On 6/8/07, Ian C. Blenke <icblenke@nks.net> wrote:
> Chuck Hast wrote:
>
> > The flat surfaces on the stealth fighter are set in such a way as to
> > scatter
> > radar and reduce the reflectivity of the fighter, that is why it is
> > like that not
> > due to the design limitations. It is all about radar signatures and
> > those flat
> > faces are set in such a way to make it hard to get a good primary
> > return off
> > of the aircraft.
>
>
> The same is true with newer stealth aircraft which are NOT flat faced,
> but more "curvy". They have the same stealthy characteristics, without
> the inherently non-aerodynamic nature of flat faces on the aircraft.
>
> Also, those earlier aircraft are only really flyable thanks to
> "fly-by-wire" computer assistance.
>
> I'd have to side with Ken here. Newer computational models and improved
> computation speeds have made the flat faces an unneccesary compromise in
> stealth aircraft design.
>
> I know I've read all of this elsewhere before, but I'm too lazy to
> google it and paste links here ;)
>
Yes flying the bird by hand is augmented by all maner of stabilization, as
it is very unstable. Pitch and yaw are both augmented by computer control.
It would be very hard (if not impossible) to fly otherwise, and yes newer
designs have brought more curved surfaces, Many of them are still smaller
flat pieces for but you still have wierd flight
characteristics, but the computers make up for it.
-- Chuck Hast -- KP4DJT -- To paraphrase my flight instructor; "the only dumb question is the one you DID NOT ask resulting in my going out and having to identify your bits and pieces in the midst of torn and twisted metal." ----------------------------------------------------------------------- This list is provided as an unmoderated internet service by Networked Knowledge Systems (NKS). Views and opinions expressed in messages posted are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of NKS or any of its employees.
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