This monoplane was partticularly notable for the position of its propeller, its low center of gravity, the upturned ends of the plane, and the provision of a clutch enabling the aviator to start the motor, step into the machine, and then start the propeller. Many biplanes and monoplanes were built by M. Pischof in 1907 and 1908. This type, with its chassis like a motor car, was flown very well in 1910, and incorporated many far-sighted innovations. Despite its low center of gravity, it flew easily around corners. This type was manufactured by the Autoplan-Werke in Vienna, as also the Warchalowski biplane.
Top Speed: 53 m.p.h.
Engine: 60 to 70 horsepower
Wingspan: 36 feet
Weight: 910 pounds
Specifications from “Monoplanes and Biplanes,” by Grover Loening, 1911
The Frame
The wooden cross-wired frame is everywhere painted with an aluminum mixture, as were the Wright machines. The joints are very strong, and the lower members are continued out in front to form skids. A great many cross-wires and bracing wires arc used, considerably complicating the structure.
The Main Wing
The main surface is perfectly straight in front. The rear edges are turned up slightly, as on the Etrich IV. It is claimed that this adds greatly to the stability. The plane is braced from the central frame, and its trailing edge is warpable. The spread is 36 feet, the chord 9 feet, and the area 290 square feet.
The Elevators
A Bleriot XI. type elevation rudder is carried at the rear. The central portion is rigid, and the two outer portions movable. They are manipulated by the forward and back movement of a large lever in front of the aviator, forward for descent, etc.
The Direction Rudder
Two identical surfaces at the rear above the elevator are the direction rudders. They arc moved by a foot lever and wires.
Roll Control
The transverse control is obtained by warping the rear of the planes. This is done by the side-to-side motion of the large control lever.
Tail
In addition to the fixed surface of the elevation rudder, there is also a triangular surface at the rear. Both exert considerable lift. Over and under the triangular surfaces are small vertical keels. At the front two sections of the chassis frame are enclosed, to form vertical keels, which in turning help to avoid the effect of the low center of gravity.
Propulsion
The propelling system of the Pischof is one of its most radical features. The motor is placed in front under the planes with a radiator in front of it and two seats in back of it, exactly as on an automobile. The motor of 60 to 70 horsepower drives by a shaft, clutch, and chains, the single variable pitch Normale 8 1/2 foot diameter propeller, placed at the center and flush with the rear of the plane. Here for the first time is a practical and successful means of providing a monoplane with a propeller at the rear instead of at the front. Gnome, E. N. V., and Daimler motors have been used.
Seats
The position of the aviators seat and that of his passenger is very practical, and enables a clear view in every direction, as well as being away from the propeller slip stream, etc. The
Landing Gear
The landing gear is on two wheels at the front fitted with springs and two small wheels at the rear. The long skids at the front, really forming part of the frame, are fitted with small supplementary skids.
Speed, Weight, Loading and Aspect Ratio
The speed is high for so large a machine, 53 miles per hour often being attained. The total weight in flight is from 910 to 1,060 pounds; 17 1/2 pounds are lifted per horse-power, and 3.65 per square foot of surface. The aspect ratio is 4 to 1.