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XO-60 Autogiro
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Photo: Robert Deering 10/23/2006 Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Dulles International Airport (IAD) Chantilly, Virginia |
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The XO-60 represents the final
evolution of the Autogiro before the type became
obsolete. In 1943, Kellett produced one XO-60 and six
YO-60s for Army Air Force evaluation. The slow loitering
speeds and almost vertical takeoff and landing abilities
of the XO-60 made it ideal for military observation
duties. However, the arrival of the Sikorsky R-4
helicopter, an inability to hover, limited payload, and
ground resonance problems kept it from production.
Kellett equipped the XO-60 with a jump takeoff clutch that allowed the engine to spin up the rotor to takeoff rpm. The pilot then set collective pitch and caused the aircraft to lift nearly vertically, while the clutch switched power to the tractor propeller to pull the aircraft forward in autorotation. However, jump takeoffs and near vertical landings were difficult maneuvers and resulted in a number of accidents. Dimensions: Overall: 123in. (312.4cm) Other (Rotor): 518 x 123 x 249in. (1315.7 x 312.4 x 632.5cm) Physical Description: Two seat auto gyro, Jacobs 7 cyl radial engine, 2 blade prop, 3 blade rotor, O.D. paint
Source:
Smithsonian Air & Space Museum |
