EHD Rotary Propeller Using Ionic Wind for Lightweight Lift
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrohydrodynamic (EHD) rotary systems face challenges in generating sufficient rotational forces for applications due to the weight of power electronics, making it difficult for EHD flow-based vehicles to achieve takeoff and flight.
Innovation Solution
The development of an EHD rotary system that utilizes a hub portion with radially extending blades and a rotary electrode emitter, coupled with a counter electrode, to generate ionic wind through corona discharges, providing rotational motion and thrust by applying high voltage above the corona onset voltage, allowing for the rotation of a propeller and potential aerial vehicle lift-off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional power electronics are used to drive rotary systems, then sufficient rotational force can be generated, but the weight increases making takeoff and flight difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical power electronics with an electrohydrodynamic (EHD) system that generates rotational force directly through ionic wind. The corona discharge between the rotary electrode emitter and counter electrode creates ionized air flow that imparts momentum to rotate the propeller, eliminating heavy motors and power conversion equipment while achieving sufficient rotational force for flight.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental operating parameters by using high voltage (above corona onset voltage) to ionize air and generate thrust. Instead of using low voltage high current traditional motors, the system operates at high voltage with controlled corona discharge, fundamentally altering how rotational force is generated to reduce weight while maintaining performance.
2Speed
If high voltage is applied to generate corona discharge, then ionic wind and rotational motion are produced, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system optimizes the voltage parameter by operating just above the corona onset voltage rather than at excessively high levels. This parameter optimization ensures sufficient ionic wind generation for rotational motion while minimizing power consumption. The corona discharge regime is carefully controlled to balance thrust generation with energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The EHD system uses the surrounding air as the working fluid, eliminating the need for heavy mechanical propulsion systems. The ionized air itself provides the medium for momentum transfer, and the system leverages natural air properties rather than requiring additional energy-intensive components, reducing overall power requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively generates rotational motion and thrust, enabling the EHD rotary system to lift off and fly aerial vehicles, while reducing the weight and power requirements compared to traditional systems.
Implementation Method 1
the voltage source comprising an electric potential difference between the first and second terminals that generates corona discharges from the at least one rotary electrode that form flows of ionic wind emanating therefrom
Implementation Method 2
generates corona discharges from the at least one rotary electrode that form flows of ionic wind emanating therefrom that rotate the at least one rotary device
Implementation Method 3
The ions accelerate in the electric field between the electrode and the counter electrode and transfer momentum to neutral atoms and molecules generating corona discharge/corona wind/ionic wind/electric wind
Data Source
AI summary
An electrohydrodynamic rotary system and related method that include at least one rotary device comprising a hub portion, an axis of rotation, and at least one blade extending radially from the hub portion. The system includes at least one electrically conductive rotary electrode emitter coupled to the at least one blade proximate to the back edge, and at least one electrically conductive counter electrode positioned proximate to the at least one rotary device in a spaced relationship. The system further includes an electrical system that applies an electric potential difference between the at least one electrically conductive rotary electrode emitter and the at least one electrically conductive counter electrode that generates corona discharges from the at least one rotary electrode that form flows of ionic wind that rotate the at least one rotary device about the axis of rotation in a first direction.