So I have a rough design of the model I want to build, who can point me in the right direction? when it is all squared away with design and components, who do I take it to to have all the parts laser cut? And can anyone recommend a good aircraft plywood and where I could source a decent amount?
Ponoko will laser cut anything you want into any material they have and deliver it to you.
What you have is a model, next you need the bracing within the model. Evenly spaced and at critical points. I personally would try to have a large surface to align all other components to (saves on dicking around with placement). Once you have the braces designed to fit together as you want you will need to select your build method. Some build from foam, some from carbon fibre, some simply from the braces and wrap. Its your choice.
For both carbon fibre and foam you need a mould. The model is most commonly made from ply/balsa braces to form the basic design with foam insert for a general shape. Filler is then slapped on to the foam and braces like plastering a wall, once dried you sand and shape the resultant "blob" to your design. This "blob" is what your mould will produce so be careful, take your time and make it exactly as you want. The actual moulding technique is still mystery to me but I'm sure someone else here can elaborate or agree with me that you should be asking in RCGroups scratch built forums.
Nice rough design by the way. I'd suggest smoothing anything that you can (ie fuselage to wing drop) and making you box rear more functional and shaped (eg rounded for motor mount and have a ruddder). Otherwise have fun.
Replies
What you have is a model, next you need the bracing within the model. Evenly spaced and at critical points. I personally would try to have a large surface to align all other components to (saves on dicking around with placement). Once you have the braces designed to fit together as you want you will need to select your build method. Some build from foam, some from carbon fibre, some simply from the braces and wrap. Its your choice.
For both carbon fibre and foam you need a mould. The model is most commonly made from ply/balsa braces to form the basic design with foam insert for a general shape. Filler is then slapped on to the foam and braces like plastering a wall, once dried you sand and shape the resultant "blob" to your design. This "blob" is what your mould will produce so be careful, take your time and make it exactly as you want. The actual moulding technique is still mystery to me but I'm sure someone else here can elaborate or agree with me that you should be asking in RCGroups scratch built forums.
Nice rough design by the way. I'd suggest smoothing anything that you can (ie fuselage to wing drop) and making you box rear more functional and shaped (eg rounded for motor mount and have a ruddder). Otherwise have fun.