This section of the site contains articles about model construction contributed by our members and anyone else we can cajole into contributing! If you have an idea that you think others might benefit from, please contact us.
A quick way to figure out linkage geometry without CAD software
If you are interested in learning about aerodynamics theory, then these books are a good place to start
An analysis of optimum hi-start dimensions and an approach for estimating launch height for different designs
A technical analysis of how to attain scale velocity for small models.
a compilation of sailplane design and component sizing calculators by Curtis Suter
Martin Brungard’s Equivalent Dihedral Angle Calculator Spreadsheet
CRRC club member Helmut Lelke has captured some simple design guidelines which guarantee success the first time out.
The spreadsheet linked below is very useful for calculating an appropriate fiberglass and carbon layup for sailplane wings.
A writeup on how to build a zoom-proof RES wing without exotic ingredients
Method for doing “quick and dirty” estimates of spar strength - with some simplifying assumptions - without finite element analysis
An answer to the question “is there an optimum AR”
A quick writeup on the interaction of aspect ratio and model size.
A good review of aerodynamics of roll control and stability, with commentary on various postings on RCSE on the topic
Notes from John Roe on his preferred setup for camber and reflex with the 7035
Another contribution by Martin Brungard on 7035 aerodynamics
Comments by Martin Brungard on flying characteristics of the 7035 and 7037 airfoils
Don’s A-series and D-series designs
Dr. Selig’s Comments on the 7035/7037 series airfoils
A quick way to calculate an approximate v-tail based on a known normal tail sizing
A commentary by Don Stackhouse on adverse yaw effects of v-tails
A series of email comments and responses from RCSE on the topic
A series of emails to RCSE by various designers