Bluebird (oz10074)

About this Plan

Bluebird. Radio control sport model.

Quote: "Bluebird was conceived as a traditional style, three-function sports model of distinctive appearance intended for quiet, relaxed general flying rather than continuous aerobatics. A particular requirement was that it should be suitable for operation with a PAW 19 R/C diesel motor.

To obtain the best performance out of what might be considered a relatively small power unit for this size of model, some thought was given to producing a light but strong structure, eliminating ailerons to simplify wing construction and control installation, and employing a soarer-type aerofoil section (Gottingen 602), to ensure a reasonable glide performance.

The prototype tipped the scales at 3lb 4oz, generous wing area giving a wing-loading of just over 10 oz/sq ft, which is light for a power model. Bluebird is thus not a model that has to be rushed in for a landing the moment that the motor cuts - quite the opposite, a great deal of enjoyment can be had in prolonging the flight-time by searching out available thermals when the conditions are right.

Although designed around a diesel, any suitable 19-25 size two-stroke glow motor or equivalent four-stroke can be used to provide the motive power. Construction is straightforward, but performance with this type of model depends upon keeping the finished weight within bounds. With careful selection of materials and use of adhesives, Bluebird will remain serviceable for a long time and provide a great deal of Sunday-flying enjoyment.

Construction. Building Bluebird should not be difficult for anyone of moderate experience and the following notes are intended to provide some general assistance to prospective builders, rather than a complete description.

Fuselage. The fuselage consists of an orthodox sheet sided box with 1/32 in ply doublers to rear of the wing, and incorporating 3/16 in square balsa longerons. Basic assembly is easier if the engine-bearers are glued first to the sides rather than the front formers. Use five-minute epoxy for attaching the sides to the formers. Fix formers 1 to 3 first, and allow the epoxy to set before drawing together at the rear. Take care to ensure that the fuselage is not banana-shaped or twisted.

The rear top-decking is best applied slightly oversize. To obtain the curve, moisten the outer face slightly and carefully work in sufficient curve with the fingers whilst holding the moist side of the sheeting in front of a heat source. The decking pieces shaped in this manner can then be easily pinned in place using white-glue, allow 24 hours to dry out. The tapered lain balsa capping is added after trimming off surplus 1/8in sheeting. It is advisable to thoroughly seal inside the engine and tank bays to protect against fuel ingress..."

Note this is a low resolution plan.

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Supplementary file notes

Article.

Corrections?

Did we get something wrong with these details about this plan (especially the datafile)? That happens sometimes. You can help us fix it.
Add a correction