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Hello everyone.
Welcome to The RAMS Newsletter:
The RAMS Newsletter has information
about the Raleigh AeroMasters RC Flying Club in Raleigh, North Carolina. It contains pictures,
articles and topics that relate to the activities of the club and the hobby every month. I hope that
you all enjoy it!
The Origin And Future Of The RAMS Newsletter:
Many clubs have
one so it was suggested for RAMS to do one. As club secretary I decided, on February 2011, to
give it a shot and came up with a whopping three pages long newsletter. The idea was to
convey club news but then funny stories and RC related topics went into it. Then it was a nice
way to showcase our club member’s new airplanes and other projects and from that point on it
took a life of its own. Now on December 2014, the RAMS Newsletter is over 25 pages but it is
still meant to be a club activity that I, as editor, put together. But the club members are the ones
that make it happen by providing the material just by coming to the field, flying and just talking
RC airplanes. And again, everyone is encouraged to send me links of videos and articles that
you think the club members would enjoy. Everyone is welcomed to send me reviews of
equipment you are using and let me know how you like it. Send me pictures. All these
information will find its way into the Newsletter, one way or another to be shared with everyone.
And not only that, the Newsletter is read by more than just our club members. I have found in
the past couple of years that individuals and some other clubs fully enjoy our Newsletter and it
has on its own attracted some pilots to inquire about our club.
As much as social media is the BIG THING nowadays, the truth is that many of us don’t
routinely do the RAMS Facebook or the RAMS Website and many of the goodies posted there
misses our membership. The Newsletter ends up been shared between the entire membership
listing. Together with the RAMS Updates, it has been a way to share information and keep it
tidy without shooting constant RC related e-mails clogging every ones in-boxes as some of you
requested for us to avoid.
So, you are invited to not only read your RAMS Newsletter but for 2015 you are invited to be a
contributor and let us make the
do remember, I started the Newsletter, but it does belong to you.
even better. Please
The RAMS NEWSLETTER Is Taking A
Break:
The RAMS Newsletter Staff (me), editor (me),
photographer (me), media and computer (me), janitor (also
me) will take the usual break in December. So, this means
that there is NO RAMS Newsletter for January 2015. The
next Newsletter you will be receiving will be the February
edition with all the Dec. and Jan. happenings.
In the meantime the club news and information will be
provided through the RAMS Updates which is the Mini-Me
version of the RAMS Newsletter. It is my most sincere
wish of a healthy and peaceful Holiday Season to all of you
my friends at RAMS and your families and I will catch you
on the next one. In the meantime:
December RAMS Club Meeting:
Sunday, December 7
Golden Corral Wake Forest / US1 9:30AM for breakfast, 10:00AM club meeting.
.
RAMS Club Officers 2015: On the November Club Meeting, the present members
nominated and then proposed, proceeded to vote unanimously the following officers for 2015.
President: James Taylor (JT)
Vice-President: Gary Elliott
Secretary / AMA Contact: Jose Armstrong (Dr. Joey)
Treasurer: Larry McMillen
Safety Officer: Joe Schodt
VOLUNTEERS for 2015: Volunteers in charge in the areas of:
Membership cards: Sam Goldfarb
RAMS WebMaster: Ben Davis
FaceBook Page Main Administrator: Ben Davis. Helped by (Sam, Peter, Dr. Joey)
Trash Management & Disposal Engineer (Trash Guy): Richard Leon
Work Crews: Various members that come routinely to help with the mowing and
maintenance of the RAMS field to keep it in “tip top” shape for all of us. Thanks guys.
RAMS Newsletter Editor: Jose Armstrong (Dr. Joey) (with club member contributors)
Winter club meetings:
Location at the US1/Wake Forest Golden Corral. First
Sundays in December, January, February, March. 9:30AM for breakfast. 10:00AM club
meeting. By April we return to the Field 3:00PM. You will be reminded of all these dates.
RAMS 2015 Membership Renewal: Until December 31
st
2014. The
Membership Renewal form can be downloaded from the RAMS website or from the attached
form sent with the RAMS Updates during the weeks in November and December. Fill it legibly
as this form is used for your membership card and club members list information. Sign the form
and either mail it to Larry McMillen (treasurer) or bring it to the field and give it to Larry with the
appropriate fee. If Larry is not available and you see me at the field, I will be glad to take your
renewal form and fee. Late registration incurs a $50.00 fee added to the regular renewal
fee. *AMA 2015 Renewal: Don’t forget to get your AMA registration up to date for 2015.
AND THAT IS THAT!!
SATURDAY’S GAS/GLOW FLYING RESTRICTION
AFTER 4:00PM IS IN EFFECT UNTIL JANUARY 2015.
Bruce Crozier comes from far and quite a drive to fly
with his old buddies from RAMS when he has a
chance. On this Friday afternoon the weather was very
nice with light wind and mostly sunny sky. There was a
little bit of a chill in the air as November is letting us
know it is here. Bruce came with his Pulse XT 60 (on
the ground) and his new U-Can-Do SF 3D from Great
Planes. This is the same airplane that Tony Pulcastro
has been flying with Glow power but Bruce installed the
electric set-up.
I maidened the airplane a few months ago but the CG
was not quite right. This time around, Bruce got it right
and I re-maidened the airplane, trimmed it and it is just
a beauty how it flies. This is a good one Bruce!
Link: http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXDUJC&P=ML
Video: http://www.youtube.com/embed/byN_-WfYE-A
Wingspan: 59” Cost: +/- $200.00
Colton Gibbs is our young RAMS Pilot and
he is also a 2014 North Carolina Young
Rodeo Champion in his division.
His fellow RAMS club members want to
congratulate Colton who won in this area of
skill and expertise. Look at his belt buckle that
he wears as a true champion.
Here he stands with Gary Elliott and JT where
he was telling us about his achievement. We
are proud of you Colton. Keep it up!!!
Colton was telling me that he has decided on his next airplane. He wants to get the Eflite Slick
that will soon be released by Horizon Hobby. Probably available by the time this Newsletter is
out. He also has his eyes on the Parkzone Sukhoi.
