Subject: Prop Design revisted.
From: Rotary Engine
Date: 7/17/2006, 9:42 AM
To: AA-me



Russell,
Do any aircraft use that principle to reduce wing tip vortices?
George ( down under)

There have been a number of research projects by NASA and others over
the years.  For example, see the X-29:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/dryden/history/pastprojects/X29/index.html

The significant stumbling block is that forward swept wings are
inherently unstable (a minor yaw causes a pronounced roll in the
*opposite* direction).  The experiments have used computer-augmented
control to maintain stable flight behavior.  The reliability
requirements of commercial aircraft will probably preclude using
computer-augmented stability, and therefore forward swept wings.  Don't
even dream about it appearing in GA.  It is still a possibility in
military aircraft.

Russell Kent



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