How old can you be in a wind tunnel. Wind tunnel for children: what parents need to know
You must arrive at the I-Fly wind tunnel 30 minutes before the booked flight time. During this time, you will get to know the instructor, get briefed, trained and put on equipment.
IMPORTANT: the maximum weight of the flying - no more than 120 kg.
- - a suit for skiing or a jacket with a length not below the hips,
- - fleece sweatshirt or thick wool sweater,
- - thermal underwear.
Gloves for winter sports.
On the feet must be long warm socks. Winter boots with laces that cover the ankle are desirable.
The flight will not take place under adverse weather conditions (heavy rain, snow, hurricane, hail, temperature below -7 degrees).Entertainment or sport?
Free flight in a wind tunnel, which is also called free fall, is drop dead fun! New sensations, discovering new possibilities of your body, a feeling of flight, and leisure, maintaining muscle tone and maintaining a positive mood with minimal physical effort. This is something that is difficult to put into words, because it is overwhelmed with emotions.
Flying on an updraft of air in a working tube is what skydivers experience when they have not yet opened their parachute. With only one important difference - when you soar in a wind tunnel, the earth is very close.
Because of such conditions, similar to real ones, professional skydivers are engaged in the tube - they work out sliding, flips and other basic movements on it. Also, often a person's acquaintance with the sky begins with a wind tunnel. In many cases, it is she who becomes the first step on the way to the plane, from which the still inexperienced skydiver jumps into the void for the first time.
It is safe?
Absolutely yes!
- - Firstly, all flights are conducted by professional and experienced instructors who can work with beginners. Over the years, they have studied all the emergency situations that can occur in a wind tunnel - from an uncontrolled increase in power to, on the contrary, a complete shutdown of engines. Even if you violate all safety requirements and carry small objects into the pipe (which is strictly prohibited), the instructor will reduce any possible risks and the client will receive only positive emotions. Flying without an instructor for beginners is prohibited in the same way as collective flights. That is, no one will be in the tube, either surrounded by a crowd of other people, or alone - next to a beginner there will always be a professional who knows how to make the flight safer.
- - Secondly, our wind tunnel has a reliable and thoughtful design. It is safe not only on paper and in computer calculations, but also withstood the test of time.
- - Thirdly, for everyone flying, we select the appropriate equipment. It is advisable to come in comfortable shoes and sportswear that does not restrict movement. We will pick up special overalls, goggles and a helmet on the spot. If there are no sneakers or sneakers in the wardrobe, we will also pick up shoes.
- - Fourth, before the flight, all beginners undergo a safety briefing, after which the trainer-instructor makes sure that everything is clear and understandable. This usually takes 15 to 20 minutes, and if something remains unclear, it is explained to the novice athlete until clear answers to specific questions are received. It is important for us that our visitors receive only positive emotions from us, and not injuries.
- - Finally, while creating conditions similar to a free fall in a parachute jump, the wind tunnel does not literally send you into the sky. Soaring takes place at a height of several meters above the surface of a special restrictive grid. Even if something goes wrong, the jump will end without injury.
Many beginners who have taken flight in a wind tunnel leave
A wind tunnel is a simulator that simulates a free fall. The attraction began to gain popularity only recently. Thanks to him, anyone can experience an exciting feeling of weightlessness. Reviews of flights in a wind tunnel posted on the Internet are full of delight.
What is just entertainment for us is a serious scientific tool used to study the impact air environment to moving objects. It is used in many scientific fields: industrial and aviation developments, including the training of military pilots and astronauts, and only recently has become an entertainment for the townsfolk.
The history of invention, the path from science to entertainment
The first wind tunnel was designed for scientific purposes and was small in size. Scientists used it to study the behavior solids in the air stream. Later, large prototypes were used to test parachutes. In Russia, the first pipe appeared in 1871 and was designed by the teacher V. A. Pashkevich for teaching students of the military academy.
The invention became widespread only during the Second World War. At an American air base, a tube was constructed with a 6-meter propeller that allowed a person to experience the sensation of free fall. It was used for the same purpose - testing parachutes and aircraft.