Inventor and designer Peter Johnson
from the RAMS R&D Department and
his Test Pilot JT are, once again, doing
another test flight of the micro
(MOSQUITO) Stearman. Having
reduced the weight and motor power, the
airplane refuses to fly despite JT’s best
piloting efforts and Peter’s best re-design
attempts. At this point Peter says it will
make a great PAPERWEIGHT static
display model. Nice try my friends. The
process was really fun and it was
hilarious watching JT sweating bullets on
the flight attempts.
Yeap! I have coined a new verb. These guys are droning. Here we have (left to right) JT,
Greg (hexacopter), Sam, Alex (tricopter) from RDRC flying and watching multirotors. Picture on
the right shows Greg flying the Ominus quadcopter from Dromida. $79.00.
The STEARMAN Brothers
A great Sunday afternoon of flying included a little bit of formation flying. Here we have three of
the Stearman pilots that afternoon. JT, Dr. Joey and Sam. John Dunning and Joe Schodt were
there with us but left early.
A Saturday afternoon with very little wind gave us a great chance for some good flying with
friends. Some visitors came to watch and were interested in club membership. JT, Gary
Elliott, Lizzie Johnson and Rich are standing around Lizzie’s Seniorita after she completed
some flying sessions. Peter improved a few more things on Lizzie’s airplane like a top hatch
held by magnets for easier removal of the battery pack, better weight distribution to get the CG
right, improved aileron linkages and the airplane flies much better after a couple of flight trim
sessions. On this flight session, Lizzie got off her comfort zone and push herself to some nice
rolls keeping the airplane steady and without losing altitude. With college on her way, it is not
much time for flying but she is doing great and building up skills one step at a time. Lizzie, we
are proud of you!
A POP TOP MANEUVER AND THEN NO TAIL TO TELL.
Alex Fredrickson is a young skilled pilot from RDRC visiting us as a guest of Joe
Horvath on a great Sunday afternoon doing some fancy 3D flying when on a high G
force POP TOP maneuver, his FUNTANA airplane came out of it without the vertical fin.
Alex was able to recover by some luck and a lot of skill and safely landed his airplane.
Nicely done Alex!
A LITTLE TASTE OF PRINGLE TOP SECRET TESTING
It took a lot of effort on my part but I finally was
able to convince one of the group of
contestants to let me take pictures of the
testing going on before the RAMS PRINGLES
EVENT. This was a top secret test. Here we
have a combined effort of Joe Schodt and JT
on the twin carrier airplane and the
PRINGLES X1 launch vehicle and Glider.
Obviously it needs two pilots and it is remotely
launched once the right altitude is achieved.
Several tests were done to find the best technique, power, climb rate, takeoff speed and so on.
The CG for the PRINGLES X1 Glider was an issue at the beginning but it was worked out
quickly. Now that the bugs were corrected, the paint job is next and it will be ready for the
event. I was sworn not to reveal the pictures until the event was over. I also received pictures
and information from other pilots throughout the preparation and test period. I am telling you
guys, the creativity in this club does not cease to amaze me. The RAMS Research &
Development Department in this club is alive and well!!!
BEAVER from ESM models
From the TROY BUILT WEBSITE: The Beaver 95" wingspan airplane is produced by ESM
in China. ESM planes are factory painted to scale, have pre-applied decals which are covered
with a clear coat, have functional flaps if standard on the full scale version, and most hardware
included (screws, rods, fuel tanks etc...). Most fuselages are epoxy resin fiberglass. The wings
are typically built up, then covered with an etched polyester film and painted.
Link: http://www.troybuiltmodels.com/items/ESMBEAVER-95AAF.html
Jack Marshal and Joe Horvath are at it
again. This time Jack bought this
Dehavilland Beaver from ESM and Joe
helped him to do most of the building and
fitting of the electronics. The model made
it to the field on a Friday afternoon with
little wind and perfect for a maiden.
Powered by a 160 size electric motor
(equivalent to 30cc gas) on 10cell Lipo this
model took to the air after some, on the
ground, adjustments. Further work needs
to be done with CG and improving on the
right propeller for performance.
Joe said that it flew OK keeping in mind that due to a “mishap” right before the maiden flight the
tail end of the airplane got cracked and had to be “fixed rigged” with tape. The airplane was
difficult to control on the runway as well as had a considerable tendency to fly with a sideway
slide. He also finds it flies very heavy so you must keep some speed up, otherwise wants to
wing stall. The speed controller got hot either from “over amping” or poor ventilation. The
electric setup is the recommended one though. They will put an amp / watt meter to check
exactly what is going on. They believe the propeller may be too big and high pitch for the
application. More testing and troubleshooting needs to be done but the fact is that it flew and it
did look good in the air. I do have to say that Joe did not look relaxed flying it. Maybe the
squatting and the biting of the tongue out of the side of his mouth gave it away!!
MERIDIAN 10CC From Hangar 9
Dr. Joey (me) is in consultation with Dr. Patrick over the Hangar 9 Meridian. A year or so
ago, I built a Hangar 9 Corsair powered by a 10cc small block gas engine, the Evolution 10GX.
I did not fully like the Corsair performance with the engine. Patrick built the same airplane with
the electric version which flew better but we both ended up selling the Corsairs. Having the
10cc gas engine I decided to look for another airframe and chose to try the Meridian 10CC. It
is a low wing, tricycle landing gear sports aerobatic airplane well suited and actually designed to
accommodate this engine. Resembles the Pulse series of airplanes from Hangar 9. This one
has flaps. I maidened the airplane and flew very well and the engine is a perfect match. The
10GX is the equivalent to a .46 glow engine or so. Uses a 20 to 1 oil gas mix. The airplane
comes ready for electric power also using a Power 46 motor. I am using an 8 channel receiver
to control all surfaces on their own independent channels including an electronic ignition kill
switch. Pretty cool model for some relax flying or some spirited sport fooling around!
The airplane sells for $230.00 and the engine for $200.00.
Link to the airplane: http://www.horizonhobby.com/horizon-hobby-sale-items/meridian-10cc-arf-han5015
Link to the engine: http://www.horizonhobby.com/product/airplanes/airplane-engines/airplane-engines-15042-1/10gx-10cc-%2860-cu-in%29-gas-engine-evoe10gx
Evolution 10 GX Gas Engine
Small Block Ignition Module is half the size
of regular ignition modules, hence fits in
smaller airplanes.
