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).
Requirement memorandum for a high-speed winch to launch a large glider.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 175\2\ img062 | |
| Date | 14th February 1941 guessed | |
| COPY. SECRET. DRAFT. Requirement Memorandum - Launching Winch. INTRODUCTION. 1. This memorandum sets out the requirements of a high speed winch to launch a large glider. DESCRIPTION. Driver. 2. The driver of the winch is to be so seated that he has full view of the glider and also of a speedometer or tachiometer which shows the speed of the cable drum. 3. The driver is to have the following controls:- (a) Accelerator and clutch (or hydraulic clutch or torque convertor). (b) Drum Brakes. (c) Cable brake if necessary. (d) Guillotine. 4. The driver should be protected from the cable if it breaks and flies back, or if the coupling falls on the winch after release from glider. Power. 5. The winch is to give a maximum pull of 1000 pounds at a maximum speed of 75 m.p.h. 6. For quick acceleration from the start, a higher maximum pull should be given if possible and should be developed from the standing start. But the power should be delivered continuously, i.e. without changing crash type gear. Design. 7. The winch should be designed to allow a range of angles to the cable; a vertical range from 0° to 90°, and a sideways range of 45° each side is suggested. 8. The drum should have a brake to slow it down. It may be desirable to brake the cable lightly at the lead in so that it does not over-run loosely on to the drum. 9. A mechanism to lay the cable on the drum is needed. Transport. 10. The winch is to be mobile. It may be fixed on a standard R.A.F. trailer. | ||