Sigma TANDEM VECTOR Owner's Manual

Download

Page 1

Page 2

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

TANDEM VECTOR OWNER’S MANUAL

WARNING

Sport parachuting is a hazardous activity that can result in injury or death. Parachutes sometimes malfunction, even when they are properly designed, built assembled, packed maintained and used. The results of such malfunctions are sometimes serious injury or death The US Parachute Association estimates that there are about 35,000 skydivers in the U.S., and these jumpers made approximately 2.2 million jumps in

2001. The Association reported 35 skydiving fatalities that year, meaning the probabilityof dying on a skydive is approximately 1 in 64,000. It also seems that the more experienced a skydiver is, the less likely he or she is to be killed while jumping.

DISCLAIMER - NO WARRANTY

Because of the unavoidable danger associated with the use of this parachute system, the manufacturer makes no warranty, either expressed or implied. The rig is sold with all its faults and without any warranty of fitness for any purpose. Manufacturer also disclaims any liability in tort for damages, direct or consequential, including personal injuries, resulting from a malfunction or from a defect in design, material, workmanship, or manufacturing whether caused by negligence on the part of the manufacturer or otherwise. By using this rig, or allowing it to be used by others, the buyer waives any liability for personal injuries or other damages arising from such use. If the buyer declines to waiver liability on the part of the manufacturer, buyer may obtain a full refund of the purchase price by returning the parachute system, before it is used, to manufacturer within 30 days from the date of original purchase with a letter stating why it was returned.

Experts estimate that hundreds of people are also injured. Some of these deaths and injuries are the result of equipment malfunctions. If you use your Vector Tandem System, or if you allow someone else to use it, you are acknowledging sport parachuting’s risks and accepting the fact that the Vector or its components may malfunction. If you are not willing to accept the risks of sport parachuting, or if you aren’t willing to accept the possibility that your Vector Tandem System or its components may malfunction or perhaps cause you to be injured or killed, then you may return your Vector Tandem System for a full refund beforeitisused. Details on how to do this are printed below.

WARNING

Read this information carefully and understand it completely. Any jump that utilizes the Tandem Vector System is considered a “tandem jump’: Using this system outside the student/ Tan-dem lnstructor training environments considered a violation of federal law (FAA exemp&on No. 4943)

Examples of violations: demonstration jumps; stunt jumps; intentional water jumps; night jumps; jumping with any student less than 18 years of age; any tandem jump that takes place off of a designated drop zone. (These restrictions do not apply to military Tandem applications).

Neon and fluorescent colored fabrics and tapes fade rapidly. Color brilliance may be lost within a year of manufacture. The Relative Workshop assumes no respon-sibility for this condition.

Page 2:172

Warning & Table of Contents 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 3

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1 - The Sigma Tandem System

Chapter 1 - New Features .......................................................................................................... X

Chapter 2 - Applicant & Course Information .................................................................................... X

Section 2 - Equipment

Chapter 1 - Description ............................................................................................................. X

Chapter 2 - Operation .............................................................................................................. X

Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve with Skyhook ................................................................................. X

Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing Main Container .................................................................................. X

Section 3 - Instructor Techniques

Chapter 1 - Preparation............................................................................................................. X

Chapter 2 - In Aircraft & Exits ...................................................................................................... X

Chapter 3 - Freefall & Drogue Fall ................................................................................................. X

Chapter 4 - Canopy Control ........................................................................................................ X

Section 4 - Malfunctions & Emergencies

Chapter 1 - Reserve Procedures ................................................................................................... X

Chapter 2 - Aircraft Emergencies & Student Refusal ........................................................................... X

Chapter 3 - Freefall .................................................................................................................. X

Chapter 4 - Canopy Control ........................................................................................................ X

Section 5 - Student Techniques

Chapter 1 - Student Skills for First Jump ......................................................................................... X

Chapter 2 - Other Activities ........................................................................................................ X

Section 6 - Appendix

Sigma Tandem “Pin Check” ........................................................................................................ X

Replacing the Drogue Ripcord System........................................................................................... X

Installing a New Sigma Drogue Kill Line ......................................................................................... X

Tandem Water Landing Procedures .............................................................................................. X

Tandem Fatality Reports ........................................................................................................... X

Test for Sigma Endorsement ...................................................................................................... X

Line Trim Charts ..................................................................................................................... X

11301 - 00.00.0000 Warning & Table of Contents

Page 3:172

Page 4

Page 5

SECTION 1: THE SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM

CHAPTER 1 - NEW FEATURES

CHAPTER 2 - APPLICANT INFORMATION

Page 6

CHAPTER 1

THE SIGMA

TANDEM SYSTEM

Page 7

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

INTRODUCTION

The Sigma Tandem System represents a giant leap forward in safety, comfort, and convenience. Unlike other tandem systems, where the drogue was simply “added on” to existing container system designs, the Sigma Tandem System was designed “from the ground up” as a drogue deployed tandem rig. It utilizes a drogue attachment system that is integral with the main container closing system. That is to say, they are one in the same. When you close the main container, you also attach the drogue. There is no 3-Ring to hook up and no pouch to close. When the main container opens, the drogue is released. One cannot happen without the other. Once the main container is closed, the drogue is then stowed exactly like a bottom-of-container hand-deploy pilot chute. Except, on this system, snagging the main bridle will not cause an accidental container opening. On all other tandem container systems, the main container closing and the drogue attachment are two separate systems, at two different locations. While not unreasonably dangerous, such container systems have inherent problems. They are complex and time consuming to pack, and this complexity sets up the possibility of multiple packing errors. But by far the most important problem is, that these systems allow the possibility of the main container accidentally opening, while the drogue is still attached. Since 1989, this scenario has killed 9 tandem pairs. It is the leading single cause of tandem fatalities, accounting for almost one third of the total. By combining the container closing and drogue attachment systems, the new Tandem Sigma eliminates this deadly malfunction. And because the drogue is attached at the center of the main container, instead or either above or below it, as on other tandem systems, the tandem pair’s body position during drogue fall is not too head high or head low, but much closer to the normal face-to-earth freefall position of a solo jumper. This makes the Sigma Tandem System a more realistic training aid for future skydivers.

THE DISK RELEASE SYSTEM

(PATENT ISSUED)

At the heart of this system is a specially designed 5-inch diameter disk with a 1-inch flanged “chimney” at its center, through which the drogue bridle passes. This disk is connected to the bridle, about 3 feet from the deployment bag, with a locking pin, which passes through the chimney and a loop on the bridle. To close the main container, and anchor the drogue, you simply place the main bag in the container, and the disk on top of the bag. You then pass the closing loop, which starts on the bottom flap, through custom D-rings on the other three flaps, and then through a grommet back on the bottom flap, in a circular fashion, drawing the flaps snugly around the disk chimney, thus capturing the disk under the four container flaps. The flanged chimney keeps the disk centered in place and allows the drogue bridle to exit the container. The closing loop is secured with an eyeleted metal pin through which two lengths of 1000 lb. Spectra line are looped and then secured a few inches below the final grommet to form a pulley. The other end of each Spectra ripcord passes through its own metal housing, one to the right, and the other to the left. Each drogue release ripcord is atached to a spherical ripcord handle by a loopthrough-loop connection, making ripcord replacement in the field quick and easy, without any tools. The system is durable and fail-safe, in that total failure of one ripcord would not affect the function of the other.

THE RECOIL RIPCORD SYSTEM

(PATENT ISSUED)

A single 13-inch piece of bungee cord passes through both housings and elastically connects the handles to each other. This holds them firmly against the end of each housing, and causes each handle to recoil back into place after being pulled, or accidentally snagged. This means the handles

Page 2:172

Section 1: The Sigma Tandem System • Chapter 1 - New Features 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 8

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

will always be where you expect them to be. There is no more stowing of loose handles after opening, and no more looking for handles at packing time. For further security, each ripcord handle is countersunk, so that it snugly slides 3/8 of an inch over the end of its housing. Each ripcord has 3 inches of slack built in, so that it takes a 5- inch pull, on either handle, to release the drogue.

THE SAFETY PIN

(PATENT PENDING)

The system also incorporates a special “safety pin” on the drogue bridle, which locks the main container pin in place until the drogue is deployed. On all other systems, if you snag a drogue release ripcord moving around the aircraft, or on exit, or if you accidentally pull the wrong handle after exit, you end up with a main canopy as soon as you throw your drogue. The unique safety pin prevents this scenario.

HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS

In tandem, the force exerted by the deployed drogue at terminal velocity is roughly equal to half of the suspended weight. This force, transferred through the disk, is shared (divided) equally by the four main container flaps. Because both ends of the container closing loop are attached to the same (bottom) flap, the closing pin end of the loop only receives half of the force exerted on the bottom flap, or one-eighth of the total force exerted by the drogue. So, if the drogue deployed above a 400 pound tandem pair exerts a force of 200 pounds on the disk, then the container closing pin receives one-eight, or 25 pounds of force. A stainless steel pin, moving through a Spectra loop, over a stainless steel grommet, has a mechanical advantage of about five to one. So a pull of 5 pounds is all that is necessary to move the pin. But, the Spectra ripcords are set up as 2-1 pulleys, so theoretically a force of only 2½ pounds at the ripcord handle should move the pin. However, tension from the bungee recoil system, plus eyelet and housing friction, add about 7 pounds of resistance back into the equation, yielding a total pull force, at the handle, of about 10 pounds.

A NEW DROGUE

(PATENT PENDING)

While the drogue canopy is essentially unchanged, the bridle and kill line have been redesigned. The 1¾ ” Kevlar outer bridle extends past the disk all the way to the main deployment bag. The kill line is now 1,000 lb. Vectran/Spectra and also terminates at the bag. Because the lower ends of both the bridle and the kill line end at the same place, it is impossible to twist one independently of the other. This means no more time consuming untwisting of the kill line. Because both bridles are now made of non-stretch materials, no “stop ring” is required on the inner bridle. This means less wear, and that the kill line can be easily replaced in the field. And because both the bridle and the kill line share the bag lift-off forces (On all other systems either the kill line or outer bridle takes it all alone) if either the bridle or the kill line breaks, deployment still happens more or less normally, and you don’t lose your expensive drogue.

A NEW MAIN DEPLOYMENT BAG

The Sigma Tandem main deployment bag has also been redesigned, eliminating the grommet at the top of the bag, and replacing it with a continuous loop of tubular nylon. This prevents canopy damage caused by trapping canopy fabric between the bag’s grommet and the canopy attachment point.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 1: The Sigma Tandem System • Chapter 1 - New Features

Page 3:172

Page 9

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

A NEW COLLINS’ LANYARD

(PATENT# 6,056,242)

The Sigma Tandem now integrates our proven “Collin’s Lanyard” System into the yoke for a totally hidden installation. This system automatically releases the other main riser if the RSL-side main riser breaks, or releases prematurely for any reason. This prevents a potentially fatal main/reserve entanglement. You can only get this important safety system on a Vector.

NEW THICKER PADDING

Both the Tandem instructor and student harnesses feature our exclusive ½ ” thick “Wonderfoam” padding for a more comfortable canopy ride.

A NEW STUDENT HARNESS

The New Sigma student harness is designed to be far more comfortable, while at the same time offering more control on exit, and forcing the student’s legs forward and upward under canopy. This means fewer students will get sick or pass out under canopy. It also means fewer landing injuries, a greater return and progression rate, and a better review of their tandem jump to friends, which in turn means more, and happier students.

EXTERIOR VIEWING WINDOWS FOR THE RESERVE PIN AND

CYPRES

Now you can view your reserve locking pin, and turn your Cypres on and off through clear windows, without opening your reserve pin cover flap. The reserve pin window is made of Lexan, and simply slides into place for easy replacement if it becomes badly scratched. The Cypres window is just above the reserve pin cover flap, so a pin check, and Cypres condition check can be accomplished at a glance, even while you are wearing the rig.

SYSTEMS BORROWED FROM THE VECTOR III SOLO RIG

Sigma Tandem Systems also share many features with our Vector III solo systems. Riser covers, and both main and reserve pin cover flaps, incorporate tuck-tabs instead of Velcro. The main container side flaps wrap around the bottom of the container to provide positive bridle protection. These systems set the industry standards for superior pin and main bridle protection, as proven by years of field-testing and use.

SUMMARIZING THE ADVANTAGES OF THE SIGMA TANDEM

1. It takes fewer steps, with fewer potential errors, to close the main container.

2. Accidentally snagging the drogue bridle will not open the container.

3. Out-of-sequence deployments are eliminated.

4. Its center-of-main-container drogue connection gives a more “natural” and comfortable drogue-fall position than other Tandem systems.

5. The drogue release ripcords are automatically retracted after use, or accidental snagging, so that they are always where they should be, cannot be lost, and don’t have to be stowed after pulling.

6. It has two redundant, fail-safe drogue release ripcords, one on the right, and one on the left.

Page 4:172

Section 1: The Sigma Tandem System • Chapter 1 - New Features 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 10

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

7. The drogue release/container opening pin is “locked” until you throw the drogue, preventing

accidental high openings.

8. No more time consuming untwisting of drogue kill line during packing. Kill lines can be easily

replaced in the field.

9. You still get a more or less normal deployment if the kill line breaks, and you don’t lose your

drogue.

10. It’s improved deployment bag means less canopy damage.

11. It has an improved student harness, which means safer and more comfortable students,

and their positive word- of-mouth advertising will increase your tandem business.

12. The “Collin’s Lanyard,” and all its advantages, is available only on a Vector.

13. It has tuck-tab main, reserve, and riser covers.

14. Clear plastic windows make reserve pin checks and Cypres operation easier.

15. It has “Wonderfoam” padding throughout.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 1: The Sigma Tandem System • Chapter 1 - New Features

Page 5:172

Page 11

Page 12

CHAPTER 2

APPLICANT

& COURSE

INFORMATION

Page 13

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

APPLICANT QUALIFICATIONS

Before an applicant may attend a tandem certification, the following criteria must be met:

1) Currently possess, or at one time been issued, a USPA Coach, a USPA static-line instructor, or USPA AFF jumpmaster or instructor rating. (Or the foreign equivalent)

2) Have logged at least 500 ram-air jumps.

3) Hold a current FAA Class I, II or III medical certificate. (Or foreign equivalent)

4) Hold a current USPA D license. (Or foreign equivalent)

5) Be at least 18 years of age.

6) Three years in sport. Note: Each candidate has the responsibility to inspect the credentials of the Tandem examiner. Certification paperwork,

filed by any examiner who is not a current Tandem Instructor, will be considered invalid by the Relative Workshop. BE SURE YOUR EXAMINER IS HOLDING A VALID, CURRENT TANDEM EXAMINER LICENSE.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Each candidate is required to bring the following items to a Tandem certification course:

* USPA Expert license or foreign equivalent-valid * Jumpmaster/instructor ratings * FAA Medical certificate-valid * Logbooks * Jumpsuits (slow fall & fast fall) * Wrist altimeter * Goggles * Notepad and pen * Certification fee

In addition, it would be wise to bring along a fellow jumper who has at least 100 jumps experience to act as a Tandem student during some of the certification jumps.

COURSE SCHEDULE / ACTIVITIES

A. Paperwork Time: 20 Min.

Fill out the applicant data on the blue “Relative Workshop Tandem Instructor Rating Form” and the yellow “Tandem Vector Training Logbook” with the required information.

B. Course Fee Pay the required course fee to the examiner. This fee generally includes: Classroom/theory; ground-training; jump costs for the examiner and staff; and the rental of the gear to be used during the certification. The course fee does not include the candidates personal jumps or the cost of the experienced student who rides with the candidate during certification.

Page 2:X

Section 1: The Sigma Tandem Systm • Chapter 2 - Applicant Information 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 14

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

C. Classroom/Theory Time: 3-4 Hours

This portion of the course will run approximately four hours. The “Tandem Training Video” will be shown module by module with continued discussion after each module.

D. Ground Training Time: 2-3 Hours Ground training covers: Student harness fitting; gear check and donning the Tandem system; hooking up the student; practice climb-outs, controlling the student’s movements; exits; throwing the drogue; drogue-fall maneuvers; main canopy deployment; special features of the canopy’s toggle system; student canopy control training techniques; landing procedures; and main canopy packing.

E. Certification Jumps Each candidate will perform at least one solo jump with the Tandem system, or as many as necessary to become comfortable with the operation of the system. A minimum of four jumps will then be performed from the Tandem Instructor position. On at least one of these jumps, the candidate must ride in the student position, either with the examiner or an appointed Tandem evaluator.

The record of each certification jump will be logged on the blue sheet and yellow logbook. The examiner will observe/ critique the packing of the main canopy, and issue the candidate instructions for the next jump. The examiner must be present, on the DZ or in the air, during all certification jumps.

The number of certification jumps that must be made by each candidate during the course will depend entirely on the performance level during the first five jumps. It is up to the examiner’s discretion as to whether the candidate should make additional jumps to qualify. In some situations, the examiner may recommend that the candidate withdraw from the course due to poor performance/skills or bad judgment, etc..

If the candidate is successful and has completed the certification course, the examiner will file the necessary paperwork with the Relative Workshop. The candidate will retain the yellow logbook and continue to log future jumps until the minimum 25 probation jumps have been completed.

The course examiner will inform the Relative Workshop of any candidate who fails to complete the course and the reasons for the failure.

PROBATION

As outlined in the yellow “Tandem logbook,” the probation period will be in effect for a minimum of 25 jumps. The first 5 jumps are for certification. The remaining 20 jumps are divided into 3 sections, each with its own special guidelines. Refer to the Tandem Vector Training Logbook for specific guidance.

