Since childhood, Nikola Tesla dreamed of flying and inventing a flying machine.
He had to wait until the 1920s, to obtain patents on this invention (notably in 1922 for France and in 1928 for the United States) which included a new method and a new air transport device.
Like a helicopter, Tesla’s aeroplane allows vertical take-off and landing (hence the acronym VTOL) but, by tilting horizontally, it also allows flight like an aircraft.
Tesla planned to power this device, several kilometres away, by wireless energy transmission and the construction of several towers, similar to the one at Wardenclyffe, would, among other things, enable this use.
He successfully implemented this wireless power transmission and apparently also experimented with remote powering of a car. However, due to lack of funding, he was never able to build his flying machine.
A century later, new VTOLs have emerged and Tesla’s original concept is generally forgotten.
The goal of the present project is to build this device (VTOL), using current technologies but respecting as best as possible, the spirit of Nikola Tesla.
Even if you do not have aeronautical skills, it is still possible to contribute with your knowledge, your know-how, financially or by making this project known.
It is planned that the construction will be done in France (La Manche-Normandy) but some contributions can be done remotely (studies, CAD, media coverage, etc.).
Any help is welcome!
The project involves various trades and several phases are planned:
1/ Creation of a dedicated organization which will manage the project
An organization also involves its administrative and accounting management.
2/ Re-engineering of Nikola Tesla’s aeroplane
Study of original documents, adaptation to take into account current technologies and constraints, CAD.
The airplane will be built in full size and could be flown by a pilot or remotely (another technology invented by Nikola Tesla and patented in 1898).
3/ Renovation, fitting out and equipping of the workshop
Premises are available free of charge and can be converted into a workshop and offices, but their renovation is necessary. The layout and equipment (machines, tools, etc.) of the workshop are important parts of the project to make the airplane a reality.
4/ Manufacture of the aeroplane
Each part of the aeroplane has to be manufactured because there is probably no equivalent nowadays. It is planned to manufacture them in the workshop, but nothing prevents us from considering collaborations with specialised companies. The parts will then have to be tested before being assembled.
5/ Flight tests and adjustment of the aeroplane
After various ground tests, flight tests will be carried out first by remote control and then by a pilot on board.
6/ Media coverage
After an official presentation, the aim of the media coverage is to show the crucial role that Nikola Tesla had in the development of technologies including VTOL, which is being developed in different countries. In this context, the aeroplane could participate in world events.
If you are interested in this project, in which area(s) would you like to contribute?
➔ See the status of the poll and access the Aeroplane project section
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