This is a little bit off topic and is more a root cause thought than a definitive design idea. IMHO, the single most important thing that impacts the pattern aircraft designs is the maneuvers that they must perform and the space allowed for them. Looking at the post above you all may be headed for some real goofy looking aircraft if pattern continues on the same path it is on now. No pun intended, but is it possible that the pattern fraternity has somewhat “boxed” themselves into the current designs? Would it be helpful if the pattern rules were influenced so you could have more creative designs, e.g. more space (dump the box), larger more graceful maneuvers and faster more beautiful looking aircraft? I’ve always felt that high performance R/C aircraft should (and some still do) perform more like full scale jets than an Extra or a Yak, etc. If you go to a full scale air show and watch the spectators the most boring thing for them is to see the Extras and Yaks doing their little tight in patterns with smoke. I’ve seen people fall asleep! Just some out of the “box” thinking! Change is good and always brings out the best creativity.