Alita (oz16127)

About this Plan

Alita. Radio control flying wing glider model. Wingspan 59 in.

Quote (google-translated): "Alita (the little wing) is the name Raimar Horten gave to the original hang glider HXa (7.5 m wingspan) from 1953. The described glider is intended to commemorate this bold project, even though it lacks bell-shaped lift distribution and instead uses winglets.

The goal: The performance of good 'tailplanes': The benchmark for this design was the flight performance of superlight slingshot gliders, whose characteristics were to be at least achieved. In addition, the full-fledged roll control offered by the flying wing with two servos was intended to lead to better control responsiveness.

Lightweight construction with carbon: After previous experiments with styrofoam veneer construction, which were still somewhat too heavy (approx. 490 g), the opposite approach was taken, with no planking at all – a ribbed construction on tubular spars. This results in an unrivalled low weight with good torsional and flexural strength.

Thus, with a surface area of 29 dm2 and a weight of 350 g, Alita achieves a wing loading of only 12 g/dm2. This already defines the operating range: light to moderate winds. In this range, even in the weakest updrafts, the model proves to be equal to or superior to a conventional sling-launched glider in the lightest version (285 g). In addition to the excellent thermal sensitivity, the glide angle is also somewhat better, presumably due to the lower drag of the flying wing. There appears to be a slight performance deficit when flying in completely still air; the sink rate of the flying wing is somewhat higher, probably because the high inherent stability of the tail fins is not fully achieved. Handling is easy, and the model is docile.

Electric power is also possible. The small flying wing can also be used for electric flight. A small hull boat the length of the root depth (lightweight made of plywood or positive construction over a Styrofoam block made of two layers of 165 g fabric) accommodates a Speed ??400 thruster with gear and 7 cells 600 mAh plus a BEC controller (weight approx. 650 g).

Horten principle & winglets: The aerodynamic design of the model follows the Horten concept; This means an S-shaped profile inside, a symmetrical profile outside with a strong sweep and tapered shape. The Alita does not achieve a bell-shaped lift distribution; the cast only begins at the beginning of the rudder and only reaches 6°. While this is sufficient for longitudinal stability, it is not sufficient for directional stability. Instead of a higher cast with a wider center of gravity, small winglets are used. These also positively influence the lift distribution and simultaneously improve the effectiveness of the rudder. Flying the model without winglets is only possible in calm winds and with the slightest rudder movements and is not recommended..."

Direct submission to Outerzone.

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