A really big fish: The flying machine for the Red Bull Flugtag is taking shape
The PALFINGER crew is highly motivated and has activated flight mode: The construction phase of the flying machine is in full swing. In the previous article, the official PALFINGER team, "Fish and Jibs", was introduced – as was the idea for the flying machine: the flying shark.
The team members not only agreed on the idea but also on their choice of materials: Sustainability definitely takes centre stage. And with an ingenious plan up their sleeve, the team is now ready to kick things into high gear! The wood is being cut into the right shapes, and the individual parts are getting glued together. Fabrics are being cut to size, and the parts are being covered with them. In other words, the flying machine is starting to take shape.
Design and construction expertise as an advantage
In order for the “flying fish” to fly as far as possible, it needs to have optimal gliding and sailing capabilities. A balanced centre of gravity determined by the pilot’s position ensures both. In this task, team member Walter, in particular, was able to shine with his skills as a designer. Another important advantage: Lukas, the pilot, is an absolute lightweight.
Scene of the action: the PALFINGER site in Salzburg
Plenty of space and all the necessary tools in a location where innovative lever solutions, among other things, are being created: That’s the perfect spot for the team to spread their wings and to let their creativity flow during the construction phase. A clear home advantage! The four specialists are using every spare minute to make their idea a reality.
Concentrated expertise at PALFINGER
It’s no secret that PALFINGER is a proud premium partner of the Red Bull Flugtag, and the entire staff is looking forward to the event with great anticipation. Especially at the Salzburg location, they’re getting increasingly curious about the construction progress. Whenever the PALFINGER crew works on their flying machine, colleagues use the opportunity to take a peek and look over the team's shoulder. And in case help is needed, they are always there to lend a hand.
"We are very pleased about the great interest in the construction progress of our flying machine. Just as in our daily work, we are receiving a lot of support from all areas of the company: whether that’s support from colleagues who are always on hand with help and advice, or expert tips that we get from specialists like Christoph Göttlicher." – Sebastian Költringer, Discipline Leader Mechanical Engineering AT
Speaking of Christoph Göttlicher: As a jury member, he was already involved in the selection of the official PALFINGER crew and in the initial brainstorming sessions with the team. The idea of using a shark as a model for the propulsion system of a flying machine impressed him from the very beginning. He sees it as a great challenge to find the best possible compromise between a cool design and actual airworthiness. Of course, the primary objective is for the flying machine to fly as far as possible, but the spectators at the event should also be amazed by the sight of it. Christoph Göttlicher is also convinced that the team will put on an impressive performance at the Red Bull Flugtag.
PALFINGER at the Red Bull Flugtag – from set-up to landing
In the coming weeks until the Red Bull Flugtag on 26 September in Vienna, the team will have to finish the flying shark and fine-tune their performance. However, PALFINGER will not only perform on stage: Several PALFINGER products will also make an appearance both before and during the event:
• The crawler crane will ensure a smooth set-up leading up to the event.
• From the access platform, VIPs can watch the action from a bird's eye view.
• Converted into a basketball hoop, the truck-mounted forklift will provide fun and entertainment for visitors.
• And the loader crane will bring all the flying machines safely back to shore.
By the way: The jury at the Red Bull Flugtag also includes a member that PALFINGER has been sponsoring for quite some time now. Curious who will take a critical look at the flight and performance of the individual teams? Stay tuned – we’ll soon reveal it in our Flight Magazine!