Skyaak Press Release

Skyaak is a unique new "Ring-Wing" flying toy invention. It was created by Manitou Beach artist/designer Michael Gaudet, who originally committed the idea to paper in 1987. The concept lay dormant for many years until Gaudet had the opportunity to concentrate on research and development within the past few years. As a full-time professional artist who specializes in large-scale historic murals, the artist has been able to set aside a modest R&D fund.

After he wrote the words to the poem "I Believe" in November 2005, seven ‘Angel Investors’ presented themselves to commit financial and moral support to the Skyaak project. The poem has since been produced as a CD Single that may be viewed at www.theahaexperience.com

Gaudet says, " ‘I Believe’ encourages faith in one’s pet ideas and is a call for action versus procrastination."

The Angel Investors have since propelled the project ahead with unstoppable momentum. Over a period of only about two years, Gaudet was able to advance the working prototype from two cut-out margarine containers affixed to a drinking straw to laser-cut lexan plastic components in the case of the 14" version ‘Mykro-Skyaak’. The full-scale, athletic-quality Skyaak Model 3 boasts components manufactured with a computer-assisted router by Laser Impressions in Saskatoon. The 26" Model 3 is a fascinating new kind of ‘throw and catch’ glider that consists of two conical-shaped wings on an inner tubular shaft. The unlikely-looking flying toy exhibits exciting aerodynamic properties. A sturdy foam hand-grip near the center of the shaft provides a way for the device to be thrown and then caught in mid-air between partners.

The Skyaak project has enjoyed and benefitted from some very high-profile support both nationally and internationally. The following people have taken the Skyaak project under their wing: Dr. Marc Garneau, former astronaut and president of the Canada Space Agency, communicated with the inventor over a couple of years and personally referred the project to the attention of Dr. David Simpson, head of the Institute for Aerospace Research at the National Research Council of Canada. Dr. Simpson wrote the inventor a very informative and encouraging letter of guidance and support. Zenon Dragan, president of the Saskatoon-based world-famous flying toy company DraganFly Innovations Inc. has been mentor to the project since its inception and has provided invaluable insights into prototype development and marketing. Minneapolis-based William Gurstelle, best-selling author of "Adventures from the Technology Underground" has built and flown both models and calls Skyaak "Incredibly cool!" and suggests that Skyaak is "Canada’s answer to the Frisbee". Patrizio Bronzi, Italian aircraft model-maker and designer, has expressed an interest in the Skyaak design and has written a technical paper in support of the project along with analytical diagrams that explore the aerodynamic properties of the unique ring-wing design. Dan Tyroler, Long Island, NY-based electronics engineer and inventor, is the founder of the popular inventor’s service www.Patents4Sale.com . He has recently announced the creation of a new online inventor’s boutique called www.NewDaVincis.com . The Skyaak product line has been invited to be included in the exclusive roster of new, innovative inventions on this site.

Written by Ilara Stefaniuk-Gaudet, daughter of the inventor.