Variable pitch ducted fans for STOL transport aircraft

The variable pitch fan has a number of features which make it attractive as the basis for ultra- high bypass ratio ducted fans designed primarily for STOL aircraft. The variability imposes certain design constraints, particularly on fan pressure ratio, and leads to differences in engine geometry relative to equivalent fixed pitch engines. The merits of such engines are discussed under the headings of performance, noise, engine control, thrust modulation, provision of air bleed for high lift, reverse thrust and development flexibility.