*IMPORTANT: For those interested, OS has come up with a 15cc size Gas engine that
uses a Glow Plug style plug. This means that there is no ignition module which reduces
weight and space needs. Enya engines was working on a similar concept a few years
ago but it required an additive to the gasoline used that was quite expensive and I have
not heard much about it being successful or not. I don’t know much about the OS
version but is worth watching to see how it works when it becomes available and
reviews are done. Maybe it will be another option to consider instead of glow engines
for the .46 to .55 size airplanes. I understand that is pretty pricey but you know how it
goes with new technology.
SAM’S NEW STEARMAN
Sam Goldfarb brought to the field his newly built and gorgeously painted foamy
Stearman Biplane. He chose the high power setup with the Firepower 15 Sport motor
running with a 3 cell LiPo. After some adjustments and trimming we got this baby flying
sweet. This is a nice flying Biplane and Sam’s is one of the best ones I have flown,
tracking very nicely. If you look in the cockpit, Snoopy is in command.
THE OMINUS QUADCOPTER:
Greg Koepke brought to the field his OMINUS
QUADCOPTER from Dromida, distributed by Tower Hobbies. Very stable and easy to fly.
Sells for $80.00 and comes with a LiPo battery and 2.4Ghz controller. You can get an SLT
frequency protocol version that can also bind to Tactic radios or any radio that supports SLT
protocol like the Hitec Aurora 9x Pro. If you get an SLT adapter, almost any radio can bind to
this quadcopter. Very durable quadcopter that is gaining popularity in many clubs for combat.
Link: http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXEMNP**&P=ML
Rumen brought to the field this Predator looking
electric airplane. The previous weekend he flew it and
JT as well and it was stalling all over with a less than
graceful landing that required some repairs. The
following weekend JT and Rumen worked further with
it and again it was just not wanting to fly any other way
but fast, otherwise would wing stall badly. On landing
approach it hit hard but did not sustain significant
damage. On the last flight, Rumen took off and again
was stalling all over but flying. Unfortunately I
accepted the offer of trying to fly it and in the passing of
the transmitter the airplane stalled and I could not
recover. The airplane was last seen residing in the
highest tree at the other side of the road. OUCH!!
JT also took the Solius
for a spin and liked it!
I had the honor of the maiden flight of Joe Gutilla’s
MULTIPLEX SOLIUS. This nice glider was perfectly set up by
Joe and when I flew it the trim process was very straight
forward. I was impressed by how well the recommended power
system (by Multiplex ) works. This glider just glides forever. It is
made from Elapor foam which is very nice looking. The way the
wings connect to the fuselage is very easy and the glider comes
together very nicely and strong. It is the smaller cousin of the
Cularis glider by Multiplex but I like it better.
Link: http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgibin/wti0001p?&I=LXDHYB&P=ML
Cost: $360.00
Wingspan: 2160mm
Colton Gibbs is showing us his Sukhoi.
Colton is our young RAMS pilot who loves 3D
flying. He is very new to RC flying but in this
short time has shown a lot of promise. Colton is
pretty much self-taught using a flight simulator
and a micro Champ 3 channel airplane. Then
he stepped up to a micro Extra with AS3X and
SAFE system. The Parkzone Sukhoi is the next
step where Colton will learn to handle a bigger
airplane including take off and landings. He still
will have AS3X and SAFE assistance but after a
while he will remove the receiver for one without
it and advance to unassisted flight. I
programmed and maidened this airplane for
Colton. I am getting him to fly it like the bigger
planes. JT and I will assist him in further
developing his flying skills and at some point he
will fly as 3D crazy as Joe Horvath. Nice bunch
of role models. Poor guy!!!
Mystique RES 2.9 m ARF
(EFL4915)
Gary with his Eflite Mystique from
Horizon Hobby. A composite
fuselage with built up balsa ply wings.
Carbon fiber wing tube. Rudder,
elevator and spoiler control. Optional
built as electric power or plain glider.
Gary opted for a powered system and
he opted for the alternate HobbyKing
motor and ESC components. JT
maidened the airplane and after
adjustments and trim, this bird flies
nice. It takes some use to but you
can really go and search some
thermals because it really wants to lift
up. The electric power system is
more than enough to get it high in a
hurry.
Sukhoi SU-29MM BNF Basic with
SAFE® Technology (PKZ8050)
Link:
http://www.horizonhobby.com/bind-n-fly/sukhoi-su-29mmbnf-basic-with-safe-reg%3B-technology-pkz8050
Wingspan: 44”
Cost: $230.00 for BNF.
Link:http://www.horizonhobby.com/product/airplan
es/airplanes-14501--1/almost-ready-to-fly/mystiqueres-29-m-arf-efl4915
Cost: $350.00 for ARF
GREG KOEPKE FPV MONITOR SUPPORT BRACKET
Leave it to “Gadget Man Greg” to find the weird stuff to bring to the field. Here he shows
another cool gadget. This one is a bracket mount where the radio goes and there is space to
mount the monitor for First Person View flying. The mount has space also for the video
receiver, antenna and Lipo battery. To me, looks like one of the “Transformers” from the movie.
John Dell’Arciprete is showing us his foam built WWI something airplane. John tells me that
he was looking for plans to build a foamy and his requirement was to find the boxiest airplane
he could get. He wasn’t sure what this was when I asked him. He had to add a lot of extra
weight to the nose for the right CG but when I saw it, after a couple of flights he got it flying
pretty nice. So, maybe when we see him on the next one he will know the name. I just know
that it looks good and shows very well in the air. Good job!!!
(By Dr. Joey)
Oh yes, we all have that day when we left that
tool or part or piece of equipment that we needed
to get flying and we don’t notice until we get to
the field. It means a 15 to 40 minute drive back
home and who wants that. Or even worse, you
don’t have that piece of equipment or tool and
have to buy it. That will put you out of flying for a
few days and is now that the weather is great and
you have the time. What about you are at the
field and everything is great but then the
propeller strikes the runway in that “less than
stellar” landing and you don’t have the right
replacement. What about needing hot glue, hot glue gun, foam safe CA and you don’t have it?
