The basic configuration of traditional propellers has not fundamentally changed since the first powered flight by the Wright brothers in 1903.
However, as engineers learn more about aerodynamics and attempt new experiments, propellers are evolving to more complex shapes. These feature multiple blades, high sweep angles, blade tip devices and other features to optimize performance in different conditions.
A recent advancement in propeller technology are “toroidal” propellers. These devices are ring-shaped, with the blades looping around each other. A few recent articles and videos have been hyping these—but how “revolutionary” are they, really?
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