Brian Vickers
Well Known Member
Final details on my RV-4 project and I'm analyzing locations to mount an electronic gyro. My glass panel unit uses a remote three axis gyro (not magnetic sensitive) that is to be mounted as close as possible to the center of rotation to reduce centrifugal forces. The instructions devote a whole page to this so I'm trying to comply. In flight, does an airplane actually rotate on the CG? Doesn't the center of lift have an influence, and therefore change with speed? My Jeppesen training book says, ??the airplane always moves about its CG, regardless of which axis is involved.? Obviously the pilot and passenger sit in the theoretical ideal spot so the choice becomes; below floor panels, behind the baggage area, or somewhere behind the panel. Mounting below the floor panels would probably put it closer to the lateral, but below the longitudinal. I?m assuming the longitudinal axis is in the stomach area. If the true lateral axis when flying is forward or aft of the CG then this would be good to know. Mounting the gyro immediately behind the baggage compartment is a long way back, but that is where the compass module is located, and mounting them together would keep it simple. Also, they can be linked together and the compass module can be set to use the gyro data, thus increasing heading accuracy during and after turns.
I'm assuming that 95% of my flying will be solo. I have never flown in an RV-4, or any tandem configuration so I don't have experience. Maybe I?m over thinking? Any thoughts?
Thanks
I'm assuming that 95% of my flying will be solo. I have never flown in an RV-4, or any tandem configuration so I don't have experience. Maybe I?m over thinking? Any thoughts?
Thanks