Sometimes you find that the set up you thought might work, doesn’t and now you need a thicker
pushrod or different bigger control horn. The beauty of our club is that we have a bunch of guys
that will do whatever it takes to help you out. It is great that our members will do their best to
get you going, fix your airplane, help you with the right tool or a part replacement or the right
glue so you can continue flying. We have that kind of people in our club and we are very
fortunate.
But there is the other side of this. What do we do for the
ones that lend a hand. Even though most of the club
members we have will do for you their very best to help
you on field repairs and replacing parts, you should do
your part. A big “thank you” for starts. But remember that
the propeller, CA glue, hot glue or else has a cost.
Sometimes just the offer of remuneration is OK but I find
that the best offer is to replace the item used so it is
available for the next time is needed. At least, this is the
way I prefer to deal with it. If I have a spark plug that will
get you flying today, just buy one when possible and
replace it for me so I can have it in my storage box at the
field for the next time I or someone else needs one.
Isn’t that a great way to keep the supply available? I just became
the middleman. The best part for me is the satisfaction of having
helped someone to be able to keep flying because after all,
that is in part, as a club, what we are all there for, to have
a good time together and help each other.
As for tools, the main rule for me is to ask first if you can borrow it.
Then make sure that any tool you ask for and use is quickly returned
exactly to the same place you took it from. There is nothing more frustrating and discourages a
friend pilot than not finding tools that someone else borrowed. The same applies when you
borrow electric starters and glow plug igniters. Use them but return them so the next time the
owner is going to start his airplane, he does not have to be searching where his starter or glow
plug igniter is. Do the effort to be polite and courteous with those who help you.
So, keep the helping hand. Let’s keep helping each other as we normally do but let’s not have
the oversight of making it uncomfortable and let’s make sure that we keep the process fair.
After all, having a helpful attitude is something we don’t want to be lost at RAMS. We excel at it!
I am really happy to show this progression. Sam showed us proudly his Bipe ready for
flight in November. Then he shows his Bipe gone back into “KIT FORM”. Now the Bipe
is back and looks great! Waiting for its re-maiden flight. A Masterful Reconstruction
Job indeed from the Master Itself!!
As part of our GOOD NEIGHBOR
POLICY we ask from all our pilots to
keep away from any farming crews
working out on the fields. Please, stay
away from flying over them or their
equipment. This is a must and our
friend (the farmer) has requested this
from us and appreciates our effort.
Cartoon: Peter Johnson, MD
Caption: Jose Armstrong, MD (Dr. Joey)
“Even Santa Is Catching
Up With This Drone
Package Delivery Thing”
Faszination Modellbau Friedrichshafen 2014:
This video is about the 2014 Toy exhibition in
Germany. Is all about everything models in
the RC world. Includes model trains, RC
cars, everything. Take a look.
Faszination Modellbau Friedrichshafen 2014
Link: http://youtu.be/PiNHiFitAmY
Really Nice Indoors RC Show.
Cool Video sent by Greg. A Must See:
http://vimeo.com/m/112495912
Flying at 100 kms per hour,
it can deliver a defibrillator
to a cardiac arrest patient
within a 12 km sq zone
within a minute increasing
the survival chance from
8% to 80%.
Watch: http://youtu.be/y-rEI4bezWc
Viking Model 12 280 BNF Basic by E-flite
Cost: $180.00
AS3X DSMX BNF Parkflyer Aerobatic and 3D airplane
modeled after the full scale Viking.
LOOKS PPRETTY COOL TO ME!
Link: http://www.horizonhobby.com/bind-n-fly/vikingmodel-12-280-bnf-efl6650
VIDEO: Viking Model 12 280 BNF Basic by E-flite http://youtu.be/iTHgD2yqWNI
VIDEO OF THE FULL SCALE VIKING: Very Cool - Jacob and the Viking - The man
and his machine in…: http://youtu.be/MAltbExvMQw
By: Rich Hanson - AMA Government and Regulatory Affairs
October 27… The FAA has issued three new Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs)
creating restrictions for the airspace surrounding major sporting events and the Disney
properties in Anaheim, CA and Kissimmee/Orlando, FL. The new flight restrictions
permanently prohibit the operation of radio control model aircraft at any time within 3 nm
(3.5 statute miles) of both the Disneyland and Disney World theme parks, and for a
period of 1 hr before and 1 hr after major sporting events.
The NOTAM/TFRs read in part… commencing one hour before the scheduled time of
the event until one hour after the end of the event. All aircraft operations; including
parachute jumping, unmanned aircraft and remote controlled aircraft, are prohibited
within a 3 nm radius from the surface up to and including 3,000’ above ground level of
any stadium having a seating capacity of 30,000 or more people where either a regular
or post season Major League Baseball, National Football League, or NCAA Division
One football game is occurring. This NOTAM also applies to NASCAR Sprint Cup, Indy
Car, and Champ series races excluding qualifying and pre-race events. Flights
conducted for operational purposes of any event, stadium or venue and broadcast
coverage for the broadcast rights holder are authorized with an approved airspace
waiver. An FAA airspace waiver does not relieve operators from obtaining all other
necessary authorizations and complying with all applicable federal aviation regulations.
The restrictions described above do not apply to those aircraft authorized by and in
contact with ATC for operational or safety of flight purposes, Department of Defense,
law enforcement, and air ambulance flight operations… Flights conducted for
operational purposes of any Disneyland event and venue are authorized with an
approved waiver.
Visit the AMA “FAA NOTAMs” page for more information…
http://www.modelaircraft.org/membership/clubs/notams.aspx
DID QUIQUE SOMENZINI LEFT HORIZON
HOBBIES? (Dr. Joey)
The short answer is yes. Why I am bringing this up?
