Re: [Mahle] The Off Heading Research Project
I had a difficult time interpreting this document.
The freepack is essentially dealing with a real beast. This is one reason Mark Hewitt (BASE 46) developed sleeve technology. Freepacks have a place and can be mastered though. There are a few points that everyone should be reminded of...
1) The canopy can be torqued (turned) during the way to line stretch, which can be influenced or minimized through packing techniques, such as 45 degree folding the stabilizers similar to a round reserve, and minimizing the exposure of the nose.
2) The canopy will tend to open down wind (or upwind) like a windsock during the inflation sequence.
3) The faster the opening, the more on heading it will be, with jumper body position being much more critical in the opening sequence.
4) Pilot chutes are now known to be critical in the on-heading performance of the canopy. Asymmetries in pilot chute manufacture, tapes relative to the block or bias, and attachment of the bridle to the pilot chute play a critical role in the system.
5) Pilot chute inflation should be staged. Inflation immediately upon (sideways) toss may result in an off heading opening.