Flow Paragliders Cosmos User manual

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WELCOME
Thank you for flying Flow Paragliders. We hope you will be satisfied with this product and wish you many happy flights. We strongly recommend
that you read this manual before the first flight. This manual is designed to help you to quickly familiarize with this beautiful glider.

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Welcome 2
1. General Information 4
2. Certification 4
3. Pilot’s Profile 5
4. Specifications 6
5. Take Off and Flying Techniques 7
5.1 Before take-off 7
5.2 Take-off 7
5.3 Landing 8
5.4 Turning 8
6. Rapid Descent 8
6.1 Spiral Dive 8
6.2 B-line Stall 9
6.3 Big Ears 9
7. Performance 9
7.1 Use of Brakes 9
7.2 Use of Speed Bar 9
8. Asymmetric & Frontal Collapses 10
8.1 Asymmetric Collapse 10
8.2 Frontal Collapse 10
9. Full Stall 11
10. Flying without Brakes 11
11. Cravats 11
12. SIV 12
13. Adjustment of the Harness 12
14. Maintenance & Checks 13
14.1 Maintenance Tips 13
14.2 Periodic Inspections 13
15. Warranty 14
16. Summary 14
17. Line Plan 15
18. Riser Diagram 16
19. Overall Illustration 17
20. Materials 18
21. Line Measurements 19
22. Bridle Check-Sheet Lengths (mm) 21

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General Information
User manual for Cosmos XS, Cosmos S, Cosmos M and Cosmos L
The Flow Cosmos is an easy and fun paraglider with excellent glide and a very efficient speed system designed as a low end EN B class glider.
The Cosmos is aimed at pilots who are willing to progress in the sport safely, chasing their first XC flights but who are also comfortable with the
technical control of this type of glider.
The pilots should understand the implication of flying an EN B-class wing.
The Cosmos has a high level of passive safety. The Cosmos has been certified as EN B, having met all the requirements of EN 926-2/August 2005
and LTF NFL II 91/09.
Please note that any changes to the paraglider will invalidate the result of the certification. Correct usage of the glider is the pilot‘s responsibility.
The manufacturer and distributor do not accept liability for loss or damage as a result of the misuse of this paraglider. It is the pilot’s responsibility
to comply with legal regulations and to maintain the airworthiness of the aircraft.
This guide meets the requirements specified by EN 926-2:2005 as well as LTF NFL II 91/09 for user manuals.
This user manual version V2 is dated: 11/2017.
Flow Paragliders PTY LTD –1/24 Clyde Road, Dee Why, NSW 2099 Australia –[email protected]

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PILOT’S PROFILE
The Cosmos was designed to be nothing but a fun paraglider. With that in mind we concentrated on the handling and the fun factor of the glider.
Coupled with a shark nose profile and reduced line plan we have a glider which sits in the low end of the EN B class.
Its passive safety makes the ideal glider to progress safely in the sport and to gain experienced as a first Cross Country glider. It has a usable
performance and handling for even those pilots with more experience who often fly in the B category. Novice pilots will enjoy its passive safety
and experienced pilots will be delighted to explore the fun factor and amazing LD and real-world performance the Cosmos delivers.
The Flow Cosmos is not suitable for use in school training.

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SPECIFICATIONS
XS
S
M
L
FLAT AREA
24.2m2
25.80m2
27.3m2
29.3 m2
PROJECTED AREA
21m2
22.22m2
23.44m2
25.47m2
FLAR WINGSPAN
11.18m
11.55m
11.88m
12.34m
PROJECTED SPAN
9.05m
9.29m
9.48m
10.03
ASPECT RATIO
5.17
5.17
5.17
5.17
PROJECTED AR
3.9
3.9
3.9
3.9
MAX CHORD
2.65
2.73
2.81m
2.93
NUMBER OF CELLS
50
50
50
50
GLIDER WEIGHT
5.0
5.5
5.8
6.2
TAKE OFF WEIGHT
60-85
70-95
85-105
95-120
CERTIFICATION
EN B *
EN B
EN B
EN B*

