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DePalma, V-4 Engine, ca. 1918. Creator: DePalma Manufacturing Company
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DePalma, V-4 Engine, ca. 1918. Creator: DePalma Manufacturing Company
C.H. Willis, Henry Fords Chief Engineer, who also led the DePalma Manufacturing Company, worked with famous inventor and General Motors executive Charles F. Kettering to develop this engine under an Army contract for the Kettering Bug, a flying bomb. This predecessor for later cruise missiles used a two-cycle engine because of its high power-to-weight ratio, simplicity of construction, and low cost. With twice the explosions, a two-cycle engine can produce higher power than a four-cycle engine, but does not throttle well, which was not important for this application. The Bug was to cost about $575 in large quantities, and have a range of fifty miles. Development of the aircraft was begun in 1918; but did not go into production because of largely unsuccessful flight tests in 1918 and 1919. The engine also powered Dayton-Wright aircraft such as the T-4 Messenger, another prototype aircraft that lost favor following World War I
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Media ID 23877191
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the DePalma V-4 Engine, a remarkable creation from the early 20th century. Developed under an Army contract for the Kettering Bug, a pioneering flying bomb, this engine was the result of collaboration between C. H. Willis, Henry Ford's Chief Engineer, and renowned inventor and General Motors executive Charles F. Kettering. The V-4 Engine utilized a two-cycle design due to its exceptional power-to-weight ratio, simplicity of construction, and cost-effectiveness. With twice as many explosions as a four-cycle engine, it generated impressive power that proved ideal for its intended purpose – propelling the Kettering Bug through the skies with precision. Although flight tests in 1918 and 1919 were largely unsuccessful, hindering its production prospects at that time, this groundbreaking engine also found application in Dayton-Wright aircraft like the T-4 Messenger. However, despite its potential success following World War I, commercial use of this innovative technology did not materialize. As we admire this historical photograph from Heritage Images capturing DePalma Manufacturing Company's masterpiece in engineering prowess and ingenuity, we are reminded of how advancements in aviation have been shaped by bold experimentation and visionary minds pushing boundaries beyond conventional limits.
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