GLIDER TOWPLANES

Authors

  • Piero Morelli

Keywords:

Aerodynamics, Structures, Design

Abstract

On the basis of data collected through an enquiry promoted by FAI-CIVV, the problems concerning aero-tow and towplanes in different countries are critically reviewed. Many of the existing towplanes, three of them specifically designed for towing gliders, are then briefly described. The climb perfoiriance of an aero-tow is analyzed. Variational calculations, taking a current towplane as reference,
show the relative influences of changes of engine power, propeller efficiency, towplane and glider weight and aerodynamic drag and, in partiiular, of towplane wing aspect ratio. The results indicate that a sort of "overpowered motorglider" would offer the best possible climb performance. Additional design considerations and a list of requirements and recommended features are frnally presented.

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Issue

Vol. 11 No. 1 (1987)

Section

Articles

License

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This paper is UNCLASSIFIED (for public reasons) and has been cleared by the appropriate agencies, company and government. This paper represents original work by the author(s). No portion of the material is covered by a prior copyright; or for any portion copyrighted, the author has obtained permission for its use.
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