The imagined Synergy version
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Eric Witherspoon
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Fixed gear, propped slow enough (or rpm limited) to meet LSA;
Fixed gear, but set up for beyond the LSA speed limit;
and retract gear, and maybe retract gear and "bigger engine" (Jabiru 3300, 100+ hp Rotax)
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And a larger size version might not fit in a T-hangar at all...
If you think much about Synergy you will probably come to the conclusion that it makes no sense as an LSA - too fast. The same problem exists for fixed gear - all wrong for the design concept - it's all about huge drag reductions. Synergy is all about performance and LSA's are all about limited performance. An LSA can only be retractable if it is a glider, if I am reading the requirements correctly. Now, what about a Synergy glider?
Current Synergy design would fit anywhere a C-172 could go. Maybe even a C-150/152. Big on the inside, small on the outside. Might have to go nose-in, though, like an EZ.
John McGinnis asked for this correction
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Howard Handelman
If you think much about Synergy you will probably come to the conclusion that it makes no sense as an LSA - too fast. The same problem exists for fixed gear - all wrong for the design concept - it's all about huge drag reductions. Synergy is all about performance and LSA's are all about limited performance. An LSA can only be retractable if it is a glider, if I am reading the requirements correctly. Now, what about a Synergy glider?
Current Synergy design would fit anywhere a C-172 could go. Maybe even a C-150/152. Big on the inside, small on the outside. Might have to go nose-in, though, like an EZ.
OK, I goofed. Here is what Mr. McGinnis wants said. I apologize to all concerned.
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I noticed your post on EAA forums. What they're really asking is whether we will do other designs, and the answer is yes, hopefully. In fact, a two place LSA amphibian is extremely high on my to-do list. Contrary to your assertion, the speed possible through drag reduction is NOT the point of Synergy, mission efficiency is, and that by definition must include factors that erode pure efficiency and/or pure speed goals when one is designing a practical airplane. A two place designed for LSA using principles of Synergy would simply climb quicker, fly quieter, burn less fuel, carry more stuff, and land slower than the usual LSA, that's all. Of course I will design one (I've already designed several to the conceptual level).
I'm glad you pointed out that the design principle creates room, and that this (and structural efficiency) is why we have the opportunity for more seats than people are used to. So leave them out if you don't want them! It's a pickup truck if you do. Either way, Synergy as-is will effectively compete with two place aircraft in every way. Just think of it as a slow-landing, compact two seater with room for a full size mattress.
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With respect to the issue of fitting in a hangar, he said....
use the image below if you like. http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fb...type=1&theater