SO Rubber Powered Helicopter Event

From: calgoddard <calgoddard_at_yahoo.com>
Date: Fri, 11 Apr 2008 18:07:14 -0000

Jeff:

While I prefer Wright Stuff as the official SO flying event for
Division C, I understand the directors want to rotate flying events.
I like the idea of a rubber powered helicopter event. Just to get
the discussion going how about this:

1) multiple props (rotors) allowed

2) 7 g minimum weight for the helicopter

3) all balsa construction except prop(s) [rotor(s)] may be plastic
and/or balsa with metal prop shaft(s) and motor hook

4) plastic gear reductions with metal shafts allowed

5) 2 g maximum weight for rubber motor

6) max diameter of any prop [rotor] diameter of 30 cm

7) all lift must come from prop(s) [rotor(s)] and no fixed wings
   allowed

8) Longest duration of two flights wins

My daughter once built a balsa rubber powered helicopter from a kit.
It was designed more to look like a real helicopter than to achieve
duration. I recall the belt drive was a bit challenging but she had
a lot of fun.

I see lots of room for student innovation in such an event. There
are few kits and not many plans that I am aware of for a rubber
powered helicopter.

Thanks for seeking input on this Group.
Received on Fri Apr 11 2008 - 11:07:17 CEST