Difference between revisions of "Helicopters"

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{{EventLinksBox
 
{{EventLinksBox
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|active=yes
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|active=
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|type=Engineering
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|cat=Build
 
|2010thread=[http://www.scioly.org/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=66&t=1429 2010 (Trial)]
 
|2010thread=[http://www.scioly.org/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=66&t=1429 2010 (Trial)]
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|2011gallery=[http://scioly.org/phpBB3/gallery/album.php?album_id=9 Image Gallery]
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|2011gallery=[http://gallery.scioly.org/thumbnails.php?album=22 Image Gallery]
 
|2010bestof=[[The_Best_of_2010#Helicopter_B | 2010]]
 
|2010bestof=[[The_Best_of_2010#Helicopter_B | 2010]]
 
|2011thread=[http://scioly.org/phpBB3/viewforum.php?f=96 2011]
 
|2011thread=[http://scioly.org/phpBB3/viewforum.php?f=96 2011]
 
|2012thread=[http://scioly.org/phpBB3/viewforum.php?f=124 2012]
 
|2012thread=[http://scioly.org/phpBB3/viewforum.php?f=124 2012]
 
|2013thread=[http://www.scioly.org/phpBB3/viewforum.php?f=146 2013]
 
|2013thread=[http://www.scioly.org/phpBB3/viewforum.php?f=146 2013]
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|type=Engineering
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|2014thread=[http://www.scioly.org/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=168&t=4966 2014]
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|cat=Build
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|2017thread=[http://scioly.org/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=246&t=9270 2017]
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|B Champion=[[Marie Murphy Middle School]]
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|2018thread=[https://scioly.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=272 2018]
 +
|B Champion=[[Meads Mill Middle School]]
 +
|C Champion=[[Albuquerque Area Home Schoolers]]
 
}}
 
}}
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'''Helicopters''' is an event in which students compete to build a balsa wood helicopter powered by a rubber band motor that has the longest flight time possible. It is a [[Division C]] event in the [[2017]] and [[2018]] seasons, and has been in both [[Division B]] and [[Division C]] in the past.
−
'''Helicopters''' is a National event in which students compete to build a balsa wood helicopter powered by a rubber band motor that has the longest flight time possible.
 
  
 
==Key Components/Terms==
 
==Key Components/Terms==
−
There are some commonly used terms that are useful when describing these helicopters.
+
There are some commonly used terms that are useful when describing helicopters.
 
*'''Motor Stick:''' This is the body of your helicopter. It holds the rubber band, and the two rotors are attached to this. There are different methods and designs, which are discussed below.
 
*'''Motor Stick:''' This is the body of your helicopter. It holds the rubber band, and the two rotors are attached to this. There are different methods and designs, which are discussed below.
−
*'''Rotors:''' These are the horizontally counter-rotating devices that transform the torque in the rubber band to thrust in order to lift the helicopter. Most designs utilize two of them, one fixed (glued firmly to the motor stick), and one free (attached to the motor stick with a shaft and bearing so that it can rotate when the rubber band is hooked onto it). However some designs use two free counter-rotating rotors, which may be more efficient.
+
*'''Rotors:''' These are the horizontally counter-rotating pieces that transform the torque in the rubber band to thrust in order to lift the helicopter. Most designs utilize two of them, one fixed (glued firmly to the motor stick), and one free (attached to the motor stick with a shaft and bearing so that it can rotate when the rubber band is hooked onto it). However some designs use two free counter-rotating rotors, which may be more efficient.
 
*'''Spars:''' These are the long, thin wood pieces that span the length of the rotors.
 
*'''Spars:''' These are the long, thin wood pieces that span the length of the rotors.
−
*'''Ribs:''' these are used to brace the rotors, and are placed between the spars.
+
*'''Ribs:''' These are used to brace the rotors, and are placed between the spars.
 
*'''Prop/Rotor Shaft:''' This is a metal wire that is used to connect the free-spinning rotor to the rubber band.
 
*'''Prop/Rotor Shaft:''' This is a metal wire that is used to connect the free-spinning rotor to the rubber band.
 
*'''Rotor Hanger:''' This holds the prop/rotor shaft, allowing it to spin freely.
 
*'''Rotor Hanger:''' This holds the prop/rotor shaft, allowing it to spin freely.
 
