PROPULSION DEVICE

摘要

A self-propelled propulsion device comprises a fluid inlet, a plurality of spaced apart discs (18) having coaxial central openings aligned with the fluid inlet, each disc having a convex upper surface (27) and a concave lower surface (28), the axial distance between the discs (18) being greater at the peripheries than at the openings, and, a pump for delivering fluid into the inlet. The device is said to operate as follows: by the use of curved discs (18) the fluid is directed over the lower surface (28) of the discs (18) (shown as x). The restriction (23) causes the fluid passing through it to accelerate and creates a low pressure or vacuum (shown as _) between the fluid and the upper surface (27) of the discs (18). As the fluid attempts to compress, its specific gravity changes increasing the frictional contact between the fluid and the lower surface (28) of the discs (18). Consequently, the fluid is slowed down. The fluid issues from the periphery of the discs (18) and succeeding issuing streams combine (shown as ....) to form a venturi in the area between the issuing streams and the peripheries of the discs (18). This venturi causes a retarding suction upon the issuing streams which dramatically slows the speed of the issuing stream from its speed just before it leaves the lower surface (28) of the discs (18). This suction force acts along the upper surface (27) of the discs (18) to reinforce the forward (or upward) thrust of the fluid reacting against the lower surface (28). The device may be utilised in either a closed or open system with the discs held stationary or affixed together but free to rotate.