For Model Helicopters: Exotic Rotors
In both RC and full-size helicopter design, the rotor head holds the key to improving flight performance. Researchers are continually searching for the ultimate design. Part one of two. AS ANY helicopter flight engineer will tell you, the main rotor system is the most important element in both full-size and model helicopter design. That's because the rotor system, which comprises the rotor head and blades, has multiple control functions and a substantial impact on flight dynamics. In my professional work I conduct research on full-size helicopter rotor systems. Imagine trying to design aircraft without knowing how to fly them - or at least knowing how to fly their RC counterparts. It's tantamount to calling the world's best meat loaf cook a vegetarian. Experimenting with RC Helicopter design in my spare time sharpens my intuition into the analogous but different problems encountered with full-size choppers. Working out problems with RC Helicopters is a great way to predict how a new helicopter design will behave before I crunch through complex theories on the computer.
F3C Heli World Champs
THIS THIRD EDITION of the F3C World Championships was held at Fentress Naval Auxiliary Landing Field near Virginia Beach, VA. The site was exemplary. The Helicopter contest was held at the end of the auxiliary runway on trimmed grass rather than concrete. The cut grass field was as flat as a mirror. The F3D RC Pylon and F3A RC Pattern contests were located along the concrete runway, making it easy to drive from one event to the other. It's generally agreed that the AMA hosts did an excellent planning job that carried off the whole event without a hitch. Everyone involved should be congratulated.
