Helicopter construction tips wanted

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the construction of a helicopter, specifically focusing on the design of propeller blades and the associated pitch equation. Participants share their experiences, concerns, and advice regarding building a helicopter, touching on safety and regulatory issues.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification, Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks clarification on the angle 'a' in the pitch equation for helicopter propeller blades, expressing a need for advice on construction.
  • Another participant warns against building a helicopter, suggesting that it is unsafe and recommending purchasing a kit or pre-built machine instead.
  • A younger participant asserts confidence in their ability to build the helicopter despite the warning.
  • There is skepticism from other participants regarding the feasibility and safety of the project, with some questioning the seriousness of the endeavor.
  • Concerns are raised about the certification of a homemade helicopter by national regulatory agencies.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the safety and viability of building a helicopter. While some caution against it, others maintain confidence in their ability to undertake the project.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a lack of consensus on the safety and practicality of constructing a helicopter from scratch, with varying levels of experience and understanding among participants.

milesglev
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So my friend and I are building a helicopter this summer. I was designing the propeller blades and could not figure out what angle a stood for in the pitch equation
a=arctan(P/2pi*r)
P=tan(a)2pi*r)
Also if anyone has any tips or has done this, any advice would be extremely helpful!
Thanks!
 
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I hate to [STRIKE]pis[/STRIKE]... uh, er... rain on your parade, but the general rule is:
If you build a helicopter, do not get in it. It's different if you're terminal and your wife has an awesome insurance policy on you, but otherwise buy a kit or a pre-built machine. I know how they work, and I know how to fly one, and I'm something of a genius, but I would not dream of designing and building my own chopper. Also, there's a pretty good chance that you couldn't get it certified for airworthiness by your national regulatory agency.
 
uhhhhhh I'm 17
I think I got this
 
Jeez, I hope this is a joke...
 
that would be a negative
 
milesglev said:
uhhhhhh I'm 17
I think I got this

Travis_King said:
Jeez, I hope this is a joke...

milesglev said:
that would be a negative

Thread closed as a dangerous activity. If you can convince me via PM that you are truly capable of doing this safely, I may re-open the thread.
 

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