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The very basic Thrust Measuring Rig or 'Flying Bedstead' was the first
British VTOL aircraft and gathered useful data for the P.1127 (Harrier)
project. The Bedstead's loaded weight was only about 272kg less than
the combined thrust of the two engines, and some of that thrust was ducted
away for the control ducts. Each control movement reduced the lifting
thrust, requiring a bit more throttle and meaning that it could not be
controlled at maximum thrust without a height loss. There was little margin
for error — and none at all if one engine faltered. The only plus side was that
the engine nozzles were arranged to give thrust (lift) on the centreline so that
at least it would plunge vertically rather than flip over. Both Bedsteads did
crash, one fatally, and the Harrier adopted a quite different lift system.
| ENGINE | 2 x 1840kg Rolls-Royce Nene turbojets |
| WEIGHTS |
| Take-off weight | 3400 kg | 7496 lb |
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| FACTS AND FIGURES© The pilot's control stick
opened and closed valves that
directed compressed air to
the nozzles mounted at front
and rear and on the sides. © Like all early jet engines, the Nene
took a while to spool up to a new
power setting, meaning adjustment:
had to be made before they were
needed. © The pilot was totally exposed
in his seat above the rig. Only
after the initial test programme
was over was a rudimentary
rollover cage added to offer
some crash protection.
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