Hello,
I like the Delta Dart a lot because it is an excellent airplane for introducing people to model building.
I've been working at a new model called the Squirrel. Its way easier to build than a Delta Dart and it flies better.
Here are its unique features:
1) In order to make it possible for younger builders, I've dropped the wire hook for the rear motor hanger. I'm using a toothpick. This actually works extremely well and serves as an anti thermal device as the elastic drops.2) Leading Edge Only (LEO) for the stabilizers. This simplifies construction drastically and forms a rear bumper. When the plane hits the wall or the dog and falls, the stabilisers don't break because the motor stick hits the floor.
3) I dropped dihedral and polyhedral in favour of winglets. This system is remarkably easy to assemble and is surprisingly robust because the tissue paper enforces it. A dab of hobby or white glue and the winglets can be glued while other work is in progress.4) Build Onto Tissue (BOT). This speeds construction. I stole this idea from the famous AMA Cub design by Frank Ehling in 1967. I've gone a step further and simplified everything with right angles so that no printed plan is needed.
5) I've devised a order to assemble the parts that optimizes glue drying by doing the critical joints early. This allows a first time builder to get going in much less time than the AMA Cub.6) All the parts cut out of 3x36 sheet evenly with no waste. All parts are straight so cutting is fast and easy. Workshop preparation is trivial.
7) It is very stable and looks very unusual when its flying because of the strange winglets. It has proven to be a show stopper with its flatter turns. If it ever lands upside down, it gallops on the floor like a jumping bean as the propeller unwinds.I made a write-up on it an you are very free to post it at your Web site if you wish. It is currently at:
Darcy