Multiplex East Star II Notice De Construction page 18

The basics of model flying
Any aircraft - whether model or "man-carrying" - can be controlled around three primary axes: the vertical axis, lateral axis and
longitudinal axis. Operating the elevator produces a change in the aeroplane's flight attitude around the lateral axis (pitch).
Giving a rudder command turns the model around the vertical axis (yaw). If you move the aileron stick, the model rotates around
the longitudinal axis (roll). All three axes can be controlled regardless of the aeroplane's flight attitude. All aircraft are subject
to external influences, such as turbulence, which tend to disturb the aircraft, causing it to deviate from its intended flight path; the
pilot's task is then to apply control commands so that the model continues to fly in the desired direction. The power system
(motor and propeller) provides control over rate of climb and speed. The rotational speed of the motor is infinitely variable using
the speed controller, which follows your control commands from the transmitter. The important point to note is that pulling up-
elevator by itself causes the model to climb, but only until it reaches its minimum airspeed. The aeroplane's ability to climb at
different angles depends on the power of the motor. If the model's speed falls below its minimum airspeed, it tips forward and
dives: this is known as stalling. This occurs when the airflow which generates the lift required to keep the aircraft in the air is no
longer attached to the wing, and the lift collapses. The EasyStar II is designed in such a way that it exhibits very docile stalling
characteristics, and loses very little height when it does stall. In this situation it drops its nose, immediately picks up speed, and
is very soon under the pilot's control once more.
If you are a beginner to model flying, we recommend that you initially control the EasyStar II using rudder and elevator only. To turn
the model (initial turns and circles), use the rudder to set up a slight angle of bank, then apply gentle up-elevator to avoid the nose
dropping during the turn. Always try to turn away from you at first.
Once you have mastered basic control of the EasyStar II, it is time to try the ailerons. However, this does not mean that you can
afford to forget the rudder. A smooth turn, i.e. one which makes efficient use of the airflow, is always flown best by co-ordinating
rudder and aileron commands. This is a basic skill required to fly any model aeroplane smoothly and accurately. Without this
level of co-ordination the EasyStar II will not fly so efficiently, although it is very tolerant of such abuse. However, if you concentrate
on learning the art of flying smoothly right from the outset, you will find it much easier to control more demanding models at a later
date, and will be able to avoid many a critical situation.
Concentrate constantly on moving the sticks slowly and gradually. Abrupt, jerky movement of the transmitter controls often
places the model in flight situations from which the beginner is unable to escape. If this should happen, it is generally better
simply to let go of the sticks and switch the motor off. Wait a few moments until the model has "calmed down", and you will then
find it easier to regain full control. If you cannot avoid a crash, at least the motor is stopped, minimizing the energy which has to
be dissipated through the impact, and thereby limiting damage to the airframe.
As a beginner you are bound to find it difficult to steer in the correct direction when the model is flying towards you. Learn this
rule by heart: the stick must be moved to the side where the "danger" lurks, i.e. move the stick towards the low wing, and "prop
it up".
We suggest that you learn these suggestions in the period before the first flight, so that you are not surprised by the model's
behaviour when you are actually flying!
Wing section (airfoil)
The wing has a curved (cambered) cross-section, known as an airfoil, over which the air flows when the model is flying. In a given
time the air above the wing covers a greater distance than the air below the wing. This results in a reduction in pressure over the
top surface of the wing, generating an upward force (lift) which keeps the aircraft in the air. Fig. A
Aileron
Rudder
Elevator
Centre of Gravity
Like any other aircraft, your model aeroplane must be balanced at a particular point if it is to have stable flying characteristics. It
is absolutely essential to balance the model correctly before its first flight. The balance point, or Centre of Gravity (CG), is stated
as a linear distance measured from the wing leading edge, close to the fuselage. When supported at this point on your
fingertips, or - preferably - using the MPX CG gauge, # 69 3054, the model should balance level. Fig. B
If the model does not balance at the marked point, this can usually be corrected by re-positioning the airborne components (e.g.
18
Wing
(left)
Motor pod
Fin
Fuselage
Tailplane
Canopy
Aileron
Vertical axis
Longitudinal axis
wing
(right)
Lateral axis