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Tensegrity-Disk HG of 16-ft Diameter
Area of circular disk: A=πr^2=π8^2=64π=200 approximately. Disk perimeter would be main spar. C=πd Here d=16 C=50 approximately. So for happy tote(to tune of this topic thread) maybe 10 or 11 segments of 5-ft length? Or some kind of coilable deal. KP-QP subassembly would be beam-like. (two KPs and two QPs where a stiff X is formed to act as a beam); this X might add four (4) segments for the happy tote. Thus, about 15 segments would enter the happy tote packing. The disk perimeter spar and KP-QP subassembly would be stayed by upper and lower rigging pre-tensed to result in a tensegrity complex. The perimeter spar could be seen as a captive arch; the sail would tend to keep the disk perimeter spar captive to its shape; in combination with the upper and lower rigging shape may be kept stable. Exploring shape failure modes and spar/beam failure modes would be part of the exploration. I fed the above as a prompt to ChatGPT3.5 and below is the response:
Embarking on the Exploration of the Tensegrity-Disk Hang Glider: 16-ft Diameter
Design Overview:
Embarking on the exploration of this Tensegrity-Disk Hang Glider promises not only a thrilling aerial experience but also a comprehensive investigation into the dynamics of shape stability and structural integrity.
What I did not feed the ChatGPT3.5 was the following furthering exploration:
The sail may have different sizes of pocketing and treatments to address airfoil formation via possible rods and/or stuffers or appliques to top or bottom of sail. DS and SS sails could be explored for TDHGs. Fundamental diameters may change to fit needs of a particular pilot. And some in the TDHGC might explore different-than-circle ovalities.
Notice the lack of mention of "keel" or "spreader" beams. A specialized community Tensegrity Disk HG Club might evolve.
I am a member of the TDHGC without yet making a wing to serve my membership.
One of my membership actions is the founding of the club and the posting hereon of a broad invitation to others to join the club.ChatGPT seems to vibrate over ovalities:
TDHGC member
What would you understand if the sail disk had different "ovalities" other than circular?
ChatGPT
Introducing different "ovalities" to the sail disk, rather than maintaining a perfectly circular shape, would have several implications for the Tensegrity-Disk Hang Glider design:
Aerodynamic Considerations: Varying the shape from a perfect circle could influence the aerodynamics of the hang glider. Different ovalities may result in altered lift and drag characteristics, affecting overall flight performance and maneuverability.
Structural Challenges: The introduction of non-circular shapes may require adjustments to the tensegrity system and structural components. Ensuring the stability and integrity of the hang glider becomes a more complex task, as the forces acting on the sail and the overall structure would differ with varying shapes.
Weight Distribution: Different ovalities could impact the distribution of weight across the hang glider. This, in turn, may affect the balance and stability during flight. Engineers would need to carefully analyze how changes in shape influence the center of gravity and make corresponding adjustments.
Control and Handling: The handling characteristics of the hang glider could be affected by variations in shape. Pilots may experience different control responses, and the glider's behavior in various flight conditions may be influenced by the shape of the sail disk.
Material Stress: Non-circular shapes may subject the materials used in construction to varying stress patterns. Engineers would need to ensure that the materials can withstand these stresses and that the hang glider maintains structural integrity throughout its intended use.
Research and Testing: The exploration of different ovalities would likely involve extensive research and testing, both in simulations and real-world conditions. Understanding how these changes impact performance, stability, and safety is crucial before implementing such variations in a practical hang glider design.
In summary, introducing different ovalities to the sail disk represents a shift from the conventional circular design and would necessitate a thorough reevaluation of aerodynamics, structural integrity, weight distribution, control dynamics, and material considerations. This exploration could lead to innovative designs but requires careful analysis and testing to ensure a safe and efficient hang glider.
