- Joined
- Mar 5, 2017
- Messages
- 1,946
- Reaction score
- 839
Class: Sport
Category: Small field
I have another experimental glider in the works, this time exploring a random thought about whether a glider’s elevator could be reversed so that its leading edge rotated downward, scooping air from underneath the wing and channeling it upward instead of off its trailing edge. Whyever? Mostly curiosity, and cause I’m a fan of the unconventional and unorthodox in design.
Here's a basic sketch of what I’m planning:
I have some ideas about elevator retention and how to limit the angle needed for a workable glide, but as with all experiments, I’ll just have to fabricate and see how workable it ends up being, then modify or redesign as needed.
Besides just proof of concept, a primary goal is maximizing the altitude I can get on a "B" motor by using 1/16" balsa throughout (save for the fuselage). I may be able to get away with a "C" motor by strengthening the balsa with a coat of dope (lacquer). Using a 20% to 30% diluted solution adds a surprising amount of hardness and rigidity to the balsa, as it tends to soak into the wood and reinforce it's fibers without the heavier weight penalty of paint. Of course the other benefit is that it repels humidity and water, minimizing or eliminating warpage (pretty common problem during our intensely humid summers).
Category: Small field
I have another experimental glider in the works, this time exploring a random thought about whether a glider’s elevator could be reversed so that its leading edge rotated downward, scooping air from underneath the wing and channeling it upward instead of off its trailing edge. Whyever? Mostly curiosity, and cause I’m a fan of the unconventional and unorthodox in design.
Here's a basic sketch of what I’m planning:
I have some ideas about elevator retention and how to limit the angle needed for a workable glide, but as with all experiments, I’ll just have to fabricate and see how workable it ends up being, then modify or redesign as needed.
Besides just proof of concept, a primary goal is maximizing the altitude I can get on a "B" motor by using 1/16" balsa throughout (save for the fuselage). I may be able to get away with a "C" motor by strengthening the balsa with a coat of dope (lacquer). Using a 20% to 30% diluted solution adds a surprising amount of hardness and rigidity to the balsa, as it tends to soak into the wood and reinforce it's fibers without the heavier weight penalty of paint. Of course the other benefit is that it repels humidity and water, minimizing or eliminating warpage (pretty common problem during our intensely humid summers).