The Vertical Maneuvering Equipment in Attack on Titan: Feasibility and Reality

The vertical maneuvering equipment (VME) from Attack on Titan is a fascinating concept that captures the imagination of many fans. However, its real-world feasibility is highly questionable. Let's break down the main components and explore the challenges involved.

The Mechanics of the VME

The VME in Attack on Titan consists of two key components: gas-powered propulsion and wire-based maneuvering. While some of its features are plausible in theory, several aspects make its real-world implementation far fetched.

Gas-Powered Propulsion

In theory, using gas for propulsion is possible. Technologies such as jetpacks and small jet engines utilize compressed gas to achieve lift and movement. However, there are significant challenges in making this a viable personal device.

First, the amount of gas needed to achieve the rapid acceleration and maneuverability seen in the anime is immense. Current gas technologies are limited in terms of thrust-to-weight ratio, and the human body can only handle a certain amount of force. The equipment would need to be lightweight to allow for agile movement, which presents a substantial challenge.

Wire-Based Maneuvering

Wire-based maneuvering involves shooting out wires to anchor onto buildings or other structures, allowing for swift and agile movement. This aspect of the VME is more feasible in theory, but still presents challenges.

Advanced stabilization systems would be necessary to handle the rapid changes in direction and altitude. Current technology is still developing in this area, especially for personal use. Achieving this level of control and stability would be a significant technological breakthrough.

Gas Mechanisms: Power, Weight, and Control

The primary gas mechanism in the VME is its gas-powered propulsion. Here are the challenges:

Power and Weight

To achieve the rapid acceleration and maneuverability seen in the anime, a very powerful propulsion system would be necessary. Current gas technologies are limited in terms of thrust-to-weight ratio. The human body can only handle a certain amount of force, and the equipment would need to be lightweight to allow for agile movement. Achieving this balance would be a significant challenge.

Control and Stability

Rapid changes in direction and altitude would require advanced gyroscopic stabilization. Current technology is still developing in this area, especially for personal use. Achieving this level of control and stability would be a significant technological breakthrough.

Human Capability: Limitations and Training

Assuming we could create a gas propulsion system powerful enough, several human limitations would still pose significant challenges:

Physical Limitations

The human body has inherent limitations in terms of strength, agility, and endurance. The rapid movements depicted in Attack on Titan would likely exceed these limits even with the right equipment. The forces exerted during sharp turns and rapid acceleration could lead to serious injuries or loss of consciousness due to G-forces.

Training and Skill

Even if the technology were feasible, significant training would be required to master the equipment. Similar to how pilots train extensively to handle high-speed maneuvers, users of the VME would need rigorous preparation to handle the complex movements and potential risks.

Safety Concerns: Risks and Fail-Safes

The potential for injury is substantial. The VME would require fail-safes to prevent accidents. The consequences of equipment failure while performing complex maneuvers could be catastrophic. Ensuring safety would be a critical aspect of any real-world implementation of the VME.

Conclusion: Theoretical Possibility vs. Pragmatic Feasibility

While some aspects of the vertical maneuvering equipment could theoretically be developed, the combination of necessary power, human limitations, and safety concerns makes it highly impractical with current technology. The portrayal in Attack on Titan remains a work of fiction, leveraging creative liberties to enhance the story's dramatic elements.