Man was able to experience the influence of air currents inside the pipe only in 1964. Military parachutist Jack Tiffany entered the wind tunnel, intending to take off in it with a parachute, and he succeeded. But this experience did not lead to use as a full-fledged simulator for people. The load was too great water streams pertaining to the human body.
The first aero simulators for humans
The first aerodynamic simulator appeared in 1981 in Canada. Gene Germain built it on the basis of wind tunnels for training landing troops. He managed to improve the invention so much that a person could smoothly rise and fall. But the use of the forces of air currents still remained the prerogative of specialists.
In 2006, wind tunnels were used at the closing of the Winter Olympics. Trained people showed being in a confined space. From that moment, the wind tunnel began to spread as an attraction. For many people, this has become a systematic entertainment, gradually attracting more and more fans of extreme sports. In Russia, in order to experience the extraordinary sensations of flying in a wind tunnel in an air park, you need to visit the entertainment centers of Moscow, St. major cities.
Operating principle
The wind tunnel allows you to experience the experience of free fall, which was previously available only to those who dared to jump with a parachute. However this way is safer and allows you to get almost the same sensations.
The attraction is a complex of the following parts:
- pipe of various diameters;
- specially designed fans;
- diesel engine;
- trampoline net;
- "glass", as a rule, of transparent material and mesh, limiting the flight area.
The principle of operation is simple and based on the gradual injection of air into a limited space. The pipe functions due to powerful fans that create a strong air flow. Artificial wind speed can reach from 190 to 260 km/h.
Attraction design
There are many types of aerodynamic complexes, each of which differs in three main parameters:
- The location of the screws - top or bottom.
- The size of the pipe itself - the so-called flight zone (depends on the height and diameter of the fence).
- Wind speed inside the working area - depends on the power of the diesel engine and fan.
The flight zone is fenced at the top with a mesh, and at the edges - with a glass of transparent material, which does not allow a person to fly out beyond the outlined diameter and fall under the fan blades - hence the name "pipe".
The operation of the device is controlled by the operator, who can regulate the air flow. In this way, a spectacular free fall effect is achieved.
Instructors always educate the competitor on safety, pipe construction and what to do while in the airflow area. It is not for nothing that the reviews about flying in a wind tunnel are generally positive, as it is a safe and exhilarating experience.
After watching a video about the operation of the attraction, the audience is divided into two camps. The first group doubts the safety of the flight and are sure that this experience is available only to a specially trained person. The second group, wanting to experience the new entertainment, has no doubts about its safety. However, the reality is that nowadays even children are allowed to fly in a wind tunnel.
Note! Even in the event of a sudden stop of the engine, a person does not fall, but slowly lands, since the fans provide damped operation and a smooth decrease in the power of air flows.
The first exit into the pipe can seem difficult for a beginner. You need to learn how to move in the air flow, overcome the panic from the feeling of free fall, learn how to control your own body. As a rule, beginners get used to new sensations in 1-2 minutes, after which a feeling of euphoria from the flight sets in. At the first visit, the accompaniment of the instructor is mandatory.
Safety
Only with strict observance of safety regulations and following the instructions of the instructor will a person leave a positive review of the flight in the wind tunnel.
Interesting fact! The design of the instructor's helmet differs from the rest, as this protection protects the head from accidental blows by beginners who do not fully master the technique of flight.
The safety of the first steps is ensured by the instructors who enter the airflow zone together with the visitors. They help to get comfortable, adjust the equipment to the individual parameters of a person.
Binding Rules
It must be remembered that the attraction is a complex mechanical device of high power. Here you must strictly adhere to the following rules:
- Beginners are inside the flight zone for no more than 2 minutes.
- Clothing should be comfortable and not restrict movement. Despite the fact that a special jumpsuit is issued before the flight to help balance on the air flow, it is necessary to wear loose clothing under it.
- Clothing should be warm - forcing air greatly lowers the temperature, so it is quite cool inside the flight zone. The fabric of overalls is dense, but the supply of heat is not always enough.
