Burt Rutan's newest aircraft design - the SkiGull

In summary, Burt Rutan has designed a new plane called the SkiGull, which features a unique docking system powered by electric motors on each wing. This system allows for greater maneuverability in wind and reduces the risk of engine failure. NBC has featured the SkiGull in an article and there are sketches available, but they have not been released to keep the plane's design secret until its first test flights. AntennaFilms is sharing details to promote their Kickstarter campaign for the project, which has raised half of its $80,000 goal so far. The campaign ends tomorrow and more information on the plane can be found on the Aerospace Society website.
  • #1
aaronhowell
3
0
Burt Rutan is at it again with a new plane the SkiGull -

"Its docking system is two, 5” diameter electric motors each driving a 27” diameter folding prop. These self-contained units (Off-the-shelf motor, controller, batteries used for giant RC models) mount on each wing. They provide forward or reverse thrust to allow backing up or rotating when docking/beaching in winds. Since the SkiGull has an L/D of 23 (it looks more like a motor glider than other seaplanes/floatplanes), its electric docking system can fly it about 8 miles, which greatly reduces the risk of an engine failure, particularly when operating out of small tree-lined lakes. Every other seaplane has to crash straight forward when an engine fails early in the climb, a SkiGull can fly back to downwind & land on the lake into the wind."

NBC did a nice piece on the article - http://www.nbcnews.com/tech/innovat...an-talks-about-skigull-his-next-plane-n321916
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Interesting. Are there any sketches or models yet?
 
  • #3
There are sketches, but we have been asked not to release them as Burt wishes to keep the plane secret until it's first test flights. I will keep the thread updated.
 
  • #4
So you starting this thread is meant to help out the Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign...?

AntennaFilms is sharing details to whet the appetite for the project's Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. About halfway into the monthlong campaign, the effort has raised about half of its $80,000 goal.
 
  • #5
Just thought people might be interest - that campaign ends tomorrow, and I will keep the thread updated into the future, there is a ton of information on the plane, but I just posted what might spark people's interest in learning more - here is a better link perhaps:http://aerosociety.com/News/Insight-Blog/2957/Rutan-film-aims-to-inspire-next-generation
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #6
Why do we use inches in a science forum again?
 

Related to Burt Rutan's newest aircraft design - the SkiGull

1. What makes Burt Rutan's SkiGull aircraft design unique?

The SkiGull is unique because it is a hybrid aircraft that can take off and land on both water and land. It also has retractable skis for landing on snow or ice, making it versatile for various environments.

2. How does the SkiGull achieve its amphibious capabilities?

The SkiGull uses a combination of a hull and retractable landing gear with skis. The hull allows for water takeoffs and landings, while the retractable landing gear and skis allow for land takeoffs and landings.

3. What is the purpose of Burt Rutan's SkiGull design?

The SkiGull was designed for long-distance, oceanic flights and exploration. It is also intended to be a cost-effective and efficient means of transportation for remote locations with limited infrastructure.

4. What is the range and payload capacity of the SkiGull?

The SkiGull has a range of approximately 2,000 nautical miles and a payload capacity of 1,000 pounds. This allows for extended flights and the ability to carry necessary equipment and supplies for expeditions.

5. How does Burt Rutan's SkiGull design improve upon previous amphibious aircraft?

The SkiGull's unique hull design, retractable skis, and aerodynamic features make it more efficient and versatile than previous amphibious aircraft. It also has a larger range and payload capacity, making it suitable for longer flights and expeditions.

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