*'''Rubber band:''' This is the power source for the helicopter. It is wound using a winder. More is discussed about rubber below.
 
*'''Rubber band:''' This is the power source for the helicopter. It is wound using a winder. More is discussed about rubber below.
  
−
=Construction Process=
+
==Construction Process==
−
A simple design you can build is the [http://www.centennialofflight.gov/wbh/wr_experience/1899/past/WBstory.htm Wright Bat Flier].
+
A simple design you can build is the [http://www.centennialofflight.gov/wbh/wr_experience/1899/past/WBstory.htm Wright Bat Flier]. A step-by-step "'''Beginner's Guide'''" to building a helicopter, written by National Event Supervisor Jeff Anderson, [[Media:HelicopterGuide1.docx|can be found here]].
  
−
It is important to emphasize that you cannot use commercially available propellers, as previously stated. This is to preserve the true spirit of Science Olympiad--the engineering creativity of students. You may, however, use a kit as long as there are no pre-built parts (also make sure they meet the dimensional requirements of the rules). Don't panic--take time to draw up plans and purchase the materials you need as quickly as possible. At times homemade helicopters can far outperform kit-built models.
+
It is important to emphasize that teams cannot use commercially available propellers, as previously stated. This is to preserve the true spirit of Science Olympiad--the engineering creativity of students. Teams may, however, use a kit as long as there are no pre-built parts (also make sure they meet the dimensional requirements of the rules). Don't panic--take time to draw up plans and purchase the materials needed as quickly as possible. At times homemade helicopters can far outperform kit-built models.
  
−
You are allowed to use wood, paper, string, wire . . . basically anything you can think of.
+
It is permitted to use various materials (wood, paper, string, wire, etc.).
  
 
===Helicopter Body Building and Designs===
 
===Helicopter Body Building and Designs===
 +
[[Image:Helicopter body diagram.png|thumb|250px|right|Main body of a typical helicopter. The motor hook on the left is fixed to the body (i.e it cannot move on its own), while the one on the right rotates with the rotors. In the center is the rubber band motor.]]
  
−
Helicopter bodies should be simple and easy to repair if damaged. For the body use wood that is as light as you can get without being brittle; balsa usually works. The top of the helicopter body should be constructed out of stronger wood than the rest of the helicopter frame because it will be under immense strain during flight (balsa which is denser or has larger dimensions may work). Make sure it is thick enough to drill a hole through. This is where the motor hook will be attached.  
+
Helicopter bodies should be simple and easy to repair if damaged. For the body use the lightest wood possible without it being too brittle; balsa usually works. The top of the helicopter body should be constructed out of stronger wood than the rest of the helicopter frame because it will be under immense strain during flight (balsa which is denser or has larger dimensions may work). Make sure it is thick enough to drill a hole through. This is where the motor hook will be attached.  
  
 
Pictured at right is a simple but effective body design found at most helicopter competitions.
 
Pictured at right is a simple but effective body design found at most helicopter competitions.
  
 
There are three common designs, each with its own benefits and issues.
 
There are three common designs, each with its own benefits and issues.
−
*The most common design is a single-stick body. This is imply one piece of balsa, that is used as the main body of the helicopter. [http://gallery.scioly.org/details.php?image_id=3371 This] helicopter exhibits the single-stick design. This design is very simple to build, and may possibly be lighter than the next one. However, balancing the helicopter with this method is slightly more difficult, and will result in a wavering helicopter. Carefully balancing the rotors will result in a smooth flight pattern.
+
*The most common design is a single-stick body. This implies one piece of balsa, that is used as the main body of the helicopter. [http://gallery.scioly.org/details.php?image_id=3371 This] helicopter exhibits the single-stick design. This design is very simple to build, and may possibly be lighter than the next one. However, balancing the helicopter with this method is slightly more difficult, and will result in a wavering helicopter. Carefully balancing the rotors will result in a smooth flight pattern.
  
