These things demand great resourcefulness, but—for their best control—involve also no small amount of scientific knowledge. For example, certain adjustments at the motor may considerably increase its power, a possibly necessary increase under critical conditions: but if such adjustments also decrease the motor efficiency there must be a nice analysis of the two effects so that extra power may not be gained at too great a cost in radius of action.
Some Recent French Machines (From Aircraft)
The whole matter of flight involves both sportsman’s and engineers problems. Wind gusts produce the same effects as “turning corners”; or worse—rapidly changing the whole balance of the machines and requiring immediate action at two or three points of control. Both ascent and descent are influenced by complicated laws and are scarcely rendered safe—under present conditions—by the most ample experience. A lateral air current bewilders the steering and also demands special promptness and skill. To avoid disturbing surface winds, even over open country, a minimum flying height of 300 feet is considered necessary. This height, furthermore, gives more choice in the matter of landing ground than a lower elevation.
When complete and automatic balance shall have been attained—as it must be attained—we may expect to see small amateur aeroplanes flying along country roads at low elevations—perhaps with a guiding wheel actually in contact with the ground. They will cost far less than even a small automobile, and the expense for upkeep will be infinitely less. The grasshopper will have become a water-spider.
SOME AEROPLANES—SOME ACCOMPLISHMENTS
