New design trim tabs

[codprawn]

Sorry if this has been covered before but does anyone here know anything about the new Volvo QL trim tabs?

Basically they are like a small retractable spoiler that fits flush with the trailing edges.

They are electrically operated and claim to be more versatile and reliable.

http://www.volvopenta.com.au/localnews.php

Scroll down a bit to see them.

Looks a good idea but would add quite a bit of drag - as I suppose most tabs do!!!

Thinh that puts me off is you aren't increasing the length of your hull which I would have thopught would be a good advantage of normal tabs.

[willfree]

I dont know loads about hydro dynamics but on racing cars with wings it was found that a small vertical stip attatched to the back of the wing gave more downforce with less drag than if you tried to increase download by altering the wing angle alone.

An idea named after the originator (Dan Gurney?) back in year dot when cars were cars and Grand Prix was worth watching.

Captain Crawfish.

[John G]

spot on! - same for these trim tabs, or 'interceptors' as they are usually called - old idea but very effective.

However maybe not best for small high speed craft that often leave the water

[codprawn]

Originally posted by John G
spot on! - same for these trim tabs, or 'interceptors' as they are usually called - old idea but very effective.

However maybe not best for small high speed craft that often leave the water

Any idea why???

Am I right in thinking that conventional tabs do have the added advantage of effectively giving you a slightly longer hull???

[sinkunit0]

areson suface drives have a new tab that is well worth a look

[Jon Fuller]

The Arnesson 'Rocker tab'.

[Matt]

Adam is also developing a 'rockerable' tab