Terry
Newbie
The recent crash in North Carolina has brought out an idea I've been nurturing for some time.
Most open gyroplanes are built with little crash protection for the pilot.
So, my idea is this: what if gyroplane frames were built more like mini-sprint car frames?
The trend today is toward tall landing gear and an overall arrangement of mass, thrust and drag like Chuck Beaty's gyroplane; but most designs, like Chuck's, leave the pilot sitting on his deck in a lawn chair.
So, why not have a roll-cage type airframe out of aluminum stock or welded 4130? This would give better protection against rotor and propeller strikes, and better protection against bodily damage in otherwise survivable crashes.
Just something to think about from a man who is preparing to worship his Creator with his friends and family on a Sunday morning, and has never owned, built or flown a gyroplane . . . but might one day.
Most open gyroplanes are built with little crash protection for the pilot.
So, my idea is this: what if gyroplane frames were built more like mini-sprint car frames?
The trend today is toward tall landing gear and an overall arrangement of mass, thrust and drag like Chuck Beaty's gyroplane; but most designs, like Chuck's, leave the pilot sitting on his deck in a lawn chair.
So, why not have a roll-cage type airframe out of aluminum stock or welded 4130? This would give better protection against rotor and propeller strikes, and better protection against bodily damage in otherwise survivable crashes.
Just something to think about from a man who is preparing to worship his Creator with his friends and family on a Sunday morning, and has never owned, built or flown a gyroplane . . . but might one day.
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