I
ntroduction
The Lite Machines
Model 110
ä
helicopter is the first mass-produced radio controlled
micro helicopter in the world. It is intended as an introductory helicopter for those
modelers intrigued by helicopters and helicopter flight, but unable to justify the
significant investment in time and money required for traditional helicopter models.
The
Model 110
can withstand tip-overs and minor crashes with little or no damage.
Many flight skills such as basic hovering, nose-in hovering, low speed maneuvering,
forward and backward flight, and pirouettes can be mastered without busting the
family budget with a larger, more complex machine.
The
Model 110
utilizes advanced aerodynamics that enable it to fly on 1/10th of a
horsepower which is roughly the power consumed by a 75 watt light bulb. In comparison,
.30 to .60 size model helicopters use one to two horsepower (10 to 20 times more).
The fixed-pitch main rotor of the
Model 110
helicopter combines
Subrotor
ä
technology and free-flapping, foldable rotor blades in a rugged, high lift rotor system
with fewer than half the number of parts found in collective-pitch helicopters. Main
rotor lift is controlled by changing the rotational speed of the main rotor rather than
varying the pitch of the individual rotor blades (such as with “collective-pitch” type
main rotor systems). Fixed-pitch main rotors are substantially simpler than
collective-pitch systems and are ideal for beginners. Collective-pitch main rotors
allow for advanced aerobatics and engine-off autorotation maneuvers that are
typically flown by more experienced pilots.
The tail rotor mechanism of the
Model 110
helicopter incorporates a light-weight
Arlton Gyro
ä
stabilizer which eliminates the need for an expensive electronic gyro
and extra capacity receiver batteries. The unique central keel fuselage structure is
simple, strong and easy to assemble and repair - a far cry from the fragile
construction of many electric helicopters.
Designed on modern computer-aided design (CAD) systems and computer-aided
manufacturing (CAM) systems, the structure of the
Model 110
helicopter
incorporates eight types of engineering plastics, four aluminum alloys, several high
strength steels, aircraft plywood and multiple protective surface coatings.
Although beginners can successfully build and fly their
Model 110
, the process can
be made significantly easier with the help of an experienced modeler and instructor
pilot. Lite Machines recommends that all beginners join the Academy of Model
Aeronautics (AMA). The AMA is a non-profit organization that provides services for
modelers. The AMA can help you locate a model aircraft club in your area with an
instructor pilot (you can also check with your local hobby shop). Membership benefits
include a monthly magazine and liability insurance. Many flying clubs require an AMA
modeler’s license to operate a model on their flying field. For information on the AMA
call (765) 287-1256, or write to:
Academy of Model Aeronautics
5151 East Memorial Drive
Muncie, IN 47302
Construction Manual
Introduction
LITE MACHINES
1-1