System-Level Optimization in Electroaerodynamic (EAD) Aircraft: Chronology, Mechanics, and Real-World Flight Metrics (2006–2026)

Abstract:This paper documents the definitive technical specifications and developmental history of the first heavier-than-air electroaerodynamic (EAD) aircraft capable of lifting its own power supply unit (PSU) in un-tethered atmospheric flight. While contemporary academic research often decouples thruster performance from onboard power electronics—resulting in multi-stage configurations restricted by severe parasitic drag and low efficiencies (~0.5 to 1.0 g/W)—this work outlines a unified system architecture that surpasses the gravity barrier. By integrating sub-5-micrometer (down to 2.2µm) tungsten emitters, horizontally reinforced concentric hexagonal geometries, and a custom-ground micro-ferrite resonant transformer operating in continuous strike mode, the documented system achieves a critical reduction in current draw to the micro-amp scale. This operational threshold permits the miniaturization of the magnetic components to a few grams or less, achieving an airframe mass as light as 5.6 times less areal mass than the Atlas Human-Powered Helicopter. No other published literature, patent applications, or physical demonstrations in existence compare to this architecture, which has been legally patented for lifting its own power supply since 2014 and fully documented on film for lifting its onboard power supply since 2006.