Universal is the first free flying (EN B) paraglider ever which can be converted by its user into a full-blood paramotor canopy (conforming to the DGAC standard).
Universal is a great free-flying recreational paraglide. Beginning pilots will surely appreciate exceptional comfort in uneasy thermals, resulting from considerable amount of reflex traits present in the design.
On activating the trimmers and setting up the ALC+ steering, Universal 1.1 becomes a full reflex paramotor wing, good for both leisure and cruise flying, thermalling, last but not least for initial paramotor training.
Universal 1.1 is refreshed version of its predecessor with upgraded risers and new colour design in four elements schemes. Dominico cloth is replaced by Porcher, colours of the lines are changed too (according to PMA standards). We have modernized risers equipment, make it more simple and comfortable. Basic parametres of the wing are the same.
As is the case of all our paragliders, the design draws on our long-time experience, simultaneously incorporating state-of-the-art technologies. The Universal is certified EN-B and LTF-B, and is in last stages of receiving paramotor (DGAC) certificates.
Target Group:
Universal is dedicated for beginner and recreational pilots who fly:
- exclusively free (but want to benefit from moderate reflex ability)
- mostly free, sometimes with paramotor
- both free and paramotor
- mostly with paramotor, sometimes free
- exclusively paramotor (but appreciate better economy, easier launch and
nicer handling than in standard paramotor wing, like Synthesis2)
Important for instructors
Universal is perfect for initial PPG training
Paramotor-Set
Universal comes with factory-installed trimmers, but (!) they are disabled (!), e.g secured with plastic buckle and hidden in a neoprene sock. Along with developing pilot skills, or by the judgement of instructors trimmers can be activated (half, of full), and TST toggles can be installed (kit included in the bag).
More information you will find in Download section.
Relation to other Paragliders
The tables compare some of our paragliders' features.
Design Solutions:
The Universal incorporates a number of proven and some novel concepts improving flight comfort and performance.
FET - Flexi Edge Technology
The Universal features Dudek Flexi Egde technology.
Precise shape of the leading edge is ensured by reinforcements of laminated cloth combined with synthetic rods, which significantly improve launch performance and protect the paraglider against collapses at high speed.
CSG - Canopy Shape Guard
Unique CSG system controls canopy coherence along its entire wingspan. Practically eliminating any lateral movements, it renders the canopy almost perfectly rigid.
Most of all, the CSG oversees three key factors:
- it forms the canopy, so that its shape remains as close to designed 3D image as possible, with equally distributed loads. Lack of attention here would result in irregular surface with balloons instead of flat cells (unfortunately, still quite a frequent sight, even on wings of 'renowned' manufacturers).
- CSG stabilizes canopy in flight. No pilot likes to see his wing moving like an accordion, especially as it does significantly hamper its performance.
- CSG improves durability of the paraglider. Simple designs pay for locally accumulated stress with deformations - the most dangerous are those visible as lateral faults on the upper surface between suspension line rows. With the Universal that danger has been practically eliminated.
CSG consists of following subsystems:
- VSS (V-shaped Supports) - densely placed diagonal supports, bolstering each rib on both sides (most wings have only one-sided supports). Their size, shape and placement make sure that no lateral folds will occur - a vital factor in preserving laminar airflow, especially at high speeds.
- RSS (Reinforcing Strap System) - an independent reinforcement net on lower surface, strengthening and stiffening the whole canopy.
- OCD (Optimized Crossports Design) - the intercellar openings of carefully designed shapes, optimally placed between stress lines in the ribs.
- CCS (Closed Cell Structure) - This is a number of closed cells in the most important places. Its goal is to hinder the backflow from the cells out, thus facilitating their refill and canopy recovery in case of a collapse.
The only flaws of the CSG are the increase in weight (about 1 kg), material- and labour consumption, and of course overall cost. Yet it is well worth the sweat, as in turn we get a no-compromise product of highest performance and quality, able to keep its original parameters for a long, long time.
Laser Technology
The wing is manufactured in new technology, utilising capabiities of precise laser cutter. The entire production process takes place at our Kowalewo facility, ensuring European quality and personal supervision of the designer himself.
