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Aurigema and Buhler’s continuation application proposes generating net force through asymmetric electrostatic pressure on shaped surfaces. For a multiblade test article, the inventors report approximately 237 micronewtons at +25 kilovolts and 421 micronewtons after enlarging the opposing electrode area from 8 to 15 square inches, a factor of 1.77. The plotted raw-force resolution is 0.1 millinewton. They describe grounded transparent enclosures and device reversal as controls addressing ion wind and attraction to surrounding surfaces. The application also proposes a volumetric force associated with divergent electric fields in dielectric materials; those mechanism claims and suggested spacecraft propulsion uses extend beyond the specifically reported test measurements and apparatus configurations.

System and Method for Generating Forces Using Asymmetrical Electrostatic Pressure (continuation)