Rings on B-18 bolo

[Venomstick121]

What is the purpose of the ring on top of the bolo? I have seen it on some British bombers too.

 

[DerAdlerIstGelandet]

Loop Antennas

 

[Wurger]

Yep .... this is the radio compass/ direction finding loop antenna.

 

[Venomstick121]

Many thanks

 

[Capt. Vick]

ABH (Auxiliary Basketball Hoop)

 

[Crimea_River]

Many nationalities used this common antenna type.

 

[MIflyer]

The loop has to be manually rotated in order to determine the bearing to a radio station. Imagine drawing an arrow across the loop, from one side to the other. Maximum signal will occur when the arrow is pointed at the station while minimum signal will occur when the arrow is pointed 90 degrees from the station. Of course you had to be careful that you were not taking the bearing from the backside of the loop.

Later the loops were encased in "football" shapes to lower the drag as well as prevent ice from collecting on the loop.

 

[Antarctica]

Every woman will tell you that a ring is not as good as a diamond.

 

[SaparotRob]

Mine preferred real estate. Clever girl.