Segmented Plasma Actuator Layout for Higher Induced Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plasma actuators for moving bodies and fluid machinery lack efficiency in enhancing induced flow velocity.
Innovation Solution
A plasma actuator design featuring a dielectric layer with strategically placed electrodes and floating conductor pairs that generate dielectric barrier discharge at multiple positions on the surface, accelerating the induced flow by aligning the discharge directions to enhance velocity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a conventional plasma actuator with single electrode pair is used, then the structure is simple, but the induced flow velocity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator electrode is segmented into multiple electrode pairs (first electrode pair and second electrode pair) arranged in sequence along the flow direction. Each electrode pair generates dielectric barrier discharge independently, creating multiple acceleration zones that collectively enhance the induced flow velocity beyond what a single electrode pair could achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by arranging electrode pairs sequentially along the flow direction rather than using a single distributed electrode pair. This dimensional arrangement allows the induced flow to be accelerated in stages, with each electrode pair contributing to velocity enhancement at different positions along the flow path.
2Speed
If multiple electrode pairs are used to increase flow velocity, then the induced flow velocity is enhanced, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs independent voltage control for each electrode pair, allowing dynamic adjustment of operating parameters. The frequency and voltage amplitude for each electrode pair can be optimized separately based on local flow conditions, enabling efficient energy utilization while maintaining enhanced flow velocity across the entire actuator length.
Solution Approach 2:
Each electrode pair operates with periodic dielectric barrier discharge cycles, creating pulsed ionic wind that accelerates the flow. The periodic nature of the discharge allows for efficient energy transfer to the gas molecules, with each pulse contributing to cumulative velocity enhancement without requiring continuous high power input.
3Speed
If high voltage is applied to generate strong discharge, then the induced flow velocity increases, but cross-talk between adjacent flows increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the actuator into multiple independent electrode pairs, the patent localizes the discharge regions. Each electrode pair generates discharge only in its immediate vicinity, preventing electromagnetic and plasma interactions between adjacent high-voltage regions. This spatial segmentation effectively eliminates cross-talk while maintaining high flow velocity through cumulative acceleration.
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 design significantly increases induced flow velocity while maintaining efficient power consumption, reducing cross-talk between flows and improving overall performance.
Implementation Method 1
applying a high-frequency high voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode by the power supply to thereby generate dielectric barrier discharge on the front surface between the first electrode and the back surface conductor and on the front surface between the front surface conductor and the second electrode
Implementation Method 2
A plasma actuator allows an induced flow to be produced along a front surface of an insulator in a direction from one electrode disposed on the front surface of the insulator to another electrode disposed on a back surface of the insulator by applying an AC high-voltage between both the electrodes to thereby produce dielectric barrier discharge
Data Source
AI summary
A plasma actuator includes: a dielectric layer; a first electrode provided on the obverse surface of the dielectric layer; a second electrode provided, on the reverse-surface side of the dielectric layer, in one direction from the first electrode; a floating conductor pair that is provided between the first electrode and the second electrode and that has an obverse-surface conductor provided on the obverse surface of the dielectric layer and a reverse-surface conductor provided on the reverse-surface side of the dielectric layer, the obverse-surface conductor and the reverse-surface conductor being electrically connected to each other, electrically insulated from the first electrode and the second electrode, and positioned in the order of the reverse-surface conductor and the obverse-surface conductor in the one direction from the first electrode in plan view; and a power source connected to the first electrode and the second electrode.