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that are generated by the curvature in this area. The leading edge is
then divided into sub-panels which are sewn into each of the cells at
the front of the wing. As a result, the leading edge of the wing is more
evenly tensioned, which benets the wing in performance and durability.
As an example, because of its similarity, imagine a rugby ball. In order to
produce its characteristic oval shape without wrinkles, its cover is made
of several panels - not of just one piece.
The application of this innovation, in conjunction with the 3DP, is key to
converting the perfect shape from 2D to 3D.
STE (Structured Trailing Edge) - The STE provides a rigid structure at
the trailing edge in order to maintain its shape in accelerated ight. In
addition, the rigidity provided by these elements improves the load
distribution, reducing wrinkles, and consequently drag, and therefore
ensuring better performance.
DRS (Drag Reduction Structure) - With the application of the DRS, the
airow at the trailing edge is directed more progressively along the
adverse pressure gradient with the aim of reducing the aerodynamic drag
produced in this area. This increases performance without compromising
safety or control of the wing.
RSD (Radial Sliced Diagonal) - RSD (Radial Sliced Diagonal) technology
improves the internal structure of the wing, incorporating different
independent diagonal ribs oriented more efciently, i.e. in the optimal
direction of the fabric, improving the strength and reducing weight and
deformation. Currently, most paragliders have diagonal ribs connected
from the attachment points to the adjacent proles with the aim of
reducing the number of attachment points, the number of lines and
improving load distribution.
In conventional diagonal ribs, loading/unloading cycles away from the
highest strength axis of the cloth result in a loss of shape, which reduces
the cohesion of the wing and therefore aerodynamic efciency.
The use of these technologies is a big technological leap forward in
building wings and a big improvement in ight comfort.
For the construction process of the ARTIK 6 we use the same criteria,
quality controls and manufacturing processes as in the rest of our range.
From Olivier Nef’s computer to fabric cutting, the operation does not
allow for even a millimetre of error. The cutting of each wing component
is performed by a rigorous, extremely meticulous, automated computer
laser-cutting robotic arm.
This program also paints the guideline markers and numbers on each
individual fabric piece, thus avoiding errors during this delicate process.
The jigsaw puzzle assembly is made easier using this method and
optimises the operation while making the quality control more efcient.
All Niviuk gliders go through an extremely thorough and detailed nal
inspection. The canopy is cut and assembled under strict quality control
conditions facilitated by the automation of this process.
Every wing is individually checked with a nal visual inspection.
The fabric used to manufacture the glider is light, resistant and durable.
The fabric will not fade and is covered by our warranty.
The upper-lines are made from unsheathed Dyneema and the rest are
made of unsheathed Kevlar.
The line diameter has been calculated depending on the workload and
aims to achieve the required best performance with the least drag.
The lines are semi-automatically cut to length and all the sewing is
completed under the supervision of our specialists.
Every line is checked and measured once the nal assembly is
concluded.
Each glider is packed following specic maintenance instructions as
recommended by the fabric manufacturer.
Niviuk gliders are made of premium materials that meet the requirements
of performance, durability and certication that the current market
demands.
Information about the various materials used to manufacture the wing
can be viewed in the nal pages of this manual.