−
*The second most common design is the split-stick body. Two thinner spars, instead of one long one, are used as the body. They are connected at the top and bottom by horizontal pieces. [http://gallery.scioly.org/details.php?image_id=3313 This frame] is for a split-stick helicopter. [http://gallery.scioly.org/details.php?image_id=3313 Here] is a video describing how to wind and fly a split-stick model. The advantages of this design is that it is much more balanced than the previous one. It is slightly more difficult to build, but is still in the grasp of many teams. This design could end up weighing more if not carefully built.
+
*The second most common design is the split-stick body. Two thinner spars, instead of one long one, are used as the body. They are connected at the top and bottom by horizontal pieces. [http://gallery.scioly.org/details.php?image_id=3313 This frame] is for a split-stick helicopter. [http://gallery.scioly.org/details.php?image_id=3313 Here] is a video describing how to wind and fly a split-stick model. The advantage of this design is that it is much more balanced than the previous one. It is slightly more difficult to build but is still within the grasp of many teams. This design could end up weighing more if not carefully built.
  
 
*The third design, possibly the most efficient, and also the most difficult to build is a hollow-body or rolled-motorstick design. It is made by taking a thin sheet of balsa wood, soaking it in hot water, rolling it onto a form, then allowing that to dry. This results in a thin tube, which is efficient in terms of weight and balance. The rubber band is wound and placed inside the tube, and the rotors are attached at each end. This [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsGwOCiREBU&feature=related video] describes a hollow-body design. Once again, it is possibly the best design, but also the most difficult to build. Advanced competitors should try this design.
 
*The third design, possibly the most efficient, and also the most difficult to build is a hollow-body or rolled-motorstick design. It is made by taking a thin sheet of balsa wood, soaking it in hot water, rolling it onto a form, then allowing that to dry. This results in a thin tube, which is efficient in terms of weight and balance. The rubber band is wound and placed inside the tube, and the rotors are attached at each end. This [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsGwOCiREBU&feature=related video] describes a hollow-body design. Once again, it is possibly the best design, but also the most difficult to build. Advanced competitors should try this design.
−
 
−
[[Image:Helicopter body diagram.png|thumb|250px|right|Main body of a typical helicopter. The motor hook on the left is fixed to the body (i.e it cannot move on its own), while the one on the right rotates with the rotors. In the center is the rubber band motor.]]
 
  
 
The rotors will be attached to the unfixed motor hook by a shaft in the middle. Often times the wire (paper clips work nicely for this purpose and they are quite pliable) is bent or glued around the shaft that connects the rotors.
 
The rotors will be attached to the unfixed motor hook by a shaft in the middle. Often times the wire (paper clips work nicely for this purpose and they are quite pliable) is bent or glued around the shaft that connects the rotors.
  
−
When you glue the joints together, USE CA GLUE (not gorilla glue, which is far heavier and also takes longer to dry)! The helicopter will be taking some rough falls and you don't want it to get destroyed every time you test fly it! In addition, super glue dries somewhat slowly and it can be hard to hold in place while you glue joints. Buy CA glue accelerator from your local hobby shop. Apply it on wet super glue and it instantly sets. This is essential to achieving a perfect angle when gluing.
+
When gluing the joints together, '''use CA glue''' (not gorilla glue, which is far heavier and also takes longer to dry)! The helicopter will be taking some rough falls so it is best to guarantee its hardiness to avoid constant repair. In addition, super glue dries somewhat slowly and it can be hard to hold in place while gluing joints. Buy CA glue accelerator from a local hobby shop. Apply it on wet super glue and it instantly sets. This is essential to achieving a perfect angle when gluing.
  
 
===Helicopter Rotor Building and Designs===
 
===Helicopter Rotor Building and Designs===
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There are many different approaches to building helicopter rotors, but all successful designs have a few things in common:  
 
There are many different approaches to building helicopter rotors, but all successful designs have a few things in common:  
  
−
*A regularly shaped frame that can be easily replicated. NO ODD SHAPES!
+
*A regularly shaped frame that can be easily replicated. Odd shapes are not encouraged.
−
 
+
*A strong frame on each rotor. Cross beams can be added for extra support. If you curve the balsa, the rotor becomes an airfoil and therefore has higher efficiency, but this adds some unnecessary weight to the helicopter.
−
*A strong frame on each rotor. You can put in cross beams if you want for extra support. If you curve the balsa, the rotor becomes an airfoil and therefore has higher efficiency, but this adds some unnecessary weight to your helicopter.
+
*There are many ways to attach the free rotor to the body. One popular option is to use a pigtail hangar, as can be seen [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAnm1gXUyx4 here].
−
 
 
−
*There are many ways to attach the free rotor to the body. One popular option is to use a pigtail hangar, as can be seen [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAnm1gXUyx4 here]
 
−
 
 
−
===A Beginner's Guide===
 
−
Note: This step-by-step guide was written by Jeff Anderson to aid those attempting their first helicopter. It provides a process for building the rotors of a simple co-axial helicopter. Dimensions are a good starting point, but are definitely not ideal and will need to be altered to suit your individual helicopter.
 