- Comfortable shoes - preferably sneakers or lace-up sneakers. Shoes, velcro fasteners and similar footwear may come off, hitting anyone inside the work area, including the visitor himself.
- Long hair is desirable to braid and fix with a tight elastic band.
- A helmet is required inside the flight zone.
The main condition for obtaining a pleasant feeling from the flight is complete relaxation of the body. Children are allowed only under the supervision of instructors, in which case the operator reduces the speed of the propellers to a minimum.
Attraction for entertainment and sports
The wind tunnel has only recently become a full-fledged attraction, but it continues to be used as a sports simulator for training skydivers and athletes.
It's important to know! Simultaneous participation of two or more persons is allowed only for athletes with more than 30 minutes of individual flight experience.
The device combines several functional purposes at once and can be used to prepare:
- Paratroopers and pilots - to increase the level of skills.
- Acrobats - to prepare for the performance of complex tricks.
- Children - for the purposes of the general physical development and entertainment.
- Adults - to improve physical activity and rest.
In addition, many adults go to the development of an aerodynamic simulator before making a long parachute jump. Despite the fact that this experience cannot be compared with a full-fledged flight in the sky, the conditions are approximately similar.
In addition, the attraction acts as a simulator. Counteracting the created load forces the main muscles of the body to work, due to which calories are actively burned during the flight. Coordination of movements improves significantly, as the visitor adapts to the control of his own body. According to men, flying in a wind tunnel brings to life the childhood dreams of every boy about flying into space.
Restrictions and contraindications to flying in a wind tunnel
Every attraction has its limitations, and the wind tunnel is no exception. But thanks to advanced security techniques, there are not so many of them:
- The age of the visitor must be between 5 and 75 years old;
- body weight is in the range from 20 to 130 kg (depending on engine power and propeller used);
- the visitor should not have health problems, diseases of the musculoskeletal system, respiratory and cardiovascular systems, mental disorders;
- pregnant women are not allowed to ride;
- the use of the attraction is not recommended for people who have undergone surgery or have been injured;
- people in a state of intoxication and under the influence of intoxicating substances (drugs) are not allowed into the flight zone.
Everyone else can experience wind tunnel flying and leave feedback on their own experience on the Internet.
Who might be interested in the attraction?
One of the first cities where a wind tunnel flight was implemented was Moscow. This is an active form of leisure that allows you to get an unforgettable experience. It is completely safe and suitable for all people. Compliance with safety regulations, constant supervision of the instructor and control of the operator make the use of the attraction an interesting and affordable pastime. Presenting a wind tunnel flight as a gift would be a great idea.
There are seven wind tunnels in Moscow, one of which is located in the center ("I-Fly" 5 minutes from the Kurskaya metro station), and the rest in various parts of the city within the Moscow Ring Road. Another pipe "FREEZONE" is located in the Moscow region, Chekhov.
How much does a wind tunnel cost?
A ticket to the wind tunnel (aka a gift certificate) takes into account the flight time, 2 minutes ~ 1500 rubles. You can see current prices.
Wind tunnel since how many years are flights allowed?
Children from 5 years of age accompanied by their parents are allowed to fly in the wind tunnel. The age limit is due to the fact that it is difficult for younger children to concentrate on the instructor's explanations and follow them exactly. Wind tunnel at what age is possible - the answer is unequivocal: only from 5 years old.
Wind tunnel contraindications
Flying in a wind tunnel is not recommended for people with spinal injuries, diseases nervous system and acute cardiac diseases, recent shoulder dislocation or brain injury, pregnant women. Persons under the influence of alcohol and drugs are not allowed to fly.
You can fly in contact lenses, be sure to warn the instructor about it.
How many people can fly at the same time?
In all wind tunnels, beginners fly one at a time with the obligatory presence of an instructor. Further, everything determines the size of the wind tunnel: experienced athletes can fly alone without an instructor, two or more (for example, to train group acrobatics exercises).
