Most people dont realize that the shape of this wing is not for style, but for aerodynamic function. Dave Thornburg, the designer, wanted to eliminate the washout (downward twist at the tips) without making the wing tipstall. This wing is built flat but the enlarged sections near the tips add lift where needed to prevent tip stalls. The premise is that since the inner and outer portions of the wing are not 'fighting' eachother, it will be more efficient in flight.
Almost no other sailplane as recognizable as BOT! I have a signed copy of Mr. Thornburds book Old Buzzard. In the book he described his theory of the ultimate RC sailplane. Some of which he attempted to build into the BOT. Things like in flight movable CG, an easily movable tow hook, the famous, functional and beautiful outer panel wing design. I think i remember he disliked balanced control surfaces and it seems there were a few other things not coming to mind. I helped a buddy incorporate the in flight movable CG into his full size BOT and the idea proved successful in everyway! John your mini BOT was pure pleasure to watch! She really can move when asked to, very nimble, and very elegant! Thanks for sharing with us, it truely is a hilight in my day to have coffee and watch a new episode of you doing your thing!!! Thanks again!
Such a beautiful steady little glider. It's not until you catch it half way through the video and then again at the end that you remember just how small it is. Expert flying and wonderful camera work against that stormy copper sky. Thanks J & C and WW (Woodfield's Wings)
John, that is one of my all-time favorite birds .. all in yellow WoW! Very stable bird .. thanks for doing this one mini!!! Awesome. Ed in Phoenix writes
Beautiful model - but small. To keep in focus and "filling the frame" - well the lady gets lots of practice but even so there are two gifted people here.
Beautiful sailplane, beautiful scenery, and beautiful music. I love watching your videos. I don’t share your love of transparent coverings. How about some vintage designs covered in translucent silkspan, or some other fabric? And some modern designs with opaque covering. The original Bird of Time had a really lovely color scheme. Keep up the good work. Don’t fall off the hillside.
Beautiful! I saw Josh’s video about the gentle lady and the bird of time mini’s. I’ve built a full size gentle lady, would like to build this little bird of time
I have the LSF Mini BoT with 78” wingspan still in the box. Just purchased the JH Industries BoT. How is this to build? Looks like it’s a beautiful flier.
Once again you have inspired me Sir John. Josh sent me a mini BOT a few months ago and your fine video has provided me motivation to get the pins and glue out this week! Your model flew a little faster than I expected. Was it very windy that day? Also did you use the larger rudder option? As usual, an inspiring, well flown, nicely fixed production. Many thanks!
