ORIGINAL: austintyler
I've read here and there that thermal pilots can adjust the camber of their wings using flaps to create better lift. So, Couldnt I use a minimal amount of flaperons to achieve the same effect? Why or why not?
Reading through the thread I am not sure I understand what control you are trying to use.
I fly all kinds of gliders. My DLG,, a Polecat XP-5, has full span ailerons that I have connected as flapperons. That allows me to control them as ailerons or flaps.
I have 3 presets
Neutrual - normal position
camber - both ailerons/flapperons slightly down - thermal/float position
Landing - Both at about 45 degrees - used typically just before I hand catch.
I could have reflex position, with both slightly up but I find I don't need it.
camber and landing have elevator mixed to maintain attitude.
I could have more positions if I wanted. I also have them on a dial for infinate adjustment but I usually just use that for fine tuning neutrual.