Model ferry build

[Fraser 290]

Hi,

As I mentioned on my thread introducing myself along with my son we're planning to build a rc model of a northlink ferry. Fabricating the model is no issue but I have zero experience with building my own rc kit so will need a lot of help.

We've done some initial planning and sketches and decided its going to be a pretty big model at 1.95m long and .32m wide so will take a bit of powering. We would like to have a few other bits on it rc controlled as well, from very limited knowledge I think we need

2 x motors to power propellers
Servo motor for rudder control
Servo motor to open and close car ramp access doors
Servo motor to raise and lower car ramp
Something to switch lights on and off
Something to sound horn.
And obviously battery pack, receiver and transmitter and anything else needed.

I really have no idea where to start with any of this so all advice will be very welcome.

Thanks for making it this far.

 

[Ritz413]

What material is the ferry going to be made of? Overall weight will be a big factor in motor size selection.

 

[CertifiedMike]

https://www.cornwallmodelboats.co.uk/acatalog/CEM050.html#SID=59

Something like this might make your ferry more drivable than a rudder and prop.

 

[Fraser 290]

What material is the ferry going to be made of? Overall weight will be a big factor in motor size selection.

Sorry should have mentioned that in the first post, I'll be making it from sheet steel, it'll be pretty heavy, with 90% of it drawn out it comes to 25kg, it'll probably end up being about that as I've not allowed for cutting out windows and such which will reduce weight but I've also not designed any of the hinge mechanisms which will add weight.
To get it to sit at the right level I will need ro add weight low down so the motors and battery's will help with that.
We're not wanting it too be fast moving.

 

[Fraser 290]

https://www.cornwallmodelboats.co.uk/acatalog/CEM050.html#SID=59

Something like this might make your ferry more drivable than a rudder and prop.

Sorry I somehow missed you're reply this morning.

If I was to use a pair of these I presume you can link the steering and speed control so they both react together.

 

[Fraser 290]

Started sketching it out roughly, might get some of it drawn out with the computer later.

 

[CertifiedMike]

Sorry I somehow missed you're reply this morning.

If I was to use a pair of these I presume you can link the steering and speed control so they both react together.

I would honestly recommend reaching out to the shop or a manufacturer about the requirements of your ferry. I don't know how many or where there may need mounting for best control.
I have seen these used and ppl love them. These will give you the control at low speed that a rudder and prop can not.

I don't know a lot about installation of these units. I have never built a boat. I don't have those skills. (I am much better at watching others build them, in awe.)

 

[Fraser 290]

I would honestly recommend reaching out to the shop or a manufacturer about the requirements of your ferry. I don't know how many or where there may need mounting for best control.
I have seen these used and ppl love them. These will give you the control at low speed that a rudder and prop can not.

I don't know a lot about installation of these units. I have never built a boat. I don't have those skills. (I am much better at watching others build them, in awe.)

Thanks for that, I will contact them over rthe next few days.

 

[Fraser 290]

Some more questions going right back to basics what do I all need for making this work.

Starting at the beginning I presume I need a transmitter and receiver with the appropriate number of channels for the functions I need, do the servo motors just connect directly to the receiver ? The motors for turning the props will need some form of speed control, where does that fit in place?.

I realise this is basic stuff but I want to get my head round it before I really start building anything.

Thanks

 

[CertifiedMike]

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Yes, your servos plug into the receiver for signal, usually for power as well.

Speed control will be called an esc a lot. Electronic Speed Control.
Signal also comes from receiver. Battery plugs in here, motor plugs in here.

Check out those threads. I bet a few mysteries will be cleared up for you.

 

[Fraser 290]

Thread 'Everything You Want To Know About RC Electronics'

Jul 26, 2024

Welcome to our comprehensive RC batteries and motors resource hub designed to help you get the most out of your RC experience. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the world of radio-controlled vehicles, this thread aims to provide you with all the essential information and expert advice you need.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• The Ultimate Guide to Lithium Polymer (LiPo) Batteries for RC Enthusiasts - Dive deep into the world of LiPo batteries, understanding their benefits, safety tips, and how to maximize their performance in your RC models...

• Greywolf74
• Replies: 0
• Forum: Electronics

• 
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Thread 'Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Brushless Motors... and more'

Jul 15, 2024

In an effort to help refresh and consolidate several posts and stickies, I'm going to compile several threads worth of info and write-ups. If some of the info doesn't necessarily flow from one topic to the next, that is why. Overall, though, this will make a more complete reference for folks to read.

BRUSHLESS MOTOR TECH EXPLAINED:

I showed the nitro side some love by reposting an article I read about glow plugs so I figured Id do the same thing and show the Electric side some love this time

One thing that I would like to add to this is that when they talk about...

• Greywolf74
• Replies: 1
• Forum: Electronics

• 
• 
• 

Yes, your servos plug into the receiver for signal, usually for power as well.

Speed control will be called an esc a lot. Electronic Speed Control.
Signal also comes from receiver. Battery plugs in here, motor plugs in here.

Check out those threads. I bet a few mysteries will be cleared up for you.

Thanks for that, will read through them.

 

[Fraser 290]

We've made it too the cad design stage.

 

[PonkyKong]

I like to purchase sheets of abs. They come in packs of 12x18 inch. Or you can order sheets from a supply house. The abs is the thicker stuff. Use it for super structure. Then I like to get packs of styrene sheets. They come in bulk. .020" and are fairly cheap on amazon. I use acetone to chemical weld these items together. This has been the most economical way I have found to build large items. Buying it from a Hobby Store would cost exponentially more.