SONIC PROPULSION SYSTEM, AN OVERALL VIEW OF POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Abstract

Recent research work on alterative propulsion systems has demonstrated that hydraulic energy transfer is an efficient way for energy transfer. Other qualities like power density, continuous speed change, easy brake energy recovery and constant speed for the internal combustion engine sustain further research. The main disadvantage is related to efficiency. Research work done by different fluid power companies have shown that 95% efficiency of hydraulic devices can be obtained. Losses are mainly dependent on flow speed. In this case transferring energy using waves propagated in liquids are considered under the generic name of sonic systems. Wave propagation in liquids is a low dissipation process and dynamical high power density processes are also available. Different structures of sonic propulsion systems are presented in the paper and compared, considering performances, using multi-domain software. The experimental vehicle structure is considered an ATV. It is demonstrated that sonic propulsion systems can be defined as a separate development direction for alternative propulsion system considering the acceptable technological requirements and the performances obtained.