A ducted ion wind propulsion device and aircraft

Abstract

The application provides a ducted ion wind propulsion device and an aircraft, and relates to the technical field of ion wind propellers. The propulsion device comprises a ducted shell, a needle-shaped emitter assembly, a meshed collector and a high-voltage power supply assembly. An axial airflow channel is formed in the ducted shell, and the needle-shaped emitter assembly and the meshed collector are arranged along the axial direction. The needle-shaped emitter assembly comprises at least two concentric and radially spaced annular conductive members, a plurality of needle-shaped discharge members are arranged on each annular conductive member along the circumferential direction, each adjacent annular conductive member is electrically connected, and the tip of the needle-shaped discharge member faces the meshed collector. The meshed collector spans the airflow channel and is provided with a plurality of mesh holes. The high-voltage power supply assembly is electrically connected with the needle-shaped emitter assembly and the meshed collector, respectively, to form a high-voltage electric field and generate ion wind flowing from the air inlet end to the air outlet end. The device can expand the ionization coverage range, improve the airflow concentration degree, and be used for aircraft propulsion or attitude adjustment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of ion wind propulsion technology, and more specifically, to a ducted ion wind propulsion device and an aircraft. Background Technology

[0002] Ducted propulsion systems typically utilize ducts to create a relatively concentrated airflow channel, and drive air to flow axially along the duct via power components located within the duct to generate propulsion. Traditional ducted propulsion systems generally use electric motors to drive fans or propellers. While this can achieve relatively stable airflow output, it usually requires multiple mechanical components such as motors, impellers, transmission mechanisms, or mounting structures. This not only makes the overall structure and control system complex, but also makes the rotating components prone to noise, vibration, and mechanical wear during operation, which is detrimental to the lightweight and low-noise applications of ducted propulsion systems.

[0003] Electrohydrodynamic propulsion technology utilizes a high-voltage electric field formed between electrodes to ionize the air, causing the generated charged particles to move in a directed manner under the influence of the electric field. During their motion, these charged particles collide with surrounding neutral air molecules, transferring momentum and thus forming a directed flow of ionized wind. Because this type of propulsion does not require an electric motor to drive the blades, it features fewer moving mechanical parts, lower operating noise, less vibration, and faster response, making it promising for applications in small aircraft and low-noise propulsion platforms.

[0004] For example, Chinese invention patent CN109533350A discloses a ducted propulsion device, which includes a duct shell, a positive electrode section, a negative electrode section, and an ion deflection device. The duct shell forms a through airflow channel, the positive and negative electrode sections are used to generate an electrostatic field, the ion deflection device is used to change the direction of the ion jet, and an ion acceleration device can be further installed inside the duct. This solution uses air ions as propulsion power, eliminating the drive motor and rotating fan components in traditional ducted propulsion devices, and improving upon traditional methods in terms of simplifying the mechanical structure, reducing operating noise, and minimizing mechanical vibration.

[0005] However, the aforementioned ducted thrusters require multiple functional components within the duct to generate an electrostatic field, alter the direction of the ion jet, or accelerate charged particles, resulting in a relatively complex internal structure and electrical connections. Furthermore, the effectiveness of ion wind formation is closely related to the distribution of electrodes within the duct's cross-section. When the discharge points are concentrated or the electrodes do not adequately cover the duct's cross-section, the ionization and electric field driving effects on air in different areas of the duct may vary, potentially leading to stronger local airflow and weaker airflow in other areas, thus affecting the uniformity and stability of the ion wind output.

[0006] Therefore, how to improve the air ionization and electric field driving state within the duct cross-section while maintaining the compact structure and absence of rotating power components of the ion wind propulsion device, so as to form a more uniform and stable directional airflow within the duct, is a technical problem that needs to be further solved in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this application is to provide a ducted ion wind propulsion device and an aircraft, addressing the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is as follows: One aspect of this application provides a ducted ion wind propulsion device, including a duct housing, a needle-shaped emitter assembly, a mesh collector, and a high-voltage power supply assembly; The duct shell has an airflow channel that runs through it along its axial direction, and the airflow channel has an inlet end and an outlet end; The needle-shaped emitter assembly and the mesh collector are spaced apart along the axial direction of the airflow channel within the airflow channel, with the needle-shaped emitter assembly located on the side of the mesh collector facing the air inlet end. The needle-shaped emitter assembly includes at least two annular conductive elements and multiple needle-shaped discharge elements. Each annular conductive element is concentrically arranged with the axis of the airflow channel as the center and distributed radially at intervals along the airflow channel. Multiple needle-shaped discharge elements are provided on each annular conductive element. Multiple needle-shaped discharge elements located on the same annular conductive element are arranged circumferentially at intervals along the corresponding annular conductive element and are conductively connected to the corresponding annular conductive element. Each adjacent annular conductive element is conductively connected to each other. The tip of each needle-shaped discharge element faces the mesh collector. The mesh collector spans the airflow channel and has multiple mesh openings through which airflow passes; The negative output terminal of the high-voltage power supply component is electrically connected to the needle-shaped emitter component, and the positive output terminal of the high-voltage power supply component is electrically connected to the mesh collector, so as to form a high-voltage electric field between the tip of each needle-shaped discharge element and the mesh collector.

[0009] Furthermore, the needle-shaped emitter assembly also includes an insulating emitter bracket fixed to the duct housing and located within the airflow channel. The insulating emitter bracket includes multiple support arms and at least two annular mounting portions. The multiple support arms extend radially along the airflow channel and are interconnected. Each annular mounting portion is concentrically arranged with the axis of the airflow channel as the center and is connected to the multiple support arms respectively. Each annular conductive element is fixed to the corresponding annular mounting portion.

[0010] Furthermore, there are two annular conductive components, namely an inner ring copper wire and an outer ring copper wire. The needle-shaped discharge component is a tungsten needle. Multiple tungsten needles are welded circumferentially on both the inner and outer ring copper wires. The inner and outer ring copper wires are electrically connected by connecting copper wires, and the outer ring copper wire is electrically connected to the negative output terminal of the high-voltage power supply component through a wire.

[0011] Furthermore, multiple needle-shaped discharge elements located on the same annular conductive element are arranged at equal intervals along the circumference of the corresponding annular conductive element, and the axis of each needle-shaped discharge element is parallel to the axis of the airflow channel.

[0012] Furthermore, it also includes an insulated current collector bracket disposed within the airflow channel. The insulated current collector bracket includes an annular frame and a cross support portion connected to the inner edge of the annular frame. The mesh current collector covers the opening area enclosed by the annular frame and is fixedly connected to the annular frame and the cross support portion. The inner wall of the duct housing is provided with a mounting groove, and the outer edge of the annular frame is embedded in the mounting groove.

[0013] Furthermore, the mesh current collector is a circular copper mesh, the outer contour of which is adapted to the cross-section of the airflow channel. The circular copper mesh is a 20-mesh or 30-mesh copper mesh, and the mesh openings of the circular copper mesh are square.

[0014] Furthermore, the distance between the tip of each needle-shaped discharge device and the mesh collector along the axial direction of the airflow channel is 30mm to 40mm.

[0015] Furthermore, it also includes a converging nozzle coaxially connected to the periphery of the duct housing. The converging nozzle is located on the side of the air outlet of the airflow channel away from the air inlet. The inlet end of the converging nozzle is connected to the airflow channel. The flow cross-section of the inlet end of the converging nozzle is adapted to the flow cross-section of the airflow channel at the air outlet. The flow cross-sectional area of ​​the converging nozzle gradually decreases from the inlet end to the outlet end.

