© Visual
Dictionary Online - 2014
A paraglider is made up of a row of cells
that are open inside from the leading edge to the trailing
edge. When pressurized and filled with air, they give the
canopy its rigidity.
The various lines that attach to the pilot's harness give
the canopy its shape.
Two toggles (also "brakes") within reach of the pilot
connect to the left and right trailing edges. The brakes are
the pilot's main control mechanisms.
© OjoVolador- 2002
Above is a detail of the leading edge of
a canopy. The ribs are usually a stiff material sometimes
supported internally by plastic rods.
© SkyNomad-
2014
The lines that are affixed to the wing
come down to the attachment point on the pilot via
"risers." The pilot's harness has two hefty carabiners
that clip onto each
set of risers.
These suspension lines provide the wing its shape in
flight. A pilot's weight is distributed evenly across
the wing when there is tension in the lines.
These lines enable the pilot to change the angle of
attack by weight shift or pulling on brake toggles.
© Yavuz Sariyildiz- 2010
