The Second Boys' Book of Model AeroplanesCollins, Francis A. (Francis Arnold)
Science
The Second Boys' Book of Model Aeroplanes
Collins, Francis A. (Francis Arnold)
Airplanes -- Models
There are many forms of such planes this year which are marvels of
lightness and strength, but the beginner should try the simplest. Begin
by building a simple rectangular frame, three feet in length and ten
inches in width of half-inch or quarter-inch strips. Mortise the corners
half way through each stick and glue them in position. Increase the
steadiness of the frame by a cross piece at the center, without
mortising. Mount your motor above the frame, selecting some simple,
strong support for the axle and the anchorage.
A model which rises unassisted requires considerable power and your
propellers should have eight-inch blades and be carved from blanks one
inch thick. You may find it advisable later on to install propellers
with very broad blades. First install motors of considerable power, each
consisting of twelve or fourteen one-eighth-inch rubber strips. You will
not get more than two or three hundred turns out of them, but with a
high-pitch propeller this will give you an excellent flight, say 200
feet.
[Illustration: Model With Minimum Plane Surface.]
For the early trials use planes with a rather high aspect ratio. Make
one of the planes four by sixteen inches with square corners, and the
second, which will be carried forward, about the same size with rounded
corners. Both planes should have a slight camber.
Attach the planes to the under side of the motor base. The theory of
this adjustment is that the planes thus rest upon undisturbed air and
are more stable. The planes above the frame come in contact with air
which has been churned up more or less by the passage of the frame. A
small vertical rudder may be added below the rear frame and well back of
the center of gravity. The model should be supported at a slight
elevation by a simple skid. By adjusting the angle of the forward plane,
this model may be made to perform a number of spectacular flights. A
model very similar to this was the winner of a cup offered for the best
spectacular flights at an important New York tournament.
A SIMPLE EXPERIMENTAL MODEL.
A great deal of pleasure and profit may be had from a small experimental
model aeroplane. The beginner who is constructing his first model will
find a small machine by far the most satisfactory. The more experienced
model builder, on the other hand, will find that so simple a model will
enable him to try out new theories quickly and cheaply. A simple Bleriot
form, one foot in length, driven tail foremost is recommended. Many
successful model builders keep such a model constantly in their
workshops.
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