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A laser-microfabricated electrohydrodynamic thruster for centimeter-scale aerial robots
Hari Krishna Hari Prasad1, Ravi Sankar Vaddi2, Yogesh M Chukewad1
1Autonomous Insect Robotics (AIR) Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America.
Plos One
|April 30, 2020
Summary
Researchers developed a new electrohydrodynamic (EHD) thruster for insect-scale robots, eliminating complex flapping-wing mechanisms. This novel EHD device achieves liftoff, paving the way for simpler, more reliable micro-aerial vehicles.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Aerospace Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Insect-scale robots traditionally use complex flapping-wing mechanisms for flight.
- These mechanisms are often prone to failure and limit design flexibility.
- Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) thrust offers a simpler, solid-state alternative for generating lift.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel fabrication process for electrohydrodynamic (EHD) thrusters using laser micromachining.
- To demonstrate the capability of EHD thrusters for controlled flight in insect-scale robots.
- To explore advanced materials, such as fiber-based composites, for EHD thruster construction.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a four-thruster EHD device using 355 nm laser micromachining.
- Utilized steel emitters and a lightweight carbon fiber mesh.
- Measured electrical current and thrust, comparing results with the Townsend relation.
Main Results:
- The four-thruster device (1.8 × 2.5 cm) demonstrated a peak thrust 3.03 times its mass (37 mg).
- Liftoff was achieved at 4.6 kV, validating the EHD thruster's performance.
- Experimental data showed agreement with the Townsend relation for thrust generation.
Conclusions:
- Laser micromachining enables versatile material selection for EHD thrusters, including composites.
- The developed EHD thruster provides a viable, mechanical-part-free propulsion system for micro-aerial vehicles.
- This technology advances the development of simpler and more robust insect-scale flying robots.
