| 摘要 |
A power pod is releasably coupled with a model aircraft, such as a model glider plane, to initially power the aircraft into flight and to thereafter separate from the aircraft under the influence of gravity. In the preferred embodiments of the invention, an adaptor element is affixed to the underside of the model aircraft fuselage, and the power pod itself is releasably coupled with the adaptor. The releasable coupling of the power pod with the adaptor is structured such that the power pod remains coupled with the adaptor to thereby power the model aircraft into flight as long as the power pod is providing a forward thrust. In one embodiment, the power pod separates from the adaptor when operation of the power pod ceases; in another embodiment, the power pod remains coupled with the adaptor after operation of the power pod ceases with the pod separating from the adaptor upon command of a remote control radio signal. Upon separation of the power pod from the adaptor, a parachute stored within the pod is deployed by means of a rip cord connected at one end to the model aircraft. The rip cord includes a replaceable, breakable link which breaks as the pod and the deployed parachute fall away from the model aircraft. The cord may have a member on the end which has releasable frictional engagement with the parachute. The power pod includes an adjustable engine mounting plate for permitting the angle of thrust to be established at optimum inclination. The adaptor includes a layer of deformable, reslient material which permits the adaptor to mount without modification to different fuselage configurations. The parachute is attached to the power pod in such a way that the power pod lands in an orientation which minimizes any risk of damage to the pod upon impact with the ground.
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