Fundamental and experimental conditions for the realization of traveling-wave-induced aerodynamic propulsive forces by piezoelectrically deformed plastic substrates

In a previous work, we demonstrated the propulsive force produced by controllable traveling mechanical waves in a thin plastic sheet suspended in air above a flat surface, thus confirming the physical basis for a 'flying' carpet near a horizontal surface. Here, we discuss the fundamental and experimental conditions for realizing such a demonstration. We first present the theory motivating our work and use it to determine the range of experimental conditions most likely to produce a forward propulsive force. We then present a detailed description of the experimental approach to produce the traveling waves, including integrated piezoelectric actuators and sensors to provide feedback control, artifact elimination, and power considerations.