Patent ID: 9045227
Filing Date: 2015-06-02
Classification: B64C

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for generating aerodynamic lift, comprising: a) a cylindrical enclosure having a substantially round upper section and an outwardly flared lower section; b) a first fan mounted in the substantially round upper section for moving an airstream within the cylindrical enclosure toward the outwardly flared lower section; c) a plurality of vanes for conducting the airstream, mounted under and adjacent to the first fan and equidistant around a circumference of the cylindrical enclosure in a spiral pattern, the plurality of vanes forming at least one enclosed channel; d) at least one airfoil mounted at an end of the at least one enclosed channel, having a leading edge facing into an end of the at least one enclosed channel and into the airstream; e) a second fan placed adjacent to the at least one airfoil for conducting the airstream within the cylindrical enclosure toward the outwardly flared lower section; f) a cone-shaped flared skirt placed beneath the second fan, the flared skirt and flared lower section of the cylindrical enclosure forming a substantially horizontal slot around the circumference of the cylindrical enclosure; and g) at least one annular wing mounted in the substantially horizontal slot, having a leading edge facing inwardly into the airstream.