V-tail question
 

I have an Omega 1.5m electric glider with a v-tail. The CG is at about 35% of chord, and it flies great. It seems however that the pitch is more sensitive to upward elevator movement and less sensitive to downward elevator movement. Elevator throws are set equal (about +20 deg and -20 deg).

I appreciate any help, Thanks.

V-tail question
 

When you apply up elevator on a v-tail, does the tail "channel" the airflow differently compared to applying down elevator? :confused:

V-tail question
 

danleon,

I think there is an effect like the one you describe. It seems to me that there was a thread somewhere here about Vtails a few months ago. If I recall correctly, someone posted a link to a rather involved paper about Vtails, and I think that I downloaded the paper, but I can't find it at the moment. It seems to me that the paper had a discussion about the drag and control surface effectiveness of Vtails, and I think there was a reference to the non-symmetric response you are experiencing. If I find the paper or the link, I will let you know. Try searching for the thread.

banktoturn

V-tail question
 

Thanks for the help! I'll search for the thread.

V-tail question
 

I have a 40 size v-tail that I designed called the Sweep Vee and do not have the problem with it that you described. Do you know the incidence of the wing and tail? Maybe they have something to do with your problem?

Jake