I been surfing the web and came up with this:


The Robin
Model Airplane News, May 2000 by Lennon, Andy

When I designed the Robin, I wanted it to be larger than the usual .46-powered plane for better in-flight visibility and yet remain easy to transport. I wanted it to have a weight-to-power ratio (power loading, or P/L) of not more than 250 ounces per cubic inch of engine displacement (cid). This means that powered by a .46 engine, the model's maximum weight had to be no more than 115 ounces (.46 x 250). With a maximum wing area of 828 square inches, the wing loading would work out to be 20 ounces per square foot.

I reduced drag by carefully selecting the wing and tail airfoils, by contouring the fuselage and engine cowl and by using fairings on the landing-gear wire. I also tried to strike a balance between stability and maneuverability, as too much stability would inhibit the model's maneuverability. I also wanted the Robin to be spirally stable.

For short takeoffs and gentle landings, I incorporated large, slotted flaps into the Robin's wing. To obtain effective aileron control at high angles of attack (AoA), I used the NASA "safe wing droop" at the leading edge (LE). I incorporated differential aileron control to help avoid adverse yaw during turns and, to help prevent flutter, I added mass balance to the ailerons, elevators and rudder.
The model's stressed-skin construction produces a light yet strong, warp-free structure. The engine cowl provides adequate engine cooling while also offering a pleasing, turbo-prop-like appearance.

The Robin's performance exceeded all my expectations. Powered by an O.S.* Max .46 SF engine turning an APC* 12x7 propeller, the finished model weighs 110 ounces fueled and ready to fly. The wing area is 819 square inches, and the model's power loading is 239 ounces per cid. It has true short takeoff and landing (STOL) capability and with flaps fully extended, the stall speed is l5mph. I estimate that its maximum airspeed is 80mph.


I'm gettin excited now!![sm=spinnyeyes.gif]