The logbook, when complete, must be verified by a Tandem examiner or a Tandem rig owner. If the applicant is a Tandem Vector owner, then he must submit to the Relative Workshop a video tape of at least 3 of the final 10 probationary jumps along with the training logbook.

The TM must send the logbook and license fee to the Relative Workshop, whereupon an official Tandem Instructor license will be issued.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 1: The Sigma Tandem Systm • Chapter 2 - Applicant Information

Page 3:X

Page 15

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

CURRENCY REQUIREMENTS

In addition to yearly recertification, Tandem Instructors are expected to maintain currency during the yearly recertification period.

A. If any currently rated Tandem Instructor has not made a Tandem jump in the preceding 90 days, he must make one Tandem jump with an experienced jumper acting as a student before taking a student student. The experienced jumper/ student must first be briefed on how to respond to Tandem emergencies.

B. If any currently rated Tandem Instructor has not made a Tandem jump within the last 180 days, he must complete recurrent training before taking a student student.

C. If any Tandem Instructor during probation has not made a Tandem jump within the last 30 days he must make one Tandem jump with an experienced student who has been briefed on how to respond.

RECERTIFICATION

Renewal Procedures: Tandem Instructor ratings must be renewed every year. To apply for the renewal of your Tandem Instructor rating, you must have made at least 25 Tandem jumps within the

preceding 12 months, at least three of which have been made within the preceding 90 days.

If you have fulfilled the above requirement, you need only:

1) Have a Tandem Instructor Recertification form verified and signed by either a Relative Workshop Tandem Vector

owner or Relative Workshop Tandem Examiner, and

2) Send the endorsed form and the license fee to the Relative Workshop. As soon as the applicant has mailed the

renewal form and the check to the Relative Workshop, the rating is considered renewed; you do not have to wait for the response by the company, though you are required to keep a copy of the form to prove your currency.

3) If a Tandem Instructor has a USPA Tandem Instructor Rating, it is not required that he renew with RWS as long as

he meets the requirements to maintain his USPA Rating. If you have not fulfilled the above requirements, you must take recurrent training.

RECURRENT TRAINING

Recurrent Training consists of one solo drogue jump and one Tandem drogue jump with an experienced student. During the Tandem drogue jump, the applicant must make a stable exit from at least 10,500 feet, with drogue deployment within 10 seconds and opening by 4,500 feet. Applicant must demonstrate the ability to control heading during drogue-fall by making at least two opposite 360-degree turns. Applicant must also perform dummy ripcord pulls to both drogue release handles and the reserve ripcord. Landing must be stand-up (wind permitting) within 50 meters of the target.

These two jumps must be witnessed and signed off by a Relative Workshop Tandem rig owner or Relative Workshop Tandem Instructor Examiner. (If you are an owner or an examiner, you can sign yourself off).

Page 4:X

Section 1: The Sigma Tandem Systm • Chapter 2 - Applicant Information 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 16

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

FOREIGN TANDEM RATINGS

Foreign tandem ratings alone are not valid in the United States of America. A Foreign National wishing to perform tandem jumps in the USA must possess the original Relative workshop tandem rating. USPA also offers tandem ratings in conjunction with tandem manufacturers.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 1: The Sigma Tandem Systm • Chapter 2 - Applicant Information

Page 5:X

Page 17

Page 18

SECTION 2: EQUIPMENT

CHAPTER 1 - DESCRIPTION

CHAPTER 2 - OPERATION

CHAPTER 3 - RESERVE PACKING

CHAPTER 4 - MAIN PACKING

Page 19

CHAPTER 1

DESCRIPTION

Page 20

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Cypres Inspection Window

Turn Cypres on or off through clear window. Cypres condition can be checked at a glance.

CONTAINER

Reserve Pin

Inspection Window

Lexan window allows pin check at a glance, without opening reserve pin cover flap.

Primary Drogue

Release Handle

Left hand pull, located on bottom of main container. Blue golf ball. Pull approximately 6” will release drogue.

Page 2:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 1 - Description 11301 - 00.00.0000

Drogue Deployment Handle

Right hand pull, located on bottom of main container. Plastic ball attached to top of drogue.

Page 21

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

HARNESS

Auxiliary Reserve Ripcord/Integrated Lanyard

(Dual Purpose)

A. Auxiliary Reserve Ripcord: Right hand pull. Ball handle on reserve static

line next to 3-Ring on right hand side of rig. To be used if left hand is incapacitated in any way, and unable to pull reserve ripcord. Ball must be pulled straight up to release RSL connectoin and initiate reserve activation.

B. Integrated Lanyard: RSL can be used prior to landing in the event of high ground winds.

No Crytal Ball

If the system has a Skyhook installed there will be no Crystal Ball.

Top Student

Attachment Point

Two D-rings mounted inverted under the large harness ring on both sides of the main lift web.

Cutaway Handle

Right hand pull. Soft pillow handle (or loop-style handle) attached firmly in an outboard position on right main lift web. Handle color is green.

Secondary Right Hand

Drogue Release Handle

Right hand pull. Orange golf ball.

Reserve Ripcord

Left hand pull. Either a webbing loop handle (or soft pillow handle) attached firmly to the left main lift web in an outboard position. Handle color is red.

Bottom Student

Attachment Point

Consists of two RW-8 rings mounted sideways, threaded through each diagonal on the left and right sides.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 1 - Description

Main Lift Web Adjustment Points

Webbing is adjusted through a pair of three bar adapters.

Page 3:X

Page 22

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

THE STUDENT HARNESS

The Sigma / Vector Student Harness is quite a departure from previous tandem student harnesses. It was designed, with the help of a cardiologist, to safely contain the human body without cutting off normal blood flow. Disrupted blood flow is why almost all students on older student harnesses were uncomfortable, and why some got sick or even passed out.

A hip-hugging horizontal back and belt strap combination allows the main lift webs to be positioned, and held, more toward the front of the upper body than on other designs. This prevents the “squeezing” of the upper body and the inside of the upper legs which can cut off blood flow. It also automatically lifts the legs up and forward after opening, putting them in a safer position for landing.

The Student Harness was designed to comfortably and safely fit a wide range of body sizes and types. To accomplish this, it has thirteen (13) points of adjustment. This wide range of adjustment means that it is possible to give a tandem student a truly comfortable experience on their tandem skydive. However, the harness must still be adjusted

securely to fit the student’s body to prevent them from falling out in extreme situations and unusual body positions.

While fitting this harness on a tandem student is not difficult, it is different from other harnesses you may have used in the past. The most important point to consider is the security of the student. You must insure that all straps are comfortably snug against the student’s body.

Page 4:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 1 - Description 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 23

Chest Strap

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

THE STUDENT HARNESS

Diagonal Back Strap

Horizontal Back Strap

Top Attachment Points

(Snap Hooks)

Side Attachment Points

(Quick Ejectors)

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 1 - Description

Adjustable Leg Straps

Belly Strap

Page 5:X

Page 24

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

THE MAIN CANOPY

Canopy Nose

Canopy Tail

A-Line

B-Line

C-Line

D-Line

Long Gold Toggles

Short Black

Toggles

Diagram shows loaded ribs only

Standard Control Lines

Tandem Instructor Toggle

Student Toggle

Page 6:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 1 - Description 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 25

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

SUMMARIZING THE ADVANTAGES OF THE SIGMA TANDEM

1. It takes fewer steps, with fewer potential errors, to close the main container.

2. Accidentally snagging the drogue bridle will not open the container.

3. Out-of-sequence deployments are eliminated.

4. Its center-of-main-container drogue connection gives a more “natural” and comfortable drogue-fall position than other Tandem systems.

6. It has two redundant, fail-safe drogue release ripcords, one on the right, and one on the left.

7. The drogue release/container opening pin is “locked” until you throw the drogue, preventing accidental high openings.

8. No more time consuming untwisting of drogue kill line during packing. Kill lines can be easily replaced in the field.

9. You still get a more or less normal deployment if the kill line breaks, and you don’t lose your drogue.

1 0 . It’s improved deployment bag means less canopy damage. 1 1 . It has an improved student harness, which means safer and more comfortable students, and their positive word-

of-mouth advertising will increase your tandem business.

12. Skyhook RSL with intergrated Collin’s Lanyard.

1 3 . It has tuck-tab main, reserve, and riser covers. 1 4 . Clear plastic windows make reserve pin checks and Cypres operation easier. 1 5 . It has “Wonderfoam” padding throughout.

THE SIGMA IS MADE TO THE HIGHEST QUALITY STANDARDS IN THE INDUSTRY BY

THE RELATIVE WORKSHOP.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 1 - Description

Page 7:X

Page 26

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

DROGUE DEFINITIONS

Exterior – Top Down

1. Handle – The 1-5/8in ball, connected to the apex of the drogue envelope, used to deploy the drogue.

2. Envelope – The fabric and mesh portion of the drogue. Its top is called the apex, its bottom the base.

3. Bridle – The doubled, 1¾ ”, 4,000 lb. Kevlar section that leads from the envelope to the deployment bag

connection loop.

