Radio Controlled helicopters (also RC helicopters) are model aircraft which are distinct from RC airplanes because of the differences in construction, aerodynamics, and flight training. Several basic designs of RC helicopters exist, of which some (such as those with collective pitch) are more maneuverable than others. The more maneuverable designs are often harder to fly, but benefit from greater aerobatic capabilities.
Flight controls allow pilots to control the collective and throttle (usually linked together), the cyclic controls (pitch and roll), and the tail rotor (yaw). Controlling these in unison enables the helicopter to perform most of the manoeuvres a full-sized helicopters can do, such as hovering and backwards flight, and many that full-sized helicopters cannot.
The various helicopter controls are affected by means of small servo motors, commonly known as servos. A piezoelectric gyroscope is typically used on the tail rotor (yaw) control to counter wind- and torque-reaction-induced tail movement. This "gyro" does not apply a mechanical force, but rather, electronically adjusts the control signal to the tail rotor servo.
The engines used to typically be methanol-powered two-stroke motors, but electric brushless motors combined with a high-performance lithium polymer battery are now more common, as improved performance and decreasing prices bringing these within reach of more people. Gasoline and jet turbine engines are also used.
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