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.