Abstract: Apparatus defining an expansible/contractible chamber includes a housing having a first housing portion and a second housing portion. A rotor rotates within the first housing portion in one direction while a block rotates in the second housing portion in an opposite direction. A vane disposed on the rotor registers with a recess in the block and defines with the block the chamber. The apparatus can function as an engine, a turbine, a pump, a compressor, or a vacuum pump. An associated method includes the steps of introducing a fluid into the chamber, rotating the rotor and associated vane in order to vary the volume of the chamber and performing work relative to the fluid in the chamber.

Abstract: Apparatus defining an expansible/contractible chamber includes a housing having a first housing portion and a second housing portion. A rotor rotates within the first housing portion in one direction while a block rotates in the second housing portion in an opposite direction. A vane disposed on the rotor registers with a recess in the block and defines with the block the chamber. The apparatus can function as an engine, a turbine, a pump, a compressor, or a vacuum pump. An associated method includes the steps of introducing a fluid into the chamber, rotating the rotor and associated vane in order to vary the volume of the chamber and performing work relative to the fluid in the chamber.

Abstract: An aircraft construction includes a fuselage, a first engine mounted on an axis extending through the fuselage for pulling the aircraft, and a second engine vertically offset from the first engine and mounted on an axis extending through the fuselage for pushing the aircraft. A main wing is disposed generally in a first plane and a tail wing is disposed generally in a second plane. A Canard wing may be disposed in a third plane different than the first plane and the second plane. Vertical stabilizers positioned to extend downwardly from the tail wing support drag wheels to protect the second engine during takeoff.