Podcast: Designing Airplanes with Nerdnic!

This week on the Flite Test Podcast, James sits down with Nic Lechner to discuss Nic's design process for his airplanes. 

Nic 'Nerdnic' Lechner found popularity here on flitetest.com back in 2015 with his sleek and streamlined RC airplane designs that could hit the 120mph mark - did I mention these were made from foam board? Nic is all about pushing the limits of foam. Here's the podcast I recorded with Nic just before Christmas. I think you're going to enjoy it. 

Nic's Design Process

Lucky for you, Nic has produced a six-part design series on his YouTube channel that teaches you how to design with CAD software. He uses Adobe Illustrator. There are also free download templates and components you can import into the software to create your own airplanes. 

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6 

Massive Corsair at Flite Fest 

As discussed on the podcast, Nic took a new project along to Flite Fest Texas late last year. This was a huge 2000mm version of his smaller warbird design of the Vought Corsair. 

Nic has been working on this beast for around two years, off and on. "It took me probably about 15-20 hours all up if I added up all the time". Here is a video of the smaller version

It's safe to say that it flew magnificently. It made our #1 spot on the Flite Test Top Community Builds of 2018, and rightfully so.

Here's a video of the 2m wingspan plane being pushed around by 20mph winds. Props to Nic for flying it in these conditions and pulling off a successful maiden flight!

Rascal CNC

The Rascal CNC machine is a community collaboration to create a machine that cuts foam for under $500. This is far less expensive than your average industrial laser cutter (that we use to cut our Flite Test DIY airplane kits). 

According to Nic, no previous experience required. 

For more information, you can become part of this group and follow this thread on the Flite Test forum. 

• FACEBOOK GROUP | CLICK HERE
• FLITE TEST FORUM | CLICK HERE

Check Out Nic's Work

Download all of Nerdnic's airplane designs of his website, www.nerdnic.com

Watch videos of his planes on YouTube

Follow progress on the Raskel CNC Machine

Article by James Whomsley

Editor of FliteTest.com

Contact: james@flitetest.com

YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/projectairaviation