Cloth
The wing is made of Porcher Universal 38g (top) and Dominico 34 g/m2 weight.
Ribs are made of Porcher Hard 40 g/m2.
All reinforcements are made of laminated SR-Scrim Porcher cloth.
Rigging
All Universal lines have coloured polyester sheath, covering an inner core. Due to low number of lines we've made sure they are strong enough by choosing brown Technora fibres. In this way rigging remains strong and reliable. The colours of the lines are in PMA standard.
Metal Parts
All quick-links between risers and suspension lines are made of polished stainless-steel, with proven durability and restiance to corrosion. We use exclusively theattested quicklinks of French Peguet company.
ACS - Auto Cleaning Slots
On the wingtips you can find dedicated slots, automatically removing dirt from the canopy.
Effective Risers:
The Universal is equipped with a new version of the alternative steering system. ALC+ is more efficient and affects the canopy in more proportionate way. In effect steering appears to be smoother. System allows for aggressive turns even at full speed, withour spoiling the reflex profile. This is especially important in bigger sizes, without dedicated solutions plagued by big steering forces and poor agility.
The steering part in new Universal is smal TST handle, fixed by magnets. The whole riser scheme has simplified as much as possible. Of course you are free to use just the basic steering handles - with ignoredTST handle the whole system will stay inactive.
TEA (Torque Effect Adjuster)
The task of this feature is to counteract the effect of engine torque, tending to turn the paraglider opposite to the propeller's rotation. TEA balances the torque by adjusting the length of some wingtip lines, and it can be adjusted to match you specific combination of paramotor/propeller. Simple to use, effective and easy to toggle on & off in the air.
ELR (Easy Launch Riser)
Split 'A' riser (marked with yellow band) for easier launch and 'big ears' application.
Speed System
Speed system affects the A, B and C risers, adding ca. 7 km/h to your airspeed. Features ball-beared pulleys (see below) and a special cord. It has a new, thick-woven pattern, does not fray, does not stretch and perfectly fits our new pulley.
Universal 34 does not have speed system.
Easy Catch - Comfortable Speedbar
The "Easy Catch" is a godsend for all those who have problems catching the bar after starting. Here the speedbar is designed to stay always in front of the speed system lines. Its finish is very robust, so long-term service is guaranteed.
Ball-bearing pulleys
As a first world company we have decided to use ball-bearing pulleys as standard on paramotor wings, in order to minimize speed-system friction. Currently we are using Dudek Smart Pulleys of our own design.
Prepared two levels of the pulley positions let you adjust the system to your suspension height.
TCT - comfortable and universal steering handles Beside modern look, TCT feature swivels, Easy Keeper system (strong neodymium magnets) and handles offering easy conversion from hard through medium to soft brake handle.
EK - Easy Keeper
Easy Keeper is our original idea to hold the brake handles at the risers. Strong neodymium magnets keep them firmly in place, while both attaching and releasing is smooth and easy.
Exact placing of the magnets on the risers is adjustable.
Trimmers
Trimmers make for some 70% of the available speed envelope, with speed-system governing remaining 30%. It consists of a buckle and a properly marked red tape. Trimmer is designed with fast and simple replacement of the worn-out or damaged tape in mind.
Complete kit you receive includes:
Total worth of these additional parts amounts to some 200 Euro.
ATTENTION!
When ordering the Universal please state your preferred hang points (high or low), so that we can prepare your risers accordingly (position of steering handles and balls).
With none information received, paraglider will be expedited low hang point setting. Of course switching the configuration is relatively easy to do at any time.
FAQ
The appearance of the Universal caused a lot of interest from clients. A lot of questions followed, so here you have answers for the most frequent ones:
Q: In what configuration is the Universal delivered (PG or PPG)?
A: The canopy is manufactured basically as free-flying (PG) wing, so this is its original configuration. However, it can be easily transformed into full-blood reflex paraglider by conscious releasing the trimmers and installing a 'paramotor-set', comprising the ALC+ lines and TST toggles.
It can be done on the ground only - unintentional releasing the trimmers in flight is not possible.
Q: Is there a 'moto' set available for the Universal?
