whole block model of solid of least resistance from "Models illustrating Scot Russell's system of wave-lines. (No. 1216-1219)"

"shows Mr. Russell's solid of least resistance, when the mid ship section is elliptical; its form is intended to comply with the following conditions:-

(1) That it shall move the particles of water out of the way just sufficiently to let the largest section pass and no further; (2) that the particles of water originally at rest should be at rest after the solid has passed; (3) that the force moving the particles shall be constant, and the least possible. The solid represented has a length 7 times its greatest breadth [n.b. fact helps confirm identity of this model], and the proportion of fore body to after is as 7:5. The water-lines in the forebody are sine curves, while those in the afterbody are cycloidal or trochoidal. Mr. Scott Russell developed several empirical geometrical constructions by which his ship lines could be easily set out."

Generally on this set: This series of four diagrammatic models was prepared by Mr. Scott Russell to illustrate his theory of ship-resistance, and the form of ship that he advocated and subsequently constructed upon his 'wave-line' system.