Glider XL - Adjustable balancing

Hello everyone !!! I am happy to present my latest V2 glider model. After several weeks of development (including breakages and failures…), I have finally achieved the desired result: An easy-to-print, simple-to-assemble, and above all, efficient-in-flight glider

I completely revised my design after Version 1 was too complex to adjust and fly. I redesigned all the parts to make it more accessible and took the opportunity to improve its flight performance

This glider consists of different assemblies interlocked on the main chassis and secured with filament pieces: The tail and wings, while the nose is fixed with a rubber band. The use of PLA Basic is highly recommended. (Avoid PLA Silk, which is too brittle). The wings, too long to be made in one piece, are composed of two fitted and glued parts. The empennage is also glued to the tail. I chose this type of assembly after several breakages during my tests (I had to reprint the entire plane for one broken wing…). In addition, this system allows you to disassemble your glider for easy transport and also to have spare parts for your outings (mainly wings: impacts with trees)

The front part is modular, consisting of a stack of spacers and washers fixed to the chassis with a rubber band to perfectly balance the plane without having to disassemble it. This allows you to understand the basics of free flight and physics while keeping the glider perfectly balanced. This assembly also helps to slightly weigh down the nose when the wind picks up

To help you with this important step, you can print the balancing stand. Notches are provided in the wings for optimal positioning. I also included a small fixture to glue to the top of the chassis; it allows you to hang it (for decoration or storage), is placed at the center of gravity, and also allows for balancing with a simple piece of string. (Ideal for quick balancing in the middle of a field)

As usual, you will find all assembly steps in a detailed assembly instruction manual

You will need a tube of glue and a rubber band for assembly

The dimensions of this glider (800mm wingspan) and its flight capabilities exclude all indoor use (unless you live in a gymnasium). Also avoid cluttered areas. The plane is relatively solid for a PLA print; I have never broken one on the ground during landings (despite launches by young children), but I have broken about fifteen on trees, cars (mine), or a trampoline…

Have fun !!!

The profile for A1 mini is now available !!!

Find a mini version of the propeller glider for indoor use: https://makerworld.com/fr/models/2337594-mini-glider-with-propeller-funny-glider#profileId-2556129