[TC15] Heliplane

[ColletArrow]

Well, here I go.
This is both my first time entering a TC, and my first published Technic MOC. In no way am I expecting to win, but I'm interested to see how the competition will push me to come up with a decent MOC for once!
I'm also a University student, so A) I'm only using parts already in my collection, B) I won't be able to build with physical bricks until I get home in a couple of weeks, and C) Any building I do at the moment is technically procrastination. I've chosen the wrong time to enter a competition, but I'm having a go anyway.

With that out of the way, here's the first LDD sketch of my idea: a small-scale, largely-freelance Heliplane.
 

 

It started out as a sketch to see if I could come with anything, and ended up looking better than I expected for a first draft. The only panels I own matching pairs of are from the 9393 tractor set, so that's what I'm using. So far the functions are rotating the engines upwards using the gear at the back, opening the tailgate and (clearly) spinning the propellers.

Coming back and looking at it again, pretty much everything needs to be improved! I think the first thing is that the engines and props need to be larger. Then the tail needs cleaning up from it's current placeholder state, and I've entirely neglected the landing gear...
There's probably many more glaring omissions from the view of aero engineers, so I'm interested to hear what you have to say.

Edited December 7, 2018 by ColletArrow
Relocated pictures

[jwarner]

3 hours ago, ColletArrow said:

I'm also a University student...

Any building I do at the moment is technically procrastination. I've chosen the wrong time to enter a competition, but I'm having a go anyway.

Right there with you! My first exam is Friday but I've spent the whole day building. Oh well Best of luck to you!

[ColletArrow]

Thanks @jwarner! I hope your exam went well; mine certainly did this afternoon. Which also means I've had a little time this evening to relax, by which I mean improve my entry.

The Heliplane has now gained landing gear and larger engines & propellers, as well as an improved roof line and tail wing. I've had to go for 4-blade props; the real things only ever seem to use 3, but I don't have enough parts already in my collection to achieve that, so 4 it is. I don't think they look to out-of-place, as the entire model is quite freelance anyway! 
General view of the model:

The distinctive vertical tail fins looks a lot tidier now, although I hope I can get them sturdy without that upper bar. This view also shows the opening cargo ramp, and the new landing gear. I tried to make it fold, and the rear wheels can turn upwards somewhat, but the front pair is pretty fixed. At least they're there.
And finally, from the front with the props facing forward:

I don't think I can go much further with the digital build, so this will have to wait a week or so until I get back to my collection to start bringing this to life. Until then, any comments and criticism is welcome!