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Aviation History
1913
1913 - 0233.PDF
Edited by V. E. The Aero Show. " WONDERFUL ! wonderful ! I should like to see them fly-.-" Such are the words which the King is reported to have said with respect to the model hydro-aeroplanes on his visit to Olympia, where the model aeroplanes and hydro-aeroplanes occupied his Majesty's attention for a considerable time—more especially the latter, which he pushed along the surface of the water in order to investigate their method of flotation, &c. He could scarcely believe that the model hydro-aeroplanes could rise from the surface of the water with no more propulsion than a twisted skein of rubber. We certainly trust that this interest displayed by his Majesty will not be without its effect in certain quarters where " models " can scarcely be said to be appreciated. Brief Summary of the Exhibits. The exhibits include 8 in Class I—power-driven models ; no less than 74 in Class II. A, i.e., rise off the ground models ; only 21 in Class II. B, i.e., hand-launched models—a type of model which we quite expect to see practically non-existent at future exhibitions ; 21 in Class III., i.e., hydro-aeroplanes ; 41 in Class IV., scale models or parts ; and finally 6 in Class V., power plant for models, i.e., 171 in all, the exhibits being, as we prophesied a week before the exhibition opened, the finest collection of practical models ever yet exhibited. That out of 171 exhibits only 21 should be hand-launched models is one at which it would be idle to pretend we do not feel especially gratified, also that so many tractors should be amongst the competitors. For instance, one club shows seven models, all of rise off the ground type, of which no less than six are tractors. Gearings, generally twin, are quite common, and it will 1* interesting to see how these acquit themselves in the flying tests ; another extremely interesting fact is that a French Model Flying Club is among the competitors—it is certainly to be hoped that they will be able 10 compete in the flying tests at Hendon. Curiously enough, nearly all their models are of the Canard or elevator in front type. A very brief examination of the exhibits is sufficient to show the pains and care that have been taken in the actual building of the models. Some of them are obviously constructed by far less experienced workmen than others. Some have evidently had many tools at their disposal combined with a knowledge of how to use them to the best advantage, whilst others have been strictly limited both as to tools and experience, and before condemning the workmanship of any model exhibited, such JOHNSON, M.A. an allowance should undoubtedly I* made. At no previous exhibitions have we seen s-o few models which the exhibition would be better without. It might be woith while, however, just to mention that in future, when any intending exhibitor obviously purchases a considerable numl>er of the various parts of his model, the parts which he tioes make, should possess a sufficiently high standard of workmanship to stand some sort of comparison with the purchased parts. Whereas there is undoubtedly a gieal diversity in the various types of models shown, in the main they run along already well-grooved lines and it is obvious that not a few of the exhibitors have had one eye very carefully glued on the 30 seconds qualifying ten whilst designing and building their models. If this has adversely affected originality it is decidedly unfortunate, for the very last thing which we want is anything in the nature of stereotyped models. We must confess to some feeling of disappointment at the hydro aeroplane models. The effect of the models floating upon the water in the tanks is, as we felt sure it would be, a feature which attracts universal attention and interest, and to one who has not closely followed the very brief history of the subject, the exhibits leave nothing to be desired save perhaps a little more " sea worthiness" with respect to the floats. The feeling of disappointment arises when one compares the models there exhibited with those in vogue, say, six months ago ; practically speaking in most cases but little, if any, advance is shown. In this branch of aviation there is obviously immense scope for originality and invention, and, save in two or three cases to be dealt with in detail later on, we must confess we can find but little evidence of its existence. Moreover, one well-known type and arrangement of floats, &c, has l>een rather too obviously copied, line for line, in one or two instances. The qualifying test in this case, 15 seconds, is certainly not one that should have exercNed any influence on originality. After having made the above criticisms, we have nothing but praise to bestow on the exhibits, which should do much to stimulate increased interest in this side of aeronautical work. Amongst them are, undoubtedly, some of the finest examples of workmanship which we have as yet seen, and which should be of the greatest value to the less experienced or less skilful workman, as setting a standard of excellence to which to strive to attain. Club Exhibits Amongst the club exhibits, premier place is easily taken by the Kite and Model Aeroplane Association, whose exhibits alone would A corner of one of the Royal Aero Club's Model Section exhibits. In the background are seen the Caudron machines, the Porter helicoptere, the Breguet monoplane, &c. 239
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