Kestrel - 3D Printed RC EDF VTOL Jet
Building a Plane Around 3 Nacelles
Using the 3 nacelle configuration from the VTB, Kestrel was designed to test the concept on a fully featured aircraft fit with control surfaces, landing gear, and efficient ducting
The power system and nacelle placement was carried over from the VTB and a full fuselage and wings were added to create a complete aircraft
The design translated very well from the CAD model to the 3d printed prototype
The structure was printed using ColorFabb’s LightWeight PLA and reinforced with carbon fiber tubes throughout the fuselage and wings
Kestrel is a fully fitted model complete with retractable landing gear, articulating gear doors, a V-tail, ailerons, and flaps, as well as the 3 EDF powered nacelles with 120 degrees of rotational travel provided by a high torque servo and a push-pull rod system for each nacelle.
While heavier than anticipated, the strength and overall quality of the completed model was exceptional.
Flight Test Videos
Without the wings attached Kestrel was able to hover and be controlled on all axis
With the increased mass and rotational inertia imparted by the addition of the wings, the thrust to weight ratio decreased and roll control authority was greatly compromised