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GCL-24B-Springer - Sky Gondola

195 gyros81  5 months ago
Auto Credit Based on Graingy's GCL-23A "Sky Gondola"

The Springer Model of The GCL-23 Sky Gondola, a prototype sightseeing aircraft featuring a unique 360 degree windscreen providing an unparalleled view of the landscape. With redesigned wings and twin boom tail assembly the GCL-24B Springer model has improved stability, handling and more efficient flight characteristics
The wings have been swept back, their dihedral angle has been increased, and the angle of attack has been increased. The root thickness and width has been increased, while the wing tip thickness and width have been reduced. Fuel storage locations and amounts have been altered to adjust relative positions of CG, CL, and CT for increased stability. Engine Power has been increased and the prop has been updated to improve climbing power. Wing Control Surfaces have been increased and relocated to improve response. To improve tail authority, the twin booms have been lengthened and the tail has been reshaped and repositioned. To improve level flight characteristics both the tail's angle of attack and dihedral angle has been adjusted. Air brakes have been added and the landing gear has been repositioned due to relocation of CG.
Liftoff - around 100-110ish. With VTOL flaps down half - 90ish
Stall: 100
Low Cruise: 25-50% thrust - 130-180ish
Cruise: 50-80% -180-240ish
Max Velocity: 250ish-level, 300-dive
Trim tab down 1/8th for level flight at cruise velocity
Landing: 15-25% thrust, VTOL and Trim 1/4 down. Nice and gentle approach at about 120ish. Use airbrakes at will, but best after touchdown.

Spotlights

General Characteristics

  • Predecessor GCL-23A "Sky Gondola"
  • Created On Windows
  • Wingspan 41.7ft (12.7m)
  • Length 26.8ft (8.2m)
  • Height 12.3ft (3.8m)
  • Empty Weight 2,872lbs (1,303kg)
  • Loaded Weight 4,458lbs (2,022kg)

Performance

  • Horse Power/Weight Ratio 0.134
  • Wing Loading 18.6lbs/ft2 (91.0kg/m2)
  • Wing Area 239.1ft2 (22.2m2)
  • Drag Points 2159

Parts

  • Number of Parts 68
  • Control Surfaces 12
  • Performance Cost 452
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    26.3k Graingy

    Tried it.
    I don't know how you did it, but you did.
    Amazing!
    (Though one critique is that the original was intentionally slow, as it was only supposed to be a casual observation aircraft, not a racer or stunt plane. Still great though!)

    5 months ago
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    26.3k Graingy

    Wow it’s stylish now!
    I can’t test this now, but I’ll have to log this somehow for later.
    Thanks!

    5 months ago