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Time Line - 1970: Aircraft Float Prototype... |
This Aircraft Float prototype was built to prove the concept of
using Captive Columns for aircraft applications. This prototype was a good example of how
easily the Captive Column can be made into an aerodynamic shape. The properties of clean
lines and light weight make the Captive Column an ideal method of aircraft construction.
Even though the Captive Column can be made to take the final shape of an application, it
is not necessary to do so. The Captive Column can also be used as a component in
construction.
This particular structure was tested at San Jose State University in 1970. While the
Captive Column has been evaluated at universities and proven to work as claimed, it is
still not being taught in engineering classes. As far as we know, engineering students are
not even exposed to the concept. As a result, universities across the United States have
been churning out engineers with incomplete training for over 32 years.
The following photos and text describe this prototype:
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This Captive Column Aircraft
Float prototype weighed only 45 pounds and was easily held aloft by one person.
Elimination of bulkheads permitted clean lines with a smooth, fastener free surface. (15k) |
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A test fixture, made of 2 x 6
Douglas Fir boards, attached to a fitting built into the structure. Similar fittings would
attach the float to an aircraft undercarriage. (18k) |
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A load was applied to the center
of the Captive Column test fixture. At 3,500 pounds, the fiberglass core element began to
buckle, but did not break. An air bag under the float simulated water. This test was done
at San Jose State University. (23k) |
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