Abstract

An aircraft having a generally circular or disc planform configuration provides the capability of vertical flight through two concentric sets of lifting fans or blades. The two sets may each include a number of individual rings of blades, but both sets are equal in area and rotate oppositely in order to provide nearly equal volumes of airflow, and thus essentially offset any torque reaction due to the rotation of the blade sets. Several engines are provided in the preferred embodiment, with one engine providing power to the lift fan sets and other engines providing thrust for horizontal flight. Other novel features are also disclosed, such as a peripheral aerodynamic control system, power transmission system, and surface vane system. An alternate embodiment includes a peripheral passenger or cargo area, with more conventional rearwardly located aerodynamic controls for horizontal flight.