Mastering the Art of Professional Paper Airplane Building
Creating a professional paper airplane is not just a fun pastime; it can also earn you recognition and even money in specialized competitions. This guide will walk you through the steps and provide insights from a professional paper airplane builder, including the tools and techniques used to enhance performance.
Defining Professionalism in Paper Airplane Building
When someone pays you to make a paper airplane, you are considered a professional. However, it's important to note that being a professional doesn't mean you can't participate in amateur or casual events. In fact, there are competitions where you can enter and even win monetary awards. Whether you win a cent or a dollar, you will be considered a professional paper airplane builder. This recognition comes with the responsibility of adhering to the rules of competition to maintain the integrity of the event.
Materials and Techniques for Enhanced Stiffness and Security
Professional builders often use high-strength materials and advanced techniques to create paper airplanes that perform exceptionally well. One of the key materials is super-glue, which is used in critical folds to enhance stiffness and security. Super-glue can be a game-changer for folding techniques, providing stability and reducing the risk of tears or misalignments.
Dr. Scott Parkin, a renowned paper airplane builder, suggests using super-glue in critical folds. While it may be illegal in some competitions, as in the case of the International Paper-plane rules, it can yield incredible results. The technique effectively 'dopes' the paper, similar to how actual aircraft used fabric stiffeners a century ago to enhance their performance.
Creating an Aerodynamic Airfoil
Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the performance of a paper airplane. One of the key elements is creating an airfoil shape in the wing, which helps to create lift and reduce drag. To achieve this, you need to experiment with different folds and shapes. Overlapping triangles towards the front edge of the wing can create a more efficient airfoil. Adding an over-flap that 'points' forward and is tucked-in along the spine of the body's keel can also improve the airflow over the wing.
Focus on distributing the paper's weight correctly for optimal performance. Dr. Scott recommends having at least 60% of the paper's weight 'up front' and 30% below the wing. This balance is crucial for achieving longer flight times and better overall performance.
Creative Design and Experimentation
Professional paper airplane builders often push the boundaries of traditional designs. Experimenting with different shapes and configurations can lead to innovative and high-performing designs. Some builders have created 'mid-wing' and 'bi or tri-plane' designs using super-glue to enhance stiffness and bonding. While these designs may be considered 'cheating' under the strict rules of some competitions, they can yield extraordinary results.
Dr. Scott remembers creating a 'blunt Delta' with a central upright tail, which is an excellent design for most purposes. This design offers a good balance of stability and maneuverability.
Record-Breaking Performances
One of the most remarkable flights Dr. Scott has achieved was during a visit to King's Dominion. He made a paper airplane that flew for 26 seconds indoors in a 3-story-high shop and over 5 minutes when launched from their 1/3-scale Eiffel Tower. Unfortunately, the plane crashed into a water works pond, bringing an end to its record-breaking flight.
These achievements demonstrate the potential of professional paper airplane building and the thrill of pushing the boundaries of traditional designs.
Conclusion
By mastering the techniques of super-glue usage, aerodynamic design, and creative experimentation, you can build professional paper airplanes that perform exceptionally well and may even help you win recognition in competitions. Remember to adhere to the rules of the specific competition you are entering, but don't be afraid to innovate and push the limits of conventional paper airplane design.