Wright Brothers Idea Might Be Brought Back
From Times Staff and Wire Reports
A concept developed by the Wright brothers may make future airplanes more maneuverable, more fuel efficient and able to carry heavier loads, NASA researchers said Wednesday.
In their original flier, the brothers warped the wings to make turns rather than using flaps such as those on modern planes.
Studies on a modified F/A-18A Hornet show that warping the wings via computerized flight controls provides excellent maneuverability -- even at supersonic speeds -- while reducing the weight and complexity of the wing.
