The spinning of model aircraft and the prediction of full-scale spin and recovery characteristics

Abstract

The report discusses some technical aspects of a long series of tests made with dynamic scale model aircraft in the Royal Aircraft Establishment Vertical Tunnel for the purpose of studying their spinning characteristics. Data accumulated up to the end of 1947 are included, and mention is made, where appropriate, of any further work done up to the end of 1949. The central problem is that of drawing valid conclusions regarding the full-scale spin and recovery; with this in mind there is some discussion of the sensitivity of the spinning model to applied forces including those that upset the spin to produce recovery and those that alternatively generate a new spin. The difference between model- and full-scale spins is analysed with a view to correcting the model data, and some attention is given to power-on spins. A chapter is given to special aspects of the spin of tailless aircraft, and another to safety devices.