It's all science. It does seem like voodoo to some people. I disagree that there are too many variables. For pattern, there is a finite set to deal with as in real planes. If the designers of real planes had that attitude, we would still be losing test pilots every day! Of course speed plays a factor. It's a plane. This isn't a big mystery and it certainly is easier than rotary wing aerodynamics.

The aerodynamic design for pattern is already changing. People just aren't noticing it yet. There are a few things I could do with my Widebody that would definately be different, but I'm just not inclined to mess around with it right now. Other people are. There is plenty of room to improve on the pattern that we fly right now.