[dhmartens]

Good news the subject is being declassified so we can now proceed with our specific design. Note these are military weapons designed to deal death, and now fun.

[JoeF]

Option note:
Two spar
Chord strut
Plug with shear pin
Stay lines on shear pin just inboard of spars
Pigtails before main stay line
Explore, test, and report

[JoeF]

Owl Wings' Texture Compared to Other Birds' Wing Surface Texture?

ChatGPT said:
Owl wings have a unique texture compared to other birds, specially adapted for silent flight. Here’s how their surface texture differs from typical bird wings:

1. Velvety Upper Surface
Unlike smooth, shiny wing surfaces in most birds, owls have a soft, velvety texture on their wings.
This texture reduces turbulence and noise by absorbing and breaking up airflow.
The tiny hair-like structures on their feathers dampen sound waves, preventing noisy air disruptions.

2. Serrated Leading Edge (Feather Combs)
Owls have comb-like serrations at the front edge of their wings.
These break up oncoming air into smaller, quieter streams instead of a single turbulent flow.
This feature helps them fly almost silently, unlike hawks or eagles, which generate audible wing noise.

3. Soft Fringed Trailing Edge
The back edge of an owl’s wing has soft, ragged fringes that act like a noise-diffusing brush.
These smooth out the turbulent air that exits the wing, preventing sudden pressure changes that cause sound.
Other birds usually have sharper, more defined trailing edges, leading to noisier flight.

Comparison with Other Birds:

Code: Select all

Feature               | Owls              | Hawks/Eagles    | Pigeons/Ducks
---------------------|-----------------|------------------|-------------------
Upper Surface        | Velvety, soft   | Smooth, rigid    | Smooth, rigid
Leading Edge         | Serrated, comb-like | Smooth         | Smooth
Trailing Edge        | Soft, fringed   | Sharp, defined   | Sharp, defined
Flight Noise         | Near silent     | Noticeable       | Very noisy


Why Does This Matter?
Owls' special wing texture helps them hunt silently at night, sneaking up on prey.
Other birds, like hawks, rely on speed and power, so they don’t need silent flight.

[dhmartens]

In a cost cuting measure I have eliminated the Department of 5 foot Hang glider Developement and moved the technology into the Department of Music Video props since that department has lead to measurable income. The workshop has been dismantled.

[JoeF]

We will keep you up to date on progress in the world of the tiny-packed hang glider development, Doug.
Your contributions won't go in vain! Thanks for your exploratory investments!

[JoeF]

Tiny-Packed Hang Glider Design Movement (5 ft-or-less in pack length)
TPHG Design Movement
===============================================================
TPHGs will alter types of hang gliding.
TPHGs will alter the pilot profile.
TPHGs will invite new wing manufacturers.
TPHGs will usher in a new series of hang glider plans for DIY wing builders.
TPHGs will affect EAA.
TPHGs will be featured in air museums.
TPHGs will rest in home and apartment closets.
TPHGs will rest in back seats and front seats of small cars.
TPHGs will be found transported on local city buses without fanfare.
TPHGs will be featured in some specialty flying events.
TPHGs will become affordable.
TPHGs will serve conservative hang gliding.
TPHGs will serve high-speed hang gliding.
TPHGs will come in a wide variety of forms.
TPHGs will attract engineering competitions.
Universities and aeronautical groups will host design challenges for the most efficient and compact TPHG.
TPHGs will inspire ultra-minimalist aviation.
→ The concept of extremely portable flying machines will lead to further simplifications and refinements.
TPHGs will redefine personal flight autonomy.
→ Individuals will have greater flexibility in when and where they can fly, without the need for large transport vehicles.
TPHGs will contribute to emergency aviation solutions.
→ Their lightweight, packable nature could lead to applications in rescue, reconnaissance, and rapid deployment scenarios.
TPHGs will encourage social flying groups in urban areas.
→ City-based hang gliding clubs will form, gathering at parks and other accessible locations.
TPHGs will integrate with modular control systems.
→ Innovations in weight-shift, control-surface, and hybrid steering methods will emerge to enhance flight dynamics.
TPHGs will open new avenues for aviation research.
→ Academic and independent researchers will explore new aerodynamics, structural mechanics, and lightweight materials.
TPHGs will develop into a new class of aviation sports.
→ Future competitions will focus on precision landings, portability challenges, assembly arts, inspection technologies, and more.
TPHGs will influence regulatory frameworks.
→ Aviation authorities will update policies to accommodate the growth of tiny-packed ultralight gliders.
TPHGs will find themselves transported on bicycles, motorcycles, in small aircraft, and upon and low-slung dollies and carts.


