Ultrasound Propulsion Apparatus for Ultra-Small Flying Objects

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ultra-small flying objects face limitations in size and complexity due to propeller-based propulsion systems, and wing-based methods are difficult to commercialize due to manufacturing and operational complexities.

Innovation Solution

A propulsion apparatus utilizing sound radiation force from high-frequency ultrasound, where an ultrasound generation unit generates propulsive force and an ultrasound control unit adjusts air flow to enhance propulsive force, potentially using a tube or focuser to direct airflow.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If propeller-based propulsion systems are used for ultra-small flying objects, then thrust can be generated, but the size and complexity of the system increases due to motor requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovethrustVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical propeller-motor system with an acoustic propulsion system that uses ultrasound waves to generate thrust. The ultrasound generation unit creates acoustic radiation pressure that directly propels the flying object, eliminating the need for mechanical motors, coils, rotating bodies, and permanent magnets. This substitution of mechanical systems with acoustic fields resolves the contradiction by maintaining thrust generation capability while significantly reducing system complexity and size.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Force

If wing-based propulsion methods are used for ultra-small flying objects, then thrust can be generated without motors, but manufacturing and operational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovethrustVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex wing structures with a simplified acoustic propulsion system. Instead of manufacturing and operating artificial wings that mimic animal flapping, the system uses an ultrasound generation unit that produces acoustic waves for thrust. This eliminates the need for complex wing manufacturing, assembly, and operational control, thereby improving ease of manufacture while maintaining thrust generation capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Force

If ultrasound intensity is increased to provide stronger propulsive force, then propulsive force increases, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepropulsive forceVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control of ultrasound intensity through the ultrasound control unit, which adjusts the acoustic power based on the operational requirements of the flying object. The system can vary the ultrasound intensity in real-time, providing strong propulsive force when needed while reducing energy consumption during normal operation. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction by making energy usage adaptive rather than fixed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical parameters of the ultrasound waves, specifically the intensity and frequency, to optimize the balance between propulsive force and energy consumption. By adjusting these parameters through the ultrasound control unit, the system can achieve the required thrust with minimal energy expenditure, resolving the contradiction between force generation and energy usage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 approach enables efficient and strong propulsive force for ultra-small objects, potentially replacing traditional propeller and wing-based systems with a more compact and manageable solution.

Implementation Method 1

generates ultrasound, and provides propulsive force to the object to be operated by using sound radiation force of the ultrasound

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSound radiation force: Acoustic Radiation Pressure

Implementation Method 2

The ultrasound control unit may control intensity of the ultrasound by adjusting a flow of air flowing in a traveling direction of the ultrasound

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAir flow adjustment:

Data Source

PatentUS10537917B2Propulsion apparatus using sound radiation force and control method therefor

Publication Date: 2020.01.21 IND UNIV COOPERATION FOUND HANYANG UNIV OFHAENGDANG DONG HANYANG UNIV

AI summary

A propulsion apparatus using sound radiation force according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: an ultrasound generation unit which is installed at one side of an object to be operated, generates ultrasound, and provides propulsive force to the object to be operated by using sound radiation force of the ultrasound; and an ultrasound control unit which is coupled to one side of the ultrasound generation unit, and increases propulsive force to be provided to the object to be operated by controlling intensity of the ultrasound generated by the ultrasound generation unit.