A single rotor without reaction torque: a violation of Newton's Laws or feasible?

摘要

It is shown in the paper that a'single rotor without reaction torque is theoretically possible, thus eliminating the need for anti-torque devices. The principle is to actively excite the flapping motion so that the blades provide both lift as well as their own propulsion, similar to the wings of birds. It is furthermore investigated in the paper whether this principle could be used in a practical helicopter, considering the power required, the magnitude of flapping angles, vibrations, and control characteristics. The preliminary conclusions are that such an "ornicopter" could be practically feasible.