As with almost every other endeavor, aircraft modeling has undergone significant changes over the decades
- both in technology and preferences. Monthly magazines like American Aircraft Modeler (and
American Modeler before that), have been some of the best venues for capturing snapshots of
the status quo of the day. The days fly by, followed by years and then, amazingly, the decades.
I have been working to scan and post excerpts from the collection of American Aircraft Modelers
and American Modelers acquired via eBay auctions, concentrating on model article and old advertisements
from various companies (many of whom do not exist anymore). Whether you are here to wax nostalgic of
days of yore, or are just interested in learning how things used to be, hopefully you will find what
you are seeking. As time permits, I will be glad to scan articles for you. All copyrights (if any)
are hereby acknowledged.
Keep in mind when reading this featured article titled "Designs for Tomorrow," that it appeared in the June 1957 edition of American Modeler. The designer, Mr. Bill Martin (Ashland KY), was was ahead of his time. Every aspect of the airplane is well-thought-out and is utterly ingenuous. So, the question is, "Why are almost none of the features incorporated into today's commercial aircraft?" Did Mr. Martin never have the opportunity to pursue his dreams? If anybody knows what happened to Bill Martin, please write to let me know and I will publish it here.
DESIGNS OF TOMORROW
BY AMERICAN MODELER READERS
"The loss of so many lives in recent plane crashes has led me to design a transport which I think would be safer," declares Bill Martin of Ashland, Ky.
"Design is based upon a theory of mine that if the passenger compartment was located in the rear of the plane, the chances of lives lost would be lessened. Although I have never seen a plane crash, I have collected a number of pictures and in most cases only the tail section remained.
"Another safety feature about this plane is the wings are located on the tail. Engines and fuel tanks are located a fair distance from the fuselage so that in the event of a crack-up they would be ripped clear of the passenger section.
"I plan to make airplane designing my future. I am 19 years old and have not as yet had any training in aircraft design or engineering. but I expect: to start college in about a year."'
Details: (1) TV camera in nose for taxiing, parking; (2) Cargo compartment; (3) Rigidly braced section; (4) Galley and lavatories; (5) 48-seat passenger compartment, seats mounted backwards for added safety; (6) Cockpit; (7) Stairwell inside fin from cockpit to passenger section; (8) Observation window.
Specifications: Length, 110'; span, 120'; Crew, 4-5; Speed, approx. 650 mph; Power, 4 turbojet engines each developing 7,500-lb thrust. (Plans and sketch by Mr. Martin.)
Webmaster: Kirt Blattenberger, BSEE, UVM 1989 |
