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Revision as of 10:43, 20 November 2005
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Radio controlled (RC) helicopters, although often grouped with RC airplanes, are unique because of the differences in construction, aerodynamics and flight training. Several designs of RC helicopters exist, some with limited maneuverability (and thus easier to learn to fly), and those with more maneuverability (and thus harder to learn to fly).
Flight controls allow pilots to control the collective and throttle (usually at the same time), the cyclic controls (pitch and roll), and the tail rotor (yaw). Controlling these in unison makes the helicopter perform all the maneuvres and stunts an aeroplane can do, and more besides.
An advanced form of RC helicopter flying is called 3D. During 3D flying, helicopters perform advanced aerobatics in a free flowing freestyle form. There are a number of 3D competitions around the world, two of the best known are 3D Masters in the UK and the eXtreme Flight Championship (XFC) in the USA.
Radio Controlled Helicopter Safety Just like the equipment used in any sporting hobby, radio controlled model helicopters have the potential to inflict serious injury and even death. But if just a few simple rules are followed, anyone can enjoy this fun and sporting hobby safely.
R/C Frequency Management: When flying alone, range test your transmitter to receiver link looking for interference or use a commercially available frequency activity monitor. When flying in groups, always use either a frequency control board or a 'Call-out Before Switch-On' system.
Gas Helicopter Start Up or 'Hot Start' Safety: Always check the position of your throttle stick on your transmitter and always hold the rotor head firmly before starting the engine.
Electric Helicopter Start Up or 'Hot Start' Safety: Never assume that your electronic speed control's safety features are working. Always grip the body or landing gear firmly with the helicopter main rotor AND tail blades extended away from your body while you connect the main battery and switch on any electronics.
Pilot Safety: Never take-off, land or operate your model helicopter closer than 20 feet from yourself while piloting. Allow extra room for newly assembled or repaired helicopters and even more room for large, high performance, high displacement (.60 Cubic Inch and up) helicopters. If you are training another pilot, NEVER take your eyes off of the student's helicopter and do not hesitate to 'pitch' (purposely crash) a helicopter headed toward any spectators or other pilots.
Spectator and Animal Safety: Never operate a model helicopter closer than 100 feet of spectators and never fly above anyone, including other pilots. If a model helicopter is airborne and is not responding to radio commands, you must inform the spectators and other pilots for their safety BEFORE any extended attempts to regain control. Do not allow unleashed dogs or other animals near a flying or landing helicopter. Always 'pitch' the helicopter in situations where the helicopter may be on an intersect course with any human or animal.
External links
- An Excellent forum about RC Helicopters
- Another Excellent forum about RC Helicopters
- A large collection of useful RC Helicopter links