−
 
 
−
"The conventional solution is a dual rotor copter; both rotors mounted coaxially and counter rotating. One is attached firmly to the motor stick; the other rotates free on a wire shaft. In flight, BOTH turn in opposite direction as one end of the motor torques on the 'free' rotor, and the other end torques on the 'fixed' rotor attached to the motor shaft.
 
−
 
 
−
Let’s start with the 'fixed' rotor.
 
−
 
 
−
• We'll start with the axis of the rotor which is the motor stick itself. It should be about 12 inches long and weigh about 1.5 gm.
 
−
 
 
−
• Select two spar sticks for the rotor. These are long straight stiff pieces of wood. Just fewer than 40 cm long, probably 1/16 by 1/16 and weighing 0.3 to 0.4 gm. These pieces are key, select them carefully.
 
−
 
 
−
• Now, glue the first spar to the rotor, oh say 2 inches down from what will be the top of the motor stick. Glue it so it is centered on the motor stick, opposite side from the rubber band. Make sure it is SQUARE to the motor stick. A jig is handy here. Don't try to do this free hand. You won't be accurate enough.
 
−
 
 
−
• Now, measure up the motor stick, say 1 1/4 inches. You are going to attach the second spar here, again centered on the spar.  BUT, you have to rotate this spar around the axis so the tips of the spars are separated about say 4 inches when looking down along the length of the motor stick. A little trig gives me about 28 degrees of angle rotation. And that's clockwise looking from the top of the stick, by convention. It only matters because the free rotor you build next MUST rotate the opposite way. As long as you wind correct, either can work.
 
−
O Now, to attach the spar at an angle with good glue joint, you'll need to sand a shallow angled notch into the motor stick on the same side as the first spar at the marked location. The angle is of course 28 degrees in the direction you want. Glue the second spar into this notch, again SQUARE to the motor stick, but angled to the first spar when looking from the top. A jig of some kind is handy.
 
−
 
 
−
• The next step is to put some ribs between the spars to define a twisted surface to put tissue or Mylar covering on. Measure and mark along each spar 5, 10, and 15 cm from the motor stick. Using light balsa cut and fit a rib between the spars at each of these locations and at the spar tips. Make sure you don't cause the spars to bend!! These ribs can be straight, or have a slight curve like a wing. This is finicky hand work, cut, fit and reject if not perfect. Once you are sure the rib is right, glue it in place. Of course a jig is handy, be creative.
 
−
 
 
−
• Now, cover the rotor from the 5 cm rib out to the tip. The inner 5 cm theoretically adds thrust, but as a practical matter, most of the work is done at the tip and the inner area just adds drag and weight. Covering is just like covering a Wright Stuff wing, except the surface is curved in three dimensions. It can be done in one piece, but treating each section on its own might work better.
 
−
 
 
−
• Voila' you have a rotor.
 
−
 
 
−
The 'free' rotor is almost exactly the same except for the axis. For the free rotor the axis is the shaft (think prop shaft wire on a Wright Stuff plane). The spars are selected the same and are just as critical here. You glue them to a very long prop shaft (rubber hook at one end, locking hook at the other). Same spacing, same rotation difference, but in the OPPOSITE direction as the fixed rotor. It’s a little tough gluing to the wire securely, so you may want to cut two 1/16 square spacers about 1 ¼ inches long to slab alongside the wire and glue between the two spars. You also want to glue the locking hook to the top spar VERY securely. Everything else is the same.
 
−
 
 
−
Note, the dimensions I gave are approximate!! They should give you a good flying copter if you keep the overall weight to 4.0 gm. MAX. The ideal is for YOU to determine. But don't be too surprised if you find the best thrust is with the lower rotor at a slight higher pitch then the upper! And maybe a three or four bladed rotor is better. Only testing will tell."
 
