During the Summer of 2011, our Squadron Members were busy constructing a Primary Glider that now runs on a zipline. Right now, our 2012 Summer session Squadron Members are finishing a modified Langley Glider. Info on this project will be posted soon. In 2011, each class meeting included lessons in calculations and the drawing of plans as well as the actual building of the primary glider. The wing is an abbreviated one due to space limitations, but a feeling of lift still occurs and there are working ailerons as part of the design.
Squadron Members train on the Link Trainer to learn how the controls of the glider work before they fly the zipline glider.
The glider is not part of the regular Intro to Aeronautical Engineering course offered during the school year. The glider is one of the optional activities for Squadron Members who participate in the 511th Squadron Club meetings. Modifications to the zipline glider are an ongoing project.
This video documents only some of the work that went into the design and construction under the guidance of retired Aeronautical Engineer Norm Stein, M.E.
Construction Under Way
