This series addresses terminology that are misleading or erroneous, and proffers definitions to be used as canonical. Here the basic terms of propulsion architectures are discussed. Part 1 of this discussion in the Nov/Dec 2022 issue of Vertiflite described several taxonomies of vertical flight aircraft configurations, contrasting the differing approaches to categorizing aircraft and category labels, and outlining the issues with each approach. These prior approaches to classifying vertical flight aircraft are reviewed briefly here, their issues are recapped, and a new approach is offered that addresses each issue. The objective is to be sufficiently robust for use going forward for all concepts. This new taxonomy focuses specifically on the mechanisms for vertical and low-speed flight, as these are what distinguish vertical flight aircraft from conventional/horizontal takeoff and landing (CTOL/HTOL) airplanes, and differentiate them from each other. Five major categories are identified, with sub-categories for each. This taxonomy is independent of energy and power storage, conversion or transfer approach (i.e., mechanical, electric or other). Wings are treated as a feature, as they can be added to any vertical lift configuration, and so are not addressed in the primary taxonomy categories. It is addressed in second-tier sub-categories.
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