Pitcairn Autogiro -- Lego Style

For some time now, I've been itching to drag out the Legos and have a go at this odd little duck -- the Pitcairn Autogiro. An "autogyro," as it is technically known, is a rotary-winged aircraft much like a helicopter, with the exception that the lifting surfaces (the long rotors above) aren't powered by the engine, but by aerodynamic forces through a phenomenon called "autorotation." The propulsion for this particular type of aircraft is provided by an engine mounted in the nose, much like a conventional aircraft. Apparently, these aircraft fly fairly well, as there have been numerous manufacturers over the years, even up to present day.


And here's my attempt at this odd little duck. There were numerous problems associated with the construction of this particular machine -- some I won; some I didn't -- but all in all I think I captured the essence of the thing. I really wanted to have the four rotors of the Pitcairn, but there were not enough long pieces to achieve them. And anyway, there wasn't enough room to make two cockpits in this one, so two rotors should do it for one guy. You have to be flexible when dealing with Legos.


Here's a different angle, the better to show off the fuselage. One of the particular features of autogyros I've found is that they always have these enormous, broad vertical stabilizers, I assume to counteract all the torque from not only the engine, but from the spinning of the rotors, as well.


Yet an other angle to show the upper surfaces and cockpit area. The vertical stabilizer is really evident here, especially the two-toned paint job due to the lack of the proper size and shape of black pieces. How can I let this kind of thing happen? Come on, payday!


And last but not least, a shot showing the cockpit detail. I just love trying to fancy these things up and add a little spice of realism. Again, a healthy imagination goes a long way.

So, now that I've gotten this thing out of my system, I can move on and enjoy the rest of my evening. I really miss my big glass front door at Big Bend to shoot these against, with the scenery in the background, so I guess I'll have to work on that some here. Those shadows on the wall are killing me. I'll be sure to let you know what I come up with.