4 . Safety Pin – A compound-curved pin connected to the bridle, designed to prevent accidental

main container openings.

5. Disk – A 5” aluminum disk, with a 1” flanged chimney.

5. 5 Disk Cover – Designed to protect disk..

6 . Disk Attachment Loop - A loop on the Kevlar drogue bridle to which the disk is attached with a stainless steel pin,

held in place with two flat head screws. A 3/32” hex drive is required to tighten or loosen screws. (inclosed)

7 . Drogue Bridle Loop – The loop at the end of the Kevlar drogue bridle, to which the deployment bag is attached. 8 . Bag Attachment Loop – A loop of tubular Nylon at the top of the main deployment bag where both the bridle and

kill line are attached by means of a #5 stainless rapid link.

Interior – Top Down

9 . Kill Line Attachment Bridle – A 9” length of 1” Nylon tape that serves as an attachment point for the kill line, and

limits the degree of collapse if a kill line is accidentally made too short.

1 0. Kill Line – A length of 1,000 lb. Vectran/Spectra line, with a 1” loop at each end, that runs inside the Kevlar drogue

bridle from the kill line attachment bridle to the rapid link at the bag attachment loop.

1 1. Drogue Set Limiter Tapes –Two pieces of 1” Nylon tape that run from the drogue apex to the drogue skirt. This

saves wear and tear on the drogue bridle and kill line by limiting the distance they slide on each other during drogue collapse.

12 . Kill Line Guide Grommet – A “0” stainless steel grommet at the base of the drogue envelope which directs the kill

line into the Kevlar drogue bridle preventing wear. It also serves as an emergency stop for the kill line attachment bridle if the kill line is accidentally made too short.

13 . Disk Attachment Pin – A threaded stainless steel rod, used to attach the disk to the bridle, using 2, 3/32” hex drive

screws.

Page 8:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 1 - Description 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 27

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

THE DROGUE

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 1 - Description

Page 9:X

Page 28

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

THE SIGMA DROGUE COLLAPSE SEQUENCE

The collapse sequence on the Sigma drogue is the same as on previous Vector drogues. The drogue partially collapses, at a controlled rate during bag lift-off, yielding just the right amount of force for an orderly deployment. However, the method of collapse is slightly different.

The drogue bridle and kill line now both end at the same place, a rapid link connected to the top of the deployment bag. When the drogue is set (or cocked) during the packing sequence, the Kevlar drogue bridle below the disk is “scrunched up”, effectively making the bridle shorter than the kill line. When the drogue is deployed, it can inflate because the kill line is longer than the bridle. When a ripcord is pulled to end droguefall, the container opens and the disk is released, allowing the “scrunched up” section of the bridle below the disk to extend to its full length, thus making the bridle longer than the kill line. This inverts the drogue apex, collapsing the drogue.

Because both the drogue bridle and kill line are made of non-stretch materials, the drogue collapse sequence is “stopped” automatically, at just the right point. No ring, slamming into a “stop ring” at high speed is needed, and the bridle moves over the kill line for a much shorter distance than on the previous design. This means less friction is generated, so everything lasts longer. And with no stop ring, the kill line is much less complicated and easier to replace. Also, because both the drogue bridle and kill line end at the same place, it is impossible to twist one independent of the other. This means no more time consuming untwisting of the kill line at pack time.

HOW TO CHECK IF YOUR DROGUE KILL LINE IS THE CORRECT

LENGTH

For this system to work correctly, a precise relationship between the length of the drogue bridle and the length of the kill line must be maintained. To check this relationship:

Anchor the rapid link at the deployment bag end of the drogue bridle. Both the drogue bridle and kill line should be connected to this link.

Extend the drogue bridle fully. Put a finger on either side of the kill line guide grommet at the base of the drogue, and apply about 10 lbs. of tension

against the Kevlar bridle. With the other hand apply the same tension on the kill line by pulling on the kill line attachment bridle or the drogue

handle. The larks head knot at the bottom of the kill line attachment bridle should be 1½ ” above the kill line guide grommet.

You can notice this relationship less formally each time you pick up your drogue after landing. If this distance is more than 2” greater, the drogue may not fully collapse, yielding a higher snatch force, increased

chance of malfunction due to line dump, and increased chance of canopy damage. If you notice a kill line that is over 2” too long, a simple overhand knot, tied within the finger-locked section of the kill line, at the deployment bag end, will effectively shorten it almost 2”, and bring your drogue collapse system back into trim.

If this distance is more than 1” less, the larks head knot will impact the guide grommet at high speed, quickly causing damage to both. However, in this instance, deployment, while slightly slower, will still happen more or less normally.

Drouge collapse is calibrated for average weight and fall rates, if you feel the drouge is collapsing to far with longer than normal “trap door” you may Larkshead a PD Slink onto the bottom of the kill line to reduce the amount of collapse.

Page 10:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 1 - Description 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 29

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

UNDERSTANDING THE MAIN RECOIL RIPCORD SYSTEM

The Recoil Ripcord System for the Tandem Sigma drogue consists of:

1. A single length of 1,000 lb. Spectra line with finger locked loops at each end, and near the center.

2. A single length of 1/8” bungee cord, finger locked between the loops at each end of the Spectra line.

3. Two, specially prepared, solid core ball handles.

4. One stainless steel, eyeleted, ripcord pin.

5. Two stainless steel ripcord housings.

One ripcord handle is located at the bottom left corner of the main container, and the other on the right leg pad, allowing the tandem instructor to release the drogue with either hand. The right handle is positioned on the tandem

instructor’s harness so as to simulate a Bottom of Container (BOC) position for the student. You don’t have to hook it up to the student harness before each jump. It is automatically in the right position. There are no “ripcord pockets” per say. Each ripcord handle “plugs into” the end of the housing, and is held in position by a combination of friction, and the pull of the bungee cord retract system.

FIGURE 1

RELEASE HANDLE SYSTEM

(Cross section view of spandex for clarity)

Spectra Ripcord

Bungee

FIGURE 2

RIPCORD DETAIL

(Housings, et., removed for detail)

Pulling either handle about 5” pulls the single ripcord pin, opening the container and releasing the drogue. Notice that each ripcord is set up as a 2-1 pulley, so that a pull of 5 pounds at the handle translates into a pull of 10 lbs at the pin, resulting in easy pulls every time.

Once the drogue is released, as evidenced by the “trap door effect,” you can simply let go of the handle. It will automatically return to its position on the end of the ripcord housing. Although the housings are double clamped into position under the drogue pouch for maximum security and long life, excessive pulling on the ripcord handles after drogue release might eventually damage these housing connections. You don’t have to baby the system, but pull only as far as necessary to release the drogue, and then let go of the handle.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 1 - Description

Page 11:X

Page 30

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

The advantages of this system are obvious. The spherical shape of the ripcord handles, and their method of attachment, makes snagging highly unlikely. If dislodged, they automatically return to position, so no more searching for “floating” ripcords. And the unique “Safety Pin,” connected to the drogue bridle, makes it virtually impossible for a snagged ripcord handle to cause an accidental container opening. And let’s not forget, you no longer have to waste time and effort stowing the handles after opening, or searching for them at packing time.

Because this system is new (The first production rigs went into service Summer 2000), we don’t yet know how long the recoil ripcord system will last under actual field conditions. Although bench tests show that the ripcord system can last for over 1,000 jumps, you should inspect the whole system often for signs of wear.

Look for wear at the junction of the Spectra ripcords and the handles, and around the pin area. The Spectra is 1,000 lbs. strong, and the force required to pull the pin is less than 10 lbs. That’s over a 100 to 1 safety margin, so a small amount of fraying should not be cause for alarm. Besides, the ripcord system is designed to be redundant. If one side were to break or jam for any reason, the other side is still fully functional.

Also notice if the recoil system is doing its job properly. With the rig packed, each ripcord should snap back into place when pulled a few inches and released. But please realize, if you pull and release each ripcord handle several times before each jump, you will shorten the life of the system by a factor of three. Inspect, but don’t play with the system incessantly if you want maximum life from your ripcords.

UNDERSTANDING THE SIGMA SKYHOOK RSL COLLINS’ LANYARD

The Collins’ lanyard was designed to prevent a main-reserve entanglement, by releasing the left (non-RSL side) main riser, in the event that the right (RSL side) main riser breaks or prematurely releases by itself, for any reason. On the Sigma, it is integrated into the RSL with no external lanyard. This is accomplished by threading the left riser 3-ring release cable through a loop in the reserve static line (RSL). As the right riser leaves, the RSL automatically pulls the left cutaway cable as it pulls the reserve pin, yielding an almost simultanious breakaway and clean reserve deployment.

