Slope Gliding 70 Years Ago

In 1943, I was able to participate in the “National Competition” in Laufen for the first time. On Saturday afternoon, September 11, we looked at the motor-powered models and the few rubber-powered models (rubber was hard to find...). Back then, the “VM Handicap” models flew with a 30-second motor runtime. A 1-second overrun resulted in a 5-point deduction. Clockwork-powered models didn’t come along until later.

In the evening, after the “Landsgemeinde,” we slept on straw in the gym. Early in the morning, we ran to Blauen. The starting point is located above the village on the Blauenweid.

Four categories are evaluated:

• Standard models built to plans (BP)
• Original designs (EK)
• Special designs: flying wings, ducks, tandems (SK)
• Models with automatic control (AK)

For all categories, flight duration (1 s = 5 points) and distance flown (1 m = 1 point) were measured. Of every 3 flights, 2 were evaluated. Distance is determined using military maps. This rule favored models with stable flight paths.

In the Aero-Revue report, our senior expert Arnold Degen expressed regret that too many model aircraft enthusiasts were using BP (kit) models to achieve good rankings, rather than building EK (self-designed) models to participate in our joint development efforts. The MFK (AeCS Model Flying Commission) will take action: At the next National Competition (1945, high-launch), only EK models will be permitted!

The AK models: Four with compass control and one with pendulum control were at the starting line. The winner, Walter Egloff, flew 591/576 seconds and covered a distance of

Kurt Sempert launches his model.

from 5,375/3,800 meters and scored 15,010 points. The best EK scored 5,135 points, while the winner, BP, scored 6,185 points.

Today’s slope flyers would protest. It is very difficult to spot models clearly with binoculars at distances up to 2,000 meters. In 1943, during mobilization, it was possible to request support from the army—specifically, from communications teams equipped with radios. Observation posts were thus set up on the plains to report the landing times and locations of the individual AK models.

The control systems of that time consisted of a carbon steel magnet, a servo, and a battery. The circuit was activated by contacts when the magnet rotated. Since eddy current brakes were not yet common, the models flew in a zigzag pattern. ■

Maurice Bodmer