ChatGPT had a go at the theme:

Broader Impacts of Tiny-Packed Hang Gliders (TPHGs) on Humanity
Revolutionizing Personal Flight
TPHGs could become a stepping stone to practical, everyday personal flight. Their portability and ease of deployment might inspire advancements in lightweight, foot-launchable aviation, influencing the development of future ultralight aircraft and personal flying devices.

Expanding Urban Air Mobility
The ability to pack and transport a TPHG on public transportation means they could integrate into urban lifestyles. City dwellers may be able to take their gliders to parks or open spaces for recreational flight, leading to the normalization of local flying zones.

Democratizing Access to Air Sports
Traditional hang gliders require substantial storage, transport logistics, and financial investment. TPHGs, with their small size and lower costs, could open air sports to a wider demographic, including students, urban residents, and those with limited space.

Influencing Future Aerospace Designs
The engineering breakthroughs required for compact, high-performance TPHGs may inspire innovations in deployable wings, ultralight materials, and collapsible aerospace structures, with applications in UAVs, emergency response drones, and even space exploration.

Integrating into Emergency and Military Applications
TPHGs could serve in emergency rescue operations, allowing for rapid deployment in disaster areas where conventional aircraft cannot reach. Additionally, they might have tactical applications in covert operations, offering silent aerial insertion capabilities.

Cultural and Artistic Influence
TPHGs may become a symbol of minimalist aviation, inspiring artists, filmmakers, and futurists. They could feature in sci-fi visions of a world where humans move freely between urban spaces and the sky.

Encouraging Sustainable and Human-Powered Flight
With no need for fuel or large infrastructure, TPHGs represent an environmentally friendly form of aviation. This could drive interest in other low-impact aerial mobility solutions, influencing policies on sustainable flight.

Influencing Architecture and Home Design
If TPHGs become common, residential spaces may evolve to accommodate them, such as including storage hooks, indoor assembly spaces, or even rooftop launch zones in urban housing designs.

Changing Travel and Exploration
Compact personal gliders could encourage adventure travel, enabling pilots to pack their wings into carry-on luggage and explore flying sites worldwide without relying on full-size aircraft transport.

Developing Hybrid Flight-Assist Systems
The demand for easy launch and sustained flight may lead to hybrid designs incorporating electric-powered takeoff assist systems, further merging gliding with emerging personal aviation technology.

[JoeF]

Artificial Intelligence had a go with some mores that may come in handy by those developing TPHGs:

List one hundred common unspoken mores in USA cultural and social scene.


ChatGPT said:
Here are 100 common unspoken mores (informal social rules) in American culture:

Personal Space & Social Etiquette
Stand about an arm’s length away from people in casual conversations.

Avoid touching strangers unless necessary.

Do not stare at people in public.

Do not sit directly next to someone if there are other open seats.

Keep noise levels low in quiet places (libraries, public transit, etc.).

Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

Hold the door open for people behind you.

Say “excuse me” when passing closely by someone.

Avoid interrupting people when they are speaking.

Do not talk loudly on your phone in public places.

Public Behavior
Avoid cutting in line; always wait your turn.

Walk on the right side of sidewalks and hallways.

Avoid staring at people’s phone screens or computer screens in public.

Do not take photos of strangers without permission.

Do not engage in political or religious debates with strangers unless invited.

Avoid commenting on someone’s weight or personal appearance unless complimenting.

Keep bodily functions (burping, farting) discreet.

Always flush public toilets and wash your hands.

Smile or nod when making eye contact with a passing stranger.

Avoid discussing salaries or finances in casual conversation.

Dining Etiquette
Chew with your mouth closed.

Do not talk with food in your mouth.

