During this energetic action the whole fabric is kept in a state of corrugation, and to such extent is rigid. It possesses all the properties of a plane, and superiority over a plane, inasmuch as it propels itself, and upon cessation of action assumes the functions of a parachute, the descent of which a man may regulate by a step backward or forward.
The latest invention which has been completed upon a full scale is the idea of Mr. H. C. Linfield, of Margate. It is really a plane-propelling machine, but the planes are compressed, it may be said, into small compass, being only two inches apart, and being of such number and extent as to present 438 square feet of strained and varnished linen in two frames, each five feet square. The dimensions of the machine are 20 ft. 9 in. in length, 15 ft. in width, and 8 ft. 3 ins. in height. It runs upon four wheels; the two front wheels are 6 ft. in diameter, the two hind wheels 3 ft. The frames before mentioned are fixed one on each outer side of the front wheel at an upward angle. The wheels have been tested to sustain a weight of 5 cwt.
The weight of the machine is 240 lb., and of its inventor 180 lb. He sits between the wheels and works two treadles, which actuate a nine-bladed screw 7 ft. in diameter, fixed in front of the machine, to which he can impart 112 revolutions per minute. This suffices to enable him to travel along a level road.
RAISING OF THE FALLEN GIRDER OF THE DOUARNENEZ VIADUCT.
During the erection of the viaduct at Douarnenez—Department of Finistêre—over the river Pouldavid, one end of one of the heavy latticework girders dropped into the river, as shown in the upper one of the annexed cuts taken from L'Illustration. The difficult problem to be solved was to remove the obstruction in as short a time as possible, and at the least expense; and the engineers came to the conclusion that it would be best to raise the fallen end, as the girder was intact, with the exception of those parts that struck the bottom of the river, and which could easily be replaced by others.
THE VIADUCT OF DOUARNENEZ.—THE POSITION OF THE FALLEN GIRDER.
THE VIADUCT OF DOUARNENEZ.—THE GIRDER RAISED.