Hi,
There have been references to the ability, or otherwise, of model boat builders, to be able to construct an F3, or other Foiler.
Much is being made of the accuracy needed to make a successful model.
To get this subject into perspective, consider the requirements for a Model Glider, of of the F3B Class.
This is an international Class, with World Championships, Country and Regional events, very active and demanding for the contestants.
The models have to perform three Tasks in a Contest, Speed, Distance and Duration, all Tasks must be done with the same Model.
Ballast is allowed at the Pilots discretion.
The Models are mostly constructed from Carbon and have wing Spans of approx 3 Metres.
As can be expected the models are very expensive to produce and maintain.
Controls are, Rudder, Elevator, Ailerons, Flaps, Camber Changing Flaps, Air Brakes, some Functions may be mixed, to provide further controls.
The launching of these Gliders is by means of a very powerful electric winch, which puts immense forces onto the model, as the models arcs up into the air.
The towing speed is such, that the model zooms up for about 100 feet, after it leaves the tow line.
To hear the air shrieking as one of these models passes overhead is truly impressive.
Any part of one of these Models, which is not performing at 100%, can result in utter failure, no second chances with a Model 500 feet in the air and travelling in excess of 100 MPH.
I have seen many of these models which have been Home built, which, considering the accuracy required, is an amazing achievement.
Model boats by comparison, seem benign, almost sedate, even the speeding Cats, Tri’s and Foilers are not subjected to the enormous forces imposed on these Gliders and other flying models.
Possibly the worst things that can happen with a model boat is some thing does not work correctly, or it breaks, or even sinks, never the instant and complete destruction of a beloved Model and months of work, leaving aside the expense!.
The destruction aspect of Model Flying is why I now make model boats, modelling is now a lot less worrying and easier on the Wallet, even the most expensive boat models should still be around next year, not so with flying models, each time they leave your hand, could well be the last !.
With a boat that is performing very poorly, it can be usually be persuaded back to the bank, adjusted, sent back out to try again, with a flying model, you take it home in a bag!, or brush the bits together and light a fire!
John.