The panel ...The panel is very simple. First set the gyro compass bug to the true wind direction. This will help you to keep the correct angle with the wind. The printed polar diagram should help you.Release the brakes and trim the sail (joystick elevator) parallel to the wind. Then increase the AOA and see the speed builds up. We like to use the trim tab on our joystick to trim the sail. |
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How to start ...This is not a sailboat. This is not even a sail. It is a vertical-wing-on-wheels.To get moving, you have to get the sail (wing) in the correct AOA to get some lift. But as you start moving, the apparent wind will change and you will need to trim your sail consequently. Stop by setting the sail parallel to the true wind. |
How to go backward ...The sail is symetrical. It generates a lift on both sides. If you want to move backward, simply back the sail and you will move in the other direction. This is usefull if you come too close to the wind and stop. Simply turn the sail and your wheels in the opposite direction to the one you want to go, and back until you make a convenient angle with the wind (at least 60 degrees). |
Turning against the wind ...Turning against the wind is called, tacking. To do so, you need to keep some speed in the manoeuvre. Otherwise, you will stop in the eye of the wind. Pull the rudder toward the wind, swing the sail to the other side and gain some speed before heading again to an optimal angle to the wind. |
Turning with the wind ...Turning with the wind from behind is called, jibing. It is easier than tacking but not as fast. When you have the wind from behind, no more lift is generated and you go pretty slow. Here also, it is better exagerate the turn, gain some speed and then seek the correct heading. |