A strong emphasis of the Sailplane class is on "hands-on" experience in the laboratory. Students are required to spend several hours per week working on various projects here. Ideally, here the students put into reality what had previously been developed in their design groups. In the laboratory, students work in small teams usually consisting of at least one more experienced classmate acting as a leader. The students learn simple tasks, such as sanding, as well as more complex composite-material fabrication methods, such as the processing of pre-preg or hand lay-ups with vacuum bagging.

There are currently several projects being worked on in lab groups. Information about each lab group can be found below.

American Falcon

Wing Group

Mixer Box Group

The mixer group is in charge of fabricating components for the control mixer of the American Falcon sailplane. The control mixer is the mechanism that translates the inputs from the pilot into movement for the ailerons. The mixer is made out of several aluminum plates and rods; all of which are currently being fabricated.

The group anticipates having all of the pieces machined by the end of the semester. Assembly of the mixer box and its installation into the Falcon should occur early next year.

Easy-to-Build Sailplane

R/C Model