In the light gyrocopter realm, the craft serves the pilot. This is because the craft is being used for recreational purposes. A light STOL winged-craft can match and exceed all the performance attributes of a gyrocopter, but gyro pilots like the uniqueness and the skills that are involved.
Perhaps a similar analogy can be made between bicycles and unicycles.
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Other VTOL craft are predominantly used for military and commercial purposes. This forum is predominantly pilot-oriented. However, Nick asked the question;
" I solicit input from all quadrants of our field.", so from a cold and impersonal perspective, here is a, perhaps unattractive, response;
These craft do not serve the pilot. The pilot serves the craft. The craft serves the customer. Therefore, it is the desires of the customer that will predominantly determine what is required in the next generation.
IMHO, VTOL craft provide two basic functions, which are; in-flight activities and transportation. Also, the major factor limiting growth in this field is the low 'payload/cost ratio' of VTOL craft.
Assuming that the industry, which includes pilots and manufacturers, does truly want growth, it would appear that an improved 'payload/cost ratio' is by far the most important requirement.
The following may not win friends, but it does IMHO, representative the reality of next-generation VTOL. Bluntly put; the weight reduction resulting from the future use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles will significantly improve the cost/benefit ratio of VTOL craft doing in-flight activities; and eventually those doing transportation activities.
Mud
[probably my new name] 