Device for training pilots and observers in handling aeroplanes

摘要

192,754. Horn, G. Nov. 3, 1921. Teaching and training, apparatus for.- For training pilots and observers, an aeroplane, fitted with a motor and propeller and mounted in gimbal rings, has adjustable surfaces for counteracting t h e motor torque in addition to other means for controlling the lateral attitude of the machine. Movable targets are provided, or a map may be wound upon rollers beneath the machine and provision made for lateral movement of the machine or map. Fig. 2 shows one form of the apparatus in which an aeroplane body 1 is connected by stays 2 to a ring 3, which can turn freely within a ring 4. The ,ring 4 is pivoted at 5 within a ring 6, which can turn about horizontal trunnions 7 within a frame 16 capable of being traversed along a girder 13 by a screw 17. Planes 8 are adjusted to counteract the torque of the motor, and the lateral balance is controlled by enlarged planes 9 or by connections to the ring 4. The usual rear steering-surfaces are fitted. A map 14 is moved by gearing 15 at a speed known to the instructor, and the pupil, after estimating the speed, sets the sights of a telescope and drops a shot from a gun on to a selected target. A pendulum may carry a disc of paper which is pierced when the shot is released so as to indicate to the instructor whether the telescope has been correctly sighted. Alternatively, the gun may be fixed to the pendulum, the correctness of the sighting being determined by observing if the shot hits the target. To reach a laterally placed target, the aeroplane is turned and the blast from the propeller turns one or other of two fans 21 adapted to drive the screw 17 to traverse the aeroplane in the appropriate direction. A vane 22 is simultaneously thrown over to throw in either of two clutches 23. Where there is sufficient room, the aeroplane may be turned right round, mechanism being provided for slowing down and reversing the motion of the map as the aeroplane is turned. Instead of traversing the aeroplane, the map may be laterally moved as the aeroplane is turned. A modification is described in which the gimbal rings are mounted beneath a fixed framework and movable targets are carried on wires stretched between posts.