Major Bachelor of Technology project in Electrical & Electronics Engineering at MAIT. This high-voltage electrohydrodynamic (EHD) propulsion prototype demonstrates ionic wind thrust generation using a custom-built 30kV+ high-voltage stage, Cockcroft-Walton multiplier cascade, and asymmetric capacitor assembly.
An ionic lifter is an electrohydrodynamic (EHD) propulsion device that produces thrust by ionizing air molecules and accelerating the resulting ions in an electric field. I used the project to demonstrate high-voltage generation, field-driven airflow, asymmetric capacitor geometry, and safe test procedure.
A high-voltage asymmetric capacitor creates a strong electric field. Air molecules near the thin positive electrode (corona wire) become ionized and are accelerated toward the negative electrode (collector), creating momentum transfer and producing measurable thrust.
The build demonstrates high-voltage DC generation, insulation awareness, corona discharge, circuit assembly, and controlled prototype testing. It is presented as an academic EHD demonstration, not as a practical spacecraft propulsion system.
Built a 30kV+ high-voltage supply stage from a low-voltage DC input using transformer step-up and a Cockcroft-Walton voltage multiplier cascade. The project required insulation spacing, wiring discipline, and careful discharge practice.
Demonstrated ionic wind thrust generation through electrohydrodynamic principles. The asymmetric capacitor design creates a corona region and transfers momentum from accelerated ions to neutral air molecules.
Used high-voltage safety controls including current limiting, insulation spacing, discharge procedures, and a controlled testing area under academic supervision.
| Engineering Area | Work Completed | Portfolio Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| High-voltage generation | Low-voltage DC input stepped up through transformer and multiplier stages | Power supply, display module, and multiplier board photos |
| Voltage multiplication | Cockcroft-Walton diode-capacitor cascade assembled and tested | Front and back views of the multiplier board |
| EHD thruster assembly | Corona wire and collector structure built as an asymmetric capacitor | Complete ionic lifter assembly photograph |
| Safety practice | Controlled test area, insulation spacing, and discharge procedure used | Academic prototype documentation and supervised build context |
Scope note: this was a Bachelor EEE major project and high-voltage educational prototype. It demonstrates EHD physics and electrical design skills, not a flight-ready propulsion system.
This project involves extremely dangerous high voltages (30kV+) that can cause serious injury or death. This documentation is for educational purposes only. Do not attempt to replicate without proper training, safety equipment, and understanding of high-voltage safety protocols. Always work with supervision from qualified professionals when dealing with high-voltage systems.
The sharp corona wire creates an intense electric field that ionizes surrounding air molecules, stripping electrons and creating positive ions near the wire.
Positive ions are accelerated away from the positive wire toward the negative collector grid by the strong electric field gradient.
As ions collide with neutral air molecules, they transfer momentum, creating a directional airflow (ionic wind) that produces thrust on the structure.