The Legacy of the Vector Probe

For over five years, the Vector Probe has been used by paraglider designers and test pilots pour effectuer des mesures précises de vitesse de vol et de finesse air.

This tool also played a key role in the development of the Vector Vario, offering reference data on airspeed and the dynamic behavior of wings in flight.

The extensive glide ratio measurements collected with the Vector Probe—across a wide range of wings and harnesses—made it possible to build an unparalleled polar speed model. Today, the Vector Vario relies on this data to calculate sink rate, a key element used in features such as Netto and Release & Rise.

The value of wind tunnel testing

Accurate airspeed measurement in paragliding presents unique challenges due to:

  • The disruptive influence of the pilot and harness on aerodynamic flow
  • significant dynamic variations depending on flight speed and maneuvers
  • Measurement noise caused by turbulence, especially in thermal conditions

To overcome these, we combined aerodynamic modelling of the pilot/wing system with extensive experimental validation, including:

  • Real flight campaigns with a variety of wings and harnesses
  • Systematic comparisons using the Vector Probe as a reference
  • Wind tunnel testing to optimise and validate the geometry of the Vector Vario under various aerodynamic conditions

After 18 months of development, this rigorous methodology makes it possible to:

  • Maintain stable performance even in turbulent airflow (error < 3 km/h above 20 km/h)
  • Tolerate angle-of-attack and sideslip variations up to ±35°
  • Provide static pressure corrected for airspeed-related effects

3D Printing

The Vector Vario’s casing is produced using 3D printing technology, specifically FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling).

The complex internal and external shape of the Vector Vario quickly made 3D printing the preferred method for the iterative development of numerous prototypes, as well as for its production.

The casing is made from ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate), a recyclable plastic highly resistant to impacts and UV rays.

Made in France

The Vector Vario was designed in the French Alps and continues to be tested and improved there thanks to the valuable feedback from the pilots who have adopted it.

The French Alps are also where each Vector Vario is manufactured and calibrated by our team.

Who are we?

Anthony

Holds a PhD in Environmental Sciences, specializing in meteorological and hydrological measurements in alpine environments.

Quentin

Holds a PhD in Nonlinear Fluid Mechanics and works as a wind tunnel test engineer. Developer of the Vector Probe.

Both paraglider pilots for over 15 years, we met at university in Grenoble through shared passions: free flight, adventure... and a love for tinkering and all kinds of experiments.