 |
Eugene Michael GluhareffAmerican engineer and aircraft designer of Russian origin
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Russian-American Engineer and Aviation Pioneer
- Sikorsky Aero Engineering Corporation
- American Helicopter Company
- Rotorcraft Corporation and Innovation
- Space Rocket Engines and EMG Engineering
- The "Flying Motorcycle"
Russian-American Engineer and Aviation Pioneer
Early Life and EducationIgor Bensen, a Russian-American engineer and aviation pioneer, was born to a Russian father and an American aviator. In the early 1920s, his family emigrated to the United States. Bensen graduated with a degree in aeronautical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York.
Sikorsky Aero Engineering Corporation
After graduating, Bensen joined Sikorsky Aero Engineering Corporation under the mentorship of famed aircraft designer Igor Sikorsky. He played a pivotal role in developing the world's first helicopter as project engineer and chief design engineer (1940).
American Helicopter Company
In 1950, Bensen transitioned to American Helicopter Company as a project engineer. He worked on the XA-5 "Top Sergeant" helicopter and later became chief designer for the single-seat XH-26 "Jet Jeep" helicopter for the U.S. Air Force.
Rotorcraft Corporation and Innovation
At Rotorcraft Corporation, Bensen designed a single-seat combat helicopter for the U.S. Navy. He also developed the MEG-1X, MEG-2X, and MEG-3X series of ultralight helicopters. Notably, he pioneered the use of liquefied propane as aircraft fuel.
Space Rocket Engines and EMG Engineering
In the 1960s, Bensen turned his attention to rocket engines for space missions. He participated in the development and launch of the Saturn launch vehicle. In 1972, he founded EMG Engineering and resumed his work on aircraft and helicopter engines.
The "Flying Motorcycle"
Bensen's final project in the early 1990s was the EMG-300 single-seat helicopter, dubbed the "Flying Motorcycle." This innovative design exhibited his lifelong dedication to advancing aviation technology.