A: Each Universal has a 'paramotor-set' attached (ALC+ lines and TST toggles). This is not the same, as 'moto version' of the Plus or Nemo2. Those paragliders have to be ordered in 'moto' version (with different risers and rigging), while the Universal is a canopy which can be altered to a paramotor state by the owner (as well as it can be reversed back to free flying version unassisted).
Q: Is the Universal an 'all in one' canopy, for any art of flying, like many other paragliders present on the market?
A: No. Universal 1.1 is EITHER a classic profile canopy for recreational free flying (in the factory, basic configuration), OR a full-blood training/recreational reflex canopy (after releasing the trimmers and installing ALC+ steering). As a PG paraglider it can be deemed something between the Plus and the Optic. As a PPG paraglider it will behave similarly to Synthesis2 (of course similar is not identical).
Q: What is included in the Universal on delivery - a MotoBag, or biggerbackpack for PG wings, which will house the harness too?
A: Since the basic configuration of the Universal is the free-flying version, the default package comprises:
- DuraLight backpack
- FastBag (quick bag)
- other accesories (transport bag with compression strap, Easy Catch speedbar, pouch with documents and repair kit, wind direction indicator, small gadgets).
| Sizes | 23 | 25.5 | 28 | 31 | 34 |
| Certification | EN/LTF B | EN/LTF B | EN/LTF B | EN/LTF B | - |
| DGAC Approval | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| Cell number | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
| Surface area flat [m2] | 23.00 | 25.50 | 28.00 | 31.00 | 34.00 |
| Surface area projected [m2] | 19.83 | 21.98 | 24.14 | 26.72 | 29.31 |
| Wingspan flat [m] | 10.83 | 11.40 | 11.95 | 12.57 | 13.17 |
| Wingspan projected [m] | 8.71 | 9.17 | 9.61 | 10.11 | 10.59 |
| Aspect ratio flat | 5,10 |
| Aspect ratio projected | 3,83 |
| Sink [m/s] | min = 1,1 |
| Speed [km/h] | min = 23; trim = 37-52; max = 57 |
| Longest chord [mm] | 2612 | 2751 | 2882 | 3033 | 3176 |
| Shortest chord [mm] | 601 | 633 | 663 | 698 | 731 |
| Lines+risers length [m] | 6.82 | 7.18 | 7.53 | 7.92 | 8.29 |
| Total lines length [m] | 344.01 | 362.82 | 380.74 | 401.20 | 420.70 |
| Weight range DGAC [kg] | 60-95 | 70-115 | 90-140 | 110-170 | 135-215 |
| Weight range EN [kg] | 60-75 | 70-95 | 90-115 | 110-140 | (135-170) |
| Weight of the wing [kg] | 5.6 | 5.95 | 6.4 | 6.85 | 7.35 |
| Lines | Technora 90 & 140 & 190 & 280 & 340 & 420 |
| Cloth | Porcher Classic 38 g/m2
Dominico 34 g/m2, Porcher Hard 40 g/m2, SR Scrim, SR Laminate 180 g/m2 |
| Risers | Pasamon - Bydgoszcz, Polska |
Toggles (Handles) Available:
- TCT (Triple Comfort Toggle) standard (basic)
- TCT (Triple Comfort Toggle) short
- SCT (Sport Comfort Toggle) standard
- SCT (Sport Comfort Toggle) short
Functionality
We are constantly adapting riser design to growing needs of our customers.
Each riser is marked with different colour.
All risers have an optional speed-system.
ELR - Easy Launch Risers
Split 'A' riser makes for easier launch and 'big ears'
As in all other elements of the wing, the risers too must be constantly adjusted to the ever-increasing needs of the pilots. As a standard, every Dudek wing is equipped with a split A riser. Most of the lines go to the main riser, and the additional one has just one or two outer lines.
There are two advantages such a solution. Firstly, the big ears are a lot easier to introduce - you no longer have to reach high above the quick-links, and the taut lines do not hurt your fingers. Secondly, a start is much easier, too. With a dynamic push every wing has a tendency to form a horseshoe, i.e. to inflate the tips faster than the centre. The pilot can reduce this effect by grabbing only the main A risers, leaving the outer part hanging. The leading edge will then be pulled only in the central part and the tendency for the tips to speed up will be eliminated.
