Frost's Experimental Ornithopter

Major R F Moore conducted experiments between 1895 and 1909 to find how much power was needed for flapping flight. The experiments were based on the work done by E J Marey and others at that time to analyse animal flight. The wings of this model are based on those of the large bat known as the flying fox. Coil springs replicate the tension in the bat's pectoral muscles in gliding flight; the additional power to flap the wings is supplied by an electro-magnet. In 1909 Major Moore and Frederick Handley Page performed more experiments with a pair of larger wings, of 2.3 metres (7.5 feet) span each, again based on the form of a flying fox. Though nothing came of these experiments modern research has indicated that a successful powered ornithopter could be constructed. It remains, however, a perverse way to fly.

Details

Category:: Aeronautics

Object Number:: 1925-407

type:: experimental model

credit:: Woollett, H.W.

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Parts

Driving mechanism for Frost's experimental Ornithopter

The flapping mechanism consists of a 31/2 hp (2.61 kw) single-cylinder Antoine motorcycle engine driving a chain reduction gear and crank The wings beat at 100 strokes a minute. On test, suspended by a rope from a tree, the whole machine was said to rise about two feet at each stroke looking ‘just like a gigantic bird trying to fly' and a spring balance showed a lift of 80-160 lbs (36-72 kg) on the downstroke. However, it weighed 232 lb (105 kg) so clearly could not have flown.

Object Number:: 1925-407 Pt1

type:: driving mechanism

Wing, one of two, from Frost's Experimental Ornithopter

This left wing measures some 2.44 metres (8 feet) span. The willow ‘bones' and cane framework of the artificial feathers were intended to mimic the flexibility of natural wings.