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Aviation History
1909
1909 - 0724.PDF
NOVEMBER 13, 1909. ORIGINALITY IN MONOPLANE DESIGN. AN EXPERIMENTAL MACHINE VARIOUS unusual features have been embodied in the monoplane of which we reproduce a side elevation herewith, and which i, being constructed by the Aerial Manufacturing Co. of Great Britain and Ireland for a NOW BUILDING IN LONDON. :: the leaf springs absorb shocks due to any roughness of the ground. Needless to say both the above-mentioned systems need to be given a practical trial before any conclusive statement can be made concerning their value. Other novel details are being embodied at the same time on SMALL PLANK ON RUDDER RUDDER \ client of theirs. First and foremost it will be observed that various subsidiary planes are introduced locally at different spots with the object of assisting in the distribution of strains within the machine it- self, while even the petrol tank is shaped similarly, although it is only the width of the main framework. For convenience of reference, the main plane is shown in black, the small supplementary planes, including the elevator, are cross-hatched, and the petrol tank is merely shown in outline in the drawing. Hardly less noticeable is the curious double-hinged framework, with its wheels in front, that is intended to facilitate starting and alighting. In the position indicated by the full lines, the two small planes carried by it (double cross-hatched) serve to assist in lifting the machine, while since the lower wheel leaves the ground last, the full weight is only taken after a fair altitude has been attained. The further object of the arrangement is to cushion the descent by allowing the lower wheel to reach the ground some time prior to arrival of the complete machine, and then, as the hinges allow the framework to fold up into the position indicated by the dotted lines, to cause the small planes to act as brakes, retarding further forward progress, at the same time that this particular monoplane, and hence future experiments with it will be watched with considerable interest. The machine itself is of quite large dimensions, as may be judged from the scale on the drawing, the length overall being no less than 44 ft., and the span being also 44 ft. from tip to tip of the wings. An engine of novel design, developing about 50-h.p., is moreover, we understand, to be employed in conjunction with a 10-foot 4-bladed propeller. In due course, too, it is hoped that the machine will be placed on view in London, but the makers are unable to allow it to he seen in their works at the present time as they are also carrying out other commissions there, in connection with which they are pledged to secrecy. • Sketch of a bracket for joints of framework of aeroplaneswhich is being manufactured by the Aerial Manufacturing Company of Great Britain and Ireland, of Upper CharlesStreet, Finsbury. Great rigidity and lightness are claimed for these, whilst the price is quite small, we understand.The sketch shows a single bracket, and also one each side of a joint, making a very rigid fixture, with wiring con-nection included. An Aviation Catalogue. A REMINDER that flight is rapidly attaining a com- mercial position is to hand in the shape of a catalogue issued by the Richelieu-Automobiles, Paris. It contains particulars and prices of Bleriot, Antoinette, Wright, Voisin, and R.E.P. aeroplanes, and dirigibles of the Astra, Lebaudy and Zodiac types, as well as various motors specially adapted for flying machines. In this connection special illustrated prominence is given to the Wolseley 8-cyl. V motor, and the prices quoted for the various aeroplanes are given either without motor, with ordinary motor, or with Wolseley motor, a striking com- pliment to the British product. The catalogue also contains particulars of hangars of various sizes, and prices of many accessories used by aviators. Flying at the Antarctic. IN view of the several proposals with regard to the use of airships and aeroplanes in connection with the exploration of Polar regions, it is interesting to note that in the course of his remarks at the R.A.C. recently anent his experiences in the Antarctic seas, Sir E. H. Shackleton, C.V.O., explained that it was almost impossible for any work to be done by flyers in the Far South regions. There was always a very strong wind blowing across the plateau, so that aeroplanes were out of the question, while balloons would be of no use, as at a height of 700 feet the gas would contract, and the valve once opened would not again close properly. Thus, Antarctic research was narrowed down to a question of men, dogs, and motor cars. 726
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