Glen Caines
artist
- May 4, 2009 • 4:37 pm PDT
- + responses
The Moller flying car is designed as a hovering demonstration as of now. If you look at the amount of wing surface to provide lift in forward flight,it is easy to see that it would be very sketchy in transitional flight{the time spent between hover and cruising speed}.The tilting engine nacelles are similar in function to the tilt rotors on an osprey military aircraft,which was deadly in early production. Assuming this,the moller needs much development to assume forward flight,as it has two tilting mechanisms producing lift/thrust, to the ospreys one. Also,just at casual glance, I see problems with the center of lift vs center of gravity in hover with the ducted fans, and in forward flight with the high T tail. Moller lists a rather high 375 mph speed,probably because his off center, miniature wing will not produce sufficient lift at lower speeds. It doesnt even LOOK like it would be safe. Not to mention some of the societal problems that would be transferred to the sky, like cigarette butts and burger wrappers raining down to earth. Our present air traffic control system is being revamped, and very soon,it will be feasable for many more of us to fly. In airplanes.From airports.
.jpg)
