Reader Feedback: July 2016

In aircraft terms it is somewhat analogous to the F mechanism on most aircraft. The Flap is generally used on descent, provides drag to reduce speed and per Bernoulli and/or Newton or some other dead scientist, converts energy into additional lift. The B on the Prius (and other hybrids) shifter is generally used on long descents to produce additional drag via the engine/generator, which in turn converts energy into additional electrical charge to store in the battery.

Editorial Staff

Wednesday, June 08, 2016 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The "B" setting on a hybrid car's shifter, used for regenerative braking and drag on descents, is analogized to an airplane's "Flaps," which provide drag and lift during descent.
A critique is made regarding the ambiguity of "10,000 feet" in sterile cockpit regulations, suggesting it should be clarified as "AFE" (Above Field Elevation) to avoid confusion, especially at high-altitude airports.
Older aircraft, specifically the Stinson 108, are praised for their effective outboard wing slots, which contribute to making them highly resistant to stalls and spins.
A previous article's confusion over air traffic control instructions is clarified, stating that while a "left traffic" instruction might have seemed impossible, it was technically possible but highly unlikely due to requiring a crossover of an active runway.

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Hybrid B = Airplane F (sort of)

I always enjoy Jeff Van West’s articles, including the January “GPS Makes Us Smarter.” In the mini bio you put at the end, the Prius “B” is mentioned. There are probably others curious to know what it means.

In aircraft terms it is somewhat analogous to the “F” mechanism on most aircraft. The “Flap” is generally used on descent, provides drag to reduce speed and per Bernoulli and/or Newton or some other dead scientist, converts energy into additional lift. The “B” on the Prius (and other hybrids’) shifter is generally used on long descents to produce additional drag via the engine/generator, which in turn converts energy into additional electrical charge to store in the battery.