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Catapult Launching for Slope Flyers
by Vince Cockett (this page is under construction)
After discussing with a fellow modeler about the use of a bungee chord to launch heavier gliders off the slope, I have made this page for you to see what system I have used with great success. The construction is self explanatory from the photographs, but I later found out that a pin which I made to insert into the glider can be purchased ready made from fishing supply shops for a little more than £1.
This system leaves no permanent hooks on the outside of the glider to interfere with the scale outline and on my model the same hole doubles up for a standard sliding pin release mechanism for aerotow. This is achieved by simply reversing the aerotow release servo so that the sliding pin is permanently open and away from the entry hole. To launch the glider, stake out the bungee chord for maximum stretch, with the retract wheel down, attach the glider to the pin, ensure the wings are held level and stamp on the pedal . With this system there is no pressure on the glider until the pedal is actually depressed to catapult the glider off the slope. Because of the angled reward facing glider installation, the pin easily slides loose at the end of the launch. If you have used a similar system, please send any information to add to this page. I can be reached via the 'Contact Us' box on the left
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