Model Forum / Radio Controlled / Air Models / February 2007

Yes and no.

It obeys the same laws of aerodynamics.

The effects are different because of the different
position.  Considered only with the pressures on
the moving surface, they are the same (pressure
on top or pressure on the bottom).

If you rotate the canard (or its moving parts) against
the relative wind in the same direction as "up elevator",
the nose will be driven downward.

That rotation of the surface on the tail of the plane
drives the tail downward and elevates the nose.  But
that's because the elevators are at the back of the
plane, behind the CG, while the canard is at the
front of the plane, ahead of the CG.

Moving the canard (or its moving parts) in the same
direction as "down elevator" will lift the nose of
the plane.  When the elevator does that, it lifts
the tail of the plane and depresses the nose.

Hope that helps.

                Marty

Define "opposite".

When you move the elevator down, the canard goes up.  When you move the
elevator up, the canard goes down.  This part is exactly the same as a
horizontal stabilizer with an elevator.  What the plane does is different.

Just hook up the radio, hold the plane at arms length in your left hand
while moving the stick with your right.  Move the plane the way it'll go
in the air (making motor noises is optional).  It should all be clear.