A DANISH INVENTION.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 20019, 7 August 1920, Page 8

A DANISH INVENTION.

Now that the world’s attention to aviation matters is so universal, it is of interest to note that air propellers were suggested some timo back for the propulsion of ships. Tho inventor was a very intelligent Dane, Heiiric Christian Vogt, of Copenhagen. On the deck of a ship ho mounted a propeller having an outer appearance somewhat similar to a water screw propeller, but made lighter and larger, and having •m° or nioro blades, wings, or sails. Iho angle and pitch of these could bo changed according to tho speed, and to tho direction and power of the wind, instead of ono propeller, two or more could bo employed—each, by preference, driven from a separate engine. In addition to those, near tho stern of the vessel a smaller propeller was mounted, which, with its framing, could be swivelled laterally round Vi pivot for the purpose of increasing the manoeuvring power of the vessel, or lor assisting the steering. With an air propeller The length and weight of the vessel could, it was said, bo reduced, bringing it into tho best term as regards water-resistance and seaworthiness. Tho invention was also of special advantage for tho navigation of uveis and canals, where steamers, heretofore, had generally been at a disadvantage. This invention, it was thought, would also lessen tho pain of seasickness, as the vessels could bo built with more breadth and a keel, so helping to chock the incessant and sys-tem-stirring roll over tho waters, lint sineo those days tho world has learned to fly.