Avoid making slurping or smacking noises while eating.

Do not reach across the table for food; ask for it to be passed.

Tip at least 15-20% at restaurants.

Wait until everyone at the table has their food before starting to eat.

Do not take food from someone’s plate unless offered.

Put your napkin on your lap when dining in a formal setting.

Avoid using your phone excessively at the table.

Do not blow your nose at the table.

Workplace Etiquette
Be on time for meetings and appointments.

Avoid discussing personal life in professional settings unless relevant.

Knock before entering someone’s office.

Maintain eye contact when speaking but do not stare.

Do not wear overpowering perfume or cologne.

Do not talk about politics unless in an appropriate setting.

Keep your workspace clean in shared office spaces.

Do not microwave fish or strong-smelling food in a shared office.

Use headphones when listening to music in the workplace.

Avoid gossiping about coworkers.

Driving & Transportation
Use turn signals when changing lanes or turning.

Do not tailgate other vehicles.

Let people merge when they signal.

Stay in the right lane unless passing on highways.

Avoid using your phone while driving.

Give up your seat on public transit for elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers.

Do not play loud music with open windows in residential areas.

Wait for passengers to exit before boarding public transit.

Do not block sidewalks or bike lanes with parked cars.

Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.

Friendship & Social Norms
Do not invite yourself to someone’s house unannounced.

Give a heads-up before calling someone instead of just calling randomly.

RSVP when invited to an event.

Bring a small gift when invited to someone’s home.

Do not pressure someone to drink alcohol.

Do not expect people to share food or drinks unless offered.

Text before visiting someone instead of just showing up.

Respect people’s dietary restrictions without making a big deal about it.

Do not ask intrusive personal questions (age, income, relationship status).

Avoid bringing up controversial topics in casual settings.

Romantic & Dating Norms
Do not assume exclusivity in dating unless discussed.

Pay attention to body language and respect personal space.

Avoid talking too much about past relationships on a first date.

Do not pressure someone into physical contact.

Splitting the bill is acceptable, but discussing it beforehand is best.

Being “fashionably late” for a date is frowned upon.

Do not ghost people after multiple dates—send a polite message instead.

Avoid texting excessively between dates unless reciprocated.

Do not monopolize the conversation—ask about the other person.

Saying “I love you” too soon is often seen as a red flag.

Technology & Social Media Etiquette
Do not tag people in unflattering photos without permission.

Avoid texting during face-to-face conversations.

Do not overshare personal drama on social media.

Do not FaceTime or video call someone without asking first.

Keep your phone on silent in theaters, churches, and meetings.

Do not add people to group chats without asking.

Avoid responding to texts with only “K” or thumbs-up if the conversation needs a real response.

Avoid excessive social media bragging.

Respect people’s privacy—do not screenshot private messages.

Do not use speakerphone in public places.

Family & Household Etiquette
Knock before entering someone’s room.

Take off shoes when entering someone’s home if they request it.

Do not bring up family drama at gatherings.

Help clean up after meals when visiting someone’s home.

Do not overstay your welcome when visiting.

Avoid criticizing someone’s home décor or cleanliness.

Keep phone usage minimal at family dinners.

Respect parents’ rules when staying at someone’s house.

If you borrow something, return it in the same condition.

Offer to bring food or drinks when attending a gathering.

General Politeness & Kindness
Say “please” and “thank you” frequently.

Apologize if you accidentally bump into someone.

Give people a chance to speak in group conversations.

Avoid overly negative or critical remarks in casual conversation.

Compliment people sincerely but not excessively.

Respect service workers and be polite to waiters, cashiers, etc.

Avoid making assumptions about someone’s background based on appearance.

Respect personal pronouns and names.

Avoid standing too close to people in checkout lines.

When someone helps you, acknowledge it with gratitude.

These mores help maintain politeness, respect, and harmony in American social interactions. Let me know if you’d like elaboration on any!




You said:
Give 20 such mores specifically for hang gliding sites.


ChatGPT said:
Here are 20 unspoken mores specific to hang gliding sites in the U.S.:

Pre-Flight & Setup Etiquette
Respect setup space – Do not walk through or move other pilots’ gear without permission.

