Vought F4U Corsair: Ordinate Data

Vought F4U Corsair: Ordinate Data;

About 6 months ago I received an ordinate dataset from a good friend Gary Henry for information purposes. It is a very comprehensive set for the fuselage comprising over 2800 points to define in excess of 1930 individual ordinates.

Vought_F4U_Corsair_(USMC)

I have recently updated my data processing procedure utilizing new features in MS Excel particularly the “TEXTJOIN” command which makes it a lot easier to extrapolate the X,Y,Z ordinates from large datasets. This dataset was ideal to work with the new process.

F4U Corsair Ordinates

The Textjoin function allows you to predefine a delimiter and then select either an array of data or individual cells using the Control/Mouse combination. You can see I have locked in the selected column and the top row. The units shown are inches but can easily be converted to millimeters.

F4U Corsair RevB

Due to the nature of the dataset, there is a very distinct central plane on the zero vertical plane, which of course I would filter out if I decided to progress this further as a CAD model. I don’t have enough of the manufacturers’ original drawings to develop this aircraft at this time but it sure is interesting working with other datasets.

F4u-1 sideview

The dataset is actually very good only 3 points not quite in alignment. I profiled the top and bottom contours and the contours either side of the fuselage centerline; all 4 curvatures were very smooth.

Update Oct 2018:

Recently received some new data that has allowed me to progress this project with the development of the Cabin ordinates as shown below.

F4U Cabin

F4U Corsair2

Restoration Project: Corsair F4U-1

Restoration Project: Corsair F4U-1

This is great news; a good friend of mine has just acquired the wreckage remains of a Corsair F4u-1.

IMAG1368

The long-term plan is to restore this Corsair to its original specification as a standing exhibit. It would be wonderful to restore to flying condition but the projected cost as it stands is quite overwhelming and to achieve flight status would probably double that.

 

IMG_4038.JPG

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We will be setting up a dedicated blog and website to record progress on this restoration. Part one of the project is to develop a master lines plan which will be used to design the jigs required to rebuild the fuselage and wings.

Any contributions to the project, regardless of how small will be greatly appreciated.