Autogyro - aeroplane

Small aeroplane w/ vertical and horizontal propellers

Model: 231
Type: Aircraft
Topic: Travel & Transport
Country of manufacture: Germany
Mechanism: Clockwork
Movement: Moves forward, propellers rotate
Materials: Tin
Dimensions (LxWxH cm): 8x11.5x6
Condition: Very Good
Manufactured: 1935 – 1939

Research notes

The name "Autogyro" (originally spelled Autogiro) was invented by the Spanish engineer Juan de la Cierva in 1920. The engine is connected only to a standard airplane propeller that pulls it forward through the air, like a traditional airplane. The large overhead rotor blades are not connected to the engine during flight. As the front propeller moves the autogyro forward, air rushes upward through the underside of the top rotor blades. This upward airflow forces the blades to spin rapidly on their own (autorotation), creating the aerodynamic lift needed to keep the aircraft airborne. It required little distance for take-off and landing.