A standard RSL does one thing. It pulls the reserve ripcord pin automatically after a breakaway. The Skyhook RSL does this, and then goes two steps further.

A. It automatically releases the Left (non-RSL) riser, if the right (RSL) riser releases prematurely for any reason (Collins. Lanyard). (You wouldn.t want your reserve container opened with one riser still attached, would you?)

B. It then uses your departing main canopy as a super .pilot chute. to get your reserve to line stretch faster than ever before. Breakaway, to canopy-out-of-bag times are between ½ and ¾ of a second, depending on the size of your reserve canopy. This is up to three times faster than a pilot chute can do it alone.

If you have a main total malfunction, or your AAD fires, the Skyhook Lanyard automatically releases, and therefore does nothing to hinder normal reserve deployment.

Page 12:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 1 - Description 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 31

Page 32

CHAPTER 2

OPERATION

Page 33

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

OPERATION

NOTE: This section will explain the special operational requirements of the different components on the Tandem

Sigma. The components which will be explained are:

Main Activation Reserve activation Canopy brakes and steering system

The Tandem Sigma is a very different system from any sport skydiving system. There are more handles on the Tandem Sigma, and they are all in different places. In particular, the reserve and cutaway handles are mounted outboard (otherwise they’d be blocked by the student). Because of this, no amount of jumps on solo sport gear will prepare a jumper for the Tandem Sigma.

Every Tandem Instructor, no matter the number of jumps, must practice reaching for handles repeatedly on the ground and in the air. It is further recommended that the Tandem Instructor reach in and touch both drogue release handles, cutaway handle and the reserve ripcord handle during droguefall on each and every jump. This will help with memorization of exact locations and assist the Tandem Instructor in identifying problems while there is still plenty of time to deal with them. (See fatality reports.) We highly recommend you grab each handle as if you intend to pull it.

RESERVE ACTIVATION

A. Cutaway and reserve handle practice A. Cutaway and reserve handle practice:

The breakaway and reserve handles are in slightly different positions and are more securely held in place than on solo rigs. Therefore, it is mandatory that each Tandem Instructor practice several handle disengagements on the ground. Please note that the handles peel away easily in certain directions but are much harder to pull in others.

For an easy pull, the reserve and breakaway handles must be peeled upward and outward and THEN pulled down. This technique MUST be practiced on the ground so you will not be surprised in a real emergency.

The reserve handle/pocket configuration was chosen because conventional D-handles are easily knocked out of their pockets; especially when mounted out-board. While a floating handle on a solo rig may be fairly easy to find and pull, the same task is considerably more difficult on a Tandem rig. In Tandem, the student’s body is directly in the way, meaning it is very difficult to see any handle, and even harder to reach across for anything.

Page 2:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 2 - Operation 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 34

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

MAIN ACTIVATION

Intro to the drogue Deploying the drogue Handles familiarization

Introduction to the drogue

Before discussing the procedures for using the drogue, it helps to understand how the drogue functions. The purpose of the drogue is to reduce Tandem freefall velocity, not to aid in stability. When fully inflated, it provides enough drag to give a Tandem pair the terminal velocity of an average solo jumper (120 mph). Without a drogue, a Tandem pair will accelerate in 18 seconds to 170 mph, risking hard opening shocks and canopy damage, as well as making freefall photography difficult. When using the drogue always keep this one point in mind: NO DROGUE - NO MAIN!!!

Deploying the Drogue

1) Reach for the handle with palm forward and thumb out.

2) With the hand in the same position, take a firm grip on the handle or drogue canopy just below the handle.

Note: Not an issue with Sigma Drogues.

3) The force required to extract the drogue can be substantial, especially when the pouch is new, so grip and pull

firmly. You may need to place your elbow against the side of the rig and use the leverage gained for added power.

4) Deploy the drogue with one continuous motion of the arm: Pull the drogue out aggesively in a

sweeping arc, as your arm reaches its fullest extension at shoulder height, throw the drogue at the finish of the arc.

Do NOT hold onto or wave off with the drogue. The bridle is very long and may cause problems if allowed to deploy before the drogue.

As you are deploying the drogue, turn your head slightly to the right and watch it inflate. Full inflation takes about 2-3 seconds.

Handles familiarization

Prior to continuing, let’s stop here and practice locating and pulling the handles. Start by gearing up and practicing extracting the drogue and pulling the drogue release handle. This should be done both in the standing and prone positions. Alternate the use of both the left and right drogue release handles each time you throw the drogue.

Now let’s continue with the emergency systems.

NOTE: It may be helpful to substitute the handles with mock handles or have a rigger place temporary pins in to close the reserve so that both the reserve handle and auxiliary reserve handle can be pulled during practice.

Perform a thorough emergency drill, locating the cutaway handle and reserve handles, pulling the cutaway and then pulling the reserve handle. Perform this drill enough times to ensure that the movements become a natural reaction. Remember to peel and pull the handles correctly (see pg 11 reference to pulling handles up - not against velcro).

VERTICAL SUSPENDED HARNESS DRILLS

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 2 - Operation

Page 3:X

Page 35

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

After you have performed the above described emergency drills, have a partner act as a student and suspend yourselves in a hanging Tandem harness. Repeat the emergency procedures enough times to ensure that the movements become natural and instinctive. Take note of the different positions of the handles while in a suspended mode. (Statistics have shown that the Tandem Vector’s most common malfunction mode is a typical main canopy malfunction where the control lines are entangled with the rear riser lines with a possible slider hang up. This problem can be avoided by proper packing, maintaining good line tension throughout, and the use of proper stow bands to prevent line dump.)

DO NOT TAKE THIS DRILL LIGHTLY. If you should ever experience a malfunction, this practice will give you the skills needed to deal with the problem effectively.

By ordering an extra pair of Tandem main risers and toggles, one can easily setup a training harness with an actual Tandem system. Remove the entire main canopy assembly (from risers to drogue) and suspend the system using the extra pair of risers. To prevent excessive wear of the Tandem system, order or produce your own training harness to be used exclusively for training and recurrency work.

CANOPY BRAKES AND STEERING SYSTEM

Deployment brake release

1) Grasp main steering toggles and pull outwards away from the riser, unsnapping the toggles.

Use the student toggle position during brake release.

2) Pull toggles down to release the brakes. Do not pull on the small black flare toggles - leave

them attached to the risers.

Double brake system for the Tandem Vector canopy

The Relative Workshop Double Brake System is an innovation in the steering line set up on Tandem systems that provides reduced toggle pressure and faster turns during normal flight while at the same time producing extra stopping power in low wind conditions.

As shown in Illustration #2/1-5 on page #10, there are seven steering lines (EZ425, 384 & Sigma 370, 395, 340 models) on each side of the canopy. Unlike most canopies, the lines are a ttached at the full cell junctions, rather than at the half cell point. When so much of the canopy tail is pulled down for landing, it makes for an exceptional flare, and therefore, a softer landing. For normal flight and turns, the inside lines are not needed. In fact, they are a hindrance during turns, increasing toggle pressure, and slowing turn rate. To deal with this situation, the double brake system has been set up so that the inside “extra” lines are used only during the flare for landing.

During main canopy opening, reach up and grab the right and left gold, lower student toggles only (do not touch the black flaring toggle). Peel the toggles in a rearward direction for easy toggle and brake release. If toggles are pulled straight down, their release will be difficult or impossible due to the amount of velcro and the additional snap holding them in place, and you may cause damage to both components.

For normal flight, from opening altitude down to approximately 500 feet, use only the gold toggles. Prior to landing, reach up and take the black flaring toggles by inserting four fingers and closing your grip. Now you are ready to land. The black toggles lay flat and may be difficult to access

Page 4:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 2 - Operation 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 36

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

quickly. We recommend that sometime during main canopy flight, that the black toggles be peeled off the velcro and then reattached so the loop opening is easier to access later when needed.

Toggles familiarization

Stop at this point and practice the release of the brakes and the set up of the “Double Brake System”. Practice by releasing the toggles and brakes as well as reassembling them. Do this with the rig outstretched on the floor as well as with a suspended harness if available.

STUDENT HARNESS ADJUSTMENT GUIDE

The Student Harness was designed to comfortably and safely fit a wide range of body sizes. To accomplish this, it has twelve points of adjustment. This wide range of adjustment means that it is possible to give a tandem student a truly comfortable experience on their tandem skydive. However, the harness must

still be adjusted securely to fit the student’s body to prevent them from falling out in extreme situations and unusual body positions.

While fitting this harness on a tandem student is not difficult, it is different from other harnesses you may used in the past. The most important point to consider is the security of the student. You must insure that all straps are comfortably snug against the student’s body.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 2 - Operation

Page 5:X

Page 37

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Please use the following guide to keep your students safe and comfortable.

