GB274151A - Improvements in or relating to aeroplanes and like aircraft having folding wings - Google Patents

Abstract

274,151. Fairey, C. R. March 11, 1926. Planes, arrangement of; steering.-In an aeroplane having wings which can be folded backward when not in use, and a tail plane variable in incidence, the variability of the angular position of the tail plane is utilized to actuate locking means for securing the wings in their folded position and if necessary for partially or wholly supporting their overhanging weight. In the case of a biplane or multiplane, the fairing 17 of a strut interconnecting the ailerons is provided with a notch 18 in the upper edge of which is a recess 20 adapted to be engaged by a rod 12, projecting from the leading edge of the tail plane, when the tail plane is tilted upwards. The front edge of the tail plane is raised by screw-and-nut mechanism acting on the front or rear spar and turned by cables from the pilot's seat, so that the rods 12 can support the overhanging weight of the main planes without reacting on the pilot's control. A monoplane also is described in which the rods 12 engage a notched member beneath the rear spar of the folded plane, and in further modifications folding monoplane wings adapted to be turned also about the front or rear spar until they are in an approximately vertical position parallel to the fuselage are provided with notched members on top or underneath the rear spar for engagement with the rods 12. The angular adjustment of the tail plane may be transmitted by cables or lever and link mechanism to other locking-mechanisms, for example a rotary transverse tube on the fuselage having arms at its ends for engaging elements on the wings.