[0016] Furthermore, the high-voltage power supply component includes a DC power supply and a high-voltage conversion module. The output terminal of the DC power supply is electrically connected to the input terminal of the high-voltage conversion module. The negative output terminal of the high-voltage conversion module is electrically connected to the needle-shaped emitter assembly, and the positive output terminal of the high-voltage conversion module is electrically connected to the mesh collector.

[0017] Another aspect of this application provides an aircraft, including an airframe and at least one of the aforementioned ducted ion wind propulsion devices, the ducted ion wind propulsion device being mounted on the airframe.

[0018] The beneficial effects of this application include: This application provides a ducted ion wind propulsion device. It comprises at least two concentric annular conductive elements spaced radially apart within an airflow channel, and multiple needle-shaped discharge elements spaced circumferentially on each annular conductive element. This allows the needle-shaped discharge elements to be distributed across different radial and circumferential regions of the airflow channel cross-section. Compared to structures where the discharge location is concentrated in a single circle or local area, this multi-ring needle-shaped emitter expands the effective coverage of air ionization, reduces insufficient ionization in the central or peripheral regions of the airflow channel, and improves the uniformity of ion wind distribution and output stability within the airflow channel cross-section.

[0019] The mesh collector spans the airflow channel and has multiple mesh openings for airflow passage, enabling it to provide a large corresponding collection area for needle-shaped discharge devices at different locations while maintaining a continuous airflow path. With the needle-shaped emitter assembly and the mesh collector spaced axially along the airflow channel, the high-voltage power supply assembly can generate a high-voltage electric field between the tip of the needle-shaped discharge device and the mesh collector. This ionizes the air near the tip of the needle-shaped discharge device, and charged particles transfer momentum to neutral air molecules as they migrate towards the mesh collector, thus forming an ionized wind flowing from the inlet to the outlet. This needle-mesh electrode structure balances electric field establishment, ion collection, and airflow passage, which is beneficial for improving the utilization of the effective area of ​​the mesh collector.

[0020] The duct housing forms an axially continuous airflow channel, which can collect and axially guide the airflow generated by different needle-shaped discharge devices, reducing momentum loss caused by disordered diffusion of ion winds to the periphery of the airflow channel. The insulated emitter support and the insulated collector support respectively position and support the needle-shaped emitter assembly and the mesh collector, keeping the annular conductive components concentric and maintaining a stable electrode spacing between the tips of the needle-shaped discharge devices and the mesh collector. At the same time, it reduces the possibility of high-voltage energy leakage through the duct housing and unintended discharge, which helps to improve the installation accuracy, discharge stability and safety of the device.

[0021] The converging nozzle is located at the outlet end of the airflow channel and coaxially connected to the duct shell. Its flow cross-sectional area gradually decreases along the airflow direction, which can further converge and guide the airflow after passing through the mesh collector. Under the condition that the airflow mass flow rate can be maintained, the converging nozzle is beneficial to increasing the average airflow velocity and momentum flux per unit area in the outlet region, making the outlet airflow direction more concentrated. By matching the mesh number of the mesh collector with the converging nozzle, a better coordination can be achieved between airflow resistance, ion collection capacity, and outlet wind speed.

[0022] The high-voltage power supply component uses a DC power supply in conjunction with a high-voltage conversion module to convert low-voltage DC power into the high-voltage DC power required for the needle-shaped emitter assembly and mesh collector, facilitating connection with the DC power supply system carried by the aircraft. This propulsion device primarily relies on corona discharge and momentum transfer between charged particles and neutral air molecules to generate airflow, eliminating the need for direct air movement via propellers, impellers, or piston-like mechanical components. This reduces mechanical vibration and noise generated by high-speed mechanical components and features a compact structure, fast response, and easy modular arrangement.

[0023] In summary, this application, through the coordinated operation of a multi-ring needle-shaped emitter assembly, a mesh collector spanning the airflow channel, a duct housing, a converging tail nozzle, and a high-voltage power supply assembly, forms a propulsion path that continuously connects air ionization, charged particle acceleration, airflow through the mesh, axial focusing, and exit convergence. This expands the ionization coverage while improving the concentration of airflow direction and output stability, and also takes into account the requirements of insulation protection, structural installation, and airborne power supply. Thus, it provides an ion wind propulsion solution with low mechanical vibration, low mechanical noise, and easy integration for aircraft propulsion, auxiliary propulsion, or attitude adjustment. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a ducted ion wind propulsion device provided in this application; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a needle-shaped emitter and a mesh collector installed in a duct housing, as provided in this application; Figure 3 This application provides a structural schematic diagram of an assembly of a duct shell and a converging nozzle.

[0025] Reference numerals: 1-Duct housing; 2-Insulated emitter support; 3-Needle-shaped emitter; 4-Insulated collector support; 5-Converging nozzle; 6-Mesh collector. Detailed Implementation

[0026] This embodiment provides a ducted ion wind propulsion device, including a duct housing 1, a needle-shaped emitter assembly, a mesh collector 6, and a high-voltage power supply assembly. The needle-shaped emitter assembly includes a needle-shaped emitter 3; in this embodiment, the needle-shaped emitter assembly also includes an insulating emitter bracket 2 for supporting the needle-shaped emitter 3. The needle-shaped emitter 3 includes at least two annular conductive elements and multiple needle-shaped discharge elements. The duct housing 1 forms an airflow channel and provides a mounting base for the needle-shaped emitter 3, the mesh collector 6, and their supporting structure; the needle-shaped emitter 3 forms a local high-intensity electric field and ionizes the air under high voltage; the mesh collector 6 forms a high-voltage electric field together with the needle-shaped emitter 3 and retains a continuous flow path for the airflow; the high-voltage power supply assembly applies high voltages of opposite polarity to the needle-shaped emitter 3 and the mesh collector 6, causing the air to ionize between them and form a directional ion wind.

[0027] The duct housing 1 is a hollow structure extending along a predetermined axis, with an airflow channel forming inside that runs through the duct housing 1 axially. One end of the airflow channel is the inlet, and the other end is the outlet. The axial direction of the duct housing 1 refers to the direction extending from the inlet to the outlet, and the axis of the airflow channel refers to the centerline extending along the length of the airflow channel. When the device is in operation, external air enters the airflow channel from the inlet, passes sequentially through the region where the needle-shaped emitter 3 is located, the electric field region between the needle-shaped emitter 3 and the mesh collector 6, and the mesh collector 6, and is discharged from the outlet.

[0028] The duct housing 1 surrounds the airflow channel, restricting the outward diffusion of airflow in a direction perpendicular to the airflow channel axis. This allows the airflow generated by the action of different needle-shaped discharge elements to converge within the airflow channel and primarily move along its axial direction. The duct housing 1 also provides physical isolation for the internal electrode structure, reducing direct disturbances from external lateral airflow to the ionization region and axial airflow. The inner wall of the duct housing 1 can be designed as a continuous and smooth surface to reduce localized flow disturbances caused by protruding structures and decrease the likelihood of significant airflow separation along the inner wall.

[0029] The duct housing 1 is made of insulating material to reduce the possibility of leakage or unintended discharge of the needle-shaped emitter 3 or the mesh collector 6 through the duct housing 1. In one specific manufacturing method, the duct housing 1 is integrally formed by 3D printing and is in the shape of a hollow cylinder. The airflow channel formed by the duct housing 1 has a circular cross-section and a diameter of 16 cm. Using 3D printing, the positioning structure for mounting the insulating emitter bracket 2 and the insulating collector bracket 4, the connection structure for connecting the converging nozzle 5, and the wiring structure through which the power supply connection wires pass can be integrally formed at the same time as the main body of the duct housing 1.

[0030] The duct housing 1 has at least two through-holes communicating with the airflow channel. One through-hole is for the negative electrode wire connected to the needle-shaped emitter 3 to pass through, and the other through-hole is for the positive electrode wire connected to the mesh collector 6 to pass through. The two through-holes can be located at different circumferential positions of the duct housing 1, so that the positive and negative electrode wires are spatially separated and the possibility of surface discharge or mutual interference between them is reduced. The through-holes avoid the high field strength region near the tip of the needle-shaped discharge device and are located in a position that does not significantly obstruct the airflow.

[0031] An insulating sleeve can be installed between the wire insertion port and the corresponding wire, or the wire insertion port can be filled with insulating encapsulation material. The insulating sleeve or insulating encapsulation material is used to fix the wire, reduce the swaying or wear of the wire due to airflow, and increase the insulation distance between the wire and the duct housing 1. After the positive and negative wires enter the airflow channel, they can be arranged along the inner wall of the duct housing 1 or the corresponding insulating support structure to reduce the impact of the wires on the effective flow area of ​​the airflow channel.

[0032] A needle-shaped emitter 3 and a mesh-shaped collector 6 are axially spaced within the airflow channel, with the needle-shaped emitter 3 located on the side of the mesh-shaped collector 6 facing the air inlet. After air enters the airflow channel from the air inlet, it first passes through the needle-shaped emitter 3 and then flows towards the location of the mesh-shaped collector 6. An axial gap is maintained between the needle-shaped emitter 3 and the mesh-shaped collector 6, which constitutes the electric field space required for air ionization and the migration of charged particles.

[0033] like Figure 2 As shown, the needle-shaped emitter 3 includes at least two annular conductive elements and multiple needle-shaped discharge elements. Each annular conductive element is arranged around the axis of the airflow channel and concentrically with the axis of the airflow channel as its common center. The annular conductive elements are distributed radially at intervals along the airflow channel, so that the needle-shaped discharge elements are distributed at different radial positions across the cross-section of the airflow channel. The annular conductive elements relatively closer to the axis of the airflow channel mainly correspond to the central region of the airflow channel, while the annular conductive elements relatively farther from the axis of the airflow channel mainly correspond to the peripheral region of the airflow channel.

[0034] Each annular conductive element is equipped with multiple needle-shaped discharge elements. These needle-shaped discharge elements, located on the same annular conductive element, are spaced circumferentially along the corresponding annular conductive element and are electrically connected to it. The annular conductive element serves both to support the needle-shaped discharge elements and to transmit high voltage to them. Adjacent annular conductive elements are electrically connected to each other, ensuring that all annular conductive elements and their supported needle-shaped discharge elements are connected to the negative output terminal of the high-voltage power supply assembly and are at the same or substantially the same potential.

[0035] The needle-shaped emitter assembly also includes an insulated emitter bracket 2. The insulated emitter bracket 2 is fixed to the duct housing 1 and located within the airflow channel, serving to support and position each annular conductive element, maintaining a predetermined concentricity, radial spacing, and axial position. The insulated emitter bracket 2 is made of insulating material to maintain electrical isolation between the annular conductive elements and the duct housing 1, and to reduce the possibility of high voltage being transmitted to the duct housing 1 via the support structure.

[0036] like Figure 3As shown, the insulated emitter bracket 2 includes multiple support arms and at least two annular mounting portions. The multiple support arms extend radially along the airflow channel and are interconnected. Each annular mounting portion is concentrically arranged around the axis of the airflow channel and is connected to one of the multiple support arms. The number and radial position of each annular mounting portion correspond to each annular conductive element, and each annular conductive element is fixed to its corresponding annular mounting portion.

[0037] In one specific embodiment, the insulated emitter bracket 2 includes four support arms that form a cross-shaped support structure within the cross-section of the airflow channel. The four support arms are interconnected near the axis of the airflow channel and extend towards the inner wall of the duct housing 1. Each annular mounting portion is simultaneously connected to multiple support arms, providing support at multiple circumferential positions. The combination of the cross-shaped support structure and the concentric annular mounting structure improves the concentricity and structural stability of each annular mounting portion while reducing obstruction of axial airflow by the support structure.

[0038] The insulated emitter bracket 2 can be integrally molded using 3D printing, forming a single structure from multiple support arms and annular mounting parts. This integral molding method reduces the number of parts and assembly errors, while maintaining high concentricity between the different annular mounting parts. In another embodiment, the support arms and annular mounting parts can be molded separately. One of the support arms and annular mounting parts has a plug-in protrusion, and the other has a plug-in groove that matches the protrusion. The plug-in protrusion fits into the plug-in groove, forming a mortise and tenon joint, which is further secured using insulating adhesive material.

[0039] The insulated emitter bracket 2 can also be fixed to the duct housing 1 using mortise and tenon joints or adhesive bonding. Specifically, each support arm can have a mounting protrusion at its outer end away from the airflow channel axis, and the inner wall of the duct housing 1 has a positioning groove that matches the mounting protrusion. After the mounting protrusion is inserted into the positioning groove, the positioning groove provides axial and circumferential positioning for the insulated emitter bracket 2. Insulating adhesive material can also be filled between the mounting protrusion and the positioning groove to prevent the insulated emitter bracket 2 from moving relative to the duct housing 1 during transportation or operation.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, two annular conductive elements are provided, namely an inner copper wire and an outer copper wire. Both the inner and outer copper wires are bent around the axis of the airflow channel to form circular copper wire loops. The diameter of the copper wire loop formed by the inner copper wire is 5.5 cm, and the diameter of the copper wire loop formed by the outer copper wire is 10.5 cm. The inner copper wire is fixed to an annular mounting portion relatively close to the axis of the airflow channel, and the outer copper wire is fixed to an annular mounting portion relatively far from the axis of the airflow channel.

[0041] The inner and outer ring copper wires can be arranged along the outer periphery of the corresponding annular mounting portions and bonded to them using insulating adhesive material. The annular mounting portion can be provided with an annular positioning groove adapted to the outer diameter of the copper wire, allowing the copper wire to be radially and axially limited after being embedded in the groove. The opening of the annular positioning groove can face radially outward or axially to one side of the airflow channel, aligning the installed needle-shaped discharge element with the mesh collector 6.

[0042] The needle-shaped discharge device uses tungsten needles. Multiple tungsten needles are welded to the inner and outer copper wires respectively, so that the tungsten needles and the corresponding copper wires simultaneously form mechanical and conductive connections. Tungsten material has a high melting point and good tip shape retention ability, making it suitable for use under high electric field strength and continuous corona discharge conditions.

[0043] Multiple tungsten needles located on the same copper wire ring are arranged at equal intervals along the circumference of the corresponding copper wire ring. Equal circumferential spacing means that the central angles of adjacent tungsten needles are the same or nearly the same. By adopting an equal circumferential spacing arrangement, the excessive concentration of tungsten needles in some circumferential areas and the excessive sparseness of tungsten needles in other areas can be reduced, making the discharge areas generated by each tungsten needle relatively uniformly distributed along the circumference of the corresponding copper wire ring.

[0044] The axis of each tungsten needle is parallel to the axis of the airflow channel, and the tip of each tungsten needle faces the mesh collector 6. Each tungsten needle includes a rod-shaped body and a pointed end of the rod-shaped body facing the mesh collector 6. The pointed end gradually tapers in the direction towards the mesh collector 6, thus forming a conical discharge tip. The conical discharge tip has a small radius of curvature. When a high voltage is applied, the local electric field strength near the tip is higher than that near the rod-shaped body, which is conducive to preferential ionization of air near the tip.

[0045] During installation, each tungsten needle is positioned so that its rod-shaped body passes through or abuts against the corresponding annular mounting portion, and the tips are located at the same or substantially the same axial position. This ensures that the tips of each tungsten needle maintain a relatively consistent axial distance from the mesh collector 6, reducing uneven discharge caused by excessive differences in the electrode spacing between different tungsten needles.

[0046] The inner and outer copper wires are electrically connected via a connecting wire. One end of the connecting wire is soldered to the inner copper wire, and the other end is soldered to the outer copper wire, forming a conductive network together. The outer copper wire is electrically connected to the negative output terminal of the high-voltage power supply component via a negative conductor. The high voltage output from the high-voltage power supply component is transmitted through the outer copper wire and the connecting wire to the inner copper wire, and further to all the tungsten needles soldered onto the inner and outer copper wires.

[0047] The connecting copper wire can be arranged against one of the support arms of the insulated emitter bracket 2 and fixed to the support arm with insulating glue or insulating clips. The negative wire can also extend along the support arm toward the inner wall of the duct housing 1 and then be led out of the duct housing 1 through the corresponding wire outlet. By using the method of wiring along the support arm, the length of the connecting copper wire and the negative wire suspended in the airflow channel can be reduced, and their disturbance to the airflow can be reduced.

[0048] The tungsten needles on the inner ring copper wire primarily ionize the central region and the annular region near the center of the airflow channel, while the tungsten needles on the outer ring copper wire primarily ionize the outer annular region of the airflow channel. The double-ring copper wire structure distributes the tungsten needles at different radial positions across the cross-section of the airflow channel. Furthermore, the tungsten needles on the same copper wire ring are evenly spaced circumferentially. Therefore, the effective ionization range can be expanded in both radial and circumferential directions, reducing the concentration of ionization in localized areas of the airflow channel and improving the ionization coverage and airflow distribution consistency within the cross-section of the airflow channel.

[0049] The mesh collector 6 is disposed on the side of the needle-shaped emitter 3 facing the outlet end and spans the airflow channel. The mesh collector 6 spans the airflow channel, which means that the mesh collector 6 covers the main flow area of ​​the cross-section of the airflow channel, so that tungsten needles located at different radial and circumferential positions can establish corresponding high-voltage electric field interaction areas with the mesh collector 6.

[0050] The mesh collector 6 has multiple through-holes. The conductive mesh wires of the mesh collector 6 are used to receive charged particles migrating toward it, and the multiple mesh holes are used to allow airflow to pass through. Thus, the mesh collector 6 can maintain its collecting function while not completely blocking the airflow from the needle-shaped emitter 3 toward the outlet.

[0051] The ducted ion wind propulsion device also includes an insulated current collector bracket 4 disposed within the airflow channel. The insulated current collector bracket 4 is used to fix and support the mesh current collector 6, ensuring that the mesh current collector 6 is installed across the airflow channel and substantially perpendicular to the axis of the airflow channel. The insulated current collector bracket 4 is made of insulating material and can be integrally molded using 3D printing.

[0052] The insulated current collector support 4 includes an annular frame and a cross-shaped support portion connected to the inner edge of the annular frame. The annular frame is arranged around the axis of the airflow channel and forms an opening area through which the airflow passes. The cross-shaped support portion is located within the opening area enclosed by the annular frame, and its outer ends are respectively connected to the inner edge of the annular frame.

[0053] In one embodiment, the cross-shaped support includes two intersecting support bars, the intersection of which is located at or near the center of the annular frame. The two support bars divide the opening area enclosed by the annular frame into four flow areas, providing support for the central part of the mesh collector 6 while retaining a large opening area for airflow.

[0054] The mesh current collector 6 covers the opening area enclosed by the annular frame and is fixedly connected to the annular frame and the cross-shaped support. The annular frame is used to fix the periphery of the mesh current collector 6, and the cross-shaped support is used to support the central area of ​​the mesh current collector 6. By cooperating with the peripheral support and the central support, the significant bending of the mesh current collector 6 due to its own flexibility, assembly tension, or airflow pressure can be reduced, thereby maintaining a relatively stable axial distance between the mesh current collector 6 and the tips of each tungsten needle.

[0055] The mesh collector 6 can be bonded to the annular frame and the cross-shaped support using an insulating adhesive material. Specifically, the periphery of the mesh collector 6 is bonded to the side of the annular frame facing the needle-shaped emitter 3, and the area of ​​the mesh collector 6 corresponding to the cross-shaped support is bonded to the cross-shaped support. In addition to bonding, clamping or snap-fitting elements can also be provided on the annular frame to fix the periphery of the mesh collector 6.

[0056] The inner wall of the duct housing 1 is provided with a mounting groove for mounting the insulated current collector bracket 4. The mounting groove can extend continuously along the circumference of the inner wall of the duct housing 1 to form an annular mounting groove, and the outer edge of the annular frame is embedded in the mounting groove. The mounting groove provides axial and radial positioning for the annular frame, keeping the insulated current collector bracket 4 in a predetermined axial position and reducing its tilting relative to the duct housing 1. The outer edge of the annular frame can be further fixed to the mounting groove using an insulating adhesive material.

[0057] In one specific embodiment, the mesh current collector 6 is a circular copper mesh with a diameter of 16 cm, and its outer contour is adapted to the circular cross-section of the airflow channel. To facilitate the installation of the 16 cm diameter circular copper mesh, the mounting groove on the inner wall of the duct housing 1 can be recessed radially outward relative to the inner wall of the airflow channel body. The outer edge of the annular frame is embedded in the mounting groove, and the periphery of the circular copper mesh overlaps and is fixed to the inner edge area of ​​the annular frame. Thus, the circular copper mesh covers the 16 cm diameter cross-section of the airflow channel, while the outer edge of the annular frame is located radially outward of the contour of the airflow channel body, reducing the influence of the annular frame on the effective coverage diameter of the circular copper mesh.

[0058] Circular copper mesh can be made of 20-mesh or 30-mesh copper wire. The copper mesh uses a plain weave structure, with interlaced copper wires forming square mesh openings, creating a continuous conductive mesh structure. Circular copper mesh can be cut from a single sheet of copper mesh material, and its outer edges are finished after cutting to reduce the impact of warping or loose wires on assembly and discharge stability.

[0059] The mesh size of the copper mesh affects the conductive coverage and airflow resistance of the mesh current collector 6. With similar copper wire diameters and weaving methods, a 30-mesh copper mesh typically has smaller mesh sizes than a 20-mesh copper mesh, resulting in a relatively dense conductive grid; a 20-mesh copper mesh has relatively larger mesh sizes, providing a larger flow opening. In practical applications, either a 20-mesh or 30-mesh copper mesh can be selected based on electric field coverage, ion collection capacity, airflow resistance, and output wind speed.

[0060] The positive electrode conductor can be arranged along a support strip of the insulated current collector bracket 4 or the inner wall of the duct housing 1, and electrically connected to the periphery of the circular copper mesh. The positive electrode conductor and the circular copper mesh can be connected by welding or conductive clamping, with the connection position set near the annular frame to reduce the obstruction of airflow caused by the positive electrode conductor extending into the center of the circular copper mesh. The positive electrode conductor is led out through the corresponding wire through-hole on the duct housing 1 and electrically connected to the positive output terminal of the high-voltage power supply component.

[0061] The distance between the tips of each tungsten needle and the mesh current collector 6 along the axial direction of the airflow channel is 30mm to 40mm. This distance refers to the axial spacing obtained by measuring the tungsten needle tips in a direction parallel to the axis of the airflow channel to the plane where the mesh current collector 6 is located. This range has been verified by actual equipment, and when combined with a corresponding high-voltage output, it can form corona discharge and provide the corresponding electric field space for the migration and acceleration of charged particles.

[0062] The electrode spacing affects the tip electric field strength, discharge state, and acceleration distance of charged particles. Under otherwise identical conditions, a too-small electrode spacing increases the local electric field strength between the tungsten needle tip and the mesh collector 6, increasing the likelihood of corona discharge transforming into spark discharge or arc discharge; conversely, a too-large electrode spacing reduces the average electric field strength between the needle emitter 3 and the mesh collector 6, weakening air ionization and charged particle acceleration. Setting the electrode spacing to 30mm to 40mm allows for a balance between discharge stability, ionization capability, and charged particle acceleration space.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the distance between the tips of each tungsten needle and the mesh current collector 6 along the axial direction of the airflow channel is 35 mm. The axial positions of the insulated emitter support 2 and the insulated current collector support 4 are determined by positioning structures on the inner wall of the duct housing 1, thereby maintaining a predetermined electrode spacing. When it is necessary to adjust the electrode spacing, mounting grooves located at different axial positions can be provided on the inner wall of the duct housing 1, or insulating spacers of different thicknesses can be provided between the insulated emitter support 2 and the insulated current collector support 4 and the corresponding positioning structures, thereby adjusting the axial spacing between the two within the range of 30 mm to 40 mm.

[0064] The converging nozzle 5 is located on the side of the airflow channel opposite to the inlet end at the outlet end, and is directly fixedly connected to the duct housing 1. The converging nozzle 5 is coaxially arranged with the duct housing 1, so that the central axis of the converging nozzle 5 coincides with or substantially coincides with the axis of the airflow channel. The converging nozzle 5 does not use the insulating current collector bracket 4 as a load-bearing connection foundation. The insulating current collector bracket 4 is independently fixed through the mounting groove on the inner wall of the duct housing 1. The converging nozzle 5 bears the assembly load and airflow force through the duct housing 1.

[0065] The inlet end of the converging nozzle 5 faces the outlet end of the airflow channel, and the periphery of the inlet end is fixedly connected to the periphery of the outlet end of the duct housing 1. One of the outlet end of the duct housing 1 and the inlet end of the converging nozzle 5 can be provided with an annular connecting groove, and the other can be provided with an annular connecting part adapted to the annular connecting groove. After the annular connecting part is embedded in the annular connecting groove, the converging nozzle 5 and the duct housing 1 remain coaxial, and can be reinforced using insulating adhesive material.

[0066] The inlet end of the converging nozzle 5 is connected to the airflow channel, and the flow cross-section of the inlet end of the converging nozzle 5 is adapted to the flow cross-section of the airflow channel at the outlet end. In this embodiment, the diameter of the airflow channel is 16 cm, and the diameter of the inlet end of the converging nozzle 5 is also 16 cm, so that a continuous flow path with matching dimensions is formed between the airflow channel and the converging nozzle 5. The inner walls at the connection point of the two are smoothly connected to reduce local backflow or airflow separation caused by obvious steps.

[0067] The flow cross-sectional area of ​​the converging nozzle 5 gradually decreases from the inlet end to the outlet end. The converging nozzle 5 is a hollow frustum shape, with a large-diameter inlet end and a small-diameter outlet end, and its inner wall forms a continuously converging flow surface from the inlet end to the outlet end. In one specific embodiment, the diameter of the converging nozzle 5 at the inlet end is 16 cm, the diameter at the outlet end is 8.5 cm, and the axial length is 14 cm.

[0068] The converging nozzle 5 is made of insulating material and can be integrally formed using 3D printing. Using 3D printing helps maintain the coaxiality between the inlet and outlet ends and forms a continuous inner wall surface. The wall thickness of the converging nozzle 5 can be set according to installation strength and overall quality requirements. The connection area at its inlet end can be locally thickened to improve the structural strength at the connection point with the duct housing 1.

[0069] After passing through the mesh current collector 6, the airflow enters the converging nozzle 5 from the outlet end of the airflow channel. The converging nozzle 5 gradually reduces its flow cross-section, restricting the radial diffusion of the airflow and ensuring that the airflow continues to flow along the common axis of the duct shell 1 and the converging nozzle 5. Under the condition that a certain mass flow rate can be maintained, the gradual reduction of the flow cross-sectional area is beneficial to increasing the average flow velocity and momentum flux per unit area in the outlet region, making the exhaust airflow direction more concentrated.

[0070] The high-voltage power supply assembly includes a DC power supply and a high-voltage conversion module. The DC power supply provides low-voltage DC power, and the high-voltage conversion module converts the low-voltage DC power output from the DC power supply into the high-voltage DC power required to establish a high-voltage electric field between the needle-shaped emitter 3 and the mesh collector 6. The output terminal of the DC power supply is electrically connected to the input terminal of the high-voltage conversion module, the negative output terminal of the high-voltage conversion module is electrically connected to the needle-shaped emitter 3, and the positive output terminal of the high-voltage conversion module is electrically connected to the mesh collector 6.

[0071] In one specific wiring configuration, the positive output terminal of the DC power supply is electrically connected to the positive input terminal of the high-voltage conversion module, and the negative output terminal of the DC power supply is electrically connected to the negative input terminal of the high-voltage conversion module. The negative output terminal of the high-voltage conversion module is electrically connected to the outer ring copper wire via a negative wire, and the positive output terminal of the high-voltage conversion module is electrically connected to the circular copper mesh via a positive wire. The outer ring copper wire is then electrically connected to the inner ring copper wire via a connecting copper wire, so that the inner ring copper wire, the outer ring copper wire, and all the tungsten needles are connected to the negative output terminal of the high-voltage conversion module.

[0072] In one specific embodiment, the DC power supply output voltage is 20V, and the maximum output voltage of the high-voltage conversion module is 120kV. The actual operating voltage of the high-voltage conversion module is set according to the electrode spacing, ambient air conditions, discharge stability, and required ion wind output, and does not exceed the maximum output voltage of the high-voltage conversion module.

[0073] The high-voltage power supply components can be installed outside the duct housing 1. The high-voltage conversion module is preferably located close to the duct housing 1 to shorten the length of the positive and negative wires. The positive and negative wires are respectively made of insulated wires capable of withstanding the corresponding output voltage and are kept at sufficient distances. Insulation protection structures can be provided for the high-voltage conversion module, wire connections, and wiring openings in the duct housing 1 to reduce the possibility of accidental contact or surface discharge during use.

[0074] During assembly, the duct housing 1, the insulated emitter support 2, the insulated collector support 4, and the converging nozzle 5 can be fabricated using 3D printing. Subsequently, the inner and outer copper wires are bent into circular copper wire loops with diameters of 5.5 cm and 10.5 cm, respectively. Multiple tungsten needles are then welded onto the inner and outer copper wires at predetermined circumferential intervals, with the tips of each tungsten needle pointing in the same axial direction.

[0075] After welding the tungsten needles to the copper wires, the inner and outer ring copper wires are fixed to the corresponding annular mounting portions of the insulating emitter bracket 2, and the inner and outer ring copper wires are electrically connected using connecting copper wires. The negative electrode wire is connected to the outer ring copper wire and fixed along the support arm of the insulating emitter bracket 2. Subsequently, the insulating emitter bracket 2 is installed in the corresponding positioning position within the duct housing 1, so that the tips of each tungsten needle face the outlet end of the airflow channel.

[0076] Cut a 20-mesh or 30-mesh copper mesh into a circular shape with a diameter of 16cm, and fix the circular copper mesh to the annular frame and cross support of the insulating current collector bracket 4. Connect the positive electrode wire to the periphery of the circular copper mesh and fix it along the inner wall of the insulating current collector bracket 4 or the duct housing 1. Then, insert the outer edge of the annular frame of the insulating current collector bracket 4 into the mounting groove on the inner wall of the duct housing 1, and position the circular copper mesh on the side where the tips of each tungsten needle face the outlet end.

[0077] When installing the insulated emitter bracket 2 and the insulated collector bracket 4, measure the axial distance from the tip of each tungsten needle to the plane of the circular copper mesh, ensuring this distance is within the range of 30mm to 40mm. In a preferred embodiment, this axial distance is 35mm. After installation, confirm that the tips of each tungsten needle are in the same or substantially the same axial position, and maintain a distance between the tips of the tungsten needles and the circular copper mesh.

[0078] After completing the electrode structure installation, lead the negative and positive wires out from the corresponding wiring ports on the duct housing 1 and connect them to the negative and positive output terminals of the high-voltage conversion module, respectively. Then, coaxially connect the inlet end of the converging nozzle 5 to the outlet end of the duct housing 1, ensuring that the inlet flow section of the converging nozzle 5 is aligned with the flow section of the airflow channel at the outlet end. Finally, connect the output terminal of the DC power supply to the input terminal of the high-voltage conversion module.

[0079] After starting the high-voltage power supply components, gradually increase the output voltage of the high-voltage conversion module until a stable corona discharge is formed at the tips of each tungsten needle. The output voltage of the high-voltage conversion module is set to a voltage that ensures a stable corona discharge at the tips of each tungsten needle and prevents continuous spark discharge or arc discharge between the needle-shaped emitter 3 and the mesh collector 6.

[0080] After the high-voltage conversion module is activated, the needle-shaped emitter 3 is at a negative potential, and the mesh collector 6 is at a positive potential, forming a high-voltage electric field between the tips of each tungsten needle and the circular copper mesh. Due to the small radius of curvature of the conical tips of the tungsten needles, an electric field concentration effect occurs near the tips. When the local electric field strength reaches the strength required for air ionization, corona discharge occurs near the tips of the tungsten needles, causing some air molecules to form charged particles.

[0081] With the needle-shaped emitter 3 connected to the negative electrode and the mesh-shaped collector 6 connected to the positive electrode, the main current-carrying ions generated by the corona discharge migrate from the tip of the tungsten needle towards the circular copper mesh under the action of a high-voltage electric field. During the migration, the main current-carrying ions collide with the surrounding neutral air molecules and transfer the momentum they gain in the electric field to the neutral air molecules, thereby driving a large area of ​​air towards the circular copper mesh.

[0082] The double-ring copper wire and the circumferentially spaced tungsten needles distribute the discharge positions at different radial and circumferential locations across the cross-section of the airflow channel, which helps to expand the coverage of air ionization. Compared to a structure with needle-shaped discharge elements only on a single circumference, the double-ring structure can act on both the central and peripheral areas of the airflow channel simultaneously, reducing the possibility of some areas lacking corresponding needle-shaped discharge elements.

[0083] Air enters the duct housing 1 through the inlet end of the airflow channel, gains axial momentum between the needle-shaped emitter 3 and the mesh collector 6, passes through multiple mesh openings of the circular copper mesh, and enters the converging nozzle 5 through the outlet end of the airflow channel. The duct housing 1 performs the first focusing and axial guidance of the formed ion wind, and the converging nozzle 5 further converges and guides the airflow after it passes through the circular copper mesh, thereby reducing the axial momentum loss caused by the airflow dissipating radially outward.

[0084] When the airflow exits from the outlet end of the converging nozzle 5, it possesses axial momentum along the discharge direction. The ducted ion wind propulsion device experiences a corresponding reaction force in the opposite direction, thus generating propulsion or attitude control. The device primarily relies on corona discharge, charged particle migration, and momentum transfer between charged particles and neutral air molecules to generate airflow. It does not require the direct propulsion of air using propellers, impellers, or piston-like mechanical moving parts. Therefore, it can reduce mechanical vibration and noise generated by high-speed mechanical moving parts and can change the output state by adjusting the operating state of the high-voltage conversion module.

[0085] To illustrate the aerodynamic effect of the converging nozzle 5, a simplified analysis is presented below under the conditions of steady-state continuous flow, no mass leakage inside the nozzle, and negligible changes in airflow height. The following formulas are used to explain the relationship between the nozzle flow cross-sectional area, airflow velocity, pressure, and axial momentum. In actual installations, the airflow state is also affected by the resistance of the circular copper mesh, friction within the nozzle wall, distribution of the electro-hydraulic driving force, and local flow losses.

[0086] When the airflow flows stably and continuously within the converging nozzle 5, and there is no additional increase or leakage of gas mass between the nozzle inlet and outlet, the mass flow rate of the airflow at the nozzle inlet and outlet remains consistent, which can be expressed as:

[0087] In the formula, Indicates airflow mass flow rate; Indicates the airflow density at the nozzle inlet; This indicates the density of the airflow at the nozzle exit; Indicates the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle inlet flow; Indicates the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle outlet flow; Indicates the airflow velocity at the nozzle inlet; This represents the airflow velocity at the nozzle exit. This mass conservation relationship shows that, under steady continuous flow conditions, the inlet and outlet densities, flow cross-sectional areas, and velocities are interrelated.

[0088] By further neglecting the viscous dissipation, local flow losses, and height difference between the inlet and outlet of the airflow within the nozzle, and approximating the airflow within the nozzle as an ideal flow moving along the same streamline, the Bernoulli equation can be used to express the energy relationship at the nozzle inlet and outlet:

[0089] In the formula, Indicates the static pressure of the airflow at the nozzle inlet; Indicates the static pressure of the airflow at the nozzle exit; This represents the total pressure of the airflow. This relationship is used to illustrate that, under the idealized conditions described above, the static pressure energy and dynamic pressure energy of the airflow can be converted. In actual flow, when energy losses exist, the total pressure between the nozzle inlet and outlet will be correspondingly reduced; therefore, this formula is used to explain the basic changing trend of converging flow.

[0090] To represent the degree of area shrinkage of the convergent nozzle 5, the nozzle area shrinkage ratio is defined as:

[0091] Since the outlet flow area of ​​the converging nozzle 5 is smaller than the inlet flow area, therefore: ε<1 From the state relationship at the nozzle exit in Bernoulli's equation, the airflow velocity at the nozzle exit can be expressed as:

[0092] This equation shows that, given a fixed total pressure, nozzle exit static pressure, and nozzle exit gas density, the nozzle exit gas velocity is related to the difference between the total pressure and the exit static pressure. The total pressure includes the energy state acquired by the gas upstream; therefore, this relationship characterizes the correspondence between the exit pressure difference and the exit velocity.

[0093] By combining the law of conservation of mass and the nozzle area contraction ratio, the relationship between the inlet gas velocity and the outlet gas velocity can be obtained:

[0094] The ducted ion wind propulsion device in this embodiment mainly operates in an atmospheric pressure, low-speed air environment. By further neglecting the viscous dissipation, local flow losses, and height difference between the inlet and outlet of the airflow within the nozzle, and approximating the small change in air density between the nozzle inlet and outlet under low-speed flow conditions, Bernoulli's equation can be used to represent the energy relationship at the nozzle inlet and outlet. Under the aforementioned low-speed flow approximation conditions, it can be assumed that:

[0095] Therefore, the relationship between the inlet gas velocity and the outlet gas velocity of the nozzle can be approximately expressed as:

[0096] Since the area contraction ratio of the converging nozzle 5 is less than 1, this relationship indicates that, under the condition that the gas flow mass rate can be maintained and the density changes at the inlet and outlet are small, reducing the flow cross-sectional area is beneficial to increasing the average gas flow velocity in the nozzle exit region. This relationship is used to describe the basic acceleration trend of the converging nozzle 5; the actual acceleration magnitude is also affected by the upstream ion wind driving force, the resistance of the circular copper mesh, and the internal flow losses of the nozzle.

[0097] By further neglecting the pressure difference between the nozzle inlet and outlet, the effect of the duct wall, and other additional axial forces, a simplified expression for the axial thrust corresponding to airflow acceleration can be given based on the change in fluid momentum:

[0098] In the formula, F represents the axial thrust of the ion wind. This formula indicates that, with a constant gas flow rate, the greater the increase in the outlet gas velocity relative to the inlet gas velocity, the greater the corresponding increase in axial momentum.

[0099] Substituting the inlet mass flow rate expression from the mass conservation relation into the thrust relation above, we get:

[0100] Under the simplified conditions employed, this formula establishes a relationship between axial thrust and nozzle inlet gas density, inlet flow cross-sectional area, inlet gas velocity, and the velocity increments at the nozzle inlet and outlet. The actual output thrust of the device is also affected by the inlet and outlet pressure difference, electro-hydraulic volume forces, duct wall forces, and flow losses, and can be determined through actual thrust measurement or by combining complete flow field parameters.

[0101] To verify the matching relationship between the mesh size of the 6-mesh collector and the converging nozzle 5, a test setup with identical structural parameters and power supply conditions (except for the mesh size of the 6-mesh collector and whether or not the converging nozzle 5 is installed) can be used for a comparative test. In the comparative test, the high-voltage output conditions, the number and arrangement of tungsten needles, the electrode spacing between the needle-shaped emitter 3 and the mesh collector 6, the duct size, the size of the converging nozzle 5, and the wind speed measurement position are kept consistent. Only the circular copper mesh with different mesh sizes is replaced, and the output wind speed is measured before and after the converging nozzle 5 is installed.

[0102] The experimental results show that the measured output wind speed is increased after adding the converging nozzle 5 to circular copper meshes with different mesh sizes, indicating that the converging nozzle 5 can concentrate and guide the airflow after passing through the mesh collector 6. Specifically, when the 30-mesh copper mesh is used with the converging nozzle 5, the wind speed increase is 16.53% compared to the corresponding structure without the converging nozzle 5; when the 20-mesh copper mesh is used with the converging nozzle 5, the wind speed increase is 14.81%; the wind speed increases of the 16-mesh and 40-mesh copper meshes are relatively lower under the same test conditions.

[0103] Comparing absolute output wind speeds, under the experimental conditions, the combination of a 20-mesh copper mesh, a double-ring needle-shaped emitter 3, and a converging nozzle 5 yielded the highest measured output wind speed, making it a preferred combination for achieving a high absolute output wind speed. The combination of a 30-mesh copper mesh and the converging nozzle 5 resulted in the greatest increase in relative wind speed, making it a viable option for improving the relative speed increase effect of the converging nozzle 5. These experimental results indicate that the mesh size of the mesh collector 6 simultaneously affects electric field coverage, ion collection, and airflow resistance, requiring matching with the structure of the needle-shaped emitter 3 and the converging nozzle 5.

[0104] Under the same test conditions of high-voltage output, number and arrangement of needle-shaped discharge elements, electrode spacing, duct size, and wind speed measurement location, the needle-mesh electrode structure formed by the needle emitter 3 and the mesh collector 6 achieves a higher ion wind velocity and a more uniform airflow distribution compared to the needle-ring electrode structure. The mesh collector 6, spanning the airflow channel, provides a larger corresponding collection area for tungsten needles distributed at different radial and circumferential positions, while multiple mesh openings retain dispersed and interconnected flow channels for the airflow.

[0105] The duct housing 1, double-ring needle-shaped emitter 3, mesh collector 6, and converging nozzle 5 work together to form a continuous path for air ionization, charged particle migration, airflow through the mesh, and convergence. The double-ring needle-shaped emitter 3 expands the ionization coverage area, the mesh collector 6 establishes a high-voltage electric field and allows airflow to pass through, the duct housing 1 provides initial axial constraint on the generated ion wind, and the converging nozzle 5 further converges and guides the airflow. This structure reduces momentum loss caused by airflow diffusion to the periphery in open electrode layouts and increases the concentration of airflow output direction.

[0106] This embodiment also provides a ducted ion wind propulsion method, implemented using the aforementioned ducted ion wind propulsion device. Before implementing this method, needle-shaped emitter assemblies and mesh collectors are spaced apart along the axial direction of the airflow channel within the duct housing, with the needle-shaped emitter assemblies positioned on the side of the mesh collector facing the air inlet, and the tips of each needle-shaped discharge element facing the mesh collector. The distance between the tip of each needle-shaped discharge element and the mesh collector along the axial direction of the airflow channel is 30mm to 40mm, preferably 35mm. The negative output terminal of the high-voltage power supply assembly is electrically connected to the needle-shaped emitter assembly, and the positive output terminal of the high-voltage power supply assembly is electrically connected to the mesh collector.

[0107] Start the high-voltage power supply component and adjust the output voltage of the high-voltage conversion module to form a high-voltage electric field between the tip of each needle-shaped discharge component and the mesh collector, so that the tip of each needle-shaped discharge component generates a stable corona discharge and prevents continuous spark discharge or arc discharge between the needle-shaped emitter component and the mesh collector.

[0108] The air near the tip of the needle-shaped discharge device is ionized under the influence of a high-voltage electric field, and the resulting main current-carrying ions migrate towards the mesh collector. During this migration, the main current-carrying ions collide with neutral air molecules and transfer the momentum they gain in the high-voltage electric field to the neutral air molecules, thereby driving the air to flow from the inlet to the outlet of the airflow channel. The migration direction of the charged particles towards the mesh collector is consistent with the direction of the airflow channel from the inlet to the outlet.

[0109] The generated airflow passes through multiple mesh openings of the mesh collector and enters the converging nozzle from the outlet end of the airflow channel. The converging nozzle converges and axially guides the airflow, causing it to be concentrated and discharged from the outlet end of the converging nozzle. The ducted ion wind propulsion device obtains a reaction force in the opposite direction to the airflow discharge.

[0110] When the ducted ion wind propulsion device is installed on the fuselage of an aircraft, the corona discharge intensity at the tip of the needle-shaped discharge component and the ion wind output state are changed by adjusting the output voltage of the high-voltage conversion module, thereby adjusting the force applied to the fuselage by the ducted ion wind propulsion device to propel, ascend, descend, or adjust the attitude of the aircraft.

[0111] This embodiment also provides an aircraft, which includes a fuselage and at least one of the aforementioned ducted ion wind propulsion devices, the ducted ion wind propulsion devices being mounted on the fuselage. The ducted ion wind propulsion devices can be fixed to the fuselage via a mounting base, support frame, or mounting cavity on the fuselage, so that the reaction force received by the ducted ion wind propulsion devices is transmitted to the fuselage through the mounting structure.

[0112] The installation direction of the ducted ion wind propulsion device on the fuselage can be set according to the direction of the force required by the aircraft. When the axis of the airflow channel is arranged along the longitudinal direction of the fuselage, the ducted ion wind propulsion device can apply a longitudinal propulsive force to the fuselage; when the axis of the airflow channel is arranged along the height direction of the fuselage, it can apply a vertical force to the fuselage; when the axis of the airflow channel is inclined relative to the fuselage, the generated force can have both horizontal and vertical components.

[0113] The aircraft can be equipped with one or multiple ducted ion wind propulsion devices. When multiple ducted ion wind propulsion devices are installed, each device can be arranged symmetrically with respect to the center plane of the aircraft to reduce the additional torque caused by the asymmetry of the force position during normal propulsion. Multiple ducted ion wind propulsion devices can also be installed along different axes, and their high-voltage power supply components can be controlled separately to propel, ascend, descend, or adjust the attitude of the aircraft.

[0114] The high-voltage power supply assembly can be installed inside the fuselage or located near the corresponding ducted casing 1. When the aircraft has an onboard low-voltage DC power supply, this power supply can be electrically connected to the input of the high-voltage conversion module, which converts the onboard low-voltage DC power into the high-voltage DC power required for the operation of the needle-shaped emitter 3 and the mesh collector 6. Positioning the high-voltage conversion module close to the ducted ion wind propulsion device shortens the high-voltage output wiring and facilitates insulation protection of the high-voltage lines.

[0115] This aircraft is suitable for operation in air or other environments containing ionizable gases. The ducted ion wind propulsion system can serve as the aircraft's propulsion device, as an auxiliary propulsion device, or as an attitude control device. The ducted ion wind propulsion system primarily relies on a high-voltage electric field and gas ionization to generate airflow. It does not incorporate high-speed rotating mechanical components to directly propel the airflow, thus reducing mechanical vibration and noise, and features rapid power-on response and a compact structure.

[0116] The airflow channel diameter, copper wire ring diameter, circular copper mesh diameter, electrode spacing, convergent nozzle 5 dimensions, DC power supply voltage, and maximum output voltage of the high-voltage conversion module in the above embodiments are used to illustrate an implementation that has been practically verified. While maintaining the duct housing 1, needle-shaped emitter 3, mesh collector 6, high-voltage power supply components, and their relative positions and electrical connections, the corresponding parameters can be adaptively set according to the device installation space, output requirements, and power supply conditions.

[0117] Furthermore, the aircraft employs the aforementioned ducted ion wind propulsion device, thus achieving the corresponding technical effects produced by the aforementioned ducted ion wind propulsion device.

[0118] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A ducted ion wind propulsion device, characterized in that, This includes the duct housing, needle-shaped emitter assembly, mesh collector, and high-voltage power supply assembly; The duct shell has an airflow channel that runs through it along its axial direction, and the airflow channel has an inlet end and an outlet end; The needle-shaped emitter assembly and the mesh collector are spaced apart along the axial direction of the airflow channel within the airflow channel, with the needle-shaped emitter assembly located on the side of the mesh collector facing the air inlet end. The needle-shaped emitter assembly includes at least two annular conductive elements and multiple needle-shaped discharge elements. Each annular conductive element is concentrically arranged with the axis of the airflow channel as the center and distributed radially at intervals along the airflow channel. Multiple needle-shaped discharge elements are provided on each annular conductive element. Multiple needle-shaped discharge elements located on the same annular conductive element are arranged circumferentially at intervals along the corresponding annular conductive element and are conductively connected to the corresponding annular conductive element. Each adjacent annular conductive element is conductively connected to each other. The tip of each needle-shaped discharge element faces the mesh collector. The mesh collector spans the airflow channel and has multiple mesh openings through which airflow passes; The negative output terminal of the high-voltage power supply component is electrically connected to the needle-shaped emitter component, and the positive output terminal of the high-voltage power supply component is electrically connected to the mesh collector, so as to form a high-voltage electric field between the tip of each needle-shaped discharge element and the mesh collector.

2. The ducted ion wind propulsion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The needle-shaped emitter assembly also includes an insulating emitter bracket fixed to the duct housing and located within the airflow channel. The insulating emitter bracket includes multiple support arms and at least two annular mounting portions. The multiple support arms extend radially along the airflow channel and are interconnected. Each annular mounting portion is concentrically arranged with the axis of the airflow channel as the center and is connected to the multiple support arms respectively. Each annular conductive element is fixed to the corresponding annular mounting portion.

3. The ducted ion wind propulsion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, There are two annular conductive components, namely an inner copper wire and an outer copper wire. The needle-shaped discharge component is a tungsten needle. Multiple tungsten needles are welded circumferentially on both the inner and outer copper wires. The inner and outer copper wires are electrically connected by connecting copper wires. The outer copper wire is electrically connected to the negative output terminal of the high-voltage power supply component through a wire.

4. The ducted ion wind propulsion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple needle-shaped discharge elements located on the same annular conductive element are arranged at equal intervals along the circumference of the corresponding annular conductive element, and the axis of each needle-shaped discharge element is parallel to the axis of the airflow channel.

5. The ducted ion wind propulsion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an insulated current collector bracket disposed in the airflow channel. The insulated current collector bracket includes an annular frame and a cross support portion connected to the inner edge of the annular frame. The mesh current collector covers the opening area enclosed by the annular frame and is fixedly connected to the annular frame and the cross support portion. The inner wall of the duct housing is provided with a mounting groove, and the outer edge of the annular frame is embedded in the mounting groove.

6. The ducted ion wind propulsion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mesh current collector is a circular copper mesh. The outer contour of the circular copper mesh is adapted to the cross-section of the airflow channel. The circular copper mesh is a 20-mesh or 30-mesh copper mesh, and the mesh openings of the circular copper mesh are square.

7. The ducted ion wind propulsion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The distance between the tip of each needle-shaped discharge device and the mesh collector along the axial direction of the airflow channel is 30mm to 40mm.

8. The ducted ion wind propulsion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a converging nozzle coaxially connected to the periphery of the duct housing. The converging nozzle is located on the side of the air outlet of the airflow channel away from the air inlet. The inlet of the converging nozzle is connected to the airflow channel. The flow cross-section of the inlet of the converging nozzle is adapted to the flow cross-section of the airflow channel at the outlet. The flow cross-sectional area of ​​the converging nozzle gradually decreases from the inlet to the outlet.

9. The ducted ion wind propulsion device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The high-voltage power supply component includes a DC power supply and a high-voltage conversion module. The output terminal of the DC power supply is electrically connected to the input terminal of the high-voltage conversion module. The negative output terminal of the high-voltage conversion module is electrically connected to the needle-shaped emitter assembly, and the positive output terminal of the high-voltage conversion module is electrically connected to the mesh collector.

10. An aircraft, characterized in that, It includes a body and at least one ducted ion wind propulsion device as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the ducted ion wind propulsion device is mounted on the body.

Images