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Old 06-22-2010 | 12:19 AM
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stumax
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From: Sydney, AUSTRALIA
Default Ailevators vs tailerons?

Hi guys, I'm looking at a new design for a sport jet which I'd like to keep as simple as possible, preferably keeping the wings free of servos. Due to the short span (900mm) and somewhat axi-symmetrical nature of the design, I think I can get away without ailerons and use tailerons. However, there isn't much room back there for the all flying stab bearings and linkage (due to the exhaust duct) so I was wondering if ailevators would work OK. I've never considered using elevators as ailerons for roll control before, but the thought struck me that if the elevators are powerful enough to control it in pitch, they should also be powerful enough to control it in roll due to the short span and low inertia about the roll axis. One thing about the design, though, is the delta wing may need flaps in order to keep the angle of attack of the fuselage low enough for smooth landings, or at least to avoid stricking the underside of the rear fuselage on landing. Adding flaps which cover, say 2/3 of the span then lends the opportunity to use them as flaperons, however I wonder about the wash onto the stab at high angles of attack. This would be similar to an F16, I guess - has anyone used flaperons on an F16? Thanks!
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