Thoughts from the workbench of Radical RC. The online retailer of electronics and kits for radio control aircraft. Dave Thacker shares his thoughts and knowledge of electronics, batteries, kit design and overall enjoyment of the hobby.
Did you ever wonder how the aerodynamic (fluid dynamic) principles were worked out in order to produce the high performance airplanes of the 50’s and 60’s were developed before the advent of computer flow models? Some of those aircraft sill hold records even today.
How did they test/teach and learn about complex problems of flow around struts, into jet inlets and over airfoils? Learn about that process here.
Flow Visualization part:1
Flow Visualization part:2
A 1957 film from the Department of Defense. I love the visual teaching method used in these early films. Lots to learn here if you wanted to understand the forces on an aircraft.
What has less drag, a smooth surface or one with imperfections such as rivit heads or seams?
Erik Dahl Christensen’s Airfoil History
If like me, you love to design aircraft and want to get a better handle on airfoils, Eric Christensens’s site is an excellent study. Click his home link to find calculators and other sailplane design information. Even if your not into sailplanes, the information is clearly presented and it’s influenced my thinking and understanding of airfoils on many levels. Studying other aircraft disciplines will help with your discipline whatever it is. I found the Airfoils section of this site very interesting. In fact, I may go back and give it a read again soon. I’m saving the link here for that purpose and to share it with you. I am currently working on my first sailplane kit and this site has helped me a great deal. Get some glue on your fingers!