Since the engineering is already there maybe a conversion to an Alon canopy would do the trick. Also the sills are lower and should make it easier to get in and out of.
kevin1 --- In [email protected], kim Blackseth <kimblacks...@...> wrote: > > Thanks! Exactly what I was looking for. I'll > Look into it... > > Kim Blackseth > > On Apr 14, 2009, at 4:14 AM, Ed Burkhead <e...@...> wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > Didnât Jack also have enough arm strength to use an arm-powered chai > > r? > > > > > > > > I suspect any powered chair must weigh more. > > > > > > > > The usual 9 cubic foot baggage compartment may well be big enough > > for a chair. Perhaps quick release mechanisms would let the > > batteries (and/or wheels) be removed and lifted in separately > > allowing his assistant to do it through the regular window/door > > opening. > > > > > > > > If any structure needed to be modified, Iâd suspect the rear-window > > zone would be least structural. The fact that the Alons have the sl > > iding canopy shows that the rear canopy area can be separated from t > > he plane while keeping the planeâs structural strength. Donât > > Alons have some reinforcement of the upper edge of the rear cockpit? > > I imagine using that identical structure might get easiest approval. > > > > > > > > A hinge at the back of the window/door structure combined with > > pneumatic lifts like are used in car rear hatches could make opening > > and closing it more practical. > > > > > > > > Perhaps even a full bubble canopy could be installed, hinged at the > > front windshield support (probably requiring reinforcement) would > > let both Kim and the chair be lifted in and out more easily. > > > > > > > > Heck, perhaps flight testing could show that the canopy is optional, > > allowing the plane to leave the canopy at home and fly as an open > > top convertible like Leonard Pageâs Wasp. (Didnât Leonard fly > > the Wasp with no canopy part of the time? Did he have any problem wi > > th turbulent air over the empennage?) > > > > > > > > I donât expect thereâs any way to use an external pod on a low- > > slung plane like a Coupe. Especially so for a 14â thick load. > > > > > > > > These are un-expert thoughts for you to discuss with an expert DER. > > > > > > > > Good luck, Kim. > > > > > > > > >
