1903 Wright Flyer (Foam model)
This is a simple to build and fly model of a 1903 Wright Flyer
constructed using rigid foam sheet and powered by a PowerUp 4.0 Smartphone/iPhone controlled electric flight unit.
Flight durations of over 6 minutes can be achieved on a single charge.
Free plans are available for download (see below)
Download the Free plans
- Build Plans (.pdf) WrightFlyerV1-220104.pdf
Print the paper templates on A4 paper at 100% scale
Materials Required
- 2mm to 3mm thick rigid foam sheet
(typically Depron brand often sold as underlay for laminate flooring) - 5mm paper faced foam board
- Hot melt glue & glue gun
- Wooden cocktail sticks
- PowerUp 4.0 unit
- Adhesive tape
- Scalpel or hobby knife
Flying the Model
Fully charge the PowerUp 4.0 unit and attach to the model
For initial flights set the centre of gravity (COG) at the leading edge of the main wings
Choose a day with calm conditions and select a flying site free of obstructions and
preferably on long grass.
The PowerUp 4.0 unit can be controlled using the Andriod or the iPhone App
(depending on what type of Smartphone you are using)
On starting the App and connecting the model plane, select the “Hammer Head” plane from the hangar.
Give the plane 100% throttle and hand launch the model into any (slight) breeze.
Once airborne, reduce the throttle to maintain level flight.
If the plane flies nose up, slide the PowerUp unit further forwards.
If the plane dives into the ground, slide the PowerUp unit further back.