Hanriot Dupont HD.1 (oz6727)

About this Plan

Hanriot Dupont HD.1. Radio control true scale WWI biplane model.

Quote: "This article is not meant to be a complete and comprehensive set of building instructions but, rather, simply a few notes that might help anyone thinking of building this model, or for that matter, those who are simply interested in it as a future scale project.

Let's begin by saying that this is not really a difficult model to construct, but is definitely not for beginners either. But if you have built models before you should be able to manage this one. It will take a bit of time, but it is well worth it, as you will see when the project is finished. I originally chose the Hanriot since it was not very well known as a full scale aircraft, yet it had all the necessary moments and areas to make it fly well as a model. I think the small elevators with enclosed controls and the top wing dihedral really captured my eye.

The model is as perfect in scale outline as I could make it from the available information, and I've tried to keep as near as possible to scale construction and material sizes so that it looks right when covered. Profile Publications No. 109 will give you additional details and colour scheme information. Other information on the Hanriot can be obtained from RAF Flying Review Volume XVI, No 4, available in England.

I have built this particular model in two sizes - 2 in to the foot, and the one presented here, in 2-1/2 in to the foot scale. The former flies very well but a bit fast, thus the larger one was the one chosen for publication. I know transportation can be a problem, but the model can be dismantled for travelling in 10 minutes. Simply remove the 4 screws from the engine cowling, four 8 BA's that hold the struts, and the two 6 BA's that hold the section with the cabane struts in the fuselage. But then, do not expect to get it in a Volkswagen with your wife and two children!

As far as price goes, I think you will find this type of model quite economical to build. I do not think that mine cost more than about a third of the price of the average large scale kit. As far as the full scale prototype is concerned, the HDI was a Belgian designed airplane of WW I vintage and used extensively by the Italians. From what I can find out, it was a splendid aircraft and should have been more popular but, for political reasons, it never gained its well deserved popularity. The Profile Publications, mentioned earlier, details a full background on the original aircraft.

Construction. I will give a few pointers on building the model although most of it can be readily understood from studying the plans. The construction is mostly made up of spruce, none of which is over 3 ft in length, in order to keep the sizes of wood down and the strength up. The main construction was done with Titebond glue since it is much better for hardwood..."

Update 11/12/2015: Replaced this plan with a clearer copy, thanks to theshadow.

Supplementary file notes

Article pages, text and pics, thanks to theshadow.

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