−
 
 
  
−
=Flight=
+
==Flight==
  
 
===Rubber===
 
===Rubber===
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===Flight Logs and the Test Flight Process===
 
===Flight Logs and the Test Flight Process===
  
−
Data for 10 test flights is required before the competition for each helicopter that you check in. Get permission to go to your school gym and test if there are not obstructions on the roof. Any room without obstructions is preferred over high ceilings with lots of obstructions Fans, beams, contact with the ceiling, and furniture can negatively affect your helicopter's flight time. DO NOT TEST IT OUTSIDE.  
+
Data for 10 test flights is required before the competition for each helicopter that is checked in. Get permission to go to your school gym and test if there are not obstructions on the roof. Any room without obstructions is preferred over high ceilings with lots of obstructions. Fans, beams, contact with the ceiling, and furniture can negatively affect a helicopter's flight time. '''Do not test outside'''.  
  
−
If a suitable testing location is not available, or you want to test just rotor efficiency, consider building a static testing jig. Place the helicopter in the jig, place the jig on a scale, and zero it out with the weight of the helicopter too. Wind up the rubber, and let the helicopter spin. The negative amount the scale displays is the comparitive amount of lift the rotors generate.
+
If a suitable testing location is not available, or you want to test just rotor efficiency, consider building a static testing jig. Place the helicopter in the jig, place the jig on a scale, and zero it out with the weight of the helicopter too. Wind up the rubber, and let the helicopter spin. The negative amount the scale displays is the comparative amount of lift the rotors generate.
  
−
6 data parameters are required for each test flight. 3 are required, 3 are any that you choose.
+
6 data parameters are required for each test flight. 3 are required, 3 are up to choice.
  
 
The required data parameters for each flight are:
 
The required data parameters for each flight are:
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*Rubber weight
 
*Rubber weight
  
−
You can pick three of the above, or any of your own. Feel free to add your own ideas to this list.
+
You can pick three of the above or any of your own. Feel free to add your own ideas to this list.
 +
 
 +
==Scoring==
 +
'''Only the better flight (out of the 2) will be scored.''' This does not include bonuses: if a team has a 40 second coaxial and a 30 second chinook, the coaxial flight will be scored, even though the chinook would have the higher overall score after bonuses. Teams will have eight minutes to fly their helicopter(s) once or twice. If that time expires and teams still have not completed a second flight, they will not get to test either of their helicopters again.
  
−
=Scoring=
+
===Bonuses===
−
'''Only the better flight (out of the 2) will be scored.''' You will have eight minutes to fly your helicopter(s) once or twice. If that time expires and you still have not completed a second flight, you will not get to test either of your helicopters again.
+
There is a 2.5x time bonus if the helicopter is Chinook or Piasecki style.
 +
Also, a 5% bonus is given to teams that launch (trim or official) within 3 minutes of the preflight period, as well as a 10% bonus to teams which have at least one blade colored black.
  
−
====Bonuses====
+
{|class="wikitable"
−
No Bonus is offered this year.
+
|+'''Past bonuses'''
 +
|-
 +
! Year
 +
! Description
 +
|-
 +
|'''2018'''
 +
| There is a 2.5x time bonus if the helicopter is Chinook or Piasecki style. (Example: 30 second flight on Chinook helicopter is 75 second flight while scoring.)
 +
|-
 +
| '''2017'''
 +
| 25% of the score added on for every single-bladed rotor, up to a maximum of 75%.
 +
|-
 +
| '''2014'''
 +
| 10% of the score added on for every single-bladed rotor, up to a maximum of 30%.
 +
|-
 +
| '''2013'''
 +
| ?
 +
|-
 +
| '''2012'''
 +
| Score is multiplied by three for helicopters with non-coaxial rotors whose axes are separated by at least the radius of the rotors (frequently referred to as the Chinook bonus)
 +
|-
 +
| '''2011'''
 +
| No bonus, likely because this was the first time Helicopters was a national event.
 +
|}
  
−
====Penalties====
+
===Penalties===
 
{|class="wikitable"
 
