GB439240A - Improvements in and relating to aircraft - Google Patents

Abstract

439,240. Composite aircraft. HOLLER, H. P., Poplars, Maryland, U.S.A. April 30, 1934, No. 13000. [Class 4] In an aircraft of the type comprising an elliptically-shaped aerostat combined in a unitary structure with aerodynamic lifting means associated with a cabin body the aerostat A, Fig. 1, is divided into vertical compartments adapted to contain hermetically sealed ballonets and is built up from transverse frame rings 2, Figs. 1 and 5, secured to vertical members 5, of which there are four or more sets, by means of horizontal and diagonal members 6, 7 respectively. Members 5 extend upwardly from body B as shown in Fig. 5, the aerostat and body thus forming a unitary structure. The aerostat covering may comprise a wire netting and transverse bulkheads may be constituted by coverings stretched on either side of the frame rings. The ballonets may be wheel-shaped or globular and each is connected by a pipe 16 and a valve to a common filling pipe 15, Fig. 1. The aerostat carries fixed fins 14 and a rudder 17. Tandem wings 25 shown in inverted plan view in Fig. 3, but omitted from Fig. 1, extend transversely between aerostat A and body B and are formed with downwardly foldable wing tips 27 which can be locked in the extended position. Elevators E may be used as sails when the craft is afloat. Body B is of boat shape and is provided with amphibious alighting gear comprising floats P and wheels 32. A railed platform is fitted above the body. Forward propelling means are carried at each end of body B and helicopter screws are arranged above the aerostat. The latter may be electrically driven.