A few months ago, a visitor to our field was
commenting about the service and the situation at
Horizon Hobby not being as good. I personally have not
paid too much attention except that I noticed that in the
past few big FunFlys like Joe Nall and E-Week the
presence of Horizon Hobby seems to be decreasing
or at least seems to be less. My assumption is that the
economy and hard competition from companies from
China and of HobbyKing in particular is causing financial wows to Horizon as well as
Tower Hobbies and others alike. Again, this is my assumption and I don’t know for sure
that this is the case. In 2013, I understand that Horizon went through a restructuring,
and yes, Quique Somenzini, probably one of the best RC pilots in history and the Father
of 3D flying stopped working for Horizon in October 2013. In a public letter, he stated
that he was taking a break and looking into new endeavors after four years with
Horizon. I believe also John Redman did quit Horizon. To me, Quique was one of their
best airplane designers and for four years put out some really cool airplanes under
Eflite. Parkzone and Hangar 9. I am aware that Quique has already produced new
airplanes under his name and under other distributors in Europe and recently here in
the US. It will be interesting to see how Horizon continues its evolution in this ever
changing and challenging market where the hobbyist RC dollar is demanding more at
reasonable prices. As for Quique, those of us that love his flying and his products we
hope to still see more of him in other ventures.
Quique Somenzini flying his 50cc Yak 54: http://youtu.be/yJBbcg7fpl0
On Sunday, November 16 2014, the RAMS
Club celebrated the most spectacular event
ever. The event brainchild of Joe Schodt, our
Safety Officer and based on a built concept from
Peter Johnson, the idea was to build a
completely functional and airworthy aircraft using
a PRINGLES Potato Chips can as the main
structural building block. Why would you say?
Why not?
So the creative spark got started and the
RAMS Research And Development Department Pilots started working on their different
concepts. From announcement of the event to the day of the event was about two and half
months and in that time I was given access to the ongoing build concepts, pictures, process and
ideas of some of our pilots. I even had the chance to participate on some of the flight tests. It
was evident that some were taking this very serious and the designs were not just flimsy
airplanes but serious aeronautical contenders worth of coming and watch. Rules were
established being the main rule that at least one PRINGLES can must be used complete. Other
cans could be used in the design in sections if needed. Points were awarded based on the
design, appearance and flying. Extra points were awarded if the airplane could either pull a
banner with the Raleigh AeroMasters name or carry an egg without breaking it. None of the
participants chose this last option. The entry fee was $1.00 and seven participants entered the
competition. The money collected would go to the winner plus a fabulous handmade
PRINGLES trophy made by Joe Schodt and of course bragging rights.
So yes, at other RC Clubs they fly turbine jets and 50 and
60% large scale airplanes and large scale helicopters and
warbirds but
and make it look good.
Pam Schodt made a very nice video montage of the
event. Take a look: http://youtu.be/YwwJkT2-L1s
Also, Sam Goldfarb did a fabulous video job of the
PRINGLES event and is all in the RAMS
FACEBOOK page. Raleigh Aeromasters
What happened the day of the event? By 1:00PM on Sunday, the skies were
cloudy and it was cold. Slowly pilots and spectators were showing up and placing their
priced builds on the tables in the shelter area. Everyone was curious and looking at
what others did. It was obvious that imagination went wild for the past few months since
the event was announced. The quality, ingenuity, concept, build, applications, use of
material and execution was amazing. The RAMS Research and Development
Department was in all its glory. By 2:00PM all participants were ready. The three
judges were selected and they, Gary, Charlie and Dr. Joey (me) were hard at work
organizing their paperwork. The Event Director / Master of Ceremonies (me again) got
on the “loudspeaker” and got everybody’s juices going and excited, got the airplanes
moved to the grass area for display to the judges and spectators. Once the points were
awarded for the static display by the judges, then the flight demonstrations started.
The PRINGLES CARRIER airplane built by Joe Schodt was just fabulous. This
airplane was powered by twin motors and had on the top wing a craddle with an
automatic release mechanism that releases The PRINGLES SOUR CREAM X1 flown
safely back to the ground by JT. It was astonishing the well coordinated flight by these
two pilots. On the right we have the Bat Plane by Terry Kinston. This machine looks
like just came out of a Batman movie. Fabulous!!
Terry Camilli produced one of the most amazing flying builds for the PRINGLES event.
He had Terry Kinston pilot this model and he flew this airplane beautifully with nice
smooth aerobatic rolls, loops and he greased a perfect landing. The pilot right in front
was a nice touch. Of course the TROUT by Peter Johnson was just astounding. The
amazing whimsical looks of this build had no equal. Think of it as a piñata on steroids
flying around. Peter gave me the honors of piloting the TROUT and when throttle was
given and this thing took to the air, everybody started laughing. This thing could not be
trimmed even if my life would depend on it so it was up and down and all over so I
literally flew it like a fish out of water. I guess I flew it scale! Lots of fun. By the way, I
was able to land it, WARBIRD style. Or I guess dead fish belly up style.
On later inspection, I found that the Trout’s head had a spring like effect the way it was
mounted so it was acting like a “springy rudder” in front. Basically the Trout had a mind
of its own. It was really funny!
Joe Schodt, one of the PRINGLES event originators with his airplane creation making the
statement “ WE DON’T JUST EAT’ EM, WE FLY’ EM”. The second picture shows Joe as a
very happy RAMS pilot like we all are. This is a VERY SATISFIED SAFETY OFFICER indeed!
On the picture on the right the Joe Schodt PRINGLES CARRIER airplane is coming for a
smooth landing.
Ahh! Here we have Dr. Peter, the builder of the PRINGLES TROUT. On the picture on the right
is JT’s creation, the PRINGLES STICKY RED TORTILLA FLAVOR PLANE. Sticky because
JT painted it just right before coming to the event and it was so cold that the paint did not have
chance to dry.
Now! When I say that at RAMS we take our events, competitions and piloting seriously, I MEAN
IT! Look at these three guys. On the left, Terry K is ready to pilot Terry C airplane he is holding
on the picture on the right. Look at the face of determination on doing a great job that Terry K
has. And of course, in the middle picture we see one of the PRINGLES event judges, Gary
Elliott. Nobody messes with that judge. No bribes possible. Pure integrity, no less!!
At the end of a great event and after having a great time. The Event Director / Cruise Director /
Master of Ceremonies (me) had the pleasure of presenting the winner of the event, Mike Lange,
with the PRINGLES MEDAL CAN CHAIN TROPHY and the collected sum of $7.00. He built
and flew the CAN-ard airplane. The finish, looks and design of this airplane was astounding.
Fabulous job Mike. Congratulations.
