An inventor in America has created an “engine” that generates thrust by turning sound waves into actual physical motion, and has released the blueprints online for anyone to try at home.
However, some experts have questioned the machine’s efficiency, and argued that it is not a true form of propulsion, since the way it works indicates it will not be able to draw in fresh air to fire out of the back of the chamber.
Furthermore, they argue that the motion seen in videos of the device are not caused by the “thrust” emitted from the back, but are more likely caused by the vibrations of the speakers.
To prove this, they have suggested mounting the entire apparatus onto a load cell, instead of the wheels currently being used.
Despite these reservations, the design can still teach students of acoustics and propulsion some valuable lessons.