When the wing is in the air, you can recognise the risers without hesitation. But when the wing is lying on the ground it can be difficult, especially while preparing for a reverse launch and the risers just form a twisted bundle. That's why we have distinctly marked the main A risers with yellow tape, so it is easier for you to find the correct risers and your instructor can instantly see if you are right.
Trim
A trimming system for additional angle of attack regulation. Used mainly in PPG wings.
This system features replaceable trim straps. After prolonged or intensive operation they need to be replaced, as they get damaged by buckle edges.
Our new trimmer straps have a visible scale with negative (blue) and positive (red) areas and marked neutral position. Getting the buckle in red area means that the wing is flying faster, while moving it in the blue causes the wing to fly slower. Neutral position is a suggested take-off position, notwithstanding that each pilot will have his/her own preferences worked out in time. Applied markings help you remember characteristic settings, e.g. max speed in level flight, easy take-off in strong wind etc.
Straps are finished with loops for easier operation.
BEH - Big Ears Handle
Additional handles for easy tucking big ears, equipped with magnets and offering easy blocking the excess of line in a cleat. This allows you to keep the ears pulled in all the time, while retaining full freedom of brake operation.
EK - Easy Keeper
Indigenous way to hold the brake handles at the risers that keeps them firmly in place, while both attaching and releasing goes smoothly and easily. Used in most of our handles (TCT, ACT, SCT)
ACT - Adjustable Comfort Toggle
Steering handles with adjustable loop size. Finished with soft neoprene, equippped with a swivel adn Easy Keeper. Standard issue in FreeWay, Mach 1,0 and Zig-Zag 2 (without option of exchanging for other handles - not that you would want to ;) . Optional for all other paragliders. Apart from basic version there is enhanced one too, with a ball for easier steering andor loop to fix elastic band. Especially acro flyers and speed riders praise this solution.
SCT - Sport Comfort Toggle
Sporty, soft and comfortable steering handles. Made of soft neoprene they fit you palm, while a red ball makes steering easier.
Equippped with a swivel adn Easy Keeper.
Competition pilots like them a lot.
Available standard (bigger) and short (smaller) versions.
TCT - Triple Comfort Toggle
An easy conversion from hard through medium to soft brake handles. Equippped with a swivel adn Easy Keeper.
Available standard (bigger) and short (smaller) versions.
DCT - Double Comfort Toggle
Makes possible to have your brake handles as you like them, in stiff or soft configuration. (used in old paragliders)
TEA - Torque Effect Adjuster
The task of this feature is to counteract the effect of engine torque, that tends to make the paraglider turn in the direction opposite to the propeller's rotation. TEA balances the torque by adjusting the length of some wingtip lines, and it can be adjusted to match you specific combination of paramotor/propeller. Simple to use, effective and easy to toggle on & off in the air.
VIDEO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQ3B0y4GL1w
Downloads Available:
universal1.1-manual-english.pdf30/03/2017, 13:10
Manual Supplement (Trimmer Activation, ALC+ Assembly)
universal 1.1-trim-alc-english.pdf30/03/2017, 13:10
Certificates EN:
Certificate_Universal_23s.pdf
Certificate_Universal_25.5s.pdf
Certificate_Universal_28s.pdf
Certificate_Universal_31s.pdf
Flight Reports:
2013-12-02_Universal_23_en.pdf
2013-12-02_Universal_25.5_en.pdf
2013-08-12_Universal_28_en.pdf
2013-09-28_Universal_31_en.pdf
EN Stickers:
PG-770-2013_Universal_23.pdf
PG-757-2013_Universal_25.5.pdf
PG-755-2013_Universal_28.pdf
PG-758-2013_Univseral_31.pdf
LTF Stickers:
gs-770-2013_universal_23.pdf
gs-757-2013_universal_25.5.pdf
gs-755-2013_universal_28.pdf
gs-758-2013_univseral_31.pdf
Declaration of Design and Performance (DDP)
DDP_Universal_PG-002-005_01_s.pdf
Service Documents
universal 1.1 service documents.pdf31/03/2017, 10:48