HARNESS ADJUSTMENT

Loosen the harness before donning. Rotate the harness on the student’s shoulders so the Top Attachment Snaps will be easy to hook

up. Adjust the chest strap loosely. Adjust the Belt Strap so the main lift webs are positioned as shown. The Horizontal Back and Belt

Straps should be tightened firmly around the hips. Adjust the Main Lift Webs and Diagonals so the harness’s Hip Junctions are resting squarely on

the student’ hips. Tighten the Leg Straps. Slide the Chest Strap vertically into the correct position and tighten. Tip: It’s recommended to hook up and pre-hang your student so the harness conforms to the

student’s body. Release the student and check all adjustment points. You may find it necessary to tighten the harness a bit more.

The Horizontal Back Strap must be positioned low and securely tightened. This is what keeps the student from falling backwards out of the harness on a hard opening.

On anyone with a larger body frame the Main Lift Webs should be positioned further apart than on a smaller person.

There is no single right way to fit every size or shape of the human body. The harness has 13 points of adjustments. Use them to totally surround and contain the student’s body.

Notice how the main lift web is positioned more toward the side of the body than it would be on a smaller person. From this position, six straps, going in every direction, totally contain the pelvic area. This containment appears appropriate on this person when the Main Lift Webs are further apart.

Page 6:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 2 - Operation 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 38

Page 39

CHAPTER 3

RESERVE

CONTAINER

Page 40

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Once the canopy has been correctly attached to the risers and while it is still laid on its side, begin to attach the reserve steering toggles using the following steps:

Pass steering line through grommet from back side.

Thread toggle tip through loop at end of steering line.

Page 2:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Pull steering line tight to secure Larks Head connection.

Page 41

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

End of steering line is passed through the grommet and looped over the toggle tip.

Pull steering line break setting through the guide ring. Pass the brake setting loop through the steering line cats eye and insert the toggle tip.

Mate the snap and the Velcro to secure the toggle. Stow the excess break line along side the toggle tip and secure with the velcro cover.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 3:X

Page 42

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Route two turns of seal thread around top, middle part of L-Bar, and all steering lines in preparation for safety tie.

Repeat for opposite side, and secure with riggers knot.

Page 4:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 43

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Perform a thorough inspection of all components of the reserve parachute system. Reserve Pilot Chute, Reserve Bridle, Freebag, Safety Stow, Reserve Canopy, lines, slider, and links. Follow the canopy manufacturer’s reserve packing instructions.

Pick up the front, rear and steering line groups in the left and right groups respectively.

Walk up to the canopy keeping the line groups separated. The line groups must be clear up to the canopy. Ensure that the slider has all the lines in each line group passing through each respective slider grommet.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 5:X

Page 44

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Flaking the Canopy: With the lines passing over the shoulder start with the end cell nearest your legs, begin flaking the nose of the canopy. Pull each cell completely out, and keep it in your hand. Then, pick up the next, taking care not to miss any until all the cells are in your hand. When you have the entire nose flaked, tuck it between your knees and hold it there. Clear the stabilizers. Flake the material between each line group out toward the stabilizers, keeping the line groups stacked together in the middle of the pack job. Clear the tail, flaking the material between each steering line toward the outside of the pack job.

Page 6:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Flake the leading edge of the canopy with an even number of cells to the left and the right leaving the center cell fully exposed in the middle.

Page 45

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Hold the lines in one hand and use your free arm to support the canopy fabric, while gently placing the canopy on the packing surface.

Place a packing weight at the base of the canopy to maintain line tension use your hand to keep lines centered while you are flaking the canopy.

Staring at one side of the canopy, carefully lift the folds of material back towards the center of the pack job until the nose is exposed. Clear the cells to the outside of the center cell and flake this section of the nose toward the outside of the pack job.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 7:X

Page 46

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Flake the material between the A and B lines away from the line channel in the center of the pack job. Be sure that all of the T-seams to the outside of the center cell are neatly flaked. Find the bottom seams to the outside of the center cell and flake them out toward the stabilizer. Make sure the B lines are grouped together and stacked neatly on top of the A lines. Smooth out the fold between the A and B lines.

Fold the flaked A to B material in half towards the center of the pack job. Do not go beyond the line attachment points.

Page 8:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Repeat the previous steps to flake the material between the B and C lines. Continue flaking process for the material between the C & D lines.

Page 47

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Flake the material between the upper control lines toward the outside of the pack job, leaving the control lines stacked neatly on the top of the A, B, C, and D lines.

Repeat the above steps for the other side as performed previously. Make sure the line channel in the center of the pack job is clear. Note: the exposed split nose to each side of pack job.

Prepare the center cell material to cocoon the canopy.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 9:X

Page 48

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Fold the Flaked tail section of the canopy under to achieve the same width as the rest of the canopy. Use the center cell material to cocoon around the tail section.

The Flaked tail section folds and center cell material are folded around the B to D material and tucked in behind the A to B material. View of cocooned left side.

Page 10:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Fold the leading edge of the exposed cell openings back and parallel to the cocooned canopy.

Page 49

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Once nose is neatly flaked on it’s side, count off top four cells, rolls these till equal to fold line, and place into center cell, then do same for bottom four cells.

Then fold the nose under with the fold line established at the edge of the cocooned canopy.

When the nose folds are complete, the leading edge should be even with the edge of the cocooned canopy.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 11:X

Page 50

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Prepare the reserve bag to receive the canopy. Insert the locking pull-up cord, to maintain a “loop channel” as the canopy is placed into the bag.

Page 12:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 51

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

The dressed width of the canopy should be 1 to 2 inches wider than the width of the reserve pack tray.

The use of packing paddles to make S-folds will help maintain line tension and precise fold lines as seen in the next photo.

Pack job view after the half S-fold.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 13:X

Page 52

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Press down and hold tension on lines over 1st S-fold. Reach under top of cocooned canopy to bring on next S-fold

Fold cocooned canopy over 1st S-fold.

Page 14:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Dress center cell to the width of the pack job.

Page 53

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Place the reserve bag in position above the canopy.

Use a packing paddle to establish the fold line for the remaining half of the S-fold.

Both S-folds should be even at the bottom.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 15:X

Page 54

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Make sure 2nd and top S-fold lines up even with 1st/bottom S-fold, and remove long bars.

Split the remaining part of the canopy into 2 ears. Be careful not to roll fabric in front of the leading edge.

Page 16:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Fold the ear under to prepare it for insertion into the reserve bag.

Page 55

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Insert into the reserve bag. Repeat the previous two steps for the other side of the canopy.

Use a needle fold of bridle material to secure one end of the safety stow to allow you make the first locking stow.

Locking stow line bight should be 3" long.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 17:X

Page 56

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Dress the pack job to the finished shape desired. 2" to 3" of canopy material protruding from the mouth of the bag will help fill the reserve container corners.

Do not rely on the container to shape the pack job or hide poor bulk distribution!

The bagged canopy should reflect the desired shape of the rig for best results. It should be square at the bottom, wedge shaped in profile, and thin at the top. When pressing down on the pack job, it should be firm at the mouth of the bag and get progressively softer as you get closer to the bridle attachment point.

Place two velcro protectors on the line stow pouch.

Page 18:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Stow the remainder of the suspension lines into the pouch on the underside of the bag using Sfolds that extend from one side of the pouch to the other. Be sure none of the lines are trapped between the hook and loop fastener at the mouth of the pouch. Remove the two velcro protectors from the bag.

Page 57

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

If the container is equipped with a Cypres, create an indentation in the center of the pack job to accommodate the unit.

Place the risers to the sides of the reserve tray with the ends fanned to reduce bulk. Insert a pull-up cord in the reserve closing loop.

Pull the Pull-up cord through the reserve bag from the bottom and out of the top.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 19:X

Page 58

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Pull the reserve closing loop through the reserve bag and secure with a temp pin. Ensure that no canopy material has pulled through the grommet.

Place cypress into indentation previously made, and place the lower corners of the reserve pack job into the reserve container.

Page 20:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Fill bottom corners of reserve container with bagged canopy

Page 59

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Thread the pull-up cord through the bottom kicker flap (flap #1). If equipped with a Cypres be sure to pass through the cutter before passing through flap #1.

You may evaluate the length of your closing loop by the following method: Press the #1 flap firmly down while pulling with adequate force on the pull-up cord. The top of the closing loop should extend beyond the bound edge of flap #1 by a 1/4" to 1/2". This will help ensure the proper length closing loop is being used. Secure flap #1 with temp pin.

Fold the bridle vertically along both sides of the center grommet and place these folds under flap #1. Leave approximately 5' of bridle unstowed below the pilot chute.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 21:X

Page 60

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

SKYHOOK PACKING INSTRUCTIONS

A standard RSL does one thing. It pulls the reserve ripcord pin automatically after a breakaway. The Skyhook RSL does this, and then goes two steps further.

