HUMAN POWERED FLIGHT WITH 'VELAIR'

Authors

  • Peer Frank

Keywords:

Aerodynamics, Structures, Materials, Design

Abstract

The human powered flight is one of the oldest dreams of humanity, and as a glider pilot and former bicycle racer, the author had to fulfill his own dream and started the project 'Velair' as soon as he finished his studies and earned enough money. Theoretical design and optimization (wing, airfoils, prop and structure) have taken place since 1986 and the construction was started in the summer of 1987 with the help of two friends. 'Velair' has flown since the summer of 1988 and it is a great pleasure for all. The goal of the project is (besides fun) to build up experience in the optimization of very light structures, wing - airfoil - and propeller - aerodynamics, aeroelasticity and composite-technology for the evaluation of low-power/long-range aircraft.

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