GB349026A - Improvements in, or relating to, navigating instruments for use on aircraft - Google Patents

Abstract

349,026. Gyroscopic apparatus for navigating aircraft. HEWISON, W. E., 3, Lancaster Place, Strand, London. Feb. 19, 1930, No. 5478. [Classes 97 (ii) and 97 (iii).] One or more of the pivotal supports of a gyroscopically stabilized member are connected. by mechanical transmission to a pivoted body adapted to turn about its pivot in a manner corresponding to the movements of the aircraft relative to the horizontal plane. In the form shown a model aeroplane 4 is supported by a transverse tube 15 rotatably mounted in a cylindrical casing 5. The latter is mounted for rotation about its own axis by the engagement of flanges 25 on the ends of the casing with rollers 26 in the main casing 1. The model is thus able to rotate about longitudinal or transverse axes. The movements of the model are controlled by a gyroscope 9 mounted by transverse trunnions 10 in a gimbal ring 12 which is mounted by longitudinal trunnions 13 in the casing 1. To indicate pitching of the aircraft a gear wheel 24a fixed on a trunnion 10 is adapted through the ring 23, gear wheels 22, 21, 19, ring 18 and gear wheel 17 to tilt the tube 15 and model 4 through twice the angle of tilt of the gyroscope relative to the casing. To indicate rolling a toothed annulus 32 fixed to the gimbal ring 12 is adapted through gearing 31, 30, 28, 27 to rotate the casing 5 together with the model 4 about its longitudinal axis. To indicate yawing of the aircraft the model may be mounted on a vertical pivot carried by the tube 15. The model is caused to turn on this pivot by a small crank connected to a rod 36 inside the tube 15. An air pressure operated device on the wings of the aircraft is adapted to move a ring 48 axially as the aircraft yaws. The ring 48 is adapted through levers 45, 47 to move a sleeve 41 to which the rod 36 is connected. The model is viewed by the pilot through the opening 3. An instrument case 2 is placed behind the model so that the pilot may simultaneously view engine speed, air speed and altitude indicators. A reflector 6 may be provided to reflect the readings of a compass in the base of the casing 1 through the opening 3.