A. It automatically releases the Left (non-RSL) riser, if the right (RSL) riser releases prematurely for any reason (Collins’ Lanyard). (You wouldn’t want your reserve container opened with one riser still attached, would you?)

B. It then uses your departing main canopy as a super “pilot chute” to get your reserve to line stretch faster than ever before. Breakaway, to canopy-out-of-bag times are between ½ and ¾ of a second, depending on the size of your reserve canopy. This is up to three times faster than a pilot chute can do it alone.

If you have a main total malfunction, or your AAD fires, the Skyhook Lanyard automatically releases, and therefore does nothing to hinder normal reserve deployment.

The Skyhook RSL System has four parts:

1. The RSL Lanyard (5/8 or 1”, black webbing) with a snap shackle that connects to your right main riser at one end,

and the Collins’ Lanyard loop at the other.

2. The White Ripcord Lanyard, with one end sewn to the RSL loop, and the reserve ripcord pin at the other.

3. The Red Skyhook Lanyard, also sewn to the RSL loop, with the Skyhook attachment loop at its free end.

4. The Skyhook itself, which is sewn to the reserve pilot chute bridle.

(Because the RSL Lanyard, Collins’ Lanyard, and Skyhook Lanyard are all part of one integrated system, pulling the yellow tab on the RSL snap shackle inactivates all three.)

Page 22:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 61

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

SKYHOOK II ADDENDUM

Your rig is equipped with the new Skyhook II. It differs from the original Skyhook in the following ways:

1. It is anodized blue.

2. The “To Pilot Chute” instruction is laser etched on the top surface.

3. There is a holographic serial number label under the surface.

4. There are two Lexan cover pieces – on each side.

5. The Lexan pieces have small holes drilled in them for safety tie thread.

6. The upper attachment tape is red.

7. The label on the rig has been updated to reflect some of these changes. The Skyhook II’S dimensions are exactly the same, and it functions in exactly the same way

as the original Skyhook. Therefore, it is fully compatible with any Relative Workshop rig set up for the original Skyhook.

Reasons For The Changes

1. The blue anodizing makes it easier to see damage to the hook section, while the second Lexan cover piece better protects the hook from any damage.

2. The laser etching is much easier to read, and the holographic serial number seal makes it much easier for us to keep track of different Skyhook batches. Please notice that while the arrow on the Skyhook II points the same way as the original Skyhook, the “to pilot chute” text is flipped to make it “right side up” when viewed from the top of the rig.

3. Sealing the Skyhook lanyard with a single piece of red rigger seal thread passed through the holes in the two Lexan cover pieces (instead of tacking the red lanyard to the freebag bridle, as was done in the original Skyhook) results in far greater percentage of freebags still attached to the broken away main all the way to the ground. There is no chance of needle damage to the bridle from successive tacking with a dull needle.

4. Making the upper (toward the pilot chute) Skyhook attachment tape red makes it even less likely that someone, will some day sew a Skyhook to the bridle backwards.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 23:X

Page 62

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

WARNING Before Packing: There is

no RSL guide Ring on flap #6 on Skyhook equipped rigs. Make sure the RSL guide ring has been removed on converted rigs. It was never really necessary, and someone might pass the Skyhook lanyard through it some day, causing a reserve total.

Mate pile velcro from RSL to hook velcro on container.

Insert RSL pin into pocket.

Page 24:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 63

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

NOTE: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT THE PIN IS INSERTED IN TO THE POCKET.

Close RSL pocket by mating velcro on container.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Make sure the left hand (exposed) yellow breakaway cable passes through the Collins’ Lanyard loop at the end of the RSL. The Skyhook should not be used without a Collins’ lanyard.

Page 25:X

Page 64

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Make sure that the Skyhook is sewn to the reserve freebag bridle correctly, with the pointed end of the hook facing toward the bag. If the Skyhook were sewn on the bridle facing the wrong way, a reserve pilot chute in tow would result if the reserve were pulled in response to a main total. (This pilot chute in tow could be cleared by pulling the yellow tab to release the RSL.) Remember, this malfunction can only occur if the Skyhook is SEWN to the bridle incorrectly. It cannot be caused by a packing error.

S-fold the 7-foot section of freebag bridle (up to the Green flex-tab) under pilot chute kicker flap #1, in the normal manner. Close flap #2, and secure with the reserve closing loop and temporary pin. Make sure the remaining bridle exits the closed kicker flaps to the wearer’s LEFT (Right in photos) of the #2 (upper) flap, with the flex-tab side up.

Attach the RED Skyhook lanyard to flap #2 by folding the stiffened section of the lanyard in half, and inserting it completely into the RED pocket on the flap. You may have to open the pocket a little with a pencil before inserting the flex-tab.

Page 26:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 65

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Fold the bridle over the edge of flap #2, and insert the GREEN flex-tab on the freebag bridle into the GREEN pocket on the #2 flap.

Lay the bridle over flap #2 with the Skyhook facing up. Lift the Lexan cover slightly, rotate the Skyhook enough to slip the loop on the end of the red Skyhook lanyard over the Skyhook, and rotate back into position. The Skyhook should be held firmly in place between the two pockets with less than ¼” of play. (Note: It should take a force of 5-7 lbs. to pull the red or green flex-tab out of its pouch, at a 180 degree angle to the mouth of the pouch.)

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

The Skyhook has a Lexan cover piece designed to:

1. Hinder anything but the Skyhook Lanyard from entering the Hook-slot.

2. Lower the chance that the hook area might be damaged by use or misuse Make sure this cover is in good condition and the hook area is smooth and free of burrs.

Page 27:X

Page 66

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Close the Skyhook cover flap (2A) over the Skyhook assemblage, pass the reserve closing loop through its grommet, and secure with the temporary pin.

Pass the pull-up cord through the base of the reserve pilot chute and out the grommet in the center of the pilot chute cap. Ensure that the pull-up cord did not pass around any of the spring coils inside.

Page 28:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 67

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Apply tension to the pull-up cord and hold the base of the reserve pilot chute centered over the closing loop.

Compress the reserve pilot chute...

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Page 29:X

Page 68

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

...and secure with the temp pin.

Pull all of the reserve pilot chute material out of the spring coils and ensure that the pilot chute base is centered under the cap. S-fold the pilot chute material to within 1" of the edge of the pilot chute cap.

Close the center flap (flap #3) over the pilot chute and secure with the temp pin.

Page 30:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 69

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Repeat the S-fold for the rest of the pilot chute.

Close the reserve side flap (flap #4) and secure with the temp pin.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook

Close the reserve side flap (flap #5) and secure with the temp pin.

Page 31:X

Page 70

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Close reserve flap #6 and secure with reserve pin. Carefully remove the pull-up cord. Inspect the closing loop to ensure that no damage has occurred during packing. Dress the container. Install the Rigger seal if applicable. Complete all necessary paperwork. Be sure to count all your tools when finished.

Page 32:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 3 - Packing the Reserve w/ Skyhook 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 71

Page 72

CHAPTER 4

MAIN CONTAINER

Page 73

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

SELECTING THE PROPER

STOW BANDS

Band types for:

1) All Dacron lined canopies

2) Microline NOTE: If you run out of all specialized Tandem

rubber bands (2” x 3/4”), it is possible to use two regular rubber bands for each line stow. Be sure the combined width of the two rubber bands does not exceed 3/4 inch in width. Any substandard bands should be replaced with Tandem bands as soon as possible.

LINE DUMP

TANDEM TUBE STOWS

Definition: During bag lift-off, the rapid acceleration of the main bag can cause the entire line stow group to fall off the bag due to loose or weak stow bands.

The stow bands used on the Tandem Sigma are very important. Even more so than sport rigs, as the Tandem main bag is lifted out of the container at a more rapid rate. The Tandem Sigma must have the suspension lines securely stowed. Be cautious of bands which are too weak or stretch too much as they can cause deployment problems. Because of the increased weights involved in carrying two people, the forces on the bag at deployment time can be enough to cause line dump if the bands are not tight enough. On the other hand bands that are too tight may cause problems disrupting the even sequencing of the deployment.

Line dump can lead to partial malfunctions as the loose suspension lines quickly come under tension, and will at times form pressure knots, causing lines to entangle.

Page 2:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 74

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

INSPECT MAIN CLOSING LOOP

The main container-closing loop is also constructed of 1,000 lb. Spectra line, and finished to a set length. Spectra is used because of its low surface friction. Any other

line (other than Teflon, which is too weak) would cause a hard or impossible pull in this application.

The “sewn to button” construction technique is used because knots in Spectra slip, and there is only one correct length (8½ ”) for the closing loop anyway. However, Spectra has a low melting temperature, so the pull-up cord used to close this rig must also be Spectra.