Left to right: Gary, Peter, Joe, JT, Terry K, Dr. Joey, Mike L, Terry C, Rumen
Mima Johnson is being shown the Stearman Biplane her husband, Richard, built in 1989 just
prior to the maiden flight these many years later. Peter Johnson's father built this giant
Stearman using balsa wood and Silkspan and had never been flown. With the family and
especially Peter's Mother in attendance, the airplane successfully took to the skies on Saturday
November 29, 2014 at 9:45AM for her to see. It was a powerful event for the Johnson’s family.
Preparations started some time
ago when Peter decided to retrofit
to flight condition the airplanes that
his father built but never flew. He
decided to convert them to electric
power to get them to fly and have
the family see them in the air,
especially his mother. Some of
them will be retired back to be
displayed as family heirlooms like
this Stearman.
In this picture we are inspecting the airplane and making adjustments while Carey (Peter’s
brother in law), Mike Lange, Dr Patrick and son Peter and John watch.
The Stearman was retrofitted with an electric power system by Peter under the advice
from Joe Schodt. There was plenty of power to fly this airplane on a 6 cell Lipo. JT was
instrumental in the decision making of the geometry and placement of the servo
linkages and servo function to improve on travel and strength from the original design to
increase the chances of surviving flight with good performance and his advice was right
to the point. Worked great! I was involved in the final preflight check, on the ground
trim and inspection. Every single eventuality I could think of was though in advance as
this maiden was somewhat different. The airplane is old, it has a heavy sentimental
value to a large number of family members that will be present when it takes off flies
and lands. NO PRESSURE – NO BIGGIE!! The steering wheel was not working
properly but in the good words of my Master Instructor (JT) – TAILWHEELS ARE
OVERRATED! Anyways, everything that could be fixed was fixed and everything that
could be centered was centered. A few things were warped by time and weather but
could not do much about it so just had to deal with it and compensate.
The Stearman was built from a Kit. We believe is a Sterling Kit but we are not sure. Ii is
close to 69 - 70 inches wingspan. Is a heavy airplane. The wood was dry and brittle as
well as the covering so we did not want to place too many G’s during flight or landing.
The CG was “guestimated” to my best assumption. On maiden takeoff, I rolled quickly
on the runway to lift the tail since I could not depend on the tail wheel for direction. I
took off and gained altitude quickly to go for trim flight. Did not take much adjustments
except for the rudder. This beauty does need to be flown primarily with rudder and
assisted with ailerons to fly properly and she quickly let me know that. I did some rolls
at Peter’s request and did it very axial. It had to be flown somewhat fast or would wing
stall and I could not let that happen with so many Johnson’s watching. The presence of
this airplane in the air is impressive. Then some low passes for the audience at a
reasonably slow speed and it was breathtaking. The landing approach was initially hot
and fast but once I was four feet altitude I let it glide still under power and finished the
touchdown at the end of the runway and into the grass nice and easy to bleed the
speed like a true Stearman. Then I remembered to start breathing again. That was a
very nice experience as I flew not just an airplane but a family heirloom. Pretty cool!!
There are more pictures and flight videos of this airplane in the RAMS Facebook Page.
As much as the internet has facilitated for us to get our RC goodies, there is no doubt
that for many of us there is still a FUN FACTOR of going to a Hobby Store. Especially
for us the old guys, this is the way it used to be. The RC community used to get
together at the Hobby Store. We would tell stories, meet pilots from our club and other
clubs and it was part of the sharing and having a great time. I miss those times. The
advent of the internet era has been very hard on the brick and mortar / Pop and Mom
Hobby Shop and even on the bigger outfits. Many have disappeared. Here in Raleigh,
some of our bigger Hobby Shops closed the doors years ago. Nevertheless, we still
have some Hobby Shops around, that cater to our needs and when we need that
propeller, airplane ARF / RTF or kit that we must have quickly, or that spare part to keep
us flying, they can do the job for us, most of the time. Here are some links to some
Hobby Shops in our area.
CAROLINA HOBBIES: http://www.carolinahobbies.net/ In Durham. Bill Wynn, one of our
club members is the owner (great guy) of Carolina Hobbies and he will help you to get what you
need. Bill has a good stock on building material and has been in the hobby for a long time so
tap into his experience for good info especially if you are getting started. He recently expanded
and upgraded his shop, so pay him a visit.
RALEIGH HOBBIES:
http://www.raleighhobby.com/
In Raleigh. Well stocked with lots of
electric parkflyer foamy airplanes and helis and abundant Horizon Hobby stock. Has model
Rockets and RC Cars also.
HOBBYTOWN USA:
http://www.hobbytown.com/Apex-NC/ Give them a visit in the Apex
area. It is a HobbyTown USA – I don’t need to say more. A little bit of everything RC!
THE ANTIQUE BARN: http://www.theantiquebarn.net/ Wilson, NC
ANDERSON RC:
http://www.andersonr-c.com/
In Thomasville, NC. A little bit of a
drive from us but it is a nicely well stocked, full service Hobby Store for the RC Pilot (airplanes,
helis, multirotors), RC Cars enthusiast, Model Rockets and more. Every part you can imagine.
Give them a call before you make the long drive though. Tons of everything RC.
TRESPASSING / VANDALISM REPORT
It is never pleasant to report these events.
Unfortunately a few times a year, every year we
have to deal with trespassers that come to party at
our field, drink beer, do drugs and other activities.
We often find beer cans, broken bottles and other
artifacts on the outfield and on the runway. Often
we get track marks of vehicles running or racing on
the grass or the runway. Such was the case again
in November. The runway did not suffer any major
effect from this and the recent repair was not
affected. This incident was reported by JT to the
Franklinton Sherif’s Department. This particular
incident happened from a Saturday to Sunday.
The Porta John was not damaged.
These incidents do happen with some regularity each year not only to us but also to the
farmer’s fields. Obviously, due to how open the entire area is, it is very difficult to
monitor activities even for the police. I have personally witnessed the police chasing
ATVs from our field and the farmer field just to lose them in the woods.
