The
Ventus-2 range
of
sailplanes is one of the most successful model ranges to emerge over the
last decade. We have now decided to take this well proven and high
performance sailplane and develop the design to its logical next step. Our
state-of-the-art know-how in aerodynamics together with the additional
demands placed on the structure by modern competition flying (e.g. higher
wing loading) - and much more - have been incorporated in the production of
this new aircraft. The first place at the WGC 2003 in Leszno already
confirmed our work with the first participation impressively.
Apart from its "Turbo" propulsion system (by Prof. Oehler -
well proven in hundreds of Schempp-Hirth sailplanes all over the world), the
powered sailplane model Ventus 2cxT is identical to the sailplane model
Ventus 2cx, but offers - at only a small increase in weight, no loss in
flight performance and a simple control of the engine
The Ventus 2cxT is a 18m class sailplane with a
four-piece wing. By using optional "racing tips" (with winglets) of 1.82 m
length, it may also be flown successfully in 15 m class contests, because
the 15 m wing likewise in not affected by any aerodynamic compromises thanks
to the ingenously selected separation point far inboard on the wing (at y =
5.68 m).
The wing planform is thus optimized for either span, and
in conjunction with a new airfoil section, which was developed especially
for the Ventus 2 models, results in significantly higher L/D values as
compared with those of the predecessors.The Schempp-Hirth specific wing
geometry with multi-stage swept-back leading edge, two-stage bent-up 18
meter tips, flaperons over almost the full span and a very light control
system result - even with very high wing loadings - in phenomenal handling
qualities in circling and low speed flight, which were formerly thought
impossible.
In so doing, the Schempp-Hirth design team, along with Dr. Mark Maughmer and
Karl-Heinz Horstmann, who designed the new 18 meter tips, and Luek Boermans
who designed the new tail airfoil, have designed a totally new 18 meter
Ventus 2 !!
Standard features include Flaperons, water ballast
controls and the very effective double-panel airbrakes which all hook up
automatically on rigging the inboard wing panels; a special device (no loose
pins) connects and locks the wing extension. When using a wing stand, the
assembly of the Ventus 2cx by two persons is very easy, as the mass to be
raised is hardly 30 kg on either end for each inboard wing panel.
