Ion Propulsion Assembly With Ultra-Thin Emitter Wires
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ion-propelled vehicles are unable to lift their power source against gravity, and previous heavier-than-air devices using ionic propulsion have not successfully flown.
Innovation Solution
The development of an ion-powered assembly with ultra-thin emitter wires, optimized collector and emitter assemblies, and a high power-to-weight ratio, along with a control circuit and power supply that provides a high voltage differential, allowing for efficient direct conversion of electrical energy into kinetic propulsion, and enabling the ion-propelled vehicle to lift its own power source and achieve vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional emitter wires and collector assemblies are used, then the ion-propelled vehicle can generate some thrust, but it cannot lift its power source against gravity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the critical parameter of emitter wire diameter from conventional sizes to ultra-thin wires with a diameter of less than five microns. This parameter change reduces the weight of the emitter assembly while maintaining electrical conductivity, thereby increasing the power-to-weight ratio and enabling the vehicle to generate sufficient lift force to overcome gravity and lift its power source.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the emitter assembly into multiple separate conductive emitter wires arranged in a specific configuration rather than using a single continuous emitter structure. This segmentation allows for optimized weight distribution and electrical conductivity, enabling the assembly to generate sufficient thrust while minimizing overall weight.
2Productivity
If the distance between collector and emitter assemblies is increased, then the ion wind effect is enhanced, but the device complexity and power supply requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional single-distance configuration to a multi-distance layered arrangement where multiple emitter wires are positioned at different distances from the collector assembly. This dimensional change allows the system to optimize ion wind generation at multiple levels simultaneously, enhancing overall productivity while distributing the complexity across multiple manageable components.
3Weight of moving object
If ultra-thin emitter wires are used, then the power-to-weight ratio improves, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs ultra-thin emitter wires with a diameter of less than five microns that are optimized for high strength-to-weight ratio and electrical conductivity. These wires are designed to be lightweight and durable enough for the application, accepting that they are more sensitive to manufacturing variations but providing sufficient performance for the ion-propelled vehicle.
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
This solution enables the ion-propelled vehicle to achieve significant lift and propulsion, reducing propellant usage and allowing for efficient, self-sustained flight, with the ability to lift its power source against gravity and operate vertically or horizontally, representing a qualitative leap in aerospace technology.
Implementation Method 1
an electrohydrodynamic device that utilizes an electrical phenomenon known as the ion wind effect to produce thrust
Implementation Method 2
an electrohydrodynamic device that utilizes an electrical phenomenon known as the ion wind effect to produce thrust
Data Source
AI summary
An ion powered assembly includes a collector assembly and an emitter assembly, comprising a plurality of conductive emitter wires supported by the emitter wire support structure. A control circuit is operatively connected to at least the emitter and collector assemblies and includes a power supply configured to provide voltage to the emitter and collector assemblies.