The most recent act of vandalism that we had was the weekend after Thanksgiving
where the lock to the storage shed was broken (again). Since we have learned from
previous experience, there was nothing too valuable inside except the gas grill and a
gas trimmer. Neither one was stolen. An old but still good canopy was stolen. On a
lighter note, I am sure everyone will be relieved to know that JT’s priceless, one of a
kind PRINGLES CAN airplane creation was NOT stolen. The lock has been replaced,
ready for the next vandal to go for it. Since these RAMS Updates and Newsletters are
posted on the website for public information, the combination to the lock will be given
upon request at the field and on the club meeting like on previous occasions when we
have changed locks.
Using
drones to harass hunters? You’ll have to stop starting Monday December 1st, 2014, as North
Carolina becomes the latest state to ban that activity as part of a new law regulating the use of
drones. The drone law is one of several that become effective Monday. Here’s a closer look at
eight areas where new laws must be obeyed.
Drones: Legislators picked up on reports of animal rights activists using drones to interfere with
or monitor wildlife hunting and followed the lead of states such as Illinois and Alabama that
have passed laws to combat drone operators crossing the line into hunter harassment. Violations
are misdemeanors.
Hunters can’t use drones, either. Another provision in the law bans drones for hunting and
fishing. Violators will be committing misdemeanors, unless the drone has a gun attached.
Possessing weapon-outfitted drones will be a felony. Other new drone regulations include a ban
on using a drone to willfully interfere with a manned aircraft’s takeoff, landing or flight – a
felony. In addition, it will be a misdemeanor to publish or disseminate invasive photos or video
captured without consent by way of infrared cameras attached to drones.
http://www.sigmfg.com/cgibin/dpsmart.exe/MainMenuFV5.html?E+Sig
SIG Manufacturing, the company that
many of us love for the Senior Kadet,
the Seniorita, the LT 40 and many other
great kits and ARFs that we have flown
for years have now become the
exclusive importer for SEAGULL MODELS in the U.S. and Canada. It is my understanding that
up to now it was Horizon Hobby but SIG will distribute this line and all sorts of models have
arrived in a new shipment from their Ultimate Biplane, civilian models to warbirds. I am also
aware that SIG has redesigned some of their line of airplanes and turned them from kits into
ARFs and also made them electric ready as well as glow power. They also have new models in
their own SIG line. Take a look and you may find something you like.
REMINDER TO OUR HELI PILOTS:
RAMS is an airplane club.
Some of our airplane pilots enjoy flying helicopters and multirotors. They are allowed to
do so when no airplane is in the air and must land as soon as an airplane is ready to go
up. And fly from the pilot stands please!
FLY FROM THE FLIGHT (PILOT) STATIONS:
A specific reminder that pilots must fly from the flight stations. This is for your safety.
This applies to any pilot, at any time flying any type of model. It is even more important
when a second pilot is ready for flight. Again, all pilots must fly from the flight stations.
If for any reason you must get an airplane in the air from the field or outside the flight
station, just make it back to the flight station but this action of walking while flying should
be avoided as possible, so get started from the flight station. Thanks guys for paying
attention to this small but important safety rule. The newer pilots may not be aware of
this basic safety requirement so the more experienced pilots may need to remind them.
One of the best things at RAMS is that all pilots are great guys and no one gets
offended when reminded about a safety rule. We are just that kind of group and quite
fortunate to be this way.
NOISE REGULATIONS AT RAMS AS PART OF OUR
“GOOD NEIGHBOR POLICY”:
At RAMS we take into high
consideration, the comfort of our neighbors. It is the right thing
to do and a must if we want to maintain a good relationship
with them. The survival of our field depends on it. One of the
main considerations is noise control. We abstain from flying
gas, glow engines or noisy electrics before 9:00AM or at
night. Any engine that is deemed too noisy may need
improved silencer system or may not be able to fly at RAMS.
Any engine that is a 50cc displacement or more must have a
CANISTER Muffler
canister muffler system, no exception. Any engine below a 50CC
displacement must use the best silencer system possible.
If deemed too loud, may require an improved silencer equipment
installed. DLE 35CC gas engines are too loud with the stock
muffler. You must use baffle inserts to silence the DLE 35cc
engines. The DLE 20cc is too loud with stock muffler. You
must use a baffle silencer. See the RAMS February 2014
Newsletter for the information about baffle silencer
BAFFLE SILENCER INSERT
inserts. You can check past newsletters at the RAMS Website.
GET ON THE FLIGHT PATTERN:
When a second airplane goes in the air, both pilots
should enter a flight pattern. The flight pattern is
nothing more than pilots agreeing on a general
direction of flight to reduce the chance of two
airplanes colliding because flying into each other
because of going in opposite directions. Usually, the
flight pattern is determined by the wind direction. If
the wind is coming from a north direction, airplanes
will take off and land from right to left on our runway.
So the flight pattern is for airplanes to fly from right to left over the runway. Sometimes with
crosswinds you may not be sure what the flight pattern is, just ask the pilot already in the air.
We are asking to the experienced pilots to help the new pilots with understanding this basic
concept for safety. Avoid flying figure eights with returns over the runway when a second
airplane takes off. That places you half the time flying against the flight pattern. Avoid 3D
maneuvers (flip flopping) over the runway when other airplanes are flying. Do it over the grass
field. If you are the only one flying, have at it and do all the flight maneuvers you want. But
observe and return to a flight pattern when a second airplane takes off, especially if it is a new
pilot with less experience. Keep it safe. Thanks guys!
How can I join The RAMS Club?
NOTICE: RAMS club membership is limited to 50 pilots per year.
We enjoy new pilots that come to be an active part of our club community. We welcome new
pilots coming with an attitude of learning, having fun, keeping things safe and have a family
oriented behavior. We want pilots that will do their very best to keep a good neighbor relation
by following our flying hours and noise restrictions. *RAMS Club membership is not
automatic. New applicants are voted in for final membership after an initial period of usually
4 to 6 weeks. Yearly membership renewals are not automatic or guaranteed. The member
must maintain good standing, active involvement with the club, follow the club and AMA safety
rules and maintain a proper family oriented and safe conduct. New applicants must submit a
form that can be obtained from the club website (www.ramsrc.com) or at the club meetings.
