What are the most innovative electromechanical systems used in aerospace and defense?

3 Electric propulsion

A third example of an innovative electromechanical system for aerospace is the electric propulsion, which is a method of propelling a spacecraft or an aircraft using electric power. Electric propulsion can be more efficient, environmentally friendly, and flexible than chemical propulsion, as it can use different types of fuels and generate variable thrust levels. Electric propulsion can be classified into two main types: electrothermal propulsion, which heats a propellant using electric energy and expels it through a nozzle; and electrostatic propulsion, which ionizes a propellant and accelerates it using electric fields. Some examples of electric propulsion are the NASA Dawn spacecraft, the Airbus E-Fan X hybrid-electric aircraft, and the Boeing 787 Dreamliner electric brake system.

4 Smart skin

A fourth example of an innovative electromechanical system for aerospace and defense is the smart skin, which is a concept of covering a surface with sensors, actuators, processors, and communication devices that can mimic the functions of a biological skin. The smart skin can provide various capabilities, such as self-healing, self-cleaning, self-sensing, self-adapting, and self-communicating. The smart skin can enhance the performance, safety, and intelligence of the aerospace and defense systems, as well as reduce maintenance and operational costs. Some examples of smart skin are the BAE Systems PHASA-35 solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicle, the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jet, and the NASA ADEPT deployable heat shield.

5 Robotic exoskeleton

A fifth example of an innovative electromechanical system for defense is the robotic exoskeleton, which is a wearable device that augments the strength, endurance, and mobility of the human operator. The robotic exoskeleton can assist the operator in carrying heavy loads, traversing difficult terrains, or performing complex tasks. The robotic exoskeleton can also provide protection, feedback, and health monitoring for the operator. The robotic exoskeleton can be powered by batteries, fuel cells, or external sources, and controlled by sensors, actuators, and algorithms. Some examples of robotic exoskeleton are the Lockheed Martin HULC, the Raytheon Sarcos XOS 2, and the Ekso Bionics EksoGT.

6 Quantum radar

A sixth example of an innovative electromechanical system for defense is the quantum radar, which is a radar system that uses quantum entanglement to detect and identify targets. Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon where two particles share a quantum state and can affect each other even when they are separated by large distances. The quantum radar can generate entangled photons and send one of them to the target, while keeping the other one at the receiver. The quantum radar can then measure the correlation between the two photons and infer the presence and characteristics of the target. The quantum radar can offer advantages such as higher sensitivity, lower interference, and greater stealth than conventional radar. The quantum radar is still in the experimental stage, but some prototypes have been developed by China and Canada.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?