the transmitter.
Increase the gas gradually and evenly to avoid the nacelle overshooting.
Maintain a flat to moderate climb angle to ensure flight stability.
Continuously monitor the model during the ascent and correct if necessary.

By following this procedure, you will significantly increase the chances of a smooth takeoff and can look forward to a safe and enjoyable flight.

Conclusion

The zero-wind start with the RC paraglider presents special challenges, which can, however, be successfully mastered with the right preparation, technique and mental attitude.

Summary of the most important points

Preparation of equipment and pilot

Optimal setting of the RC paraglider:

Brake line adjustment: Make sure the brake lines are the correct length and not blocked or asymmetrical. Follow the manufacturer's instructions in the manual and perform inflating exercises to check the settings.
Laying out the paraglider: Lay out the glider in an arc shape by pulling the outer ribs outwards. This promotes even inflation and symmetrical inflation and saves energy.
Free line routing: Check that the A-line plane is free of tangles and that no lines are crossed. A clean line routing minimizes energy losses during takeoff.
Speed bar lines: Make sure that the speed bar lines run freely along the harness and are not taut behind the harness.
Engine governor settings: Adjust the governor so that the engine gets up to speed quickly. Fast thrust generation is critical to prevent the wing from sinking.

Mental and physical preparation of the pilot:

Patience and discipline: Be patient with yourself and be prepared to try starting several times. A calm approach reduces stress and sources of error.
Posture and stance: Make sure you have a secure stance with good body tension. Position yourself correctly in relation to the glider and ensure that the line tension is symmetrical.
Positioning the gondola: Align the gondola in the middle of the canopy and check the alignment of the risers.

Understanding the force progression during winding

Phases of raising:

Initial impulse: Start with a strong pull to fill the canopy with air and release it from the ground. This allows for effective canopy inflation and airflow to the leading edge.
Adjusting the pulling force: Reduce the force at a climbing angle of about 20-25 degrees. Guide the glider over you and keep it stable.

Check before the model is pushed into the air:

Check the lines and canopy for tangles or foreign objects.
Make sure the umbrella is symmetrical and fully unfolded.

Starting the engine:

Do not start the motor until the glider is flying stably and both hands are on the transmitter.
Increase the engine speed gradually to avoid the nacelle overshooting.
Initiate the climb with a flat to moderate climb angle and maintain control of the model.

Patience and regular practice are the key to success when taking off in zero wind with an RC paraglider. It is normal that not every takeoff will be successful the first time. Through continuous training, you will improve your skills and gain confidence.

Careful preparation of equipment and pilot as well as understanding the force progression during take-off have a positive effect on safety and take-off quality . Every successful take-off strengthens your confidence and increases the fun of flying.

Approach each takeoff calmly and with concentration, and don't let setbacks discourage you. Over time, you will find that patience and practice lead to success and you will be able to fully enjoy the fascination of RC paragliding.