The largest wind tunnel in Moscow
To date, the largest wind tunnel in Moscow in terms of width and height is the Freezone.
Is it comparable to skydiving?
Flying in a wind tunnel can be equated to a parachute jump from a height of 4000 m, the sensations of free fall for some are even more vivid. The risk is thus minimized.
Where in Moscow to fly in a wind tunnel?
The location of the Moscow wind tunnels is convenient. These are m. Kurskaya, m. Krylatskoye, m. Volzhskaya, m. CSKA, 71 and 47 km of the Moscow Ring Road.
How to prepare for a flight?
Arrive at the wind tunnel 30-40 minutes before the start of the flight to go through a preliminary briefing and pick up equipment (overalls, helmet, gloves) according to size. Clothing should not hinder movement (sportswear is ideal, over which you will wear a jumpsuit). Shoes - with laces, with flat soles.
It is safe?
Absolutely safe. Before the flight, you will undergo a briefing, during which a professional instructor will tell you how to stay in the wind tunnel. He will be next to you during the entire flight.
Which wind tunnel to choose?
Wind tunnels are divided into closed and open. The first are indoors, it is equally comfortable to fly in them at any time of the year. The second ones are located on the street, for flying in them it is important to dress according to the weather (flights are not carried out at air temperatures below -7 degrees). The advantage of an open wind tunnel is a more complete immersion in the process: before your eyes there will be not the walls of the room, but a bird's-eye view of the city landscapes.
Almost everyone can fly in a wind tunnel - adults and children from 4 years old. Children under 18 can fly only with the written consent of a parent (guardian). Weight restrictions - up to 120 kg. Contraindications for flying: pregnancy, travel restrictions physical activity, spinal injuries, diseases of the nervous system, dislocation of the shoulder, brain injury, acute cardiac diseases, use of alcohol and drugs within the last 24 hours.
How many people can fly in the tube at the same time?
Beginners and amateurs fly alone. In the preflight area and in the tube they are together with the instructor.
Is it possible to divide the flight into two or more people?
Yes, you can share a wind tunnel flight with two or more participants. You can share the rest. Consider only that each of you should have enough time - to taste the pleasure. Therefore, minimum intervals are not divisible.
How to choose the optimal time for the first flight in a wind tunnel?
The optimal duration of the first flight is 4-10 minutes. During this period of time, you will not get tired and there will be enough time to learn how to control your body in the air.
Is the first flight safe?
Flying in a wind tunnel is associated with certain risks, but at all times you are watched by an experienced instructor and an operator at the control panel. Beginners fly at low speed, which allows, in the event of an emergency, smoothly stop the engines and stop the flight.
How to dress for the first flight?
For the flight, the clients of the wind tunnel receive special equipment (overalls, helmet). The jumpsuit is worn over your clothes, so it should not hinder movement and be too voluminous: long-sleeved T-shirt (for the cold season; short-sleeved T-shirt or T-shirt (summer period); sweatpants or tight jeans; sports shoes or lace-up sneakers .
What are the fundamentals of wind tunnel safety?
When making a session, you must follow all the instructions of the instructor. Before the flight, you must remove jewelry (chains, bracelets, watches, earrings, etc.). It is forbidden to take mobile phones and personal items (bags, outerwear) with you to the pre-flight area. It is forbidden to exert force on the structural elements of the pipe (doors, access systems).
How long before the scheduled flight time do I need to arrive at the center?
It is necessary to arrive in advance so that there is time for a detailed briefing, selection of equipment and filling out the necessary documents.
What are the dimensions of the wind tunnel and the speed of the air flow in "Aerodynamics"?
In Aerodinamika there is the most modern installation of the Tornado system, with a diameter of 2.5 meters, with a flight zone height of 8 meters. This is more than enough for 99% of adults to fly. The air flow speed up to 250 km/h allows to carry out sports competitions in flights up to 2 adults, and sometimes four people can train. In addition, the most modern electric motors create extremely little noise, and the "glass" of solid glass is as transparent as possible - the highest quality photographs are obtained.