Maxim's Flying Machine (POV) Pleasure Beach Blackpool

Описание: A few years back you could see the original machinery on show and in this video (Maxim's own and still working!), at the emporium situated under the flying machine. Two 50 hp (37 kw) dc motors are linked by cotton rope drives to 12 foot (3.6m) diameter wheels. These wheels in turn drive the bevel gears which turn the crown wheel attached to the central column..on the column there are the slip rings which transfer an electric current to the ride and give it its decorative lighting. The two original electric motors which are still in use today were made by Lister brothers of Dursley. All the metal castings (which again are original), were made by Robinson and Cook at their Atlas foundry in St. Helens, Merseyside..(once Lancashire.) Sir Hiram Maxim's Captive Flying Machine: Opened in August 1904, this is the only surviving Flying Machine ride in the world, and the Pleasure Beach's oldest ride. A steel pole 62 feet high supports ten arms, from which hang carriages. As the ride revolves, the carriages spread outwards, hence creating the illusion of flying. This antique machine still operates successfully today amongst the high-tech thrill rides. Designed by Sir Hiram Maxim to raise money for his attempts to be the first man to fly the measured mile. Two others were built. One at Crystal Palace in London and one at Pleasureland, Southport. Both have been demolished.