Simplex 2M
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Simplex 2M
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Simplex 2M is my attempt at designing a 2 channel beginners glider with as much
potential I thought was possible and still having a simple, forgiving
and easy-to-build glider.
The first thing to work on on a glider that needs to perform, is the
wing. Since the wing is build up (easy-to-build) a flat underside at
part of the airfoil is nice. A number of airfoils have this feature ( This airfoil: Please not this: This airfoil is very "new" - it's a Clark Y thinned to 9%. This gives a camber of around 2,8%. The original airfoil is too thick (11,7%) and has too muck camber (3,8%) to give me enough efficiency (read: Too much drag at cruising speed), and this 9% thick airfoil is thick enough and cambered enough (with a low wing loading) to lack the accelerating potential of a F3B, F3F or a fast F3J glider - this lacking acceleration is what makes beginners gliders easy to fly. The speed potential is though better than most 2-meter gliders. Without ballast though I reckon that the cruising speed potential will surpass that of most standard 2 channel 2-meter beginners gliders, to give the post-learner some fun in the thermal seeking department before moving to REAL thermal gliders. With 250-300 grams ballast Simplex 2M turns into a whole different glider when talking about glide and speed compared to standard 2-meter beginners gliders with the Aquila airfoil. Do not think that this 2-meter glider will out glide or out float a 100" or an Open / F3J glider - it will not. But if you fancy these little gliders the Simplex 2M might be more fun than your average Aquila-equipped beginners glider. Other RE (Rudder + Elevator) 2-meter gliders worth considering: Algebra 2M (Design by Sean Bannister, published Jan. 1981, Radio Controlled Models & Electronics - full size plans available)) Prophet (Designed by Joe Ruth, published Feb. 1982, Model Airplane News - full size plan available) Allegro-Lite and other Mark Drela designs Lotus 2M from Art Hobby Boar Poly 2M from Art Hobby |
