Some of you are aware that I’m interested in building a 2 place airplane similar in planform/layout and performance to a Harmon /F1 Rocket. Unlike those aircraft however, I’m planning on more of a “personal airliner” for a mission profile than a fun, sport airplane. My design will spend 90% of the time on autopilot, dutifully following a GPS flight plan to my destination while my wife and I relax and enjoy the view. Understanding that hinge type and location significantly affect control feel and authority, are there any aerodynamic pitfalls to using full span piano hinges for an airplane with this mission requirement bias? Keep in mind, it does not have to be a "sweet" feeling airplane, but it can't be "bad" (if that makes any sense).
I like piano hinges because they are simple, light, distribute load evenly, and seal the control surface gap. On the flip side though, I understand that these provide a pretty large dead band when faired.
Are there any other factors which would drive me to a more complex hinge method/geometry for this aircraft?
Thanks
I like piano hinges because they are simple, light, distribute load evenly, and seal the control surface gap. On the flip side though, I understand that these provide a pretty large dead band when faired.
Are there any other factors which would drive me to a more complex hinge method/geometry for this aircraft?
Thanks
