Some things I recall from attending the RV-15 forum and talking with some of the engineers:
- This plane is more like a "proof of concept". Another plane will be built that will be a "prototype" of the actual kits that will be sold.
- The flight envelope hasn't been fully explored, yet.
- The 46" cabin width is measured on the outside of the fuselage.
- A third seat for an observer in back (because flight schools like this option) is envisioned for the tri-gear model.
- The flap length and travel are both longer than needed and will likely be reduced.
- The wingspan will likely be reduced to 34' or less to more easily fit in a hangar.
- The aileron and stabilator/elevator actuation is by pushrods and bellcranks. The aileron actuation in particular is surely a work of art with all of the changes of direction needed to get from the stick to the aileron. Unfortunately, it's nearly all hidden from view.
- Fuel selector will likely be floor mounted.
- No plans for folding wings.
- Stabilator was used to make sure they had enough pitch authority. Could change to a horizontal stabilizer/elevator combo.
- The current fuel tank placement in the fuselage is for flight testing different cg ranges and to allow making changes to the wing easier. Final fuel tank placement will be in the wings. 50 gallon capacity is a number I heard mentioned.
- The ongoing success of the low wing designs funds the development of the RV-15.
Hearing from the designers and engineers directly inspires confidence. They are talented, experienced, inventive, clever, dedicated, thoughtful and downright enthusiastic about the plane. Most all that I talked to wanted to build one themselves.
- This plane is more like a "proof of concept". Another plane will be built that will be a "prototype" of the actual kits that will be sold.
- The flight envelope hasn't been fully explored, yet.
- The 46" cabin width is measured on the outside of the fuselage.
- A third seat for an observer in back (because flight schools like this option) is envisioned for the tri-gear model.
- The flap length and travel are both longer than needed and will likely be reduced.
- The wingspan will likely be reduced to 34' or less to more easily fit in a hangar.
- The aileron and stabilator/elevator actuation is by pushrods and bellcranks. The aileron actuation in particular is surely a work of art with all of the changes of direction needed to get from the stick to the aileron. Unfortunately, it's nearly all hidden from view.
- Fuel selector will likely be floor mounted.
- No plans for folding wings.
- Stabilator was used to make sure they had enough pitch authority. Could change to a horizontal stabilizer/elevator combo.
- The current fuel tank placement in the fuselage is for flight testing different cg ranges and to allow making changes to the wing easier. Final fuel tank placement will be in the wings. 50 gallon capacity is a number I heard mentioned.
- The ongoing success of the low wing designs funds the development of the RV-15.
Hearing from the designers and engineers directly inspires confidence. They are talented, experienced, inventive, clever, dedicated, thoughtful and downright enthusiastic about the plane. Most all that I talked to wanted to build one themselves.
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