A 3D printed CG scale

A modern way of measuring CG has been long overdue! Like many modellers, I have used a pair of simple balancing arms to check the CG. The model must be carefully positioned each time, which can rapidly get tiresome.

CG Scale is a much better solution. It's a combined weight/CG scale using two load sensors, some electronics and various 3D printed parts. The model always remains in a fixed position - no need to move it around while you're playing with weights.

In this post I describe the device, and how I built my own unit.

A 3D-printed case for the RX6R

FrSky's latest RX6R receiver is tiny, and offers excellent range. It sounds perfect for F3F, but there's a problem: it comes with a cardboard wrapper instead of a hard case. Maybe okay for a foamie, but not for models like my Stribog.

Ahi 1.0: an OpenTx template for aerobatic slopers

I've just added a new setup to my library of soaring templates. It's for 4-channel aerobatic slope soarers like the Ahi, Phase 6, Voltij etc.

Frsky RX6R - a tiny full range 6CH receiver

The FrSky RX6R sounds like the answer to a lot of pilots' prayers - a receiver small enough to fit in a Pitbull or Stribog without looking as if it's been jammed in with a hammer! What's more, the RX6R is claimed to offer 40% more range than X-series receivers. Sounds too good to be true? Let's find out... [note: updated 18 Oct 2018]

Adaptable ballast spreadsheets, using array formulae

F3X pilots love ballast! However, ballast arrangements seem to get ever more complicated. Many F3F models have multiple pockets for wing ballast, optional joiner ballast, and choice of carbon or steel joiner. The problem is knowing how to distribute the ballast so as to minimise the impact on CG.

Photo magic at the Welsh Open

Here's a publicity shot by MKS, using two of my images. It shows Joel West winning the recent Welsh Open. I think their graphic designer has done a rather nice job!

A One Minute Guide to F3F

F3F is the Formula 1 of slope soaring, but you don't need a Ferrari to compete - just a moulded glider, a transmitter... and a liking for ripping up the slope!