This is interesting, however I think I'll expand on a point I think Derek was hinting at. The value of setting a cap iron properly is to get clean surfaces. I think there is most value in posting pictures of a surface that has issues and the shavings produced, then an adjustment, an improved surface and the shavings produced.
Knowing where the sweet spot is, has many things in common with planing square or cutting straight. It just has to be learned.
I do see merit in the detail and information you are presenting, please keep the conversation going! But many old books and tradesman had it right. You set it close. How close? You'll work it out with practice. The biggest lesson with the cap iron was not to dismiss experienced workers who had found success with it. That's not a slight at you, just a human condition of being dismissive of how to get the best out of tools. I'm sure I've done so myself as have others https://blog.lostartpress.com/2007/1...duce-tear-out/