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Aviation History
1921
1921 - 0039.PDF
JANUARY 20, 1921 THE PISCHOF 16 HP. "AVIONNETTE IT would appear that the honour of producing the first really practical " aero-scooter " falls upon M. de Pischof, one of the pioneers of aviation in France. His latest effort, which we illustrate and briefly describe this week, is particularly interesting, not only from the point of view of the small sporting type of machine, but as an example of aeroplane design and construction. The Pischof " Avionnette " is remarkable for its low-powered engine, as well as its small size, the engine being a two-cylindered horizontally opposed Clerget developing but 16 h.p. It is of interest to note in passing that as far back as 1908 M. Pischof carried out some either can be accomplished. The main planes are made up of two self-contained units, consisting of an upper and lower plane section, on the port and starboard sides respectively. The upper and lower sections of each unit are separated by a single I interplane strut, which is hinged in the middle— the hinge-joint being locked by a quick-release pin. In dismantling, the removal of four steel bolts at the wing-root attachments, disconnects the wing-units together with the wing bracing, from the body. Removing the hinge-pins in the interplane struts, the latter fold in, bringing the upper and lower plane sections together, so that they take up very ij. a H" E H E H H El B m m The Pischof "Avionnette ": Three-quarter front view, from which it may be seen that the pilot has an ex- ceptionally good range of vision. SBHHE0HHHE trials with a monoplane also fitted with a 16 h.p. 2-cyl. engine. It seems that this little machine is by no means a freak or toy, neither is it an orthodox type of machine merely cut down in size and weight, but is one designed specially for its purpose—every detail having been carefully thought out, so that it fulfils its particular function in the simplest and most efficient manner possible. The " Avionnette " has already made several successful trial flights, and in spite of its small size, is claimed to possess remarkable stability and flying qualities. The greatest height so far attained has been 4,000 ft. in 52 minutes, but it is anticipated that a ceiling of 6,000-6,500 can be obtained. The speed range of the " Avionnette " is 36-60 m.p.h., and it carries sufficient fuel for two-hours' flight, the petrol little space. Assembling is easily and quickly accomplished. Each wing unit is connected to the body—this being done with little difficulty since, with the interplane strut and bracing " slack," the wings may be more or less freely ma- noeuvred—after which the interplane strut is " straightened " and locked. This has the effect of tightening up the bracing, and inasmuch as the latter is never disconnected, the adjust- ment is more or less permanent and the wings need no further rigging once the interplane struts are straightened. The attachment of the top plane is made to a nacelle-like erection, serving the several duties of engine bearer, fuel tanks mounting, and pilot's " wind shield," above the fuselage or outrigger. The lower sections are attached to the landing chassis—or its equivalent, for, strictly speaking. H H H H H H 0 H El H m a E H H SI H B m H E H H H H The Pischof "Avionnette" ; In this view an attempt has been made to convey an idea of the ingenious method of dis- mantling and folding the wings, by means of the hinged inter- plane strut. consumption being 1.3 gals, per hour ; oil consumption is said to be " practically- nothing." As regards the machine itself, as may be seen from the accompanying illustrations, it is of decidedly unique design. It is a tractor biplane, with a body that may be described as either of the fuselage or outrigger type. It is of metal construction practically throughout, exception being in the plane covering and inter- plane struts. The most important feature of this little 'bus is undoubtedly the ingenious method of assembling and dismantling the main planes, and the facility with which the latter really comprises a small plane-centre-section the front spar of which forms the axle for the wheels, which are unsprung, it having been found that with such a small and light machine the large-sized tyres are quite sufficient to absorb all landing shocks. It is further claimed that the lower plane being as low as it is, a considerable cushioning effect is produced when landing, which reduces the shock as well as acting as a brake. The wheels being well forward, it is said that it is practically impossible to turn the machine over on its nose. c 2
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