Redback Aviation's Buzzard homebuilt helicopter
The single seat Buzzard helicopter incorporates the simplicity of a basic aluminium airframe with easily maintainable design features. Originally based on the Lonestar kit helicopter of the mid 90's, Redback Aviation found ways to improve a number of areas to increase safety and reduce maintenance of the helicopter. The redesigning has been so thorough that the new Buzzard personal >helicopter now bears little resemblance to the craft that originally inspired its creation. Our changes include an extended composite tail boom with support struts, a shaft driven tail rotor, redesigned airframe, drive shaft end supports and new a main rotor head.
(static 45 degree front view)
(tail rotor and gearbox)
Its drive system has been kept simple yet strong and reliable. Primary drive is by standard commercial helicopter style clutchable multi v-belts followed by a double industrial quality cog belt to the main drive shaft. Tail rotor drive is through two small right angle gearboxes with some basic shaft modifications.
(rotorhead)
A through shaft control system streamlines the overall appearance and gives it a light and responsive feel. The main rotor assembly has many similarities to other kit and plans built helicopters offering strength and reliability. The tail rotor assembly is based on standard commercial helicopter design and is controlled by a heavy duty push pull cable.
(engine installation)
We chose to use the more widely accepted four stroke engine known for their lower rpm range and reliability. Our custom designed fan cooled four stroke engine is based on commonly available after market Volkswagon parts. It has been specially modified to run in the vertical position along with electronic fuel and ignition management for low fuel consumption and altitude compensation. Other engines such as the two stroke Zanzottera or Hirth can be utilised for ultralight rating although we have only installed and tested our engine at this stage. Please see updates page for further information.
(picture of assorted machined parts) As with any aircraft there is some machining involved in building the Buzzard although this has been kept to a minimum to reduce costs while still retaining a high level of safety. It is recommended that all critical components be professionally engineered to assure accuracy.
(plans sample)
All plans have been professionally drawn and are considered complete. We offer a limited* on going support service primarily by email to assist builders with any clarification required for the construction drawings. Please note all plans, drawings, design and text related to the Buzzard is international copy write protected and remains the property of Redback Aviation.
The plans package includes a builders DVD containing detailed colour photos, a brief video and 3D style assembly pictures. All plans are in paper format only and serial numbered against the purchasers details to assist us in providing any required support. Price authorises builder a licence to construct one aircraft only per plans set.
* On going support entitles purchaser to contact Redback Aviation for clarification on construction drawings in relation to the building of the Buzzard helicopter. Correspondence will be limited to what Redback Aviation sees as a reasonable amount of explanation required.
Click here for next page (page 2)
