Charles H. Kaman

Kaman revolutionized helicopter safety and stability with his aerodynamic "servo-controlled flaps." The flaps, found on the rotor blades, could automatically adjust to provide stability and were first seen with his innovative K-125 helicopter in 1947. Kaman continued his innovations in 1951 with the K-225, the first helicopter powered by a gas turbine. The new engine enhanced the performance of the helicopter while making it safer, more reliable and easier to maintain. Three years later, he introduced the first twin-turbine helicopter, followed by the first remote controlled helicopter in 1957.

With a reputation for quality and performance, Kaman helicopters found many applications in the military. Beginning a relationship with the Navy in 1949, Kaman provided them with a series of helicopters that successfully served in both Korean and Vietnam. The Kaman H-43 Husky flew more missions in both wars than all other helicopters and is credited with saving more than 15,000 lives over the past 50 years.

Far Electrograph Ultraviolet Camera
Satellite Servicing Techniques
Hydroaeroplane
Space Capsule Design
Retractable Landing Gear; Folding Wing
Rotor Control Mechanism for Rotary Aircraft
Altimeter
Link Trainer/Simulator
Ethyl Gasoline
Flying Wing plane; All-Metal High-Wing Monocoque Airplane (Vega)
Communications Satellite
Spin Stabilized Synchronous Communications Satellite
Turbo Jet
Jet Engine
Supercritical Wing
Small Fan-Jet Engine
Aircraft Propulsion System - Jet Engine