[NSRCA-discussion] New FAI Rule Changes

[Charlie Barrera]

Phil, I think the best way to describe the turn around geometry is to have a clear template with 45* angles and circles scribed in it. Place this template at the end of the box and see how parallax affects the geometry. That is why from a judges perspective (pilot also), he is looking for 45* angle and radiuses that are true. We, here at my local field, use this training device to get the perspective right. Hope this helps. Unfortunately, you might need a template. I think CK Aero sells them. …Charlie

> On Apr 5, 2023, at 4:20 PM, Phil Spelt via NSRCA-discussion <nsrca-discussion at lists.nsrca.org> wrote:
> 
> Guys,  These days I am an SPA contestant, but I have flown and judged the turnaround sequences years ago.  (I didn't have the finances to buy $2K to $5K composite airframes and double-reverse contra double rotating props to be competitive.)  So I am kind of familiar with the current AMA pattern milieu, and have judged a lot.  Can someone please explain to me how pilots and judges, sitting at the center of the flight line, can tell the difference between a 1/2 loop at an end of the box that is geometrically round or just "looks" round?  We see what we see -- if it looks round score it well, if it doesn't, mark it down -- no?
> Thanks,
> “You will become way less concerned with what other people think of you when you realize how seldom they do.” ― David Foster Wallace, Infinite Jest.
> Phil Spelt, AMA 1294, Scientific Leader Member
> SPA L-18, Board Member, NSRCA 2032, KCRC Emeritus
> Knoxville, TN  37931   (865) 604-0541c
> 
>> On 04/05/2023 11:57 AM Mark Atwood via NSRCA-discussion <nsrca-discussion at lists.nsrca.org <mailto:nsrca-discussion at lists.nsrca.org>> wrote:
>> 
>> 
>> Hey All,
>> 
>> Attached are the results from the CIAM plenary meeting and vote that took place on April 1st. These rule changes will go into effect in 2024. Most of the rules that address F3A are minor and merely clarify clerical issues in the rulebook or help outline procedures. There are also changes to the wording around telemetry, but again, only for better clarity. But there are TWO notable rule changes. Neither of which we supported.
>> 
>> 1) Increase the weight limit to 5.5Kg TAKE OFF WEIGHT. This is a straight up increase for electric, and a change to weighing procedure for glow planes to include FULL tank of fuel. The issues here are obvious and I know we have many on both sides of this discussion, but it’s the new rule in FAI.
>> 
>> 2) This one confounds me. They have changed the judging guidelines, such that they no longer want accurate geometry relative to the aircrafts plane of flight, but instead want geometric accuracy FROM THE JUDGES PERSPECITVE. In other words, a half loop at the end of the box needs to LOOK round, rather than BE round relative to the plane of flight. It completely changes our way of flying and makes tools like flight coach useless.
>> 
>> Personally, I can’t imagine this will last, and more over I can’t imagine this will actually be used. A few of us (US/ UK / AUS) fought hard against it, but in the end it won out. They had no explanation as to how cross box maneuvers will accomplish this (such as a rolling circle) but insisted this is what was wanted. I’m sure there will be much discussion at events prior to this going into effect.
>> 
>> There were also some minor changes for how ties are handled and better language and procedure for handling smaller championship events (<40 pilots). But most of that is benign.
>> 
>> 
>> F3A Starts on page 25
>> 
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