Page:Popular Science Monthly Volume 92.djvu/872

 8.50

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���This apprentice machine is named after the penguin because, like that bird, it can skim along the surface of the water, but is unable to fly. It is safe for the inexperienced aviator

��The Penguin Seaplane— It Swims But Doesn't Fly

DO you know what a penguin is? You may have read of it but probably have never seen one. The penguin is an aquatic bird found in the polar regions. It is remarkable for its peculiar structure. It has only small stumps in -place of wings and, for that reason, is unable to fly. But it is a good walker and an expert swimmer and diver.

The name of "penguin" has also been given to the training apparatus employed to teach prospective aviators the control of the airplane or seaplane. The name is well chosen. The penguin used for training is as unable to fly as its arctic namesake. It consists of an airplane with wings so small that the power of the motor is unable to lift the airplane off the ground or water. It is supplied with ailerons, elevator, rudder and wheels ex- ceptionally strong for running on the ground. The apprentice is en- encouraged to run this "pen- guin" to his heart's content; there is no danger that it will take to the air. In a short time he graduates to a real air- plane that can and does fly, and then he can give all his attention to the flying part without having to worry over the handling of the various controls. The sense of safety he en- joys while learning is a great nerve- sedative to the inexperienced aviator.

��This Baby Caterpillar Tank Looks Dangerous But Isn't

THE miniature caterpillar tank shown in the accompanying illustration is not an instrument of war, nor is it in- tended to become one. It was made at the request of the Red Cross organization of Stockton, California, by a local manufacturer of caterpillar tractors, to be used as an attraction in a society circus, which netted nearly $10,000.

The exterior of the tank was patterned after the English tanks used on the battle- field. A motorcycle engine was put in to supply the power for the motion of the track chains. It was so arranged that

either side could be disconnect- ed or worked independently, thus permit-

��ting turn

��sharp

���A one man tank built like one of the big English tanks, but intended for a less bellicose purpose

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