Abstract: A propulsion device comprises a circular series of inclined airfoil elements. Each airfoil element is connected along its lower side to a rigid plate member, which is adapted to be rotated at high speed via a motor output shaft. The airfoil elements are oriented on the plate such that their vacuum-inducing surfaces face upwardly and inwardly of the circular series, and their pressure surfaces face downwardly and outwardly of the circular series.

Abstract: A propulsion device comprises a circular series of inclined airfoil elements. Each airfoil element is connected along its upper side to a rigid plate member, which is adapted to be rotated at high speed via a motor output shaft. The airfoil elements are oriented on the plate such that their vacuum-inducing surfaces face upwardly and outwardly of the circular series, and their pressure surfaces face downwardly and inwardly of the circular series.

Abstract: A vacuum pump, denoted "VUMP", comprises a pair of nested conical or bell-shaped housings, wherein at least the outer bell-shaped housing forms a part of the pump chamber and has a central inlet. The impeller structure of the pump comprises a circular series of airfoil elements so disposed as to at least partially occupy the annular space defined by the nested conical or bell-shaped members. The airfoil elements each have a vacuum surface directed axially of the impeller towards the central pump inlet. Fluid conveyed through the pump is introduced to the central inlet and directed peripherally of the pump chamber by the inner conical member. Rotation of the circular series of airfoil elements produces a strong vacuum force within the pump that serves to impel fluid through the pump by volumetric displacement.