One of his earlier designs was a game he called 'Pagoda'. This was essentially a 3-dimensional version of noughts and crosses or tic-tac-toe, which he devised in the 1950s but never pattented. He was keen to point out that for this game to be effective it required a 4 by 4 by 4 design, that the more ubiquitous 3 by 3 by 3 version subsequently generally available was pointless as whoever took the central point had an immovable advantage. An example of DRFC's game is shown left played by his two grandsons.
Other Designs and Creativity
DRFC used his creativity to good effect at home as well changing the course of naval aviation. He was intrigued by clever design, delighted by problem-solving, and enjoyed both woodwork and painting.
In the 1970s he set himself the task of building an harmonograph (right).
This is basically is a mechanical device that uses pendulums to draw geometric images. The image produced is determined by the direction and strength of the swing of the pendulum. The harmonograph that DRFC built could produce a seemingly endless variety of patterns that would quickly mesmerise visiting children (and adults!)
For the account of one of his less orthodox inventions, see the Petrol Thief Trap described by Granddaughter A under DRFC Remembered.
DRFC learned carpentry skills from his father and used them to good effect throughout his life.
His collection of classic carpentry tools is now lodged with the St Fagans National Museum of History.
The photograph on the right shows a blanket chest he made; left is one of the many children's desks he made for grandchildren and friends.
Below are further examples of his work.
With this evidently much used Ludo table, DRFC combined his carpentry skills with his love of games and entertainment.
Whilst woodwork, games and gadgets appealed to him throughout his life, he took to painting only in retirement. He purchased oil paints as a birthday present for his wife initially but in the end it was he who took to using them! Some examples below with apologies for the quality of some images which are taken from old photographs of his work.
