Potez 540 "Ornithopter" (DUNE)

[killnoizer]

I've grabbed this 1967 made Heller Kit out of my stash and build a DUNE STYLE ORNITHOPTER .

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These old kits are mostly not so easy in their construction and a lot of small difficult details are given to the builder. So this was the first time that i realy need to read the Manual 😂.

[zenrat]

I've got one of these.
Will the wings actually flap?

Looking forward to seeing this one.

[killnoizer]

The wings are made from the original parts, with a piece of sprue at one end to fix them into the fuselage.

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This ornithoper is the "4981 Potez mk.3 version, working with 5 biometric wing pairs in a main and front position. 

[frank2056]

This looks like a great idea! There was a French orinthopter built: The Riout 102T Alérion It never flew.

[Mossie]

Something about ornithooters I like. The Potez has a vaguely insectile look that suits a Dune machine.

As does that Riout, especially with the wings uncovered. Would an insect based machine be a pterygothopter?

[Andrew Gorman]

Neat idea and a neat French Ornithopter! those Heller kits are pretty fiddly to put together.

[kerick]

If I remember correctly, the French machine kept breaking its wings every time it tried to fly.

[killnoizer]

If I remember correctly, the French machine kept breaking its wings every time it tried to fly.

It is not difficult to expect that. 

[buzzbomb]

As a fan of the Dune Ornithopter... this build is already looking great 

[killnoizer]

I build a extra housing from sheet at the top to place the 3 main wings there, added a air intake and propper exhaust 


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[killnoizer]

Working on the original engines of the Potez Kit, they will be used for the main landing gear . My shipyard is very usefull for the job, they get a new position at the fuselage.

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[killnoizer]

I am very enthusiastic with this project...
Also the coming color is bought, i place the original engines in the back and build the stations for the wings.  Landing gear is prepared and i place some weight in a box at the front.



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Think that will be a dangerous thing when ready.

[Dizzyfugu]

Neat! 

[kerick]

It's going to have a great dragonfly look with the wings on!

[killnoizer]

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Sand is the color, It's BELTON Sahara middle.