In laying out plans for a flying machine the first
thing
to decide upon is the size of the plane surfaces. The
proportions of these must be based upon the load to be
carried. This includes the total weight of the machine
and equipment, and also the operator. This will be a
rather difficult problem to figure out exactly, but
practical approximate figures may be reached.
It is easy to get at the weight of the operator,
motor
and propeller, but the matter of determining, before they
are constructed, what the planes, rudders, auxiliaries,
etc., will weigh when completed is an intricate proposition.
The best way is to take the dimensions of some
successful machine and use them, making such alterations
in a minor way as you may desire.
