Fig. 166.—Water-Surface Hydroplane
Water-surface Hydroplane.—For a water-surface hydroplane 3 ft. long try a breadth of 11 in., same beam all the way. Make the depth 2½ in. at the stem and 3 in. at the step. The step may be ¾ in. deep, and would be placed about 15 in. from the stern. The writer would suggest fins as shown by dotted lines in the accompanying illustration ([Fig. 166]) for steering purposes, one fin on each side at the stem, and one on the centre line forward. The fins should be made of thin aluminium and be quite sharp on the edges. Canvas would be too rough a surface, producing too much skin friction; oiled silk would be better, but the writer would recommend thin wood, french polished. The power needed to make these boats “plane” is very great, and considerable difficulty might be experienced in getting any distance out of it with clockwork.
Farman
This Section is inefficient
Streamline
An efficient Section
Wedge
This formation cannot be recommended
Stepped