METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR VERTICAL SHORT TAKEOFF AND LANDING AND OPERATIONAL CONTROL

摘要

Methods and apparatus for vertical or short takeoff and landing, and operational control during flight. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises two or more counter driven rings with one or more airfoils attached. In one variant, there is an upper ring and a lower ring, each with multiple airfoils attached. In one variant, lift is generated largely via ambient air currents, allowing for long term on-station operation of the device. In another variant, a fuselage (or parts thereof) of the apparatus can be independently controlled, including for example as to attitude relative to other components of the craft.

主权项

1. A vertical short takeoff and landing (VSTOL) apparatus, comprising:
a fuselage; a fuselage ring coupled at two or more connection points with the fuselage; a plurality of airfoils; a power ring coupled to respective ones of the plurality of airfoils; and a control ring that is communicatively coupled with respective ones of the plurality of airfoils; wherein the fuselage is configured to rotate with respect to the fuselage ring.