The form must be filled entirely and legibly. The signed form with the appropriate fees must be
mailed or handed to the club treasurer, Larry McMillen. New applicants will include a one-time
$50.00 initial runway fee together with the appropriate membership fee. New membership is
prorated by year quarters. (1st quarter - $100.00, 2nd quarter - $75.00, 3rd quarter - $50.00 and
4th quarter - $25.00). The initiation fee is not prorated. So, if you apply in May, the total fee is
$50 + $75.00 (2nd quarter) = $125.00. New member applications submitted in December are
$150.00 and counts for the incoming year.
The membership application form contains all the details about fees and the application
process. All applicants and membership renewals must have an up to date AMA registration.
Any potential club member that flies at the RAMS field must apply for membership no later than
4 weeks since they began flying at our facility. If guests or family are going to be flying with
some regularity, they must apply for membership within four weeks of their first time
flying.
New applicants must spend time at the field to get to know the club members and club
officers once they apply and before the next club meeting. This is to allow an opportunity
for you to find out if our club meets your needs and to assess that the potential member is a
good fit to our club family oriented and safety conducts. At the end of the monthly club meeting
the club officers discuss your application and vote. *If a new applicant is denied final
membership, we will return any paid application fees.
Guests and new applicants are welcomed to fly at RAMS as long as they fly with a RAMS
club member and must have an AMA registration up to date.
All applicants, once they have submitted the membership form, will receive a welcome e-mail
with further instructions about the application process and the basic rules at RAMS. A response
to this welcome e-mail is used to verify that we have the correct contact e-mail address.
So, that’s it. Once you become a full member, you may vote on meetings and may enjoy safe
fun flying with a bunch of friendly RAMS Pilots. Students and family members do not have
voting right.
IMPORTANT: Please inquire if there are member positions available at RAMS. If there are
no positions available, you can choose being placed on a waiting list. Being on a waiting list
does not imply flying privileges at RAMS of any kind. Once we are done with the
membership renewal process between November and December, we will let you know if a
membership position is available by mid January. If you inquire for available positions but do
not submit an application for membership with the appropriate fee, an open position will not be
held for you and you may end on a waiting list. The only way to assure, hold and get started
with the application process for membership for an open position is to proceed and
apply by presenting an application form and application fee.
Be aware that there are other RC clubs close to our area with whom we have a great relation
and friendship. If RAMS membership positions are full for the year, you may want to access the
Academy of Model Aeronautics website and under search clubs, you may enter your zip code
for RC flying clubs close to your area.
The Raleigh Durham Radio Control Club (RDRC):
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CB8QFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fw
ww.rd-rc.org%2F&ei=BAC8U4bQLK-vsQS38oGgBA&usg=AFQjCNHOQu5oECEoAQya_FoS06jvSbTtoQ&sig2=GVvHqFm6TaY_5D_YsckwA&bvm=bv.70138588,d.cWc
The PILOT Club: http://www.dualrates.com/pls/apex/f?p=RC:INFO:0::::P3_ID:4190#R2482471252304404580
Other RC Clubs in the Area: http://ramsrc.com/links.php#AreaClubs
SAFETY REMINDERS: In order to keep our club activities as safe as possible we ask
pilots to follow a few basic rules. We want to keep it safe for person and property. RAMS
Safety rules as well as AMA Safety Code are to be followed. If you don’t agree with these rules,
RAMS may not be the right club for you. Get on a flight pattern: We ask pilots that when a
second airplane goes in flight, to enter into an agreed flight pattern to reduce the chance of
midair collisions. If you do 3D or aerobatics, do them over the grass area of the outfield away
from the flight path over the runway. Once you complete your maneuver, enter the pattern. If
you are not sure what the flight pattern is, just ask. There is no problem with asking especially if
you are new to the club or the RC Hobby. We ask the more experienced pilots to help the
newer ones understand this concept of flight pattern. Example: When a second airplane goes
in the air, avoid flying figure eights over the runway as it will place you half the time flying
against the flight path.
Fly from the pilot stands: For safety of the pilots and property, please fly from the pilot stands.
This includes our heli pilots. For safety reasons we must insist to have pilots flying from the
stands. Do not allow your heli or airplane fly too close to other pilots or yourself. We have a
limit of 4 pilots flying at the same time. This keeps the airspace from getting too crowded and
reduces the risk of midair collisions. If you are the fifth pilot, just wait until someone
lands. Those flying gas or nitro engines, engines must be started on the pilot side of the
fence. Do not start them on the parking lot even for testing or adjustments. When placing or
retrieving an airplane on the runway, call loudly for the runway so everyone else knows where
you are. If you must retrieve an airplane on the field, announce when you are crossing the
runway. If you need to make adjustments on your aircraft, do not leave it on the runway. Taxi
to the pilot stand area and do whatever adjustments you must. On takeoff and landing,
announce loudly what you are doing to make sure other pilots are aware. If your airplane goes
“motor deadstick” or you are running out of battery power, announce it loudly and you will have
landing priority. DO NOT FLY behind the flight line. Do not taxi airplanes in the pits area
especially if facing towards the parking / shelter area. Please make sure that all your
FAILSAFE settings in your receiver are established properly, especially the throttle to come to
idle or cut off. Please observe the NO SMOKING regulation. We have an increased number of
glow and gas models as well as gas generators. If you must smoke at the field, there is a
designated area on the south end of the parking.
So, in general, all of the above means, that we need to get used to keep our safety routines at
all times. We need to make sure we all keep awareness of what other pilots are doing and
where everyone is, when flying. These precautions will help to keep things safer for pilots and
property. If you see unsafe behavior, just politely let the pilot know. One of the many good
things in our club is that everyone is friendly and receptive to be made aware if an unsafe
behavior for the sake of safety. In case that does not work, let the Safety Officer (Joe Schodt)
know or an available club officer.
I hope you enjoyed this month’s newsletter!! It is my pleasure to put it together for you guys.
Many thanks to Rich, Greg, Sam, Ben and Peter for contributions to this month’s newsletter.
And of course thanks to anyone else that sent me material for the newsletter and I forgot to
mention your name.
Remember that all the opinions and information in the RAMS newsletters are for entertainment purposes
only. Double and triple check for safety when you try some of the things discussed in these newsletters as
the information may not be a 100% accurate all the time.
Don’t kill the messenger and don’t take it too seriously and just have safe fun flying!!
Dr. Joey
RAMS Secretary
Copyright jlarams2014