Three Ways of Making a Parachute
It may not be much but making a parachute could be a very fun
activity, both for the exercise of knowledge on aerodynamics , or maybe
some things more about physics and just for the sheer fun of it. Also, it
is a good alternative to common toys seen in the market
today.
Introduction
A parachute is a device which uses the
effect of drag to slow down its descent from high latitudes. It was
invented by a man named Louis-Sébastien Lenormand during 1783 and is not
used both for military and recreational activities. Its general design
includes a canopy that is made of a lightweight fabric that supports the
suspension lines and is supported by tapes. Similar materials are used in
almost all forms of parachutes.
Here are three modifications on
making a parachute.
Parachute Model No. 1
Materials
needed:
A piece of lightweight cloth, preferably 30 cm sq
(handkerchief, bandana or scarf could be used) A weight (could be a
small toy, a metal washer or any piece of small item that could give
sufficient weight to the parachute) 4 pieces of 40 cm long
strings
Instructions:
Using the overhand knot, tie each
corner of the lightweight cloth. Afterwards, tie each string to the inner
edge of the knot allowing the bulk of the knot to stop the string to slip
off. Collect all strings in one hand and pull the center of the cloth
using the fingers. Again using an overhand knot, tie all the ends of the
strings together allowing, as much as possible don't leave a space at the
end of the strings.
Finally, attach the weight to the parachute. If
you are using a washer, use a lark's head knot. To test the mini
parachute, try dropping it from shoulders' height. Make the necessary
adjustments to achieve better gliding motion.
Parachute Model No.
2
Materials needed:
A polythene bag (I possible make use of
a stretchy polythene bag) Four one-foot long stings A paper
clip Modeling clay
Instructions:
Cut a 12 by 12 inch sq
from the polythene bag. Make a hole on each side of the square. Tie the
strings to all sides of the hole, making the length of all strings as
uniformed as possible then tie the free ends of the strings using an
overhand knot. Attach a paper clip to the tied ends. Meanwhile, make a
small model of a person using clay. Estimate the size as to the weight
capacity of the parachute. Attach the person to the paper clip.
Afterwards, cut a small hole at the center of the parachute about 1 by 1
cm in diameter.
To test the mini parachute, the handler should hold
the toy on its plastic part and drop it from the highest elevation
possible using a chair or a table. Refrain from using this toy outdoors
since the wind would easily damage the parachute.
Parachute Model
No. 3
Materials needed:
A handkerchief or a paper
napkin 14 inch fishing line or strings Markers or crayons for
design Cork
Instructions:
Make the necessary design, if
using a paper napkin try to be a bit more careful while designing. Clip
one end of the strings together then tie the other end to each of the side
of the handkerchief or paper napkin, tie them tightly.
If cutting
holes at the edges of the handkerchief is possible, it is recommendable to
make a hole on each side and attach the strings to them. Next, tie the
cork to the dangling end of the strings. Finally, test the
parachute.
Get expert advice about parachuting at http://www.articlefog.com/category-parachuting.htm.
Here you can find all information about parachutes,
powered parachutes,
parachuting,
parachure courses and many more.
Article Source: www.ArticleFog.com.
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