Hi Guys
Sorry it's been so long on an update. With me being off work for about 4 months the project is running behind by about the same, we're still working on the electronics and have the stern doors working and the inner bow doors, the engines and steering are both installed and working. The engines are brushless Robbe Outrunners, tiny in size but extremely powerful, the props are 95mm four bladed. I'm assured by Willie at the Paisley Model Centre that these are more than adequate to run the boat at 5/6 knots. Because of the skills base we are using we decided not to go down the hydraulics route for the bow doors but rather use a mechanical system worked by a rack and gear with the travel being controlled by micro switches, the inner doors work well and so should the outer doors which are being hung this week. Some of the superstructure is made and we hope. I've attached some pics to show you the progress. The engines are run through an Action Electronics P40 unit which slows down the inboard engine when turning and the stern doors, although worked by a sail arm are run through an Action Electronics Servo Morph which slows down the servo to a realistic speed, works well. I have to say a huge thank you to Dave at Action Electronics whose help and advice has been invaluable and once completed the boat will be packed with his bits and pieces.
I know a few of the readers here will frown at the way we've worked the moving parts, but please bear in mind the skills base we are using, so far 8 local unemployed youngsters, with various issues, have been employed on the project at different stages, 5 of these have moved on to full time sustainable employment with local employers and managed to turn around their lives. This project has given them a considerable amount of confidence and self belief, all in all, so far, it's been a major success.
I've attached some pics of the stage we're currently at and would appreciate any comments.