The U.S. Air Force researched tiltwings extensively in the 1950's and 1960's. Here are some conclusions:
- Hover efficiency was low due to smaller props.
- The wing (pointed upward) was susceptible to wind gust disturbance.
How is the present project different?
- The Passively-Adjusting-Tiltwing (PAT) typically has less than a third of the total wing area. A lifting body fuselage and other short wings provide most lift.
- The primary purpose of the PAT is to adjust one or two props passively.
- The thrust on the PAT is typically less than half the vehicle total thrust, most of the thrust is at a fixed orientation relative to the fuselage and for the purpose of takeoff/landing.