F1D links and info?

[KnifeEdge51]

Nice to see this forum getting some traffic.

Anyhow, I got word about the F1D class of FF models from fill (indoor models). He suggested that I run a search, which I did, but I didn't come up with too much, other than scant references to the models themselves. No other information was given in any of the posts I found. I'm interested in trying my hand at a few of these. I was told that some of the experienced guys picked up 10 minute flights. Makes you envious. :) Can anyone provide a few links or some retailers who sell these little planes? I would greatly appreciate it! Thanks!

Nick

[steve lewin]

I believe the World record for F1D is approaching 30 minutes :) But I don't think I've ever seen a ready-built or even a kit for a serious F1D model. People just build them, though not me, I'm far too clumsy for those superlightweight structures ;)

There used to be a few sites around with plans around for indoor competition models like these but most of them seem to have gone away when I try them now.

Steve

[KnifeEdge51]

Thanks for your response, Steve. Sorry it's taken me SO long to reply. I seem to have forgotten about this thread. However, something has given it a new sense of urgency.

I recently asked my physics teacher if I could build a meat tray foam flyer for extra credit. He was rather skeptical, but after I showed him an article in Backyard Flyer, he was intrigued. He stated that he did not think a foam flyer would interest him at the moment, but he stated that there was a "Science Olympiad" contest in March that would involve a timed free-flight event. He said he thought I "just might be his man." Is there ANYONE who has information regarding these planes? Perhaps a photo, some building tips and materials, etc? Can you perhaps gear a rubber band model "backwards," ie. a large gear on the band and a small gear on the prop, to increase run times? The sooner I can get more information, and the more information I can get, the better! I would really appreciate it! Thank you!

Nick R.

[steve lewin]

I hope you've already found the Science Olympiad website http://www.soinc.org/ The event you're looking at is called "Wright Stuff". A Google websearch will find you lots of sites with details of models to build e.g.
http://freeflight.org/jlf/beginners_corner/whammy_series/whammy.htm
http://www.indoorfreeflight.com/

You don't want gearing on rubber models, the weight of the gears would be far too much for any benefit. You just build very light then choose the rubber carefully to get the prop you want to use turning at the speed you want. The models look very simple, but getting them to fly for 3 to 4 minutes is far from easy. Give it a try.

Good luck

Steve

[KnifeEdge51]

Steve, you're a life saver! Thanks!

Nick R.