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FanWing
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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FanWing or fan wing is an concept for a type of aircraft. It is distinct from existing types of aircraft such as airplanes and helicopters in that it uses a fixed wing with a forced airflow produced by cylindrical fans mounted above the wing.
Its makers claim it is the first horizontal-rotored integral lift and propulsion wing in history to sustain flight. It bridges the gap between conventional fixed wing aircraft and helicopters.
FanWing is also the name of the company created to develop the concept.
Patrick Peebles invented the FanWing concept in 1997. He formed the FanWing Company and applied for patents on his idea in several countries where aircraft are manufactured. In July 2005 the company advertised that the first FanWing aircraft was in development in the United Kingdom. They advertised that the concept has undergone wind tunnel tests and powered model flights, and that the UK government was contributing to its further development.
According to the FanWing company, the concept has several differences from traditional aircraft (airplanes and helicopters), including:
- FanWing is quiet, stable in turbulence, and slow.
- It "nearly achieves" vertical takeoff and landing. (VTOL)
- FanWing cannot stall and is suited to low speed flight.
- Its already established efficiency in lift and thrust makes FanWing highly space and fuel economical.
- The FanWing is simple and requires few high-tech materials, and should therefore have low construction and maintenance costs.[citation needed]
- It has limited glide capability and needs power to remain airborne.
The company gives possible applications of the aircraft concept as air freight, short haul passenger flights, and aerial observation.
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- FANWING Ltd. company website
- Flight International Magazine November 2004
- The New York Times Magazine, 2004 Year In Ideas: The FanWing
- News article The Independent
- The Independent, It looks like a lawnmower, was designed in a kitchen - but it could revolutionise aviation, 11 November 2002
- Popular Science Magazine article April 2002
- Slashdot: Fanwing Planes?
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