Design and Development
The Nimbus-4 family is a direct derivative of its predecessors at the highest performance end of the Schempp-Hirth product range, the Nimbus-2 and Nimbus-3. In total as of 2010, 44 single-seat and 100 two-seat models had been produced. The wing has a multi-tapered planform and the wingspan was increased to 26.5 metres. The aspect ratio is 38.8. The fuselage was also lengthened, and a larger rudder was fitted.
The manufacturer claims this glider has a glide ratio of better than 60:1 at a best glide airspeed of 110 km/h (59 knots), meaning it can glide over 60 kilometres on course for every 1000 metres of altitude lost in still air.
There is a two seat version, the 4D, and motor glider versions with either turbo engines (designation T) or self-launching engines (designation M).
Read more about this topic: Schempp-Hirth Nimbus-4
Famous quotes containing the words design and/or development:
“Delay always breeds danger; and to protract a great design is often to ruin it.”
—Miguel De Cervantes (1547–1616)
“Good schools are schools for the development of the whole child. They seek to help children develop to their maximum their social powers and their intellectual powers, their emotional capacities, their physical powers.”
—James L. Hymes, Jr. (20th century)