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TAKE-OFF, FLIGHT, AND FLYING TECHNIQUES
The Flow Cosmos should be flown as a normal paraglider. However, there are several points listed below which should help you to familiarize
with your new paraglider quicker.
The Cosmos was designed as a foot launchable solo paraglider and can also be tow-launched. It is the pilot’s responsibility to use suitable harness
attachments and release mechanisms and to ensure that they are correctly trained on the equipment and system employed.
Before Take-off
•Check the canopy for rips or tears. Also, inspect the internal structure (ribs, diagonals) and seams.
•Check if lines are not damaged or tangled.
•Check the quick links connection between lines to the risers are undamaged and tightened.
•Check if the risers are not damaged or twisted.
•Check if the speed system works freely and that the lines are long enough.
•Check that the brake handles are correctly attached and that each line runs freely through the pulley.
Take-off
Lay the paraglider out with the leading edge in a horseshoe shape. Hold the A risers close to the quick links and move forward until the lines get
stretched. You should now be perfectly centred with your wing. With no wind or light headwind, with lines stretched, The Flow Cosmos inflates
rapidly and rises over your head with some dynamic steps. We recommend that you do not pull risers too forward or down, which could cause a
collapse of the leading edge, but simply follow them until the glider reaches its angle of flight. It is important that the centre of gravity of your
body stay in front of your feet during the inflation of the glider to constantly load the risers. A controlled inflation allows you to check the canopy
and lines during the last phase as it comes up and thus avoids the need to use brakes. Depending on the wind conditions or the slope, an adequate
use of brakes can help you to take-off quicker.

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Landing
Because of the exceptional glide for this type of glider, high caution is recommended in the stages of approaching and landing. The Flow Cosmos
is a fast glider, any action on the brakes may cause significant reactions. It is therefore recommended to execute the first flights in a familiar
environment and under easy conditions. With negative steering, there is more time for the manoeuvres to be performed steadily, which results
in reducing the pendulum movements of the paraglider. Reminder: Negative steering involves applying the brakes symmetrically by about 30%
of the maximum range to slow the paraglider and a simultaneous turning by means of releasing the outside brake. Speeding up just prior to
landing allows a more effective flare and therefore a gentler landing.
Turning
Flow Cosmos was designed to perform well in turns. Negative steering (see above) on one hand slows the paraglider in certain phases of the flight
and on the other hand reduces excessive rolling during turn reversals. It is not only designed to turn (with approx. 30% brake) but also to fly slowly
in order to help identify the areas of lift and to keep the paraglider flatter to minimize the sink rate in a turn (with 15% brake). Symmetrical brake-
input at 20-30 % enables you to keep your wing under control –to brake further when pitching and to release when the canopy banks up.
RAPID DESCEND
Techniques
In order to descend, the paraglider must fly away from the areas of lift. In case any problems occur, the following techniques might be used to
increase the sink rate.
•Spiral Drive:The Flow Cosmos is a manoeuvrable wing which responds to any input easily. To initiate the spiral, apply one brake
progressively to about 35% and hold it in its position. The speed of rotation will increase progressively as well as the pressure on the brake
and the centrifugal force that is perceived. The angle or the speed of rotation can be decreased or increased by releasing or pulling the
brake by several centimetres. Once mastered the spiral allows you to descend by more than 10 m/s. Movements which are extremely
abrupt or badly synchronized or very quick initiation of the spiral can result in an asymmetrical collapse or a spin. CAUTION: A deep spiral
is no harmless manoeuvre. The kinetic energy obtained must be reduced by slow releasing of the inside brake.

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•B-line Stall:B-line Stall Grasp the B risers at the quick links and pull them down symmetrically. The paraglider will enter a B-line stall and
drop backwards before stabilizing overhead. The descent rate increases to 6 - 8 m/s. To exit the B-line stall raise both hands together in a
single, positive movement so that the risers are at full extension. On releasing the B-risers, your Cosmos should return immediately to
normal flight.
•Big Ears: Big ears is a moderate descent method, reaching -3 or -4 m/s, speed reduces slightly between 3 and 5 km/h and piloting
becomes limited. The angle of attack and the wing loading also increases.
Push on the accelerator to restore the wing’s horizontal speed and the angle of attack. To activate ears, take the line amain3 and
simultaneously, smoothly pull them outward and downward. The wingtips will fold in. Let go of the lines and the ears will re-inflate
automatically. If they do not re-inflate, gently pull on one of the brake lines first and then on the opposite side. For directional control
while using the Big Ears, use weight shift.
We recommend the pilot to re-inflate asymmetrically, to avoid unnecessary change on the angle of attack, more so if you are flying near the
ground or flying in turbulence.
PERFORMANCE & USE OF BRAKES
Use of Brakes
Flow Cosmos’s best glide is at a trim speed (no brakes) –about 38 km/h. The minimum sink rate is achieved by applying approx. 15% of the brakes.
When using more than 30% of the brakes, the aerodynamics and the performance of the glider are likely to deteriorate and the effort to
manoeuvre will increase quickly. In case of extremely high brake pressure there is a great risk of a stall. Which occurs at a full brake travel (100%
of the brakes) 65cm. In normal flying conditions the optimal position for the brakes, in terms of performance and safety, is within the top third
level of the braking range.
Use of Speed Bar
Flow Cosmos is equipped with a speed system. The profile of Cosmos has been designed to fly stable through its entire speed range. It is useful
to accelerate when flying in strong winds or in extreme descending air. For fitting and positioning the speed bar consult the instructions of the

