Engine contains an array of high voltage electrodes
1
Each electrode is comprised of a thin wire which carries a high positive charge followed by a negatively charged aerofoil
+20,000 volts
-20,000 volts
Wire
Aerofoil
Nitrogen ions
Atmospheric nitrogen is ionised and the electric field carries these ions from the wire to the aerofoil
2
Collision
Air movement
The ions collide with neutral air molecules and push them behind the aircraft; this ionic wind generates thrust
Ionic wind
Aircraft
movement
The aircraft’s engine contains an array of high voltage electrodes
1
2
Collision
Air movement
Each electrode is comprised of a thin wire which carries a high positive charge followed by a negatively charged aerofoil
+20,000 volts
-20,000 volts
Wire
Aerofoil
The ions collide with neutral air molecules and push them behind the aircraft; this ionic wind generates thrust
Ionic wind
Nitrogen ions
Atmospheric nitrogen is ionised and the electric field carries these ions from the wire to the aerofoil
Aircraft
movement