On 19 Jul 2005 06:06:37 -0700, wrote:



Don't canard designs have a reputation for requiring a smooth
landing strip (paved, dry lakebed, etc) in order to take off
in a reasonable distance? Supposedly this is because a bumpy field
interferes with the establishment of laminar flow over the canard.

Seems like you'd have the same problem taking off from water.

I knew a clown once who had an amazing snake oil style. claimed to
undertake design projects on commission "...by the way here is my
latest experimental design." it was basically a longeze with a
hovercraft skirt for amphibious use. slick brochures and all.
ignoring the absurdity of his snake oil, what became evident is that
the resistance of hitting any wave during takeoff would have caused a
pitch down of the aircraft which would have stalled the canard
immediately causing a nosedive beneath the next wave.

thank heavens no one ever bought one.
Stealth Pilot