Stylus (oz6020)

About this Plan

Stylus. Hand launch RC glider for 2 channels.

Quote: "The Stylus was designed for hand launched thermaling. Launching is a little different, however. Since the Stylus has such a low wing loading, it is harder to get a high launch than with a heavy glider. But once up in the air, the Stylus flies slower and has a lower sink rate. Flight times in still air seem to compare closely with the other hand launch designs I have seen. Thermaling is a joy. The slightest wisp of lift is enough to keep Stylus airborne. Turns are very tight and flat.

Usually the first remarks about a Stylus (other than, 'Hey, you've got the wrong wing on that thing!') is that it flies so slow and turns so tight. It is also pleasant to find that penetrating upwind with that thick airfoil is not as big of a problem as you might think.

The Stylus is definitely a floater. However, its tight turning ability and light wing loading give it an advantage when the thermals are weak and as big around as an Oreo Cookie. You guys out West do not need to worry since your thermals frequently suck up bowling balls, farm machinery, and small children. Anyway, my favorite flight with a Stylus involved slope soaring. Keep in mind that its low aspect ratio makes it very maneuverable.

I wanted to show off my new Stylus to a friend. As it turned out, the day was breezy and we almost called off flying. I had decided just to 'test glide' the glider off an embankment for him. Much to my surprise, Stylus rose to about 20 feet above the 15 foot high embankment. I was turning sharply to stay on the 50 foot section of hill when a thermal rolled through! My 'test glide' turned out to be a flight lasting several minutes! I tried my hardest to convince my friend that I had planned the flight that way, but I don't believe he bought it.

I honestly believe that if you have even half of the fun I have had with my Stylus, your efforts will not have been in vain. You should also be aware that I have launched my Stylus with everything from a largo Two Meter hi-start to the oatmeal box versions (50 ft of 1/4 flat rubber, 150 ft of fishing line). So when your arm has had it with hand launching, bring on a hi-start to finish out your battery pack.

I wish you the best of luck in building and flying your Stylus. Just remember to build it light and your buddies will be following you to the thermals..."

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Supplementary file notes

Article pages, text and pics, thanks to hlsat.

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