Zephyr cross Bixler...

lobstermash

Propaganda machine
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OK, so here's the score... The Zephyr (EDF powered glider) is in testing at HK at the moment. If the Lancaster is anything to go by, it's now only a year or so away... ;)

While waiting for the Zephyr to come out, and a motor-less Bixler in my hanger awaiting repair, I've been contemplating fitting a very powerful 55mm EDF unit to the Bixler and seeing how it goes... What do people reckon? Pointless, worthwhile, crazy, ingenious?
 

lobstermash

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By the way, I know where HK got the basic design for the Zephyr now... Leximodel EDF balsa/composite glider. I'm looking forward to seeing the Zephyr in flight.

I don't think I'll fit the EDF to the Bixler after all. Just held the two items together, looked at each of them a few times, and couldn't see how it would work.
 

pgerts

Old age member
Mentor
I don't think I'll fit the EDF to the Bixler after all. Just held the two items together, looked at each of them a few times, and couldn't see how it would work.
I agree - a 55 mm does not have a lot of push - try a little bigger in diameter and put it above the wing - get rid of the normal motor mount.
Supposed you have looked at
and
 

lobstermash

Propaganda machine
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Yeah. This 55mm is special though... A very powerful little unit. It takes a strong grip to hold this thing in bench testing. I think it'd do enough, but I'm wanting to use the Bixler for FPV later and that's the main issue with modifying to fit an EDF.