DG-1001M – The Self Launch Motor Glider for Clubs!
The DG-1001M enjoys great popularity in soaring clubs. One reason is the modernization of the glider fleet. But the main reason is pure independence and easiness which make this glider unique and popular.
Usage of self-launch motor gliders in clubs has been a big discussion worldwide for a long time. The reason why clubs fear such an investment, are easy to understand: complex handling, extensive maintenance, high purchase costs etc.
Taking a closer look on these arguments you can see that older self-launchers are not far away from these prejudices. The first generation self-launchers were developed in the 1980s’ and the 1990s’. Those days manufacturers went through troubled waters. Of cause, compromises were made quicker, since the main aim was to create a functioning self-launch system enabling customers to self-launch without any assistance. This benefit reached a higher priority than the complexity of such a glider.
At that time DG was already leader of the self-launch glider market especially with regard to functionality and design. Of cause, these systems had room for improvement, as implementation takes many years.
And today? Anything changed?
We know that the DG-1000 is a popular glider, especially for clubs, but how can we make such a glider self-launch without losing its superb all-round characteristics? One of our first aims was to set the flaps aside. As SOLO released the SOLO 2625 02i 2-stroke engine, we knew that we had found the engine we had been eagerly awaiting. This engine would enable us to take off even without flaps. But we didn’t intend to include this engine in the old propeller-dome of the DG-505MB. We wanted to improve maintainability and vibration level so we designed a complete new power unit with an engine mounted on shock mounts, combined with 5 V-belts with the ability of running incomparably smooth. This prevents instruments and electronic devices getting damaged.
All important equipment such as water-pump, generator, igniters and lines are not covered making maintenance easier. The V-belt cover is designed to enable a quick exchange with minimum work. In the rare case that the power unit has to be removed, this can be done without much trouble and effort.
The next stage was to customize and modernize the famous DEI-NT engine management system, known from the DG-808C and the DG-1000T. This enables new features like log-book, memory function, big display and adjustable stall-warning which were not available in the DG-505MB. Also, we were able to automate the monitoring of all parameters during engine operation. The DEI-NT permanently checks all incoming information and activates a pilot alert if information with warning data occurs. The DEI-NT also sends a warning should there be an overheating due to a defective water pump, or an engine stop because of fuel pump problems. Finally, the complete data can be read immediately or retrospect and can also be related to a specific flight. This is comparable to a modern automobile.
The DEI-NT allows the power unit’s automatic retraction and extraction process. Especially this procedure was very complex in older self-launchers and required lots of concentration. Today, you simply pull back the throttle to idle power and use the “extract/retract” switch, the rest is operated automatically by the DEI-NT engine management system. Normally, operating errors are nearly impossible. Naturally, the power unit is steerable from both seats as this makes instructions and training easier.
But what about flying now?
Take-off:
After moving the extract/retract switch (described as “ignition switch” in the manual) into the upward position, the power unit extracts automatically and support devices such as fuel pump, ignition and water pump get activated. The DEI-NT shows when the propeller is fully extracted. This procedure takes about 10 seconds. Now the pilot can start the engine by pushing the starter button. The engine starts like a car due to the electronic fuel injection.
Taxiing without assistance is easy due to the large wing wheels and the steerable tail wheel.
The motor glider’s acceleration is great and the wings move horizontal after a few meters. There is no tendency to yaw by increasing power. After approx. 250m (820ft) the glider takes off at about 80km/h (43kts) and climbs constantly with more than 3m/s (6kt/s).
In Flight:
For shutting down the engine you simply have to pull the throttle back to idle power and move the “ignition-switch” into “off” position. Ignition, water pump, fuel pumps and all other devices switch off. The propeller stops within a few seconds and the whole unit moves back into an interim position. In this position, the wind milling effect automatically pushes the propeller against the propeller stopper. A sensor, mounted to the propeller head, activates the retraction process as soon as the propeller stays to the stopper. Everything is done automatically!
Flight characteristics do not change, although the glider’s weight is 100kg more than a normal DG-1001S. All gentle flight characteristics stay as they are. Only the minimum speed increases by 7-8 km/h (4.5 – 5kts).
Eventually we designed a self-launch high performance double-seater, high in performance, comfort and flight characteristics which suits perfectly into any soaring club.
This is proven by several articles – see below please!
Up to now, clubs have bought a large amount of the DG-1001M. This impressively shows how great the response is on this glider.
A big advantage is flying during the week and in small weather windows. Also smaller clubs can benefit from the DG-1001M for eg, schooling during the week and flying when nobody is around. It’s remarkable how many hours these gliders are flying as they can be operated easily without assistance in a very short time.
Clubs also begin to use the DG-808 more and more. Of course the flaperon requires more training, but thanks to the easy engine management and the harmonic flight characteristics the glider is not only suitable for “top-pilots” but also pilots with average flying skills. This gives a good outlook to club members who wish for independence, flying during the week, autarkic ground handling and last but not least the same advantages as the DG-1001M. This results in a high operating rate and makes the glider fly economically for the clubs.
High performance gliders with high comfort and reliability made by DG-Flugzeugbau! There is a reason, why “top-pilots” count on the DG-1001M and the DG-808! You can see it by reading the OLC world ranking lists, rank one and two go to DG-Sailplanes!
Have we made you curious then please contact us!
DG-Flugzeugbau and our worldwide network of highly experienced dealers are looking forward to your inquiries. We’ll be happy to prepare an individual offer for you!