At 08:57 PM 24/11/2009, you wrote:
Hi,
I'm a newbie here........ but I have a question that has intrigued
me for some time....
I have read the GFA/AN53 regarding conspicuity markings, and wonder
why the large under surfaces of a glider are not recommended for
bright marking.
If heat is the issue with anything other than white, and presumeably
direct sunlight is the main source of heat....how do the boffins
reckon that the sun manages to heat the belly and under lower wing surfaces ?
If reflected or convected heat from a tarmac or concrete ground
surface is a problem, surely the fact that the patch under the
glider will be in shade, would greatly reduce this ?
I have noticed several gliders with solar electric panels applied as
a flexible sticker, and on feeling them with the palm of my hand
noticed a big temp increase where the panel was applied. Surely this
would be a greater concern than having significant conspicuity
marking on the wing undersurfaces.
Or is there a "uniform" code like lawn bowls and cricket..... where
brightly coloured clothing is just not on ?
Bob Dircks
_
Bob,
It used to be a requirement for gliders in Germany to have
conspicuity markings(red on nose, tail and wingtips). from around mid
1970's to late 1980's IIRC. Then they looked at it and said it had
made no difference so dropped the requirement.
Al Buttenshaw doesn't post here but he has an interesting tale to
tell about the Mirage that used to be at ARDU that was painted white
and orange. It went to a squadron and nobody wanted to fly it as they
thought it was too easy to se. Al was late getting out to the
flightline one day and got that aircraft and waxed everyone. The
"conspicuity" markings broke up the outline and it was difficult to
spot. After that everybody wanted to fly it!
Lesson: All is not what it seems. Good experimental design and
evidence is required when making claims.
Mike
Borgelt Instruments - manufacturers of quality soaring instruments since 1978
phone Int'l + 61 746 355784
fax Int'l + 61 746 358796
cellphone Int'l + 61 428 355784
email: [email protected]
website: www.borgeltinstruments.com
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