Dave G
Posts: 251
Joined: 10/21/2002
From: St Augustine, FL, USA
Status: offline
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Never let it be said that I can't be corrected. The comments that I made on how I chose this plan to work from was addressed by by Jerry in an email to me and I'd like to take time to set the record straight. Jerry has taken his valuable time to set the record straight for all of us who don't have an idea of what it takes to produce "scale" plans. Below is most of the email from him. I never knew it involved this much work just for the paper I've almost taken for granted for so long. Thanks Jerry.
Dave,
I don't mean to be a hard-nose about stuff like this but it is an issue that I am very sensitive about. Mr. "X's" approach is to develop a model that is easy to build, flies very well, and looks very close to the full scale aircraft. He normally selects a 3-view that 'looks right', then uses it for the basis of his model. His model designs are beyond reproach in our Hobby/Sport. I can only dream about having the success, accomplishments and respect that he has won and deserves.
My philosophy is to develop a model that first, has "exact scale" outline. The construction is based on a time proven one that virtually guarantees a true and straight airframe. It does not depend on the workmanship accomplishments of the individual builder to produce a warp-free model. Minor compromises of the full-scale aerodynamics are often made to extend the "flight envelope" (primarily increase the time between stall approach and full stall) that will produce a model with good flight characteristics.
After deciding on an aircraft to model, I collect all the 3-views and factory drawings available for a subject. I will also collect all model plans of the subject near the scale and size of those I intend to produce. I then photograph and field measure all the full size aircraft I can find. I purchase every book I can find on the subject and study the design, construction, development and service history of the subject. I often interview pilots of the subject and obtain all Flight Manuals, Erection Manuals, and Service Manuals for the subject. This process alone may take as many a 8 years (as it has for my latest subject, the Lockheed Hudson and Ventura). At this point, I will draw a definitive 3-view of the subject, if one does not exist. This must be published before it can be officially used in documentation for judging the model.
Now, design of the model can begin. Often the initial drawings are done full size, at 1 to 1 scale, so field collected dimensions can be added to the drawings without the need of rounding off a multiplier to meet the drawing scale. This help increase accuracy by eliminating mathematical errors during this stage. The object is to produce a "very scale" model that utilizes the fewest amount of parts and simplest means of construction. The primary goal is to produce a very rigid and light weight airframe.
During this time retracts must be developed for the model. I will work with Darrel Tenny, Century Jet and Robart to see that they have all the data to produce a set of scale-like retracts that will replicate the full size version and fit into my plan design. Compromises must be dealt with for retract design as well. All of these manufacturers are capable of building retracts that a virtual miniature duplicates of the full size products. In many cases, this level of scale detail, the price will put the retracts out of reach of all but a very few modelers. The basic product must duplicate the action of the full scale units but the majority of scale detail must be omitted in order to market to the majority. A scale modeler will find it very easy to add the level of detail required for the intended competition class to which they are building.
With airframe design complete, files are developed for use in laser cutting a proof-build prototype model. The prototype
model is used to ensure fit and finish of all cut parts. The model is completed to the point were models can be taken of the cowl, canopy, etc. These parts are developed into production tooling and sent to the fabricators. The model is then flown to proof the flight characteristics.
A construction manual must be written that includes subject history, model construction, finishing, painting, flying, and scale drawings. Then we are ready to market the plans and accessories.
As you can see, there is a lot of time and expense involved in producing a "true scale" plan and accessories. No matter how scale a competition model is, or is not, it will be scored against the documentation provided to the judges. Theoretically, you can build the most not-to-scale P-51 known to man, and still win first place if your model matches the 3-view and other documentation provided the judges. My goal is the raise the bar in providing a model that, in fact, matches the outline of the full scale subject, and if necessary, providing the scale drawings that can be used to judge your model.
Perhaps the Bearcat you saw was highly modified by a very accomplished modeler to produce a more scale outline.
Thank you for your time and allowing me to explain my positions on how scale my plans are with regard to other subject plans on the market.
Jerry Bates
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"Bearcat" Dave
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Jerry Bates Bearcat - 
What a fabulous thread most Dave G!!! - 
: 
Kindest Regards,
