WIX Archives
In another thread someone mentioned darwinism ......
Posted by Christer on Thu Aug 08, 2002 05:45:33 AM
In reply top Fabric control surfaces posted by Rocsoe on Tue Aug 06, 2002 08:51:32 PM
...... and I think that?s the case.
From the beginning of aircraft design they were all more or less fabric covered kites. They had to be light weight due to poor engine performance. When engine performance was increased the airframes had to be stronger to sustain the loads. It started from the inside with the internal structure of frames, stringers, spars, ribs, etc. Also the surface covering went from fabric to plywood to metal. Then there was the control surfaces which remained fabric covered until the higher speeds and loads on control surfaces made them inadequate.
Prior to power assisted controls, where a "synthetic control feel" can be added, some designers used metal covered ailerons and fabric covered elevator and rudder in order to give the aircraft good control characteristics.
Only my euro-cent worth,
Christer