PUB: A Plasma-Propelled Ultra-Quiet Blimp with Two-DOF Vector Thrusting

TL;DR

This paper introduces PUB, a plasma-propelled ultra-quiet blimp with vector thrust control, demonstrating stable flight and maneuverability suitable for noise-sensitive environments and near-space applications.

Contribution

It presents a novel plasma propulsion system with a two-DOF thrust vectoring mechanism and a closed-loop control scheme for stable, quiet flight of an aerial robot.

Findings

Successful full-envelope flight demonstration

Effective thrust vector control with two-DOF head

Stable maneuvering confirmed through experiments

Abstract

This study presents the design and control of a Plasma-propelled Ultra-silence Blimp (PUB), a novel aerial robot employing plasma vector propulsion for ultra-quiet flight without mechanical propellers. The system utilizes a helium-lift platform for extended endurance and a four-layer ring asymmetric capacitor to generate ionic wind thrust. The modular propulsion units allow flexible configuration to meet mission-specific requirements, while a two-degree-of-freedom (DOF) head enables thrust vector control. A closed-loop slip control scheme is implemented for stable maneuvering. Flight experiments demonstrate full-envelope capability, including take-off, climb, hover, descent, and smooth landing, confirming the feasibility of plasma vector propulsion, the effectiveness of DOF vector control, and the stability of the control system. Owing to its low acoustic signature, structural simplicity, and high maneuverability, PUB is well suited for noise-sensitive, enclosed, and near-space applications.