AFK-3

AFK-3

At the end of the 1980s, Akaflieg’s old glider winch had to be replaced. The decision was made to combine the construction of a new winch with the development of a new concept: Just one power unit and one driver’s platform for winch and road operation!

After the theoretical aspects of the project had been clarified as part of two student research projects at the Institute of Machine Design / Department of Automotive Engineering, the first construction phase was initiated in 1986. The Akaflieg Karlsruhe received important support in the construction of the AFK-3 “research winch” from its late honorary member, Director Göhring, who was able to provide the Akaflieg with a roadworthy three-axle truck chassis from Daimler-Benz.

Main features of the AFK-3:

  • An attempt was made to use standard parts from truck manufacturers as far as possible, or to make them usable through minor modifications. This significantly reduced the maintenance and repair costs compared to the AFK-2 with its sometimes quite exotic components.
  • The use of a single truck engine, whose power can be transmitted to either cable drums or wheels via a transfer gearbox, further reduces maintenance requirements.
  • A torque converter gearbox enables sufficient cable pull-in torque to safely accelerate even the heaviest gliders.
  • The winch operator’s workplace has been designed in accordance with the latest ergonomic findings.
  • Electrical actuation of the most important functions, which are characterized by extensive safety circuits, or which make remote control of entire function groups possible.
  • Preparation for the installation of a torque measuring shaft and other measuring devices required for the implementation of the AK-7 project (winch launch tests)
  • Teacher/student circuit with redundancy of the most important operating elements facilitates training
  • The protective grid and azimuth pulleys can be removed quickly, enabling it to be used on public roads
  • Cable retrieval trolley (Lepo) can be parked on the loading area and transported by means of drive-on plates

The new winch was used for the first time in 1987 in trial operation alongside the AFK-2, but it soon proved itself so well that the AFK-2 was decommissioned towards the middle of the year.

After 35 years in operation and over 67,000 tows, our AFK-3 was replaced by an electric launch winch in 2022 and now performs its loyal services for the Swiss SG Säntis.