C-Motive is developing a new type of electrostatic motor for Unmanned Aerial Systems that is completely sealed against contamination, overcomes the limitations of both electromagnetic and classical vacuum-based electrostatic motors, and offers the same level of performance as rare earth permanent magnet motors without using any rare earth materials. This new electrostatic motor uses recently developed dielectric materials to produce high levels of torque at useful direct-drive speeds, with high energy efficiency. Furthermore, electrostatic motors are lightweight and inherently liquid cooled, yielding a propulsion system that is simultaneously robust against overheating and ideal for use in harsh environments including sand, humidity, and salt spray. The proposed project will determine the feasibility of this electrostatic motor for UAS applications.
