Analyzing the Effects of Battery Position on ##C_m-\alpha## Graph

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the impact of battery position as a counterweight on the ##C_m-\alpha## graph for a model plane project. Placing the battery further back from the center of mass (CoM) reduces the longitudinal distance ##l_t## and increases the height ##hc##, leading to a decreased slope of the ##C_m-\alpha## curve. The analysis references Anderson's "Introduction to Flight" and highlights the relationship between the variables, specifically noting that a smaller ##V_H## due to reduced ##l_t## increases the value of ##C_{m\,(L=0)}##. The implications of these changes on equilibrium angle and lift generation are also discussed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of aerodynamic principles, specifically the ##C_m-\alpha## relationship.
  • Familiarity with the concepts of center of mass (CoM) and its effects on flight dynamics.
  • Knowledge of the equations presented in Anderson's "Introduction to Flight".
  • Basic grasp of lift generation and equilibrium angles in aerodynamics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of center of mass adjustments on aircraft stability.
  • Study the implications of counterweights in model aircraft design.
  • Learn about the aerodynamic equations in Anderson's "Introduction to Flight", particularly equation (7.24).
  • Explore the use of simulation tools for modeling aerodynamic changes in aircraft.
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, model aircraft designers, and students studying aerodynamics who seek to understand the effects of weight distribution on flight performance.

Leo Liu
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I am trying to determine how the addition of a counterweight affects the ##C_m-\alpha## (in longitudinal direction) graph for a model plane project, where the counterweight can be considered as the battery.

Screenshot 2022-11-28 at 11.18.08 PM.png

Screenshot 2022-11-28 at 11.27.45 PM.png

Suppose we try to place the battery at the back of the current CoM. The new CoM will be at further back, reducing ##l_t## and increasing ##hc##. According to Anderson't Intro to Flight, the equation is as follows:
this will decrease the slope of the ##C_m-\alpha## curve:

Screenshot 2022-11-28 at 11.22.45 PM.png

Now I am wondering if it will have a significant impact on the slope; ##h## is larger, while ##V_H## is smaller. Yet I am not sure which change is more significant to the moment slope.

From the equation (7.24) we can see that at $L_{wing}=0$, ##V_H## will become smaller due to a smaller ##l_t##, increasing the value of ##C_{m\,(L=0)}##:
Screenshot 2022-11-28 at 11.18.48 PM.png

where
Screenshot 2022-11-28 at 11.31.49 PM.png
.

I think the graph of the line will look like either one of the added lines. The blue one will result in a lower equilibrium angle, thus providing a lower ##C_L##; yet the red line will allow a higher flight angle, thus producing more lift.
Screenshot 2022-11-28 at 11.39.36 PM.png

Could someone please give a bit more insight into this and tell me if my reasoning is correct?
 

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