Wireless Wing Structure.
Superficially, it would appear that the abolition of external trussing and wiring would make for greater aerodynamical efficiency; and, constructionally, it would be quite possible to build wings devoid of external staying, and at the same time of sufficient strength. But when it is considered that this would entail an excessive depth of spar at the root of the wing, with a resultant increase of head resistance, it is doubtful whether any appreciable advantage would accrue. In the event of the wing becoming deformed or out of alignment, re-truing up would be almost impossible, and would certainly require the uncovering of the wing and partial reconstruction. Contrast this with the orthodox wire bracing. It is simple of attachment, of relatively low cost, and offers the utmost facility for truing up. A monoplane of note, built without external trussing, was the special Antoinette, produced for the French military trials of 1911. This had a span of approximately 46 ft., and the depth of spar at the root was about 2 ft. 3 ins., and at the tip 9 ins., the consequent weight alone being abnormal.