Date: Thu, 8 Dec 1994 10:17:28 -1000 From: andrew@tug.com (Andrew Beattie) Message-Id: Organization: /usr/lib/news/organisation Subject: Bodisail Some time ago there was a small piece in American Kite about a toy called Bodisail. I was curious, so I asked for more info and it arrived today. At first glance, it looks simply like a vertical wing that you strap to your side and a skooter to stand on. Reading their user guide, however reveals a rather more sophisticated setup. The sail is stretched between two parallel vertical bars that are held apart by a system of levers and hydraulics. The leading and trailing edge have slats built in to improve efficiency. The hydraulic system is worked by a lever that is part of the body harness. It enables you to vary the chord of the aerofoil by moving the leading and trailing edge bars closer together or further apart - an efficient reefing system. I like the fact that opposite to a land-sailer, when the wind builds, you naturaly lean into it (just as naturaly as you would on a bike), rather than being tipped over. I was initially sceptical, but it looks like a fun toy. I suggest that we invite them to the next big dry lake buggy thang at the KTA '96. It looks like it would fit in well with the buggies, land sailers, wheels of doom and whatever other new toys are on the lake. I'll try to organise a picture at Hawaii. Expect it to be something like ftp.hawaii.edu:/pub/rec/kites/graphics/jpeg/bodisail.jpg but it'll take Kevin and I a few days to get it there. Bodisail can be reached on +1 604 944 7310 I have no connection with them. Andrew -- Kite FAQ's: ftp.hawaii.edu:/pub/rec/kites/faq) o /\ Kite Jumping For sale: 10' Flexis with std & UF Spars. |_ \/ is for andrew@tug.com AoXoMoXoA (_\ M O R O N S = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =