From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
List of ongoing investigations and tests on various automotive components and systems.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 148\5\ scan0416 | |
| Date | 18th August 1938 | |
| -4- (4) We have investigated a cylinder head which might have competed with the one we have chosen for our new engine. It has not come up to expectations however. (5) Various types of brake shoe arrangement are being investigated relative to hydraulic operation. These may eventually enable the servo to be dispensed with. (6) The H.P. to drive the fan at high speeds is over 10% of the engine power. We are developing a flexibly bladed fan which will only absorb power where maximum induced draught is necessary. (7) High under bonnet temperatures lose 10% of our H.P. We are trying out a thermostatically operated cold air intake. (8) We are experimenting with various types of automatic starting in addition to the scheme fitted to B.III. (9) Variable rate leaf springs have been evolved in the U.S.A. This is being followed up for B.50. (10) Investigations are in progress on a harmonic type crankshaft damper which may eliminate the vibrations which now take place from 3,800 R.P.M. upwards. This will be necessary if we are to dispense with the spring drive on the new engine. Results so far are encouraging. (11) Tests on the flexibly mounted flywheel have now reached the stage where this scheme is ready for a standardisation run in France. It definitely improves engine smoothness. (12) An analysis is being made of the windscreen movement on B.III and B.50 and this is being compared with other cars. (13) Improved ventilation of the driver and front passengers' feet is being sought in conjunction with the no draught ventilation scheme on Bs{A J. Barnes - Assistant Manager}' Wraith. | ||