Re: [Paddlewise] Paddle flutter

From: Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe <aldercreek_at_qwest.net>
Date: Sun, 2 Dec 2001 11:31:20 -0800
> If you choose to define flutter your own way, it can mean anything you
want.
> You're taking any form of instability to be flutter.  If you can't agree
on a standard
> terminology, there's no point is discussing anything.

The Webster's II dictionary I have actually defines flutter: "to flap or
wave rapidly *and* irregularly."

I would say that any form of paddle instability that causes rapid and
irregular waving or flapping could be called flutter.

Seems what we're discussing here is more of a regular wave with a defined
wave shape and length.  Maybe even a pulsed wave, caused by Karmen vortex
shedding.

>Most people I know will accept flutter to be a form
> of instability when the power face is drawn through the water, normal to
the
> face.  The change in direction of the power face cycles rapidly about the
initial,
> nominally symmetric position.


I'd say a super fast sculling stroke done vertically is an interesting way
to look at what we're discussing. I could demonstrate a very slow, drawn out
vertical sculling forward stroke that looks just like the pulsing wave
stroke we are discussing.

I also agree that all aspects of anyone's technique should be considered
when an irregularity like this comes up.  We sell a tons of paddles and have
yet to see one that was so far out of line that *flutter* was a problem.

Steve _at_ work
Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe    N   45º 39' 47"
250 NE Tomahawk Isle Dr.     W 122º 36' 16"
Portland, OR  97217          Web: www.aldercreek.com
Phone: 503.285.0464        Email: aldercreek_at_qwest.net


***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire
responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author.
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************
Received on Sun Dec 02 2001 - 11:28:40 PST

This archive was generated by hypermail 2.4.0 : Thu Aug 21 2025 - 16:30:46 PDT