Help others when needed – Offer assistance with rigging, but don’t touch their glider unless asked.

Do not block launch areas – Set up away from active launch zones to keep things flowing smoothly.

Check before moving a glider – If a glider is unattended, ask around before handling it.

Keep gear organized – Avoid sprawling out and taking up unnecessary space.

Launch Etiquette
Wait your turn at launch – Do not cut in line unless another pilot waves you ahead.

Give launching pilots space – Avoid standing too close or distracting them.

Announce intentions – Clearly communicate when you’re about to launch.

Do not rush others – Let each pilot take the time they need for a safe launch.

Avoid excessive coaching – Only offer launch advice if asked.

Flight & Airspace Etiquette
Follow right-of-way rules – Yield to lower or slower gliders when necessary.

Maintain good situational awareness – Avoid erratic or unpredictable maneuvers in congested airspace.

Do not tailgate – Keep a safe distance behind other pilots.

Communicate with hand signals – Use standard signals for turns, landing approaches, etc.

Respect performance differences – Do not pressure newer pilots into flying conditions beyond their skill level.

Landing & Post-Flight Etiquette
Clear the landing zone quickly – Move out of the way as soon as possible after landing.

Call out approaches – Announce “landing” if others are in the vicinity.

Help retrieve gliders – Assist pilots with carrying gear if needed.

Debrief respectfully – Avoid harsh criticism of other pilots’ launches or landings.

Leave no trace – Pack out trash, broken gear, or any other waste.

Following these mores helps keep hang gliding sites safe, respectful, and enjoyable for all pilots. Would you like any elaboration on these?

Then I asked the AI program:

User's Prompt:
Guess some mores specific to handling and living with TPHGs (tiny-packed hang gliders).

Reply:
Here are 20 unspoken mores that might emerge among pilots handling and living with Tiny-Packed Hang Gliders (TPHGs):

Packing & Transport Etiquette
1. Pack tightly and efficiently – Avoid loose or sloppy packing to keep the TPHG as compact as possible.
2. Respect public space – Keep the packed glider unobtrusive on buses, trains, or urban sidewalks.
3. Don't block doors or aisles – When carrying a packed TPHG, position it to minimize inconvenience to others.
4. Secure all components – Double-check that nothing rattles or gets left behind in transport.
5. Be mindful of weight distribution – Carry the TPHG in a way that minimizes strain on yourself and others.

Storage & Maintenance Mores
6. Store in a compact, respectful manner – Don’t let the packed glider take over shared spaces at home or in storage areas.
7. Dry it before long-term storage – Avoid packing it away wet to prevent mold and material degradation.
8. Regularly inspect for wear – Check telescopic segments, fabric socks, and connectors for damage.
9. Keep tools & spare parts handy – A small repair kit should always be available for quick fixes.
10. Respect others' TPHGs – Don’t handle or inspect someone else’s packed or assembled TPHG without permission.

Assembly & Pre-Flight Etiquette
11. Set up efficiently – Be mindful of space and time when assembling in shared launch areas.
12. Help but don’t interfere – Offer assistance only when asked, as different pilots may have their own assembly preferences.
13. Don’t rush the process – Compact nesting means careful assembly; avoid pressuring others to speed up.
14. Keep a clean workspace – Avoid spreading components chaotically in public areas.
15. Secure parts against wind – Prevent lightweight segments from blowing away during setup.

Flight & Landing Mores
16. Be extra cautious with new designs – Test incremental changes carefully before full flights.
17. Watch out for compatibility issues – Ensure all segments and connectors are properly engaged before launching.
18. Be adaptable in landings – TPHGs may have unique handling characteristics compared to standard gliders.
19. Help with breakdowns – Offer assistance to fellow pilots who are disassembling in challenging conditions.
20. Store responsibly post-flight – Don’t leave a disassembled TPHG scattered around a site.

These mores reflect the unique challenges and opportunities of urban mobility, compact storage, and quick setup that come with TPHGs. Would you like to refine these for specific scenarios?

