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8-P
Dec 05, 2002, 07:32 PM
Well, we have a club at school called "Technology Students Association" Bascially there are a ton of different comptetions that you either prepare for in advance, or build while at the comp (which is state-wide). Last year I made a CO2 car, and did the "Technology Problem Solving" where we had to build a huge golf tee from newspaper and tape. This year I plan to do the CO2 car again (got third last year, if I get first I move on to nationals) and the Flight Duration. I have been looking around, and basically I am thinking max wing dimensions, light as possible, with biggest prop allowed. I thought I would get some opinions first though. Here are the rules:

8g - 22g weight

140mm - 170mm prop diameter (must be a plastic "commercially available" prop, but you can modify it)

300mm min length including prop

50 cm max wingspan

12 cm max wing cord

1g rubber motor. I don't think that includes the prop, I'll need to check.

Paper covering with balsa contruction only. Only metal allowed is for wheel struts and prop axle.

The contest requires it to take off on it's own power. If it lands, you get an extra 10s on your time. Longest time wins. Our entry last year didn't even lift off. I'm hoping to better that with at least a 2 min flight:-P

Doesn't say anthing about the tail. You think I could make a huge "tail" and add a canard out the front and call the canard a wing? It also doesn't say anything about bi-planes. Aside from odd designs. Some questions for general designs. Should the wing be undercambered? I could cut a simple airfoil from some of the balsa that looks like mini-2*4s (sorry, not sure of the actual dimensions of balsa), or should I just use the normal square sticks with an angled wing. If just a flat wing, than what angle? Anything else I forgot? Thanks in advance.

KnifeEdge51
Dec 06, 2002, 07:43 PM
Look into some F1D type of stuff. I'm not sure some of what F1D guys use would be allowed (such as home-made props), but the basic design is what you're looking for. Try these:

http://www.indoorduration.com/IndoorDurationFrame.htm

http://www.hotkey.net.au/~ue626/plans_web/web_plans.htm (tons of links on this one, you'll have to browse around a little).

I'm looking for the same info for the Science Olympiad. However, I've got a pretty good selection so far, I just need to make an attempt at buildin one of these amazing planes. :D Hope this helps! Good Luck!

Nick R.

8-P
Dec 07, 2002, 02:37 PM
As it turns out, SO and TSA have the same restrictions except TSA has a 1g rubber limit, SO has a 2g rubber limit. Now that I know that, I should be able to find some more info.