Abstract: An instrument attached to a workpiece at two separated locations or between two members to record movement. It is a mechanical strain or motion recorder. It is driven by the strains or movements being recorded. The record of the movements is made on a cassette type tape. The movements on the tape are modified. Likewise, the motion that advances the tape may also be modified. When these movements are magnified it permits using shorter gage lengths for a given magnitude of movement or unit strain. Enlarging the recorded data simplifies digitizing the record. The unit may be advanced either by one stroke or by both strokes of the strain cycle. The invention includes an arrangement of tape spools and a recording back-up disc or plate which gives a low profile. The tape is guided against a fixed reference side but an added scribe or marker is provided for use with equipment which employs an additional base line for digitizing the recorded data.

Abstract: A recorder-indicator which mechanically magnifies strain or movement using special flex pivots. The lever system is activated by the motions being recorded or observed. A pointer indicates the strain or movement. It also marks or scribes a record of maximum movement on a recording medium having a scale. The recording media may be placed in a slide for projecting the recorded data and scale on a screen for enlargement.The recording media may be moved in the "Y" direction by one of several means to separate events recorded in the "X" direction.One of the features of the invention is the type of flex pivots that are suitable for small angular motion with minimum distorsion under high load. These pivots may be placed close to each other without interference. Other species of flex pivots are inexpensive to manufacture and still other flex pivots are suitable for relatively large loads and angular movements.The amplified motion is also used to activate limit switches.

Abstract: An aircraft which operates between the surface and the air as a rotating wing aircraft (helicopter-autogiro). When airborne a rotor pylon latch is released and the pilot flies the rotor system aft about its pivot to the fuselage to form the tail of a high speed jet propelled airplane. Altering the pitch angle of the blades controls the aircraft, called a convertiblade, for helicopter-autogiro and airplane configurations and for moving the rotor between its configurations. The rotor is revved up with rocket fuel piped to burner jet nozzles located at the blade tips. A jump-take-off may be used to efficiently get the convertiblade airborne at a good climbing speed. Prior to landing, the rotor blades are released from their operation as roll control surfaces for the airplane configuration; then, they are permitted to rev-up and act as a brake to reduce the speed of the airplane.

Abstract: A scratch strain gauge has an annular target removably supported on a first plate, which is fixed to a first area of a structure that is to have its strains recorded. The target, which has a groove in its periphery, is driven by flat springs, supported on a second plate, which is fixed to a second area of the structure and longitudinally spaced from the first area. The plates have an interlocking relationship for temperature compensation. A dust seal cover is disposed over the space between the plates and the target. A door is pivotally mounted on the cover and closes an opening formed between the cover and the first plate and through which the target can be inserted and removed. One of the supports for supporting the target is mounted on the door and engages the bottom of the groove. A resiliently mounted support on the first plate also engages the bottom of the groove as does a third support fixed to the first plate. The opening of the door enables the target to be easily removed.