Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/03
Page Numbers: 65

THE HI-TECH 2001 was designed using a computer, with a
focus on improving the canard-style, swept-wing aircraft.
Thomas Hunt experimented with several versions in the course
of a few years, with the intention of producing a model that
looked different and benefited from modern materials and
technology.
Thomas worked as a wind-tunnel engineer and focused on
how to make Mach 2 full-scale aircraft fly at slow speeds. He
designed his model with dihedral in the canards, anhedral in the
wings, and outward-canted vertical tails.
The Hi-Tech 2001’s dihedral keeps the flow of air behind the
canard from upsetting the inboard section of the wing. A
movable vane, in the wake of the fan exhaust, is used vs.
elevons. That enables pitch control well below the airspeed at
which the canard and wing elevons are effective.
The model’s construction materials include balsa, light
plywood, spruce, and .08 sheet aluminum. The canard and wings
are sheeted for a finished look. The Hi-Tech 2001 has a
wingspan of 38.78 inches and a wing area of 425 square inches.
Thomas designed the jet around the O.S. .25 ducted-fan
engine and an RK-20 fan unit in 2004. The setup allows easy
access to the fan and an easy upgrade to today’s electric power
systems, enabling even better performance.
According to Thomas, the Hi-Tech 2001 was responsive yet
easy to fly during its first flight. He performed loops, rolls, and
inverted flight.
He noted that the model would “float” on final with the nose
high. The descent was controlled through throttle and remained
stable all the way to touchdown—similar to flying a trainer.
Thomas claimed that the jet was pleasant, predictable, and
suitable for anyone with aileron trainer experience.
The Hi-Tech 2001 was featured in a construction article in
the October 1984 MA. AMA members can access the
magazine’s digital archives on the Academy’s Web site to read
more about this design. It’s AMA Plans Service listing 456E,
which is available for $30 plus shipping and handling. See page
159 or go to www.modelaircraft.org/plans.aspx for ordering
information.