From the ArcaMax Publishing, Science & Technology Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/technology/s-364023-942053
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (UPI) -- A U.S. aerospace engineer has designed a
plasma-propelled flying machine that looks much like the "flying
saucers" depicted in numerous movies.
University of Florida mechanical and aerospace engineering Associate
Professor Subrata Roy has submitted a patent application for his
circular, spinning aircraft he calls a "wingless electromagnetic air
vehicle," or WEAV. The prototype measures less than 6 inches in
diameter and will be powered by on-board batteries but Roy said the
design theoretically should work in a much larger form.
"This is a very novel concept and, if it's successful, it will be
revolutionary," Roy said.
The vehicle will be powered by magnetohydrodynamics, or the force
created when a current or a magnetic field is passed through a
conducting fluid. In the case of Roy's aircraft, the conducting fluid
will be created by electrodes covering the vehicle's surfaces that
will ionize the surrounding air into plasma that, in turn, creates
lift and momentum.
The U.S. Air Force and the National Aeronautics and Space
Administration have expressed interest in the aircraft and the
university is seeking to license the design, he said.