The Skynch, a one-man winch for hang glider and paraglider pilots to launch themselves
The Skynch is a solo winch that hang glider and paraglider pilots can mount on their car tow hitch, and operate by remote control to launch themselves if they find themselves alone in the tow field on a flyable day.
The hand-held remote control allows the pilot to tension the line and apply the appropriate amount of power to tow himself above the car, and then release the line. The Skynch will then reel the line back in and shut itself down when it receives the end of the line.
The transmitter is powered from a built-in rechargeable battery, and the winch and controller from a 48V battery system that can be placed on the ground close to the winch.
The Skynch can be used for step towing, but is currently only useable for pilots of up to 85 kg. The team say they may be able to offer a stronger tandem version in the future, but it will be more expensive.
The price for the Skynch, which comes with line, drogue chutes, trailer mount and autostop, transmitter, controller and antenna, charger and plywood transport box is 6,700 Euros + VAT and shipping. Batteries are 210 Euros each (plus VAT and shipping).
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