Even with the addition of the enclosure the XE will still
fit into the Part 103 ultralight regulations in the U.S. if it is equipped
with floats. Under Part 103 an ultralight is allowed a 60 lbs. float
allowance. The floats used on the XEL (The float equipped version is called
the XEL) weigh in at only 15 lbs. allowing extra weight for the craft.
Innovator offers the unit in five sub kits. One of those
being the open frame kit version. The XE actually takes less time to build
than the original open frame kit.
Power on the XE is supplied by the 60 lb. Zanzottera MZ
202 engine which produces 65 hp, when equipped with a tuned exhaust. The MZ
202 comes with electric start
and a clutch. The centrifugal clutch also the engine to start up and idle
without being under a load.
At 2300 rpm the spragg clutch engages, which allows the
rotor to drive in one direction and free wheel in the other. This allows
the helicopter to auto rotate in case of engine failure, allowing it to
land similar to a gyrocopter.
From the clutch power passes through a drive coupler
which helps dampen vibration, and goes to the splitter gear box which
transfers power to the shaft drive for the tail rotor and up to the main
rotor.
The power to the main rotor is reduction drive driven via
a belt system, which converts the 6,000 rpm of the engine down to the
speeds need for rotor operation. All parts are manufactured on C & C
equipment. The body for the XE is made in Florida.
Top speed on the XE is 80 mph. cruise speed comes in at
65 mph. Maximum pilot weight is 240 lbs. For float operation the company
has developed a rear horizontal stabilizer for more down force on the rear
of the craft, to compensate for the extra drag of the floats.
Training for the XE can be done in an R 22 or a Hughes
300 which has a similar
control feeling to the XE.
Current delivery times out of the factory are
approximately sixty days. Thirty seven units have been delivered to
customers, eight were flying as of August 2005.
The Mosquito is being offered in kit form
and comes with laser formed frame parts, machined parts, instruments, rotor
blades and engine.
Each kit comes with a comprehensive
assembly manual with drawings. The kit should take about 200 hours to
build.
For more information
INNOVATOR TECHNOLOGIES
BOX 17, SITE 17, RR5
CALGARY, AB., CANADA T2P 2G6
(403) 669-3101 or (403) 936-5423 |
