Several months ago I proposed a challenge to design and build a tube launched RC plane. There really wasn't much response. But, this idea has been ruminating in my brain ever since.
Over the last couple of days, the general concept has begun to solidify. My plan is to encase an rc glider, similar to a DLG in construction, in a sabot. The glider's wings and tail feathers will fold back to fit within the sabot. The sabot will have the appearance of an artillery round with the casing attached.
The sabot/glider will be fired out of a cannon similar to a potato gun. Upon reaching apogee, the sabot, triggered by a TX, will break apart releasing the glider. Most likely, this will be a two tx operation.
I foresee the glider having a wingspan of about 1000 mm. The sabot will have an OD of about 3-1/4". Still have a lot of details to work out, not the least of which is getting the wings to fold and fit within the ID of the sabot.
Oh, and I get to build a really big potato gun!
Over the last couple of days, the general concept has begun to solidify. My plan is to encase an rc glider, similar to a DLG in construction, in a sabot. The glider's wings and tail feathers will fold back to fit within the sabot. The sabot will have the appearance of an artillery round with the casing attached.
The sabot/glider will be fired out of a cannon similar to a potato gun. Upon reaching apogee, the sabot, triggered by a TX, will break apart releasing the glider. Most likely, this will be a two tx operation.
I foresee the glider having a wingspan of about 1000 mm. The sabot will have an OD of about 3-1/4". Still have a lot of details to work out, not the least of which is getting the wings to fold and fit within the ID of the sabot.
Oh, and I get to build a really big potato gun!