{|class="wikitable"
 
|+
 
|+
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!Deduction
 
!Deduction
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Flight Logs are Incomplete
+
|Flight Logs are incomplete
 
|10% deduction from final score
 
|10% deduction from final score
 
|-
 
|-
 
|Flight Logs are not turned in
 
|Flight Logs are not turned in
 
|30% deduction from final score
 
|30% deduction from final score
 +
|-
 +
|8-minute Flight Period begins after 6 minutes
 +
|10% deduction from final score
 
|-
 
|-
 
|Building Violation
 
|Building Violation
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|}
 
|}
  
−
=External Links=
+
==External Links==
−
 
 
−
[http://soinc.org/sites/default/files/uploaded_files/Helicopter%20Duration10(9-24-09).pdf 2010 National Trial Rules]
 
−
 
 
−
[http://newyorkscioly.org/SOPages/HELICOPTERDURATION10.pdf 2010 B/C Division New York Pilot Rules]
 
−
 
 
−
[http://www.illinoisolympiad.org/iso/files/2009-2010/state/A_Simple_Helicopter.pdf Illinois Science Olympiad Helicopter Construction Instructions]
 
−
 
 
−
[http://www.sciencenc.com/event-help/helicopters.php North Carolina Science Olympiad Helicopter Event Page]
 
−
 
 
−
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7HqkcE1oO4  How to wind and fly a helicopter]
 
−
 
 
−
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UDSRa7gB_I  Helicopter demo]
 
−
 
 
−
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prUuqjsqFRE  How to make a motor hook]
 
−
 
 
−
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDhcxS_OTv8  Another good helicopter demo]
 
−
 
 
−
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkADhiyD2z4  How to attach wing covering]
 
−
 
 
−
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4ZuQ8DkwmQ  How to glue balsa wood]
 
−
 
 
−
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAhEmGVXSvo Rubber band motors]
 
  
 +
:[http://soinc.org/sites/default/files/uploaded_files/Helicopter%20Duration10(9-24-09).pdf 2010 National Trial Rules]
 +
:[http://newyorkscioly.org/SOPages/HELICOPTERDURATION10.pdf 2010 B/C Division New York Pilot Rules]
 +
:[http://www.illinoisolympiad.org/iso/files/2009-2010/state/A_Simple_Helicopter.pdf Illinois Science Olympiad Helicopter Construction Instructions]
 +
:[http://www.sciencenc.com/event-help/helicopters.php North Carolina Science Olympiad Helicopter Event Page]
 +
:YouTube Videos
 +
::[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7HqkcE1oO4  How to wind and fly a helicopter]
 +
::[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UDSRa7gB_I  Helicopter demo]
 +
::[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prUuqjsqFRE  How to make a motor hook]
 +
::[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDhcxS_OTv8  Another good helicopter demo]
 +
::[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkADhiyD2z4  How to attach wing covering]
 +
::[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4ZuQ8DkwmQ  How to glue balsa wood]
 +
::[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAhEmGVXSvo Rubber band motors]
  
  
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[[Category:Event Pages]]
 
[[Category:Event Pages]]
−
[[Category:Trial Event Pages]]
 
 
[[Category:Building Event Pages]]
 
[[Category:Building Event Pages]]

Revision as of 17:22, 30 August 2018

Template:EventLinksBox Helicopters is an event in which students compete to build a balsa wood helicopter powered by a rubber band motor that has the longest flight time possible. It is a Division C event in the 2017 and 2018 seasons, and has been in both Division B and Division C in the past.

Key Components/Terms

There are some commonly used terms that are useful when describing helicopters.

  • Motor Stick: This is the body of your helicopter. It holds the rubber band, and the two rotors are attached to this. There are different methods and designs, which are discussed below.
  • Rotors: These are the horizontally counter-rotating pieces that transform the torque in the rubber band to thrust in order to lift the helicopter. Most designs utilize two of them, one fixed (glued firmly to the motor stick), and one free (attached to the motor stick with a shaft and bearing so that it can rotate when the rubber band is hooked onto it). However some designs use two free counter-rotating rotors, which may be more efficient.
  • Spars: These are the long, thin wood pieces that span the length of the rotors.
  • Ribs: These are used to brace the rotors, and are placed between the spars.
  • Prop/Rotor Shaft: This is a metal wire that is used to connect the free-spinning rotor to the rubber band.
  • Rotor Hanger: This holds the prop/rotor shaft, allowing it to spin freely.
  • Rubber band: This is the power source for the helicopter. It is wound using a winder. More is discussed about rubber below.

