There was some question about whether or not the Legacy’s canopy or its hinges were flexing from the gas spring strut loads.  I made a quick check with and without the strut loads and saw these results.

The 0.3 mm change measured is within the accuracy of my technique for measure the distortion.  I think it’s pretty clear that it is the canopy frame itself that’s flexing.  If anyone is not convinced, just sit in the cockpit with the canopy closed and push sideways on the hinges while someone watches the canopy/fuselage gap outside at the front corners…

Valin Thorn

Legacy #173