DIY Network

Radio-Control Helicopters: Scale Models From "Radio Control Hobbies" episode RCH-404

Jeff Green, scale-model helicopter pilot.

Chris Chianelli, host of DIY's Radio Control Hobbies, visits the Academy of Model Aeronautics and attends the International Radio Control Helicopter Association (IRCHA) annual Jamboree.

Chris visits with Jeff Green, champion RC helicopter pilot and an authority on scale-model helicopters. Jeff explains the differences in flight characteristics between scale-helicopter flying and 3D helicopter aerobatics.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
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Scale Model Helicopters

Though a champion 3D helicopter pilot, Jeff Green also loves scale models -- accurate replicas of real helicopters (figure A). Piloting scale models is typically a slower style of flying, but can be just as rewarding.

"With 3D, you're always concentrating," says Green, "because of all the attitudes and what you're trying to do. With scale, you can sit back and relax, be the pilot and spectator at the same time."

In terms of the differences in handling between 3D and scale, the variability comes mainly from the rotor-head being used. A rotor with a fly-bar, for instance, has very different flying characteristics from one without a fly-bar. The fly-bar adds more stability and allows for more positive and aggressive command, so flying a helicopter without one makes for a very different set of response characteristics.

One long-time favorite in the world of scale helicopters is the Hirobo Chinook® (figure B). It's been around for a dozen years or more, but has had some recent internal modifications that make it easier to fly. Recent improvements also make it easier to build. In the case of this model, enduring popularity over time has allowed for refinements that benefit the hobbyist.

In the segment that follows, Chris gets a demo of the largest model helicopter at the event.

RESOURCES :

Special Resources for Radio Control Hobbies, episode 404

Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)
Muncie, Indiana
Website: www.modelaircraft.org

International Radio Control Helicopter Association (IRCHA)
Website: www.ircha.org

Model Rectifier Corporation (MRC)
Edison, NJ
Website: www.modelrectifier.com

Megatech International
North Bergen, NJ
Website: www.megatech.com