Weird thought #2 - multi-prop

[serverlan]

Has anyone looked

into multiple engines and props? This would allow smaller props, which would make it easy to lower the thrust line.
Might also get you out of trouble if one engine fails. Would need an adjustable vertical stabiliser to rebalance the off-centre force.

Don

[le-wardy]

Don, Dr. Igor Bensen experimented with multiple engines on his gyrocopter design in the mid-1960's. He documented the testing and results from doing this engine set-up in his book, "A Dream of Flight".

Yes, multi-engines would allow you to use smaller props, however calculating the thrustline would be somewhat tricky. Especially if you have one prop above and one prop below. Or side by side for that matter.

In respect to vertical stabilisers (namely 'rudders'), you would have more than one. Perhaps two or three rudders sitting in the prop blast, for directional control.