Friction caused by the use of Nylon or Dacron pull-up cords, even when extreme care is taken, will very quickly damage the container closing loop. Replace any loop, which is badly worn. It is not necessary to replace a loop that is just slightly fuzzy. With proper care a loop can last 100 jumps or more. If you insist on using nylon pull up cords, your closing loop must be replaced every few jumps. This can get expensive. Spare loops and pull-up cords are stored in the main top flap pouches.

WARNING:

Do not fabricate your own closing loops.

Do not use anything but Spectra as a pull-up cord.

INSPECT THE DROGUE RELEASE RECOIL RIPCORD SYSTEM

Make sure the eyeleted stainless steel pin is straight and free of burrs. Pull all slack Spectra ripcord up out of the housings, remove any twists, and check for wear. Each ripcord is independent of the other; over 1,000 lbs. strong, and only sees 10 lbs. in use. So a small amount of wear is nothing to be concerned about. Pull each ripcord handle to check the recoil function, and examine the loop-to-loop connection at each handle for wear. Make sure the ripcord housings are secure.

INSPECT THE CANOPY

1) bridle attachment point on top and inside of canopy

The bridle attachment point at the top of the canopy is a very high wear point and should be checked for any signs of damage occurring to the stitching both on top and inside of the canopy.

2) canopy cells, panels and seams

As you flake the canopy, take a good look at each panel for any tears, burns or broken stitches. After every 25 jumps inspect the canopy more closely to include looking inside the cells as well as inspecting all of the reinforcing tapes through-out the canopy.

3) line condition and attachment points

During the flaking of the canopy, take a look down the length of the lines watching for any damage or deformities. Every so often walk down the length of the lines inspecting all cascade points and looking for any burns or broken stitching.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Page 3:X

Page 75

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

4) steering lines, brake lock loops and toggle attachment

While inspecting the steering lines watch for damage especially at the brake lock loops, the toggle attachment points and at the attachment points at the canopy.

5) slider condition

Check the slider grommets for any wear (dings, nicks, sharp surfaces). Check the entire slider for holes, burns or fraying.

6) connector links

Ensure that the link protectors are secure. If no link protectors are present then check to ensure that the omission is intentional and that the connector link barrels have not loosened.

Rigger Note: Using “Mechanics Loc-Tite” on the barrel threads, and marking the barrel and link with a brightly colored paint line may help to insure the barrels tightness and speed up link inspection.

SEQUENCE CHECKLIST

Main Canopy Assembly Inspection Guide

- drogue chute handle attachment

- drogue chute fabric and seams

- drogue chute center line

- drogue chute bridle attachment point

- drogue kevlar bridle

- Disk to drogue attachemnt pin

- drogue bridle/ canopy attachment point

- deployment bag

- canopy fabric and seams (top, bottom, skin and ribs)

- canopy reinforcement tapes

- lines and cascades

- steering lines and brake loops

- slider and grommets

- connector links

- risers

- 3-Ring release system

Page 4:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 76

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Check the envelope for tears and snags. Tiny

holes can be ignored for a few jumps, but

medium to large size tears must be repaired

before the next jump.

Check the outer Kevlar bridle for signs of wear

or broken stitches.

Check the inner Vectran/Spectra kill line for

signs of wear. Common wear points are the

upper and lower 30 inches of the bridle. The

mid-section tends to outlast the ends.

Although a kill line can last 100’s of jumps,

sandy or salty conditions can lower its life.

Make sure both the kill line and the outer

Kevlar bridle are attached to the bag loop with

a correctly tightened #5 stainless rapid link.

Because both the kill line and the bridle are

attached at the same place, you no longer

have to untwist the kill line before setting the

drogue.

INSPECT THE DROGUE

Check the disk for nicks, which can be caused

by improper ground handling. A deep, sharp

nick could damage either the container or

canopy on the next jump, and should be

sanded or buffed out. (Your main container

top flap has Velcro pouches with spare parts,

including Emory cloth and a 3/32” Allen

wrench.)

Check that the disk attachment pin is threaded

through its loop on the drogue bridle, and

that the screws are tight. Tighten with a 3/32”

Allen wrench if necessary. A loose screw could

damage or snag the closing loop. A missing

screw could cause the pin to slip out of the

disk chimney, which would cause premature

collapse of the drogue. A little dab of blue

Loc-Tite on the screws will help keep them

in place.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Page 5:X

Page 77

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

TOGGLE ATTACHMENT

Pass steering line through grommet from bottom side.

Thread toggle tip through loop at end of steering line.

Pull steering line tight to secure Larks Head connection.

Page 6:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 78

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Stowing main dual brakes; position and stow

the secondary toggles.

Feed the stow loop through the cats-eye on

primary brake line.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Feed stow loop through cats eye on secondary

brake line. NOTE: Do not pull secondary brake

line through guide ring.

Page 7:X

Page 79

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Pass stow loop through primary guide ring as shown.

Pull head of primary toggle through the stow loop; stowing brakes.

Mate the snap and appropriate Velcro. Neatly S-fold remainder of lines next to primary toggle.

Page 8:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 80

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Secure S-Folded lines with Velcro cotton wrap.

Ensure the Velcro is fully mated to reduce Velcro

damage to the suspension lines.

Divide the line set between fingers as shown.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Walk your fingers up the lines to the slider

making sure there are no twists, flip throughs,

etc.

Page 9:X

Page 81

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Count the nose making sure you have all cells in your hand.

After shaking the canopy once, or twice secure the nose between your legs.

Page 10:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 82

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Flake canopy in an accordian fashion from nose to tail making sure the line groups run down the middle of the canopy, and the canopy fabric is pushed to the outside and quarter slider.

Making sure the D-lines are taught, find center of tail and bring it over the slider.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Page 11:X

Page 83

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Leaving the nose exposed will cause the canopy to open quicker, maybe harder.

Folding/tucking the nose in will cause the canopy to snivel longer. You may choose the method that works best for your particular canopy.

Page 12:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 84

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Roll tail around nose 3-5 times.

Neatly set canopy on floor. Carefull not to drop canopy on floor.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Page 13:X

Page 85

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Purge or squeeze all air out of the canopy.

Up fold canopy bringing lines back to center.

Page 14:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 86

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Repeat for opposite side.

Extract center cell.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Bring center cell out and around canopy.

Page 15:X

Page 87

Cocoon the canopy.

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Page 16:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 88

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Once cocooned purge out the rest of the air.

Prepare bag to accept canopy.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Make first S-fold according to depth of bag.

Page 17:X

Page 89

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

This fold will lock the slider in place, so be sure slider grommets are all the way up to the slider stops.

Hold down first S-old with knee.

Page 18:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 90

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Reach underneath canopy in preparation for

second S-fold.

Making second S-fold.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Page 19:X

Page 91

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

After 2nd S-fold tuck ears underneath and above 1st S-fold to depth of bag.

Secure S-fold with D-bag. Insert that half of the canopy into the D-bag

Repeat previous 2 steps for other side.

Page 20:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 92

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Bring bag around S-folded canopy.

Secure D-bag with first 2 stows. Use tandem

Tude stowes here to reduce the chance of line

dump.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Page 21:X

Page 93

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Stow the remainder of lines. Leave about 2 feet between the last stow and the risers.

Stow your main risers along side of the reserve container. Make sure the risers are not underneath tuck tab flap over shoulder.

Close and secure riser cover tuck tab.

Page 22:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 94

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Neatly S-fold remainder of lines in the main pack

tray, and not over top main flap #2.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Place D-bag in container with line stows to

bottom of container.

Page 23:X

Page 95

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Arrow on disk should be pointing up towards reserve container.

Thread main closing loop through chimney of disk, and secure with main pin, as shown in picture. Doing so will allow you to immobilize the disc for cocking.

Page 24:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 96

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Cock the drogue in the normal fashion.

Notice that the Kevlar bridle on the left side of the container is scrunched up after you cock your drogue.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Page 25:X

Page 97

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Position and keep the scrunched Kevlar bridle on the left side and on top between the D-bag and reserve container.

Using a length of 725lb or 1000lb spectra pullup cord. Thread through D-rings and around the disk to close container.

Diagram of closing sequence is provided on main pin cover flap.

Page 26:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 98

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Pass pull-up cord through grommet on bottom

flap. As the four (4) flaps are drawn together,

keep the disk centered with arrow pointing to

the reserve container.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Secure with pin. be sure the flap D-Ring and

closing loop are below the flange.

Page 27:X

Page 99

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Once secure, remove the pull-up cord.

Insert safety pin (attached to drogue bridle) into main pin eyelet and ensure that it enters the grommet.

Page 28:X

Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main 11301 - 00.00.0000

Page 100

SIGMA TANDEM SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL

Secure drogue bridle underneath right main

side flap. Secure the 2 small tuck tabs on pin

flap underneath main plate flap.

11301 - 00.00.0000 Section 2: Equipment • Chapter 4 - Packing & Closing the Main

Close main pin cover flap into center flap.

Page 29:X

Sigma TANDEM VECTOR Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual