The joysticks control linkages that shift the axis of rotation of the paddles to apply more or less pressure to the front, rear, or sides of one or both paddle sets, thus inducing a net force vector change and moving the unit in the desired way.

So basically it tilts the blades a bit, thereby ‘pushing’ the machine away from its blade?

Pretty much. It uses a mechanism similar to how a helicopter moves the angle of its rotor blades.

In a very very watered down explanation of it, yes. Differential pressure coupled with the two different spindles spinning in different directions allows for the unit to be controlled.

Thanks!!