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).
Confidential letter to coachbuilder Park Ward & Co. Ltd. regarding experimental work on windscreen controls and air bags in driving seats.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 117\1\ scan0291 | |
| Date | 28th December 1938 | |
| c. Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} Da.{Bernard Day - Chassis Design} Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/FD.{Frank Dodd - Bodies} 1021 CONFIDENTIAL. 28th. December 1938. BY.8/N. Messrs.Park Ward & Co.Ltd., 473, High Road, Willesden, London N.W.10. Dear Sirs, Re: Experimental Coachwork. ------------------------- On the five cars which you have in hand (3.B.50. 10.B.5. 11.B.5. 12.B.5. and 13.G.Vll) we would like you to pay special attention to the following details as indicated:- (1) Central Control to Windscreen. As you are already aware, we would like this control to be in the centre of the screen so that the pressure at either side of the support is balanced, and we appreciate your difficulty in placing it there due to the winding handle fouling the steering wheel. We would like you to investigate whether an ordinary circular handle of about 1 1/4" in diameter can be used so that the control might be moved nearer the centre. The problem is whether sufficient power will be available. (2) Air Bags in Squabs of Driving Seats. We are informed by our Sales Department that it is more or less universal in expensive cars to fit an air bag in the squab of the driving seat, to afford a ready means of adjustment when the squab has settled down due to use, or to meet the requirements of different drivers. We would be glad if you would incorporate this fitting. Yours faithfully, FOR ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED. CHIEF ENGINEER - CHASSIS. | ||