Mobile Wing Cradle

Aug 2006


This wing cradle could be built in a couple of days for less than $25 using material from any hardware store. It allows one person to maneuver the wing around the shop, and flip it around for easy access to all surfaces. Here are the specific dimensions of this setup and a Sketchup 3D Model.

The cradle consists of two rectangular wooden frames with foam shaped to fit the outline of the wing. The frame is constructed from 2x3's. The foam is basically packing material that came with a large piece of equipment. It is fairly rigid and easy to cut with a knife. It was glued to the wooden frame using epoxy.

Two frames are needed for each wing. Since the root and tip shapes are significantly different, the foam must be cut accordingly.

The frame can be unclamped from the wing quite easily. Notice the hinge on one end of the frame, and a bolt and T-nut on the opposite end.

This is a closeup of the securing bolt.

Hinge

Flap can be moved while wing is on the frame

This is the stand for the frame, made from 2x4's. It has four caster wheels.

The frame could be easily unmounted by pulling the two 6" long bolts from the saddle.

This is the closeup view of the saddle and the two bolts.

A hinge allows the saddle to pivot.

The wing can be rotated quite easily, and moved around. It is stable in the horizontal or vertical positions, meaning it does not need any locking mechanisms.

The frames can be removed from the mobile stand and placed on the floor. The wide legs provide stability.

The frames can be placed on a dolly and moved around easily