Every once in a while an new product comes around that you just know is a good design. The new RedBlack RC swashplates are a new look at how RC helicopter swashplates are engineered. RedBlack RC swashplates feature a gimbal center mount as opposed to the traditional swivel ball used by others. Gimbal mounts have high precision, extremely low friction and allow complete freedom of movement. Traditional ball swivel mounts have a ball which is contacted by plastic. This inherently has higher friction and stiction and is a trade-off of precision and freedom of movement. When new such swashplates are typically tight and and when loose and free they have slop. Every rotation of the swashplate wears the assembly. Not so with RedBlack RC swashplates. The gimbal mount has ball bearings in each rotational axis. This allows very free movement while maintaining high precision. This is why gimbal mounts are found in mechanical gyros. Most peoples first introduction to gimbals is with a the toy gyroscopes they got as a kid.
However, gimbal mounts are also found in real world helicopters such as Bell helicopters. Again the freedom of movement and durability are key features warranting such use. The application to RC helicopters just makes sense.
Red Black RC swashplates use a robust main bearing to make them durable in extreme applications such as hardcore 3D flying. This bearing is mechanically fastened with bolts to prevent loosening and swashplate separation as happens with many mass produced swahplates. Red Black RC are also totally rebuildable. A refreshing feature in today's throw away world. Just a remove a few bolts and replace the bearings or parts if needed.
Overall, RedBlack RC swashplates appear to be a thoroughly thought out design with performance durability and the customer in mind. A great new option for RC helicopter pitots.
http://www.heliflightcenter.com/Red_Black_RC_Upgrades_s/241.htm
