The non-steerable version of the DIAMOND Cross cruciform canopy.
The non-steerable version of the DIAMONDcorss ST is about 90g lighter and subsequently cheaper than the steerable version. All other features and technical data are identical with the DIAMONDcross ST. With a set of new risers, you can subsequently modify the DIAMONDcross basic into a steerable system by the manufacturer or another authorized repair shop. The modification costs 140,- and includes re-packing.
The new DIAMOND Cross basic light presents the following main innovations:
- It has a defined forward speed in a diagonal direction with the effect of a significantly reduced sink speed. This results on the one hand in a higher aspect ratio compared to conventional cruciform canopies, those propulsion mainly takes place towards one side, and on the other hand in the asymmetrical airflow of the convex sides of the DIAMONDcross canopy, thereby receiving an ascending forced optimised profile.
- The DIAMONDcross has different line lengths which have the effect that the strips of the canopy don’t lie on top of each other when packing the canopy. This diversification causes an easier air inlet when opening and thus an increased opening speed compared to conventional cruciform canopies. The packing of the DIAMONDcross is not more time-consuming or more complex than for a normal cruciform canopy.
For the DIAMONDcross, there is no risk of a “down plane” immediately after release, which is typical for Rogallo rescue systems even after pre-braking if they open with the top downwards. The concept of the DIAMONDcross works without pre-braking and therefore the system remains very easy to handle and is reliable.
Further safety aspects:
- The forward speed also reduces significantly the risk of spine compression during the landing.
- The long suspension lines of the DIAMONDcross and the symmetric shape of the canopy lower the risk of causing a collapse with the rescue system and the glider.
- Forward movement and low sink rate reduce in addition the risk of a side slip between the rescue system and the glider, and therefore higher sink rates.
- A short stall phase of the DIAMONDcross after opening prevents the formation of a “down plane” position. The DIAMONDcross merges without the help of the pilot after a short independent stall phase in an easy, very stable and swing-free forward flight.
- The special design of the inner container, optimized with the help of Tom Grabner’s G-Force trainer ensures a safe deployment of the DIAMONDcross with low effort needed. Especially with regard to inconvenient pulling directions when deploying the rescue system. Therefore we absolutely recommend using the original approved container with the rescue system and to adapt the rescue handle of the harness to the container by an authorised service company.
- The inner container has a separate space for the suspension lines. The canopy will only be deployed after aspect ratio of the suspension lines, which enables a fast and controlled opening. The risk of a cravat of rescue system and glider is therefore reduced.
- The superlight cruciform canopy from Charly’s product designer Tom Grabner has been registered for patent and certified in four sizes.
| Weight (kg) | Certification | Volumetric value (ccm) | Flat surface (m²) | Sink speed (m/s) | Max. load (kg) | |
| DC BASIC LIGHT 100 | 1.14 | EN, LTF | 3900 | 25.2 | 4.7 (at 100 kg) | 3.6 (at 70 kg) | 100 |
| DC BASIC LIGHT 125 | 1.35 | EN, LTF | 4700 | 30.7 | 4.5 (at 125 kg) | 3.5 (at 85 kg) | 125 |
| DC BASIC LIGHT 160 | 1.75 | EN, LTF | 5300 | 41.0 | 4.5 (at 160 kg) | 3,5 (at 110 kg) | 160 |
| DC BASIC LIGHT 220 | 2.46 | EN, LTF | 7300 | 59.2 | 4.5 (at 220 kg) | 3.5 (at 160 kg) | 220 |
* the weight includes the connection to the harness, as the V-line is not necessary
FAQ
Do I have to disconnect my glider when opening the DIAMONDcross?
No. Although if the pilot reacts in a passive way, the DIAMONDcross works perfectly. The risk of a side slip is very low for a DIAMONDcross. Nevertheless, the glider should be disconnected – if possible – from all rescue systems, no matter whether they are steerable or not. The disconnection can be made by separating the glider from the carabiner, as in this case, an automatic separation system for the speed system is absolutely essential. Further opportunities are rapid separation carabiners or cutting off the main lines by means of a hook knife.
As you can’t make general statements about how the glider reacts after rescue deployment and every rescue system is always influenced by the residual resistance of the glider, a complete disconnection of the glider can only be an advantage – also if a disconnection is not absolutely necessary for the DIAMONDcross.
