Ornithopter
Free Plans
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These
free ornithopter plans allow you to build your own DIY ornithopter,
from materials you can buy at your local hobby shop. They
also provide an in-depth look at the history of how ornithopters
have been made over the years.
If you
have never built an ornithopter before, I recommend starting
with the Freebird ornithopter, which was designed specifically
for beginners. As your ornithopter skills progress, you can
return to this page for new ideas as you start to develop
your own designs.
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Freebird
by Nathan Chronister
The Freebird plans were developed to help people get started in
the hobby of building their own ornithopters. The original version
was introduced in 1993, and I have kept updating the design to make
it even easier to build. The video goes through the construction,
step by step.
Luna
by Nathan Chronister
A sequel to the Freebird, this four-winged design introduced a simple
scissor-wing mechanism that formed the basis for many "micro
air vehicle" type ornithopters. The four-winged design produces
a unique, slow flying style.
Flex
Cardstock Pattern
This is the cardstock pattern for the Flex rubber band powered ornithopter
on YouTube.
Spencer
Orniplane by Percival H. Spencer
Flown in 1961, the Spencer Orniplane was the first radio-controlled
ornithopter. The plans were provided by Jack Stephenson, who assisted
Spencer in developing the Orniplane. They recorded some videos of
the Orniplane in flight. You can see them in the videos section
of this web site.
Libelle
by Alexander Lippisch
Construction plan for a large, rubber-powered ornithopter from the
designer of the Messerschmitt Me 163 Komet. The design is outwardly
similar to some of the engine-powered ornithopters he developed
during the same period. (Schwingenflugmodell des NSFK, 1938)
Flapper
Facts Plans
A large collection of plans from the ornithopter newsletter Flapper
Facts. You will see a variety of designs that reflect the different
approaches of their respective designers. These are mostly indoor
contest models. Also a few electric ornithopters, and some
older versions of the Freebird.
Vintage
Plans
Four different designs from the "golden age" of ornithopter
modelling. Aside from their historical interest, these are some
really cool designs that would be worth building today if you have
enough skill to rekindle the lost art.
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