Novel Flying Device: Balloon Copter

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of a novel flying device that could utilize a balloon or turbine system for lift and propulsion. Participants explore the feasibility of substituting a balloon with a turbine in a flying device, considering potential commercial applications and design variations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the feasibility of substituting a balloon for a turbine in a practical flying device, suggesting commercial potential.
  • Another participant proposes a hybrid airship/helicopter system that uses hydrogen or helium for lift combined with turbines for propulsion, noting that such systems are currently in development.
  • A different viewpoint suggests a complete substitution of the balloon with a jet turbine, proposing adjustable propeller angles for takeoff and speed, and discussing the mechanics of lift generation through air ejection.
  • Links to various aircraft concepts are shared, including tip jets and other historical designs, indicating interest in existing technologies that may relate to the proposed idea.
  • Clarification is sought regarding the terminology used, with one participant suggesting that "turbojet" would be more appropriate than "turbine," and explaining the mechanics of how compressed gas could create thrust and lift.
  • A later post shares an unrelated link about homemade bamboo rockets, indicating a broader interest in unconventional flying devices.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the practicality and design of the proposed flying device, with no consensus reached on the feasibility of substituting a balloon with a turbine. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific mechanics and potential applications.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the terminology and mechanics involved in the proposed designs, indicating that assumptions about the functionality of turbines versus balloons may need clarification.

Buckleymanor
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Any reason why the balloon could not be substituted for a turbine to make a practicle flying device .
One that could have comercial use.
http://www.presentsformen.co.uk/science-museum-balloon-copter-prod9413/?gclid=cpdtrkvg074cfcpmtaodrnoa5g
 
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Not really a hybrid more along the lines of completely substituting the balloon for a jet turbine and being able to change the angle of the propeller for take off and fast flight.
Maybe even making the blades stationary in flight and by adjusting the end nozzle of the blade to enable a faster performance than a helecopter.
I am not sure if you nowticed but the air from the balloon flows through the prop and is ejected out the ends which causes rotation of the blades and balloon and lift at the end of the propellers.
Obviously the jet turbine won't be allowed to rotate with the prop.
 
Well fancy that, thanks for the link A.T. must admit have never seen a Tip Jet before it fits the bill allmost.Wonder why they are not so prolific and well known.
 
Buckleymanor said:
Any reason why the balloon could not be substituted for a turbine to make a practicle flying device .
One that could have comercial use.
Turbine? That doesn't compute - is that the word you really meant to use? Could you explain what the turbine would be doing?
 
russ_watters said:
Turbine? That doesn't compute - is that the word you really meant to use? Could you explain what the turbine would be doing?
No it's not the word turbojet would be more usefull.The turbine would be compressing gas to power a jet engine.The compressed gas coming out of the engine would travell through tubes into the rotor or blades and be ejected at the tips making them turn, much like a garden sprinkler inverted.This would create thrust and lift depending on the amount of gas produced.
Changes in the angles of the blades, tips and the amount of rotation combined with the gas produced would enable the different caperbilities needed for flight. Ie, hovering, up down forewards backwards.
 

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