Modern aviation applications for cycloidal propulsion

. Cycloidal Propulsion is an old form of propulsion known for both its high efficiency and its mechanical complexity. Because of challenges this mechanical complexity presented to designers, the Cycloidal Propeller fell by the wayside early in the development history of aircraft. However, the efficiency of the Cycloidal Propeller has always intrigued aerodynamicist, to include those in our firm. Thus, over the past three years BOSCH AEROSPACE, INC. and Mississippi State University's RASPET Flight Research Laboratory, supported by the US Navy Air Warfare Center, Propulsion Directorate, have been applying state-of-the-art structural and material technology to the Cycloidal Propeller concept. This effort will soon culminate in preliminary flight tests of an aircraft fitted with three Cycloidal Propellers providing thrust, lift, and attitude control (Figure 1).