On Sunday, June 30, 2013 10:30:03 PM UTC-4, JohnDeRosa wrote:
I am making a wing cuff which will be attached to a small bicycle wheel to become part of my tow out gear.

I have the pattern for the airfoil, the wheel, felt padding material, etc. I just need a design. There are a few to go by on the inter-web but I'd like to pick your collective brains.

Anyone have some pictures for what you created as an example? I have seen them with springs and pistons and such. Is that needed?



Thanks, John

Local ASW-20 whisperer and refurbisher of all things gliding Gregg Leslie (GL) has what I think is one of the best "traditional" designs.

- Aluminum sheet wing cuff (light but strong)
- Padded with medium density blue foam sheet (cheap and easy to replace, good padding, and slightly "grabby" so it doesn't slip)
- Aluminum fork with a simple hinge to fold up.
- Gas strut for shock-absorbing
- Approx 14 inch spoked wheel (probably rear wheel from a large push mower or garden cart)
- Stone-axe simple closure. Uses a piece of pvc pipe that sleeves over two rails (varnished wood) at the trailing edge of the wing. No fiddly hardware, clasps, latches, etc.

I'm trying to find a picture; maybe Gregg will see this and be kind enough to post.