Date: Thu, 2 Mar 95 08:51:10 -0700
From: Bill Blohm <bblohm@hpbs1686.boi.hp.com>
Message-Id: <9503021551.AA06619@hpbs1686.boi.hp.com>
To: baidarka@imagelan.com, rose001@ibm.net
Subject: Re: Baidarka "Foldbot"
> - the idea is that the frame would be pre assembled. then
> the skin would be slipped on stem to stern with the
> stern skin sliding up onto the kayak frame from the
> keel up with the slot piece sliding into a matched slot.
This sliding into place of the rudder piece may be difficult
without introducing excess slack in the skin in this area.
Perhaps it would be better to have it fit into place either
by sliding OR by being placed over the frame piece rather than
requiring it to slide into place. Of course, if the rudder
mounts are in two or three pieces, it might be easier to apply
the sliding-into-a-slot method without stretching the skin unduly.
> - oh I forgot. The velcro (I am open to a better sealing
> such as the bag but I am having trouble getting a
> good picture of this method) would be a loose seal
> with the flap not ever taking the stress of
> tightening. The lacing would take that load and
Go to any good whitewater shop and ask them for a look at some
storeage bags that can also be used as floatation bags. They
should have some in stock or in one of the display boats.
Basically, all you do is lay the bag down on the floor, stuff it,
smooth out the lips of the bag flat on the floor, roll up the
opening of the bag towards the end until you get to where the
flap is, wrap the flap over the rolled up opening, and then
snap/velcro it shut. The flap isn't tight, the roll is tight.
The flap just keeps the bag opening from unrolling. This excess
skin for the rolled up part, after you have the frame in, would
be held up above the deck and rolled down to the deck, held in
place by either the lacing or the flap.
> - I share the "concern" with water in the area under
> the lacing and above the flap. The over flap is a
> good idea to address this. this would give three
> layers at the seam. The flap under the lacing, the
> lacing and the flap over the lacing. I am not sure
> all this is necessary but it is an idea to start
> with.
Uh, huh. I think the bottom "flap" is actually just the loose
skin hanging down? If so, it's just a trough, not really a flap.
However, if it is one piece here as you've indicated (just excess
skin hanging down), the top flap over the lacing should keep out
the majority of the water with no problem. Just be sure to
open up the flap at the end of the day and dump out the water.
It's still only two layers: loose skin hanging down and a
covering flap.
Bill B.