Gyroplane Rotor Head

thingiverse

I used to fly and instruct in gyrogliders, which are essentially gyroplanes towed behind a car. As an instructor, I consistently found it challenging to teach rotor craft theory because it's quite abstract. To overcome this obstacle, I fashioned a primitive model gyro using rivets, balsa wood, glue, and washers, and surprisingly, it worked well enough. However, I've finally gotten around to creating a system that utilizes my 3D printer, which I plan to use with my science students. I have also developed a rotor profile sanding block from an N8H12 profile, allowing you to sand the rotors into a consistent shape. In your science classes, you can attach different lengths of rotors (sanded out of balsa wood), varying chords (widths), and profiles I've taken from proper autogyro designs. I will eventually add a rotor hub design that can alter pitch as well. When using this model for teaching purposes, I recommend choosing windy conditions, wearing eyeglasses, and measuring lift with spring scales. The head is designed to slide over a wooden dowel, which I'm currently gluing in place. I've created the shaft to fit the inside diameter of most fidget spinner bearings, so you may need a light sanding to achieve a snug fit. I printed the shaft as a temporary solution using ABS, and while it works, you'd likely be better off with a bolt; however, you'll need to drill a hole in the end. This model functions remarkably well in breezes above 8 mph and can produce over a kilogram of lift, occasionally reaching almost two kilograms. To get them spinning in moderate winds, give the gyrogliders a good flick, then hold them at a 90-degree angle to the wind direction. In really strong winds, tilt them forward at a shallow angle until they pick up speed, and then tilt them back into the wind.