[JoeF]

Bible des ailes de deltaplane------ Hang Glider Bible has now a post on Florian's TPHG 4.6 without using that name, but "Hangglifter"

Nom : HANGGLIFTER
Pays : Suisse
E-mail : info@hangglifter.com
Téléphone : Adresse postale :
Adresse Internet : https://hangglifter.com/

======================
Florian's website furthers his story:

WELCOME INTO THIS NEW CHAPTER
OF THE HANG GLIDING HISTORY !

My name is Florian, I'm a gunsmith in Switzerland (KUGS.CH) and my first hang gliding experience was June 3rd 2023. The first hang glider I made is named TPHG 4.6, or Glifter, and it flew for the first time on Monday November 18th 2024 at Dockweiler, Los Angeles, California, USA with a bunch of confirmed pilots, like Andy B. and Bob B. from Windsports.com, Joe F. (USHGA #5) and writer of "Low & Slow" Magazine (1971 - 1973, 24 issues), RJ K., Erika K. (Facebook and Youtube) and Bob K. owner of USHawks.org and by whom we are lucky to be able to fly on Monday and Tuesday at Dockweiler.

First flight of the TPGH 4.6 by Andy B. at Dockweiler November 18th 2024

Before this, I found Joe F. on Youtube with his video posted in 2015 saying he wanted to make a tiny packed hang glider (TPHG) of 5 feet on US Hawks Forum. So my sharing started on this forum with my post of July 8th 2024. My goal was to pack my hang glider in a 1.4m (4.6ft) long bag. Easy to carry and to travel with, it is done ! Thank's to Thomas F. from Finsterwalder Charly in Germany to have provided me 7075 aluminium tubes and sharing very important details of his 50 years of hang gliding experiences !

[JoeF]

Who will write and publish the first book on TPHG
  —Tiny Packed Hang Gliders—with pack measuring 5 feet or less in length?   
Beyond this discussion thread on USHawks.org,
who will take up the challenge of documenting and advancing this emerging field?

Any author is welcome to incorporate the data and insights I’ve shared here.
But more importantly, how will such a book propel the development of TPHG
and inspire new innovations?

From the pioneering Eddie Paul device to the Ranger hang glider and the compact TPHG 4.6 (HangGlifter),
we are witnessing only the first glimpses of a revolution in ultra-portable hang gliders.
The future of flight—light, compact, and adventure-ready—is just beginning to unfold.

=============== UPHG : ultra-portable hang glider. A new UP game, if you will?

[JoeF]

Ultra-Portable Hang Glider Design Movement
UPHG :: ultra portable hang glider
UPHGDM :: ultra portable hang glider design movement

============= Introducing a "Joe Loop" stay-line anchoring system ============

Technical note regarding optional stay-line anchor
Stay Line Anchoring Subassembly for a Tiny Packable Hang Glider

The stay line anchoring subassembly provides a lightweight, non-metallic solution for securing the crosslines that span from the left wing to the right wing while passing through the kingpost top and the queen posts' bottoms. This design eliminates the need for bolts, nuts, washers, or tangs, relying entirely on a carefully arranged Dyneema loop (Joe Loop) for strength and simplicity.

Design and Functionality

The anchoring mechanism consists of a Dyneema loop, strategically wrapped around the wing spar, the Joe Cup flange, and the chord strut base. The loop is sufficiently long to extend outboard of the Joe Cup flange, ensuring a secure hold without mechanical fasteners.

The wrapping technique involves passing the Dyneema loop around the spar and threading it through itself, creating a snug, self-locking cinch. This forms two distinct attachment points:

• Upper Apparent Loop: Serves as the anchor point for the upper stay line.
• Lower Apparent Loop: Provides attachment for the lower flying stay line.

Cinching Consideration

Since the Dyneema loop has a low-friction surface, preventing unwanted loosening remains an open challenge. One possible solution involves snubbing rubber cylinders, which could be slipped over each apparent loop and pushed tightly against the wrapping. These snubbers would provide friction-based resistance to slippage, helping maintain tension in the system while still allowing for easy adjustments when needed.

Once wrapped, cinched, and secured with the snubbing solution, the subassembly remains in place, passively awaiting connection to the stay lines. This method ensures easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining structural integrity, reducing weight, and preserving the compact packability of the glider.