GB290505A - Improvements in methods of and apparatus for landing or raising and launching seaplanes and like craft - Google Patents

Abstract

290,505. Junkers, H. July 18, 1927, [Convention date]. Floats, arrangements of; docks.-For landing and launching seaplanes, the craft is secured to one or more auxiliary floats of sufficient size to raise the craft but affording a supporting surface of less width than the wing span. The craft is raised by screw or other lifting devices or by pumping out water ballast from the auxiliary float which may have a wheeled carriage to enable the craft to be run on to the land. Fig. 1 shows auxiliary floats 1, 1<1> having arms 2, 2<1> which are secured to points 3, 3<1> on the wings, the main floats 6, 6<1> being raised clear of the water by drawing together the arms 2, 2<1> by means of the tackle shown. A modification is described in which separate rectangular floats have screw-jacks engaging beneath the wings, and in a further modification separate water ballasted floats are placed beneath each main float. In another construction, a horizontal platform supported by two water-ballasted floats at its edges is employed. Fig. 7 shows a ballasted dock-like float 24 having rails 25 on which runs a wheeled truck 26 for carrying the seaplane. A similarly-shaped float is described having jacks on its vertical sides for supporting the aircraft by engaging beneath the wings. Fig. 9 shows a platform 35 suported by ballasted floats 33, 34 the platform having steps and auxiliary platforms 38, 39 for passengers and attendants, and a roof structure 36 for protecting the main parts of the machine. The wings project through rearwardly open gaps in the sides of the roof structure.