Richard Sutton Ransom

Title: Richard Sutton Ransom: Innovations in Flight Control and Missile Steering

Introduction:

Richard Sutton Ransom, a British inventor based in Holywood, has made significant contributions to the field of flight control and missile steering. With three patents under his belt, Ransom's expertise lies in developing advanced technologies for controlling the flight trajectory and maneuverability of missiles. Working in close collaboration with his coworker Albert Dunn at Short Brothers PLC, Ransom's inventions exhibit his deep understanding of aerospace engineering and his drive for innovation.

1. Patent: Flight control of missiles

In this groundbreaking patent, Ransom presents a system for controlling the flight path and lateral steering force of missiles. The design features a rotatable nose portion and a main body portion, with selected openings and closures of discharge ducts controlled by a valve spool. By utilizing thrust from a propellant gas, the nose portion can achieve a demanded roll attitude and lateral steering force. An actuator, responding to guidance control signals, ensures precise control over roll torque and lateral steering, enabling enhanced missile maneuverability.

2. Patent: Steering of missiles

Ransom's second patent focuses on the steering mechanisms of beam-riding missiles. He introduces a concept of a freely rotating control portion forming the nose of the missile, equipped with fixed ailerons and elevators. By employing detecting means and steering logic circuitry, Ransom's invention enables accurate location tracking of the missile within the beam. This, in turn, triggers a clutch mechanism that selectively interferes with the free rotation of the nose, utilizing fixed control surfaces and a single actuator. This design innovation not only enhances flight path maintenance but also reduces the size, weight, and complexity of the missile.

3. Short Brothers PLC:

Ransom's remarkable inventions were developed in collaboration with Short Brothers PLC, a renowned British aerospace company responsible for various significant contributions in the field. Short Brothers PLC, commonly known as Short Brothers, has been a key player in the aerospace industry for decades, specializing in aircraft manufacturing and innovation. Ransom's association with Short Brothers PLC demonstrates the company's commitment to fostering cutting-edge research and development within the organization.

Conclusion:

Richard Sutton Ransom's patents in flight control and missile steering showcase his persistent pursuit of innovative solutions in the aerospace industry. His designs, implemented in collaboration with Short Brothers PLC and his coworker Albert Dunn, offer improved maneuverability, accuracy, and efficiency in missile control systems. Ransom's contributions demonstrate the potential for advancement in missile technology by inventors and researchers dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation.