Scale Soaring UK

As i get to grips with parametric modelling and 3D printing, I'm hoping to have a stab at making a hinge with the pin already in situ - has anyone else done this yet? Perfect for interesting geometry setups such as friese ailerons etc?

Also, how about the rails for fowler flaps such as those found on the Jaskolka?

I must admit, this is a huge and fascinating hobby all on it's own!

Ell.

Not sure that hinges would be strong enough Elliot. Maybe if they were printed with carbon loaded filament and used a metal pin.

Jilles has done a set of runners for the fowler flaps on his Jaskolka and Blanik. A new Jaskolka build will be taking place shortly having supplied a kit and been let down already by one builder.

Hi Cliff

Any chance of scaling down Jilles' Jaskolka hinges for use on the John Elliot 1/4 scale version? I've had your laser cut kit for years, but have not started it owing to my concerns over the original hinging design.

Regards
Mike

Mike, it will not work, they are designed to work with the section used in Jilles's design. Also the mechanism used is unique to the model.

Hi Cliff

Thanks for your reply.

In making these hinges would you say that the 3D print material has any strength or durability advantages over GRP plate or aluminium?

I am considering trying to cut my own for the 1/4 scale Jaskolka. I think that the air brakes can be modified and servo locations set further towards the wing root rib bay where more space is available.

Thanks
Mike

Hi,
I have been printing 3D parts for a few years as well as trying to use them in my models, only to realize the simple fact that what makes them also breaks them, i.e. heat. Because the filaments used in these printers (PLA, ABS, PETG etc.) are all thermoplastics (that are extruded using heat), the finished parts when subject to heat will soften, deform, and even melt. I will not 3D print a critically functioning component using a printed thermoplastic.

One of our club members left a 3D printed plane in his car in the heat of summer, only to find it later, completely deformed.

I hope this helps.

Ron

Hi Ron

Thanks for your comments. I suppose that CNC cutting using fiberglass material would be a better solution for the flap hinges mentioned above. For me, it would offer the advantage of accurately duplicating the pattern consistently for all the hinge mechanisms.

Regards
Mike

Hi Mike,

Fiberglass composite like G10 can only be CNC machined on a router table utilizing a cutting bit, not easy to find.
Composites being none homogeneous are not good for laser cutting however aluminum is a laser compatible material.

Ron

Hi Ron

Whilst browsing RCSB, I read this regarding the use of G10, Carbon Fiber and aluminum for hinge mechanisms.

https://www.rcscalebuilder.com/forum/fo ... PN=1&TPN=4

Looks like ali components is the better way to go.

Regards
Mike