Abstract: Compact reeds maximize flexural length by efficiently utilizing available space surrounding the port. Maximum length arms are disposed at the perimeter of the housing inlet port. Stresses at the ends of the arms are mitigated by utilizing compound radius transitions. The transitions are constructed by two or more arcs of different radii, which produce lower stresses at such junctures than if single radius transitions were used. The arms are disposed close to the reed sealing surface edge to orient the flow streamlines to be aligned with the arm width, thereby minimizing frontal drag area. The reduced frontal area reduces drag forces and related stresses on the arms, and reduces the overall flow related pressure drop across the reed. Replacing a single hole port, a port comprised of multiple passages of varying size control the velocity exiting the passages. The velocity gradient across the port provides further capability to orient the said streamlines to reduce said drag.

Abstract: Compact reeds maximize flexural length by efficiently utilizing available space surrounding the port. Maximum length arms are disposed at the perimeter of the housing inlet port. Stresses at the ends of the arms are mitigated by utilizing compound radius transitions. The transitions are constructed by two or more arcs of different radii, which produce lower stresses at such junctures than if single radius transitions were used. The arms are disposed close to the reed sealing surface edge to orient the flow streamlines to be aligned with the arm width, thereby minimizing frontal drag area. The reduced frontal area reduces drag forces and related stresses on the arms, and reduces the overall flow related pressure drop across the reed. Replacing a single hole port, a port comprised of multiple passages of varying size control the velocity exiting the passages. The velocity gradient across the port provides further capability to orient the said streamlines to reduce said drag.

Abstract: The diaphragm profile 10 is defined by a computer generated compound radius 10d beginning at 10f and ending at 10g. The compound radius is generally governed by the equation: ( t 2 ) R = ? E where, t=Diaphragm Thickness R=Radius of Curvature of Diaphragm Profile ?=Stress from Flexure of Radius “R” E=Modulus of Elasticity The profile limits diaphragm stresses to a prescribed and controlled level dictated by the initial formed profile of the diaphragm. As the bellows compresses, the gaps between adjacent diaphragm spans begin to close, thereby supporting the diaphragm and limiting further increases in stress. The remaining and shortened free span of each diaphragm is able to withstand the elevated pressures achieved during the compression process, ultimately offering a stable structure to the increase in loading. A lubricious wear strip 11 is used to protect the diaphragm from undesired wear that could result from metal to metal contact between the diaphragms.