In the early 1970s, radio-controlled (RC) vehicles were in their infancy. Mattel’s Vertibird toy helicopter, released in 1971, ingeniously made RC flight accessible to children by utilizing a tethered system. This innovative approach kept costs low and complexity minimal.
The Vertibird’s controller housed all electronic components and a motor, while the helicopter itself remained simple. By transferring motion through a flex shaft and cable linkage, users could control lift and pitch with ease. The helicopter’s fixed yaw and circular flight path added to its charm, providing a unique flying experience.
Gord Payne’s recreation, the VoytiBoyd, retains the essence of the original Vertibird while incorporating modern electronics. A Microchip ATtiny85 microcontroller manages lift and pitch control, utilizing potentiometers for user input. 3D printing, coupled with designs by Luke J Barker, enabled the replication of nearly all parts, maintaining authenticity.
The project’s fidelity to the original Vertibird extends to its gameplay, with a hook allowing users to simulate rescue missions. Payne’s dedication to accuracy ensures that those familiar with the original toy will find nostalgic joy in the VoytiBoyd.
By blending nostalgia with modern technology, Payne’s recreation preserves the magic of Mattel’s iconic Vertibird toy, offering a new generation the same joy and excitement experienced by its predecessors.
Source: hackster.io
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