BALANCING THE LIBELLE: CG POSITION
Gather items below:
Assembled Libelle (assembled wing and fuselage)
Canopy
Small balance weights - try our
non-lead
Steel
Balance Weights (Part DFAA002)
1.
The Libelle's neutral balance position is located
5mm behind the carbon wing spar
. Using a ruler,
mark this position underneath the wing on each side
of fuselage as shown to right. This Center of Gravity
(CG) position provides the Libelle with an efficient
flight and launch behavior. For a more "hands-off"
flight stability, move CG as far forward as the
carbon fiber wing spar; however, keep in mind that a more
forward CG will require more nose weight and elevator up-trim,
thus reducing the glider's efficiency. It is best to start at the 5mm
mark and move forward in small increments, 1mm at a time, until
the Libelle's flight feels right to you.
We do not recommend moving
the CG position more than 6mm behind the carbon wing spar.
2.
Fit balance weight in provided recesses and remove battery if
necessary to fit more weight underneath. Use our
non-lead
Steel
Balance Weights (Part DFAA002) and expect to add anywhere
from 3-5 pieces (15-30 grams). Don't worry, adding balance
weight to sailplanes is normal... your finished Libelle will be
extremely lightweight even after adding balancing weight.
3.
Install battery and attach canopy.
Final balancing should always
occur with the canopy mounted!
To remove canopy later, simply
grip canopy near wing and raise left side allowing canopy to
"hinge" open lengthwise. If fit of canopy is hindered by balance
weights, feel free to remove the foam adhesive backing for
better clearance.
16.