The effect of aerofoil shape on rubber powered model aircraft

In summary, model aircraft come in a variety of aerofoil shapes, including flat, cambered, thick, and thin wings, yet all are able to fly successfully. While in manned aircraft, the aerofoil shape is determined by structural thickness and stall behavior, in rubber powered free flight models, the focus is on reducing weight and thickness. It is a trade-off between weight reduction, structural strength, and achieving the best L/D ratio.
  • #1
aeroseek
49
0
Model aircraft display a wide range of aerofoil shapes, and many of these models fly despite the shape of the cross section of the wing.

Models with flat wings, cambered wings, thick wings, thin wings - all of these fly succesfully.

What is the function of aerofoil shape on free flight rubber powered models - between 30 to 60 cm in span? In manned aircraft, the aerofile shape is said to depend on required structural thickness, and stall behaviour, that is, a gentler stall rather than a sharp one where lift suddenly reduces.

Specifically in model aircraft of the rubber powered free flight variety, it seems more important to make an effort to reduce weight and thickness, however I am not sure what the effect on performance might be, given that these models run with a short burst of ever decreasing power, and should fly a stable flight pattern.
 
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  • #2
I'm sorry you are not generating any responses at the moment. Is there any additional information you can share with us? Any new findings?
 
  • #3
It's just a trade-off between reducing weight, attaining sufficient structural strength, and getting the best L/D under those constraints.
 

1. How does the shape of the aerofoil affect the flight of a rubber powered model aircraft?

The shape of the aerofoil plays a crucial role in determining the lift and drag forces acting on the model aircraft. A symmetrical aerofoil will produce equal lift forces on both the top and bottom surfaces, resulting in a straight and stable flight. However, a cambered aerofoil, with a curved upper surface and a flatter lower surface, will create a pressure differential, generating more lift on the top surface and causing the aircraft to turn. Additionally, the shape of the aerofoil can also impact the amount of drag experienced by the aircraft, influencing its speed and efficiency in flight.

2. What are the most common shapes of aerofoils used in rubber powered model aircraft?

The most commonly used aerofoil shapes in rubber powered model aircraft include symmetrical, semi-symmetrical, and flat-bottomed aerofoils. These shapes are preferred for their stability and predictable flight characteristics. However, some more advanced model aircraft may use more complex shapes such as elliptical or tapered aerofoils, which offer better performance but require more precise construction.

3. How does the thickness of the aerofoil affect the flight of a rubber powered model aircraft?

The thickness of the aerofoil, also known as the airfoil's chord, can greatly impact the lift and drag forces acting on the model aircraft. A thicker aerofoil will produce more lift and less drag, making it suitable for slower and more stable flights. On the other hand, a thinner aerofoil will generate less lift and more drag, resulting in faster and more maneuverable flights. The thickness of the aerofoil should be carefully chosen based on the desired flight characteristics of the model aircraft.

4. How can the shape of the aerofoil be modified to improve the performance of a rubber powered model aircraft?

There are several ways to modify the shape of the aerofoil to improve the performance of a rubber powered model aircraft. One method is to add camber to the aerofoil, increasing the lift and reducing the drag. This can be done by curving the upper surface of the aerofoil or by adding a cambered airfoil section. Another method is to change the angle of attack, which is the angle at which the aerofoil meets the oncoming air. By adjusting the angle of attack, the lift and drag forces can be altered, allowing for better control and performance of the model aircraft.

5. How does the material of the aerofoil affect its performance in a rubber powered model aircraft?

The material of the aerofoil can have a significant impact on the flight performance of a rubber powered model aircraft. A lightweight and durable material, such as balsa wood or carbon fiber, is preferred for its strength-to-weight ratio and ability to withstand the stresses of flight. Additionally, the smoothness and flexibility of the material can also affect the aerodynamics of the aerofoil, influencing the lift and drag forces and ultimately the flight performance of the model aircraft.

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