Method of forming propeller of the laminated, or layer, type. The layers of wood are glued,in the position shown and the blades carved out according to the sections. Only one blade is shown from the axle to the tip. This will make a right hand propeller.
The wheels are taken from a toy wagon, and a pair of tin ears will serve as bearings for the axle.
The sport of flying model aeroplanes has led to the formation of many clubs in this country as well as in Europe. Some of the mechanisms that have been devised, and some of the contrivances to make the models fly better and further, are illustrated in the drawings.
At A is shown a method of mounting the propeller with a glass or china bead to reduce friction, and a brass corner to aid in strengthening. B shows a transmission of power by two spur wheels and chain. C is a device for using two rubber twists acting on the two spur wheels S, S, which in turn are connected with the propeller with a chain drive. D shows a launching apparatus for starting. W, the model; V, the carriage; F, the trigger guard; T, trigger; E, elastic cord for throwing the carriage forward to the stop K.
Records have been made which seem marvellous when it is considered that 200 feet is a very good flight for a model propelled by rubber. For instance, at the contest of the Birmingham Aero Club (England) in September, one of the contestants won the prize with a flight of 447 feet, lasting 48 seconds. The next best records for duration of flight were 39 seconds and 38 seconds. A model aeroplane which is “guaranteed to fly 1,000 feet,” according to the advertisement in an English magazine, is offered for sale at $15.
The American record for length of flight is held by Mr. Frank Schober, of New York, with a distance of 215 feet 6 inches. His model was of the Langley type of tandem monoplane, and very highly finished. The problem is largely one of adequate power without serious increase of weight.
Chapter XII.
THE GLIDER.
Aerial balancing—Practice necessary—Simplicity of the glider Materials—Construction—Gliding—Feats with the Montgomery glider—Noted experimenters—Glider clubs.