Will this improve an aircraft with low power?

[Willi Von Klugerman]

As I mentioned before,Im starting on an aircraft building project.The aircraft will have a 5.5 hp engine and I want to know how to improve such an aircrafts performance with low power.

Thank You!

[Willi Von Klugerman]

Sorry I forgot to add this

Would making the wingspan longer and the wings more arched improve its performance?

[jumpinjan]

Yes, wing span and high wing aspect ratios will increase efficency. The engineering trade is a need for a stronger wing structure, while keeping the aiplane light.
Jan

[YavorD]

Hi!
5.5 hp can keep a moto-glider in flight but is hardly enough for take-off. The minimum power for a practical single-seat aeroplane known to me is 10 to 12 kW.
Good luck!
Yavor

[Willi Von Klugerman]

Perhaps I should scout for a motorcycle engine

Im putting money into building my flying machine with a simple and less complicated design similar too a Bleriot.But I learned from Bleriot how he made his wings long and curved because he knew his aircraft didn't have much power and needed plenty lift.

[airknocker]

Here was someone else's attempts:
Build The Whing Ding!

[David Paule]

You might find a copy of the plans for the Gossamer Condor, the man-powered aircraft that won the Kramer Prize. Paul McCready used to sell those. He speculated that a very light airplane with a 40 foot span would fly with four horsepower. But the key was "very light." He probably had an idea that the entire empty weight would be about 100 pounds or so, including engine. Or less.

The designer pointed out that weight control was essential. Wingspan was equally essential.

You'll need to find the lift coefficient for take-off and climb, and from that estimate the camber you'll need for the airfoil.

From your questions, I get the idea that you might be interested in some basic aerodynamics. The best intro I've seen is the "Civil Air Patrol Handbook 26" from WW II. It uses algebra but explains things pretty clearly and concisely. It is worth finding that or another book. Look for a book that has math in it - if it doesn't have math it won't help you. If the math is calculus, skip it, and get an older book that uses algebra.
.

[Willi Von Klugerman]

How do I install a prop onto a motorcycle engine? I notice that some motorcycle engines look like Anzani's.

[Willi Von Klugerman]

Heres the revised design of my Lee Flyer No.II

[airknocker]

Here is the ultimate motorcycle/aircraft engine:
Harley Davidson aircraft engine, Harley Davidson aircraft engine conversion.