Construction Process

A simple design you can build is the Wright Bat Flier. A step-by-step "Beginner's Guide" to building a helicopter, written by National Event Supervisor Jeff Anderson, can be found here.

It is important to emphasize that teams cannot use commercially available propellers, as previously stated. This is to preserve the true spirit of Science Olympiad--the engineering creativity of students. Teams may, however, use a kit as long as there are no pre-built parts (also make sure they meet the dimensional requirements of the rules). Don't panic--take time to draw up plans and purchase the materials needed as quickly as possible. At times homemade helicopters can far outperform kit-built models.

It is permitted to use various materials (wood, paper, string, wire, etc.).

Helicopter Body Building and Designs

Main body of a typical helicopter. The motor hook on the left is fixed to the body (i.e it cannot move on its own), while the one on the right rotates with the rotors. In the center is the rubber band motor.

Helicopter bodies should be simple and easy to repair if damaged. For the body use the lightest wood possible without it being too brittle; balsa usually works. The top of the helicopter body should be constructed out of stronger wood than the rest of the helicopter frame because it will be under immense strain during flight (balsa which is denser or has larger dimensions may work). Make sure it is thick enough to drill a hole through. This is where the motor hook will be attached.

Pictured at right is a simple but effective body design found at most helicopter competitions.

There are three common designs, each with its own benefits and issues.

  • The most common design is a single-stick body. This implies one piece of balsa, that is used as the main body of the helicopter. This helicopter exhibits the single-stick design. This design is very simple to build, and may possibly be lighter than the next one. However, balancing the helicopter with this method is slightly more difficult, and will result in a wavering helicopter. Carefully balancing the rotors will result in a smooth flight pattern.
  • The second most common design is the split-stick body. Two thinner spars, instead of one long one, are used as the body. They are connected at the top and bottom by horizontal pieces. This frame is for a split-stick helicopter. Here is a video describing how to wind and fly a split-stick model. The advantage of this design is that it is much more balanced than the previous one. It is slightly more difficult to build but is still within the grasp of many teams. This design could end up weighing more if not carefully built.
  • The third design, possibly the most efficient, and also the most difficult to build is a hollow-body or rolled-motorstick design. It is made by taking a thin sheet of balsa wood, soaking it in hot water, rolling it onto a form, then allowing that to dry. This results in a thin tube, which is efficient in terms of weight and balance. The rubber band is wound and placed inside the tube, and the rotors are attached at each end. This video describes a hollow-body design. Once again, it is possibly the best design, but also the most difficult to build. Advanced competitors should try this design.

The rotors will be attached to the unfixed motor hook by a shaft in the middle. Often times the wire (paper clips work nicely for this purpose and they are quite pliable) is bent or glued around the shaft that connects the rotors.

When gluing the joints together, use CA glue (not gorilla glue, which is far heavier and also takes longer to dry)! The helicopter will be taking some rough falls so it is best to guarantee its hardiness to avoid constant repair. In addition, super glue dries somewhat slowly and it can be hard to hold in place while gluing joints. Buy CA glue accelerator from a local hobby shop. Apply it on wet super glue and it instantly sets. This is essential to achieving a perfect angle when gluing.

Helicopter Rotor Building and Designs

There are many different approaches to building helicopter rotors, but all successful designs have a few things in common:

  • A regularly shaped frame that can be easily replicated. Odd shapes are not encouraged.
  • A strong frame on each rotor. Cross beams can be added for extra support. If you curve the balsa, the rotor becomes an airfoil and therefore has higher efficiency, but this adds some unnecessary weight to the helicopter.
  • There are many ways to attach the free rotor to the body. One popular option is to use a pigtail hangar, as can be seen here.

Flight

Rubber

Matching rubber width and torque to rotor pitch is the key to being successful in this event. Rubber for indoor-duration models comes in many different widths that must be contemplated before purchasing. For example, if your rotors have a high pitch, then it would be wise to use a thicker rubber. However if your rotors have a low/shallow pitch, then you will be able to use a thinner rubber.

