Modern paragliders use aerodynamically efficient wings with a high aspect ratio and tapered planform yielding superior performance when compared to traditional ram-air airdrop canopies. In a typical use case, paragliders are ground launched by a pilot who carefully lays out the wing, checks the lines are running clear, then uses either the wind or a running start to get the paraglider off the ground while actively controlling the wing to stabilize it overhead and transition to flight. Achieving reliable aerial deployment of a paraglider is extremely challenging due to the tendency for the wing to inflate asymmetrically, tangle with itself, and transition quickly from inflation into a collapse. Over the past year, EDC has collaborated with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Aerial Delivery Solutions, and Aviator Paramotor to develop a highly reliable aerial deployment system for paragliders. With this capability, airdrop systems can be designed with high performance, high glide paraglider wings leading to increased range and enabling the aerial deployment of future long range powered paraglider systems.