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harness manufacturer. Before every flight check that the speed bar works freely and that the lines are long enough to ensure that it is not engaged
permanently. Use of the speed bar increases the maximum speed of the paraglider by up to 30% of the trim speed. However, it does reduce the
angle of attack and therefore there is a risk of a frontal (or asymmetric) collapse. We therefore do not advise to use the speed bar near the
ground.
ASSYMETRIC & FRONTAL COLLAPSES
Despite the tests proving Cosmos recovers on its own after collapses, it is a EN B glider therefore active piloting is recommended in case of an
asymmetric or frontal collapse. Active piloting will reduce the loss of altitude and a change of direction.
Asymmetric Collapse
Despite the great stability of the profile of the Cosmos, heavy turbulent conditions may cause part of the wing to collapse asymmetrically. This
usually happens when the pilot has not foreseen this possible reaction of the wing. To prevent the collapse from happening, pull the brake line
corresponding to the compromised side of the wing, this will increase the angle of incidence. If the collapse does happen, the Cosmos will not
react violently, the turn tendency is very gradual and it is easily controlled. Lean your body towards the side that is still flying in order to counteract
the turn and to maintain a straight course, if necessary slightly slow down the same side. The collapse will normally open by itself but if that does
not happen, pull completely on the brake line on the side, which has collapsed (100%). Do this with a firm movement. You may have to repeat
this operation to provoke the re-opening. Take care not to over-brake on the side that is still flying (turn control) and when the collapse has been
solved; remember to let the wing recover its flying speed.
Bring both brakes down symmetrically to speed up the reopening of the paraglider, and then raise your hands back up immediately.
Frontal (Symmetric) Collapse
The profile of the Cosmos has been designed to widely tolerate extreme changes in the angle of attack. A symmetric collapse may occur in heavy
turbulent conditions, on entry or exit of strong thermals or lack of adapting the use of the accelerator to the prevailing air conditions. Symmetrical
collapses usually re-inflate without the glider turning, but you can symmetrically apply the brake lines with a quick deep pump to quicken the re-
inflation. Release the brake lines immediately to recover optimum flight speed.

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FULL STALL
Certain behaviour or weather conditions can cause a full stall. This is a serious deviation from normal flight and can be difficult to manage. If a
stall occurs at less than 100 m above the ground, throw your reserve parachute. Main causes of a full stall:
•A poorly timed or an extensive use of brakes when the air speed of the wing is reduced.
•Soaked or heavily drenched leading edge (from rain or a cloud) can result in a stall due to an uneven airflow over the leading edge.
Whatever the cause, a full stall can be either symmetrical or a in a configuration of a spin.
Your first reaction should be to fully raise both hands. This normally allows the glider to return to normal flight but If nothing happens after a few
seconds, apply the speed bar to encourage the wing to regain normal flight. Ensure the glider has returned to normal flight (check your airspeed)
before using the brakes again.
FLYING WITHOUT BRAKES
If a brake line or pulley breaks, it is possible to fly the Cosmos using the C-risers (rear riser). The movements must be well controlled as the
deformation of the wing, due to the traction on the B-risers, is greater than that produced by using the brakes.
CRAVATS
If the tip of your wing gets stuck in the lines, this is called a cravat. Due to the large amount of drag, cravats can turn your wing into a spiral dive
very quickly. This can be disorientating and difficult to control if allowed to develop. To recover from a cravat immediately, anticipate the
movement of the wing, first stabilise the direction of your wing with outside brake and weight shift. Once you have control of the rotation and
sink rate, apply strong deep pumps of the brake on the cravated side whilst weight shifting away from the cravat. It is important to lean away
from the cravat otherwise you risk spinning or deepening the spiral. The aim is to empty the air out of the wing tip whilst it is unloaded. Correctly
done, this action will clear the cravat. If it is a very large cravat and the above options have not worked, then a full stall is another option. This
should not be attempted unless you know what you are doing and have a large amount of altitude. Remember, if the rotation is accelerating and
you are unable to re-open the wing or control the decent rate, you should throw your reserve parachute whilst you still have enough altitude.

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SIV
All manoeuvres should be carried by the supervision of experienced paragliding instructors, above water and rescue boat.
ADJUSTMENT OF THE HARNESS
For test flights, the pilots used ABS harnesses with the following set-up:
SIZE
Distance from seat board
Distance between hang points
COSMOS XS
43cm
44cm
COSMOS S
43cm
46cm
COSMOS M
43cm
46cm
COSMOS L
43cm
46cm
We recommend adjusting the harness in a very similar way to the test adjustment. Excessive cross-bracing increases the risk of twisting the risers.
A looser setting will result in a tendency to lean towards the collapsed side. Lower hang points reduce the roll-stability of your harness and can
slow down the reopening of asymmetric collapses. Higher hang points (+ 2 up to +4 cm) have no influence on inflight safety and can therefore be
tolerated.

