Atom (oz12831)

About this Plan

Atom (Advanced Training Operational Model). Simple control line trainer model. For .15 engines.

Quote: "Atom, by Howard Mottin. A 15-powered advanced trainer for the novice, or basic trainer for the adult beginner.

ATOM (for Advanced Training Operational Model) is a multi-purpose trainer. It is intended to teach the basic skills of control-line flying, and to serve a variety of other purposes. These could include: basic flight trainer, advanced trainer, sport model, basic stunt trainer, sport racer, slow combat trainer.

Any desired modifications can be made after the novice gains basic flying experience. This model was designed large enough in size to lend itself to conversion to more advanced flying possibilities. First, build as described. Then as flying experience is gained, try different modifications to the basic model and see what results can be achieved. As starters try a larger engine, more control movement, different CG locations. Learn by experience how different set ups will affect the flight. This model will serve as an excellent base for learning the fundamental laws of aerodynamics as are applied to all control-line aircraft.

Any type of training aircraft must have three essential requirements: simplicity, durability, and fiyability. Lack of any one of these essentials and the initial flying experiences of the novice can end in frustration. The aircraft must be simple to construct and maintain. This requires a minimum of parts and work. Once assembled, the plane must be durable enough to withstand the mistakes of the novice pilot. It cannot end up in a pile of sticks at the slightest bump, but it is impossible to design a model to withstand a power dive straight into the macadam. Therefore, it must be stable enough for the novice to control and fly with case. A plane that assembles in two pieces from 'cast iron' and flies like it, is of little value. A primary flight trainer must teach the essential flying skills.

The ATOM has these essential qualities: It can be assembled in a matter of hours with a minimum expenditure for materials. Three sheets of balsa, a piece of plywood, hardwood motor mounts, and some wire are all the construction materials required. It has enough "beef' built in to withstand the rigors of many training flights. And because of the solid wood construction employed, it can later be altered to suit the wishes of the builder.

Finally, of primary importance is the fact that the ATOM is flyable. The functional design will not win any beauty contests. It has all the essential components of a control-line model aircraft in places that are easily accessible. For example, the novice can change fuel tanks or control movement with ease.

There are two good basic ways to start flying. The first is to build a small %A size and the second is to use a larger size model. Theie are advantages to both methods and the novice can decide for himself which way to choose. The advantages of the 1/2A trainer were presented in the 'Small Fry' article (May '69 issue). The main difference between a 1/2A-size model and a larger one is price..."

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Update 26/02/2021: Added alternate plan drawing (plus gallery pic of his finished model), thanks to HarryKirkland.

Quote: "Steve, Mary, Find attached the plans for the control line trainer ATOM that was published in American Aircraft Modeler in 1969. It was designed by Howard Mottin. I built one in 1969 and it was my first model aircraft with an engine bigger than an .049. The plans were drawn by me from the magazine plan. This was a great trainer and could do all the basic control line stunts. I have attached a picture of the model I built then [main pic], I estimate it probably has had 500 plus flights and was last flown in 1975. I still have it hanging in my shop. Stay safe and thanks again for Outerzone."

Update 13/03/2021: Added vectorPDF and CAD (dxf and dwg) versions of this plan, thanks to Valeria367.

Quote: "Hi! Steve and Mary. How are you? I hope all are fine. Here, I send you my last work: the CAD redraw of the Atom plan (oz12831). A 0.15 C/L trainer designed by Howard Mottin. Like usually, I add the plan in PDF vector format, plus both CAD vectorial formats: DWG y DXF. Take care of yourself, and keep safe."

Supplementary file notes

Article.
Alternate plan.
VectorPDF plan tracing.

CAD file

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