Alfa-X (oz11054)

About this Plan

Alfa-X. Radio control sport canard model. Wingspan 1m.

Scan from KaoruKiyose, cleanup by rchopper56.

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Update 09/04/2019: Added article.

Quote (google-translated): "The canard is no longer the exotic aircraft it once was. In commercial aviation, a certain selection process has taken place, and only a few projects remain, but these are pursued all the more seriously. It's different in model aircraft: Here, experimentation continues apace, and one can draw on ever-increasing experience; thus, the risk of a complete flop also decreases.

The present model, 'Alfa,' was intended to have a modern, sleek appearance, but otherwise possess all the advantages of a Sunday model: easy handling on the ground and in the air, and trouble-free construction. The prototype fulfilled these expectations.

The engine is positioned above the wing, as close as possible to the center of gravity. The two vertical stabilizers provide the canard with sufficient stability around its yaw axis. Before the first flight, it is particularly important with a model of this design to precisely check the position of the center of gravity and the angle of incidence of the horizontal stabilizer (canary wing). The center of gravity can be moved slightly forward for the first flights. The flight characteristics largely correspond to those of a model of classic design.

Construction: We begin with the wing center section, upon which the fuselage and the remaining parts are built. The wingtips are usually added last, so that the model remains manageable on the workbench.

The wing center section: The upper and lower wing spar sections, made from 2 x 7 mm pine strips, are connected in the middle by a balsa triangle. Next, the balsa parts of the main spar are cut out, the recesses for the ribs are made, and the ribs are glued between the prepared spars. The trailing edge of the two leading edges is glued on, as well as the spar in the trailing edge area.

The entire center section is checked again; it must be straight and free of warping and can then be set aside to dry. Next, the beechwood landing gear block is mounted. The wing is sheeted with 2mm balsa at the front and center, sanded flat at the leading edge, and the leading edge strip is glued on.

The fuselage: The 5x5 pine and balsa stringers are glued to the 3mm balsa side walls, with 3x12 pine and additional 3mm balsa reinforcements in the forward section. The completed side panels are slid onto the wing center section, checked for precise squareness, and glued in place. The horizontal stabilizer damping ribs are made from solid balsa and inserted into the fuselage, but not yet glued in place. The rear of the fuselage is closed with 5mm balsa. Bulkheads 1, 2, and 3 can also be mounted at this stage..."

Update 9/1/2026: Replaced this plan with a clearer copy, thanks to Rennfahrer.

Supplementary file notes

Article (in German).
Previous scan version.

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