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Dual-Propelled Model Plane Uses Jet and Rubber Band
Dual propulsion - rubber bands plus jet action supplied by carbon dioxide cartridges-is
the latest development in model planes. With the cartridge attached to the plane,
a wooden launching gun equipped with a strong rubber band and a needle-pointed plunger
sends the miniature aircraft zooming into the air. The rubber band releases the
plunger which breaks a small hole in the cartridge to expel the carbon dioxide gas
and provide the jet power. Planes with propellers have the added power supplied
by "wound-up" props. The person launching a dual-propelled ship winds the prop,
positions the plane on the cartridge-holding launching gun and releases the trigger
and prop at the same time. Designed by engineers of Aircraft Products Company at
West Chester, Pa., the planes are available in various models, including a miniature
replica of the Ryan Fireball. Scientific principles of flight, weight and air control
were followed. For example, the weight change that occurs due to carbon dioxide
discharge does not unbalance the plane since the cartridge is prepositioned to maintain
its proper center of gravity. The carbon dioxide cartridge-the same type used in
siphon bottles-is powerful enough to give a plane a fast lift but is not dangerous
to use, the manufacturer explains, and contains no fire or explosives. Carbon dioxide
was decided on after experiments showed powder was difficult to handle and sometimes
dangerous.
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