Analysis of high-speed corona micromotors by means of effective gap conductivity

The nonlinear electrical characteristics of corona motors are modeled through suitable transformation of the stator voltage waveform. This in effect produces an equivalent gap conductivity to serve as a linearized model. The analysis shows how a corona motor is able to generate very high speeds with DC excitation, and points out the basis for its asynchronous operation. Experimental tests of a macroscopic motor confirm that the analysis models the basic behavior of a corona machine. Operation of a small (100 mu m) cylindrical motor is considered. The device expected to be capable of very high speeds with DC input and no special control.<>