Electric “Hang Glider”
Dr. Steve Morris is President of MLB Co., an enterprise specializing in low-cost, compact, remotely piloted and autonomous aerial surveillance, mapping and monitoring systems. On December 23, 2009, he and his associates test flew their first man-carrying, directly-piloted craft – an electric one.
Pilot Brian Porter made two flights totalling about 20 minutes in a part 103 ultralight Swift hang glider to which was attached a custom-built pilot/powerplant/landing gear module. Power was by a Randall Fisher-supplied ElectraFlyer motor coupled to a reduction system built by Dr. Morris and his associates at MLB.
SWIFT hang glider converted to electric propulsion (part FAR 103 ultralight). Perm PMG 132 motor, 67V 80AH batteries. Estimated performance (open cockpit) : duration 1.4 hours at 35 kts, maximum ROC 450 fpm, maximum speed 55 kts.
Thanks to Dan.
