davidb
Well-Known Member
I'm seeking thoughts and advice to give a 12 year old kid on how to do well in this competition. Elastic Launched Glider - Science Olympiad Student Center Wiki
Seems the standard design being used is traditional balsa gliders with kits and plans readily available. Success is heavily dependent on being able to consistently launch to near the ceiling of the venue and having a clean transition from launch into glide. The scoring is based solely on time aloft. The typical designs seem to have a good glide ratio but since distance isn't the judged criteria, might it be better to design to a minimum sink rate?
The rules state a maximum span of 30 cm and a weight range of 4-15 grams. Wing area isn't restricted. Seems a low wing loading might be a better approach. Anyone have thoughts for a less traditional design that might achieve a lower sink rate yet still have a smooth transition from launch to glide?
Seems the standard design being used is traditional balsa gliders with kits and plans readily available. Success is heavily dependent on being able to consistently launch to near the ceiling of the venue and having a clean transition from launch into glide. The scoring is based solely on time aloft. The typical designs seem to have a good glide ratio but since distance isn't the judged criteria, might it be better to design to a minimum sink rate?
The rules state a maximum span of 30 cm and a weight range of 4-15 grams. Wing area isn't restricted. Seems a low wing loading might be a better approach. Anyone have thoughts for a less traditional design that might achieve a lower sink rate yet still have a smooth transition from launch to glide?
