Engaging in the hobby of flying remote-controlled airplanes can be enjoyable, but it can also be costly. Constructing your own plane from scratch is an entertaining approach to reduce expenses.
Procedure
Preparing the Components
Start by outlining the required shapes on a piece of cardboard using a pencil. Ensure precise angles with a protractor or similar tools. Use a ruler for straight lines. Cut out the shapes created. These include 2 right triangles measuring 15 by 15 by 21.5 inches and 1 square measuring 10.6 by 10.6 inches.
Trim the elevon parts. The elevon serves the dual role of controlling pitch and roll in tailless aircraft, combining the functions of elevators and ailerons. These are the small tabs located at the rear of the wings that pivot up and down. Similar to cutting out the main body of the airplane, outline and cut out the following shapes for the elevons:
Construct the elevons. Place the two rectangles made in the previous step side by side. Attach the two smaller squares to one end of each rectangle, aligning them with the corners. These squares will also serve as mounts for the control horns.
Create the vertical stabilizer. The vertical stabilizer provides stability to the airplane during flight. The shape of this component may seem unconventional. To create it, start with a square measuring 6 by 6 inches. Then follow these steps:
Fabricate the control horns. These components connect the movable parts of the airplane to the remote-control system. Align two Popsicle sticks together and drill a hole through one end. Trim the ends of the sticks to create two small pieces with holes.
Secure the control horns to the elevons. To accommodate the homemade control horns onto the elevons, create slots for them. At a 45-degree angle, carve grooves into the reinforced patches (squares). Ensure the control horns fit snugly into the grooves before gluing them in place. The straight edges of the Popsicle sticks should be inserted into the reinforced ends of the elevons, with the hole facing upwards.
Constructing the Aircraft
Form the fuselage.
Position the two large right triangles adjacent to each other with their right-angle corners touching, creating a larger isosceles triangle with the point facing away from you. Securely tape the two triangles together along their edges and across the middle for reinforcement. Flip the triangle assembly over.
Adhere the large square piece to the fuselage. Apply hot glue generously to one side of the square. Align one corner of the square with the apex of the larger triangle assembly and press down firmly. The square should overlap halfway onto each smaller triangle, forming the body of the airplane.
Mount the control surfaces. Lay the airplane and elevons flat on your work surface, ensuring the control horns are upright. Position the elevons along the bottom edge of the fuselage, ensuring the reinforced sides face inward. Secure each elevon to the body with tape, covering their entire length. Trim any excess tape from the outer corners if necessary. Stand the airplane on its nose and gently bend the elevons forward, reinforcing the hinge with a strip of tape along the bend for added strength. Flex the hinge to ensure smooth movement for motor control.
Attach the vertical stabilizer. Mark a vertical line six inches from the bottom center of the fuselage, aligning it with the reinforced ends of the elevons. Cut a groove along this line and insert the vertical stabilizer, ensuring it fits snugly. Secure it in place with glue, applying additional glue on either side of the stabilizer for maximum stability. Verify that the stabilizer is straight to prevent unintended turning of the airplane.
Helpful Tips
Essential Supplies
- Cardboard sheet
- Hot glue
- Box cutters
- Popsicle sticks
- 2 servos
- 2 push rods
- Brushless 20-amp motor
- Speed controller
- 9x6 propeller
- Battery pack
- Radio receiver
- Radio controller
- Packing tape