Lil Flapper (oz12618)

About this Plan

Lil Flapper. Free flight ornithopter model.

Quote: "Some years back I flew all types of indoor models quite extensively and one of the most interesting was the ornithopter. They seemingly appear to either fly well or tear themselves to shreds. The small ornithopter presented here is a 1/3 size version of one which I designed and at one time held the Category I National Record. As a result of that ornithopter's success and ease of adjustment, I decided to see how small one could be built and still fly. When this one was finished and flown, I was quite pleasantly surprised. You will find it well relieves the monotony of of quiet smooth indoor flying and gives many hours of entertainment.

The Li'l Flapper can be flown quite easily in a living room, and with luck, flights of 45 seconds can be obtained. The little bird is easy to build and adjust, but it important to make all parts as shown and they must fit correctly with no sloppiness, otherwise the life span of your bird will be quite short - or in some cases it may even beat itself to death. So follow the plans and instructions carefully and have fun.

FITTINGS: All fittings are made from .004 thick aluminum sheet (disposable alum-inum pie plate will work well.) Holes can be punched in the sheet with a piece of .012 piano wire sharpened on one end. It is best to punch the holes in the sheet prior to cutting out the various parts. The thrust bearing is made in a similar manner using .020 aluminum.

WING: The center section is made from 1/32 sq stock and with the ribs cut out of 1/32 sheet. The flapper spars are made from 1/16 square tapered to 1/32 round. Be sure they are made from the same stock so that the flexibility is equal..."

Direct submission to Outerzone.

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