We propose to fit our Europa with conventional (taildragger) gear,
probably utilising tri-gear steel mainlegs: preliminary design work has
been done, and it is going through the hands of a stress engineer for
sizing/ detail design of the attachment structure. This is being done
using some very sophisticated composites/FE software, and should result
in as light a structure as is possble consistent with dealing with
JARVLA load requirements. In appearance, it resembles the Vans RV
landing gear, although not raked back quite so much. There is a
substantial "X" bulkhead in each footwell, roughly under your knees -
and although it looks a little unusual, mock-ups have shown that your
legs are well clear. There is also a carry through strucure inside the
tunnel. It is designed to retrofit to existing (flying) aircraft but it
will require the landing gear frame to be removed. Manual flaps are
retained.
This is not a cheap excercise - although the parts cost required to
complete the job do look like being quite modest: If you are interested
in joining the scheme, please email me off list so I can conduct a head
count - the idea being that if the up front costs are split 10 or 20
ways, it isn't going to cost much.
In return you will receive plans and instructions (including photographs
- possibly in CD format) and a copy of the design data for certification
if required. We will possibly manufacture a batch of the one special
component required ( the leg socket) and these will be provided at cost.
In a week or so, I'll email anyone who has answered with a .dxf or .pdf
of the intial layout drawing.
all the best
Miles
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