The revolutionary new "flapless" plane which could revolutionise aeroplane design Photo: swns.com
Plane That Manoeuvres Without Flaps Developed -- The Telegraph
British engineers have developed the world's first ''flapless'' plane - that uses hundreds of tiny air jets to control its movements.
The DEMON uses output from the jets to control airflow over the plane, manipulating lift and drag without using traditional mechanisms to steer.
Its developers believe the technology could revolutionise the stealth capabilities of military aircraft by reducing edges and gaps that can be picked up on radar.
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My Comment: Now we know how to make flying saucers float around.
Fine, as long as the engine runs, or however they power those "tiny air jets"... otherwise... - streamlined brick -.
ReplyDeleteLooking closer, it does have conventional surfaces too. So what they've done is add another system to compete for internal space, which is at a premium in low observable airframes. Moreover, those jets need to be very powerful to maintain control authority in certain parts of the envelope, unless it's only for cruise flight.
Good on this team for their achievement in any case.
- mike
Thanks for the comment Mike.
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