Rolladen-Schneider LS9
This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (December 2012) |
LS9 | |
---|---|
Role | 18 metre-class motorglider |
National origin | Germany |
Manufacturer | Rolladen-Schneider |
First flight | 1995 |
Number built | 10 |
The Rolladen-Schneider LS9 is an 18 metre single-seat motor glider launched in 2000 by Rolladen-Schneider. Production ended after just 10 gliders were built, when Rolladen-Schneider went into receivership.
Development[]
The LS9 was the sole self-launching glider developed at Rolladen-Schneider. The prototype first flew in 1995, powered by a Rotax 535 two-stroke engine. Production of this engine was discontinued by Rotax, putting the LS9 project on hold pending the development of a suitable engine.
The Solo 2625 engine and a two-blade propeller were finally selected. The engine installation, including the carbon composite propeller mast and folding exhaust system, was developed by the specialist firm , having nearly 100% commonality with the installation.
Design[]
- Wings from the LS6-18w moulds, with strengthened spars and leading edges.
- Fuselage shape adapted from the LS4 by broadening the tail boom to accommodate the engine.
- All-new structure combining a new safety glass/carbon cockpit with a full carbon composite fuselage behind the wing.
- Empennage from the LS4 with new carbon and aramid composite construction.
- Larger undercarriage (5” hub) set further forward to prevent nose-over with the engine at full power.
- Innovative 210 mm x 65 mm steerable tailwheel integrated into the rudder directly under the hinge axis.
- Single aerotow/winching hook.
- Carbon composite propeller mast deployed by electric screw jack system.
- Engine recessed into the fuselage with electric starter, fuel and coolant pumps.
- Drive belt transmission to the large propeller.
- Stall warning system activated during powered flight.
Specifications[]
General characteristics
- Crew: One
- Length: 6.84 m (22 ft 5 in)
- Wingspan: 18.00 m (59 ft 1 in)
- Height: 1.43 m (4 ft 8 in)
- Wing area: 11.4 m2 (123 sq ft)
- Aspect ratio: 28.4
- Empty weight: 350 kg (770 lb)
- Gross weight: 525 kg (1,155 lb)
- Powerplant: 1 × Solo 2625 , 41 kW (55 hp)
Performance
- Maximum speed: 270 km/h (170 mph, 150 kn)
- Range: 550 km (340 mi, 300 nmi)
- Maximum glide ratio: >47
- Rate of climb: 4.0 m/s (780 ft/min)
- Rate of sink: 0.58 m/s (114 ft/min)
References[]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Rolladen-Schneider LS9. |
- LS-Flugzeugbau website
- Newsletter of the Auxiliary Powered Sailplane Association
- Website of LS dealer Solaire Canada
- Thomas F, Fundamentals of Sailplane Design, College Park Press, 1999
- Ewald J, Flight Test of the LS-9, Sailplane and Gliding, Oct. 2000
- 2000s German sailplanes
- Rolladen-Schneider aircraft
- Glider aircraft
- Aircraft first flown in 1995
- T-tail aircraft
- Motor gliders