Thicker rubber will not take as many winds, but will provide much more power. Thinner rubber will store many more winds, but will release the energy slowly and at much less power.

Also, it would be wise to lubricate your rubberbands before flying them. You will able to place more winds into the rubber, and it will not cut itself over multiple uses. Do not use WD-40 for this, as it will degrade the rubber. A popular lubricant used by many is ArmorAll lube.

Simply spray the lubricant onto the rubber band, and rub it gently between your palms. Store in a plastic bag, to prevent the rubber from drying out.

Winding your Helicopter

Buy a winder or wind manually. Winding manually takes an agonizingly long time, so winders are worth the money. Do not buy a battery-powered winder that needs to be put directly on the rotor! Use a hand-crank winder with a 10:1 or 15:1 ratio.

Additionally, a good single person winding process is to construct a winding jig. It consists of a plank of wood with 2 perpendicular wood peices. In one of the perpendicular peices, drill a hole and put in a hook that can hold the O-ring. On the other end cut a hole so the winder and fit in while winding. The distance between hooks of the hook and winder should be equal to the length of the motor stick.

Flight Logs and the Test Flight Process

Data for 10 test flights is required before the competition for each helicopter that is checked in. Get permission to go to your school gym and test if there are not obstructions on the roof. Any room without obstructions is preferred over high ceilings with lots of obstructions. Fans, beams, contact with the ceiling, and furniture can negatively affect a helicopter's flight time. Do not test outside.

If a suitable testing location is not available, or you want to test just rotor efficiency, consider building a static testing jig. Place the helicopter in the jig, place the jig on a scale, and zero it out with the weight of the helicopter too. Wind up the rubber, and let the helicopter spin. The negative amount the scale displays is the comparative amount of lift the rotors generate.

6 data parameters are required for each test flight. 3 are required, 3 are up to choice.

The required data parameters for each flight are:

  • Flight time
  • Number of turns in motor before liftoff
  • Motor size (length) before windup

Some suggested parameters are:

  • Torque at launch
  • Number of turns remaining after helicopter lands
  • Estimated peak flight height
  • Variance from starting point (how far your helicopter drifted.)
  • Rubber weight

You can pick three of the above or any of your own. Feel free to add your own ideas to this list.

Scoring

Only the better flight (out of the 2) will be scored. This does not include bonuses: if a team has a 40 second coaxial and a 30 second chinook, the coaxial flight will be scored, even though the chinook would have the higher overall score after bonuses. Teams will have eight minutes to fly their helicopter(s) once or twice. If that time expires and teams still have not completed a second flight, they will not get to test either of their helicopters again.

Bonuses

There is a 2.5x time bonus if the helicopter is Chinook or Piasecki style. Also, a 5% bonus is given to teams that launch (trim or official) within 3 minutes of the preflight period, as well as a 10% bonus to teams which have at least one blade colored black.

Past bonuses
Year Description
2018 There is a 2.5x time bonus if the helicopter is Chinook or Piasecki style. (Example: 30 second flight on Chinook helicopter is 75 second flight while scoring.)
2017 25% of the score added on for every single-bladed rotor, up to a maximum of 75%.
2014 10% of the score added on for every single-bladed rotor, up to a maximum of 30%.
2013 ?
2012 Score is multiplied by three for helicopters with non-coaxial rotors whose axes are separated by at least the radius of the rotors (frequently referred to as the Chinook bonus)
2011 No bonus, likely because this was the first time Helicopters was a national event.

Penalties

Violation Deduction
Flight Logs are incomplete 10% deduction from final score
Flight Logs are not turned in 30% deduction from final score
8-minute Flight Period begins after 6 minutes 10% deduction from final score
Building Violation 2nd tiered (scored below all legal devices)

External Links

2010 National Trial Rules
2010 B/C Division New York Pilot Rules
Illinois Science Olympiad Helicopter Construction Instructions
North Carolina Science Olympiad Helicopter Event Page
YouTube Videos
How to wind and fly a helicopter
Helicopter demo
How to make a motor hook
Another good helicopter demo
How to attach wing covering
How to glue balsa wood
Rubber band motors


2010 National Tournament Trial Events
Division B: Helicopter · Model This · Optics | Division C: Helicopter · Protein Modeling · Sumo Bots
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