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MAINTENANCE & CHECKS
The Flow Cosmos is a robust piece of equipment but as any flying aircraft it should be technically periodically checked to ensure proper
airworthiness.
Maintenance Tips
The life of your paraglider therefore depends largely on the care which you maintain and use it. To maximize life span of your wing, respect the
following rules:
•Avoid dropping the canopy on its top surface or on its leading edge during inflation or landing.
•Avoid dragging it across the ground when moving it.
•Don‘t expose it unnecessarily to sunlight.
•Choose a packing technique that doesn‘t damage the plastic rods and that doesn‘t crease the internal structure excessively.
Always use the protective bag to avoid direct contact with the harnesses and buckles of any friction between the blade and the rucksack.
Never store your paraglider when it is damp.
If immersed in sea water rinse immediately with fresh water. Do not use any detergents. Dry your paraglider away from direct light in a dry and
well-aired place.
Empty any foreign bodies from your paraglider regularly, for example sand, stones or animal or vegetable matter which may eventually decay.
Twigs, sand, pebbles, etc. damage tissue in successive folds and organic debris of vegetable or animal origin (insects) can promote mould growth.
Periodic Inspections
The paraglider has undergone a series of tests during the production process and consequent flight tests before the delivery. It is delivered with
a standard brake setting same to the one used during the testing. Periodic Checks & Repairs: for safety reasons, it is recommended that the
paraglider is checked at least once a year, or after 100 hours and anytime there is a change in its behaviour. However, if you are a frequent flyer
(more than 100 hrs per year), then we recommend that you get your glider every 100 hours. The checker should inform you about the condition
of your glider and if some parts will need to be checked or changed before the next normal service check period.

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WARRANTY
The Flow Cosmos is guaranteed for two years or 250 hours against any production fault since the date of purchase.
The guarantee does not cover:
•Damage caused by misuse
•Neglecting the regular maintenance
•Overloading or misuse of the glider
•Damage caused by inappropriate landings
SUMMARY
Safety is the single most important thing in our sport. We recommend to always be alert of the weather, fly as regularly as you can and ground
handle as much as possible. Practicing ground handling will keep your skills alive and will support you especially when conditions at launch aren't
perfect or the site is difficult.
Please always respect the weather! Monitor the conditions and the forecast closely and understand which conditions are right for your level of
flying or for flying in general. Lot's of pilots get hurt due to misjudging weather conditions and we don't want you to be one of them.
We would also like to emphasise respecting our beautiful nature and looking after your flying sites. If you need to dispose the wing, please don't
dispose of it in the normal household waste but in an environmentally responsible way. If you are unsure, please contact your council.

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LINE PLAN

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RISER DIAGRAM
Sizes XS, S
Sizes M, L

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OVERALL ILLUSTRATION

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MATERIALS
In case of any doubts regarding the information in the manual contact your FLOW PARAGLIDERS dealer.
For spare parts or information in how to obtain them get in contact with us directly or with your local dealer.
Flow Paragliders PTY LTD. 1/24 Clyde Road, Dee Why, NSW 2099, AUSTRALIA –Tel: [phone] –[email protected]
CANOPY
FABRIC CODE
SUPPLIER
Upper surface
Dominico DOKDO 30D MF
Dominico terch Corp. - Korea
Bottom Surface
Porcher 7000 E71
Porcher Industries - France
Supported Ribs
Porcher 7000 E91
Porcher Industries - France
Unsupported Ribs
Porcher 9017 E29
Porcher Industries - France
Leading Edge Reinforcement
2.5/1.8/ Plastic pipe
Porcher Industries - France
Thread
210D/3, 420D/3
Coats Thread - Thailand
SUSPENTION LINES
FABRIC CODE
SUPPLIER
Upper Cascades
Edelrid 8000U 130/090/070/050kg - Edelrid
9200 030kg
EDELRID - Germany
Middle Cascades
Edelrid 8000U 190/130/090/070/050kg
Edelrid 9200 030kg
EDELRID - Germany
Main Lines
Edelrid 8000U 360/190/130/050kg
Liros DSL 140kg
EDELRID - Germany
LIROS GMHB - Germany
RISERS
FABRIC CODE
SUPPLIER
Shackles
Maillon Rapide
ANSUNG PRECISION - Korea
Riser Webbing
12mm zero stretch polyester webbing
Guth&Wolth GMBH - Germany
Pulleys
Pulleys Ronstan ball bearing
Ronstan - Australia

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LINE MEASUREMENTS