Electrohydrodynamic self-boosted propeller for in-atmosphere propulsion

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel electrohydrodynamic (EHD) propeller capable of liftoff and short-term flight without an onboard power supply, demonstrating a new propulsion principle with potential for improved stability and control.

Contribution

The authors designed and tested EHD propellers that can spin and lift off independently, validating rotary EHD devices as a new propulsion concept.

Findings

EHD propellers achieved liftoff and flight without onboard power

Propellers up to 27.8 g and 25.5 cm diameter were tested

Liftoff voltages ranged from -9.5 kV to 60 kV

Abstract

Attempts to use Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) flow for propulsion have been made since the last century [1]. Limited success has been registered particularly due to the inhomogeneous generation of the thrust, and also the very light weight and frail nature of the devices versus the power supply weight needed hover the craft [2]. However, EHD propulsion can offer a greater thrust to power ratio than any of the current propulsion technologies [3]. Rotary EHD devices have been employed as demo units for a long time [4,5], but it was unknown if they could produce enough thrust and vertical lift to lead to device liftoff. We designed EHD propellers which spin and eventually lift off and fly independently for a short while. The propeller is balanced on and powered through a high voltage pin/shaft while an intense electric field is created by the presence of a surrounding ground electrode [6]. Multiple propeller electrode designs and ground counter electrodes are able to support propeller rotation and liftoff. Propellers up to 27.8 g and 25.5 cm in diameter were studied with a liftoff voltage range of negative 9.5 kV to 60 kV and rotational speeds up to 80 rot/s. It appears that these are the first EHD devices to liftoff and fly on their own without carrying a power supply [7]. This validates a rotary-based system as a new principle for propulsion with potentially improved stability and control characteristics versus the current EHD devices. Design optimization and scaling seem possible and EHD drone design feasible. Other applications may include EHD motors, fans, or sensors.