Hoverwing (rc)

The Hoverwing remote controlled aircraft is a small radio controlled airplane, fitted with large (relative to its size) ducted fans, instead of conventional propellors.

Invented by former BBC broadcast journalist John Coakley, the device is intended as a hovering filming platform, that might enhance TV and film making, because of the tiny crafts ability to carry a High Definition camcorder and transmitter, and film while hovering or flying at very slow speeds.

Finger guards on the fan ducts make the design safe when getting really close to people. Also the remote pilot can bump the little Hoverwing into the likes of walls or trees without damaging it.

According to Coakley's own account the basic design was inspired by the Custer Channel Wing Aircraft - an ultra high lift, low speed aircraft from the 1940s. However, contrary to [http://www.custerchannelwing.com/04_facts.html the Custer design] , Hoverwing uses a more conventional straight wing, and its propellors / fans are fully shrouded instead of only halfway.

The commercial launch of [http://nepic.co.uk/managingChange/mc28Hover.asp Hoverwing] is set for Spring/Summer 2007.