1910 Henri Farman
The 1910 Henri Farman is a radio control scale gas model powered by an Enya .45 engine.
Quote: "Transparent wings extend 47 inches to gently lift this delicate antique bird into the air, propelled by an Enya .45 cleverly concealed in the nose."
As Indian Summer gives way to winter, it signals time to return to the workbench. In search of a captivating project for the colder months, the builder discovered a layout of the 1910 Henri Farman in the reference file. It immediately captured interest with its classic stick and tissue design, reminiscent of the models built over two decades ago.
This peanut-sized drawing inspired the builder to envision a 2-inch scale Stand-off R/C model, which would have been an impractical subject in the past. Back when single-tube radio systems and limited experience prevailed, such a project would have remained a mere dream. However, advancements in technology and reliable systems now allow for successful flights of almost any design. The builder views this historic aircraft as neither poor nor uninspired; instead, it features clean lines, an interesting planform, and an overall nostalgic appearance.
Structurally, the model presents an uncomplicated build due to its predominantly square lines, except for perhaps the trailing edge. Nevertheless, it has its challenges—the short nose moment necessitates careful construction in the tail section to achieve proper balance. Some weight will need to be added at the engine location to attain the required center of gravity.
The aircraft’s outline closely resembles the true scale, with only essential internal adjustments made to ensure a stable design. As with any intricate model, meticulous building will yield rewarding results at the flying field. Selecting materials for optimal strength-to-weight ratio is crucial.
For historical context, this aircraft was designed and built by Henri Farman in 1910 in France. It was powered by a seven-cylinder Gnome engine mounted at the front of the propeller.
The original wingspan measured 23.5 feet, with a chord of 6.5 feet, and the ailerons were positioned at the rear tips of the wings. The fuselage took on a triangular shape, with the tail affixed to the triangular fin of the fuselage. The total weight was 661 pounds, including the pilot, and it stretched 26 feet in length. Features included spoked wheels for the forward gear and a rear skid. The propeller was a two-bladed Chauviere tractor, providing propulsion at an unknown airspeed. Steering was managed by an elevator at the rear and a rudder positioned above the aft surface. A noteworthy aspect of its design was the main plane placement alongside the early incorporation of ailerons.
Model Construction
Before embarking on this project, careful consideration must be given to the type of R/C equipment to be utilized. Sufficient space in the dummy gas tanks must be allocated to accommodate all R/C components, including a six-ounce clunk-type tank. Once everything is installed, no visible means of control will remain, likely leading to a multitude of inquiries regarding the equipment and how it operates.
