Wing in Ground effect

[sbkenn]

Hi. Are there any tables or rules-of-thumb on the power reduction needed to fly in ground effect compared to above it ?
I built a Cozy, a derivative of the Rutan Long-Eze, but due to deteriorating health, I won't be allowed to fly it. I am considering adapting it to fly off water, in ground-effect.

TIA.

 

[GregLocock]

https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/19670026813

looks relevant, I don't have a copy

https://www.researchgate.net/public...tability_of_a_Winged_Vehicle_in_Ground_Effect

Cheers

Greg Locock


New here? Try reading these, they might help FAQ731-376

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[WKTaylor]

Be cautious... flight in ground effect demands flat/open/unobstructed spaces... typically water or flat/open terrain... with broad room for gentle low altitude bank-turns. And a strong stability in all axis.

As I recall the Rutan derived Cozy [swept-wing, canard] configuration appears unsuitable for this type flight. Were You considering another type aircraft?

Regards, Wil Taylor
o Trust - But Verify!
o We believe to be true what we prefer to be true. [Unknown]
o For those who believe, no proof is required; for those who cannot believe, no proof is possible. [variation,Stuart Chase]
o Unfortunately, in science what You 'believe' is irrelevant. ["Orion", Homebuiltairplanes.com forum]

 

[sbkenn]

I am considering using just the fuselage, strakes and main spar, as I have them already built. Sea Sled hull, and possibly adding a high tailplane on twin-booms. Canard would be ineffective in GE. It would be a bit more interesting than just putting an outboard motor on it ! I have asked on X-Plane's forum if the simulator would be useful and been told, yes. Operating would be limited to over water.
I had advertised the 1/2 built mCozy, but no-one was interested.

 

[RoarkS]

Finish building the plane. Find a young pilot that could use some hours. Most of my hours in the past 5 years has been with an older friend who needs some help from time to time. Absolutely priceless time for both of us.