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Old February 9th 16, 08:45 PM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
Steve Koerner
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Default Newest Sailplane in the world on display at the 2016 SSA convention

On Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at 8:55:25 AM UTC-7, Andy Blackburn wrote:
I always thought the discrete breaks in dihedral and taper were primarily so the control surfaces could have straight hinge lines that didn't bind.

I suspect the other reasons are also true.

9B


And reason #4 for the discrete breaks is to provide a (sort of) practical place for the wing wheel. A smooth curve would put a lot more underside exposed to rocks and pavement necessitating a taller wheel with more drag.

GW