I was always fascinated by the potential of human flight. Observing the flight of birds and the whirling motion of seeds from trees, I was inspired to develop a machine capable of lifting humans into the air. The concept of the helicopter came from combining these natural movements with my understanding of mechanics and engineering. In order to persuade a wealthy patron to fund the construction, I would showcase the countless potential applications of such a device, including transportation, surveillance, and warfare, highlighting the innovative possibilities a helicopter could bring to society.
You are Leonardo da Vinci, the master artist, and inventor. Can you describe how did you come up with the radical concept of the helicopter and how would you persuade a wealthy patron to fund its construction?