Upstream Of Runner Patents (Class 415/151)
  • Publication number: 20120114463
    Abstract: An air cycle machine is provided and includes a compressor section having a variable area diffuser, a turbine section having an inlet nozzle with a variable size, a motor to drive the compressor and a common rotating shaft on which the compressor section, the turbine section and the motor are mounted, the turbine section driving rotation of the shaft to drive the compressor section with the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Craig M. Beers, Christopher McAuliffe
  • Publication number: 20120114458
    Abstract: A method and system for improving performance of a compressor section of a gas turbine by diverting leakage air flowing from high pressure downstream of a stator vane assembly to low pressure upstream of the stator vane assembly from disrupting design flow patterns at a leading edge of stator vanes. A cover is provided at a forward face of an inner shroud assembly to prevent the leakage air from impinging on the leading edge. The cover may be provided at an outlet channel of a flow diverter mounted on the forward face of the inner shroud assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventors: Michael James Dutka, Venkata Siva Pradad Chaluvadi
  • Patent number: 8172516
    Abstract: A variable geometry turbine comprises a turbine wheel (9) supported in a housing (1) for rotation about an axis. A nozzle ring (5) is moveably mounted within a cavity (19) provided within the housing for adjustment of the width of an annular inlet passageway (4) extending radially inwards towards the turbine wheel (9). An array of inlet guide vanes (8) extends between a radial face of the nozzle ring (5) and an opposing wall of the inlet (4) defining a radial vane passage. A first circumferential array of apertures (25) is provided through the radial face, each of which lies substantially within the vane passage. A second circumferential array of apertures (24) is also provided in said radial face, each of lies substantially upstream or downstream of the first array (25) of apertures. The inlet (4) and cavity (19) are in fluid communication via both the first and second sets of apertures (25,24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Cummins Turbo Technologies Limited
    Inventors: John Frederick Parker, David Luck, David H. Brown
  • Publication number: 20120107090
    Abstract: A hydropower generating turbine having an impeller housing disposed to receive water, at least one impeller disposed within the impeller housing, at least one adjustable duct pivotally connected to the impeller housing, and, where the duct has a plurality of duct leafs, wherein the duct leafs articulate and cause the duct to converge and diverge for selectively disposing a fluid about the impeller. The ducts may be inflow or outflow ducts, and the turbine may react to a change in the fluid and alter the shape of the impeller. Further, the turbine may have an automated controller where variable change in the flow is detected by a sensor and transmitted to the automated controller to cause a directional shift in the multidirectional turbine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Wayne F. Krouse
  • Publication number: 20120093632
    Abstract: A nozzle is disclosed for use in a turbine or compressor. In an embodiment, each of a plurality of vanes is supported by an outer shroud including a plurality of outer shroud segments disposed adjacent to adjoining segments in end-to-end relationship. Each segment includes a hole therethrough, dimensioned to receive a vane extension sleeve. This system may be used in conjunction with a modulated cooling system and may allow for improved removal for overhaul.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Andres Jose Garcia Crespo, Robert Walter Coign, David Richard Johns, Gary Charles Liotta
  • Publication number: 20120087779
    Abstract: A supersonic compressor includes a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, a fluid conduit extending therebetween, and at least one supersonic compressor rotor disposed within the fluid conduit and including a fluid flow channel that includes a throat portion. The supersonic compressor also includes a fluid control device coupled in fluid communication with at least one fluid source and an inlet of the fluid flow channel. The fluid control device channels a first fluid to the fluid flow channel inlet. The first fluid has a first plurality of fluid properties that facilitate attainment of supersonic flow of the first fluid in the throat portion during a first operational mode. The fluid control device further channels a second fluid to the fluid flow channel inlet. The second fluid has a second plurality of fluid properties that permit maintenance of supersonic flow of the second fluid in the throat portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventors: Martin Vysohlid, Douglas Carl Hofer
  • Publication number: 20120076640
    Abstract: A controllable coolant pump which has a pump housing. In the pump housing a pump shaft is arranged, which connects a drive wheel to an impeller wheel. In the operating state of the coolant pump, during a rotation of the impeller wheel, coolant is sucked in via a cover disk which is mounted in front of a suction space, and is conveyed into an annular channel of the pump housing. A delivery volume of the coolant pump can be influenced via an actuator which interacts with an axially displaceable guide plate assigned to the impeller wheel. An elastic sealing element is provided for effective sealing of an annular gap which is produced in a functionally required manner between the impeller wheel and the guide plate. The sealing element is inserted in an annular groove of the impeller wheel and is supported sealingly on a cylindrical section of the guide plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Markus POPP, Eduard GOLOVATAI-SCHMIDT
  • Publication number: 20120051891
    Abstract: A centering device includes a pivoting part configured to pivot around a first axis that extends along an axial direction of a hole formed in the pivoting part; a roller attached to a first end of the pivoting part and configured to rotate; a rod attached to a second end of the pivoting part and configured to move along a second axis; a spring mechanism enclosing a part of the rod and configured to apply a biasing force to the pivoting part; and a rod housing configured to receive an end of the rod and to allow the rod to freely move through the rod housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Franco Sarri, Giuseppe Iurisci
  • Publication number: 20120045318
    Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, an air flow control apparatus includes a guide vane to be positioned between an air inlet and a rotor of a turbomachine. Further, the guide vane includes a geometry configured to control an air flow incidence on the rotor, the guide vane further having a substantially constant aspect ratio. In addition, a body of the guide vane includes a shape memory material configured to change a geometry of the guide vane in response to energy provided by a power source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Christopher Edward LaMaster, John David Dyer
  • Patent number: 8118545
    Abstract: A turbocharged engine includes an internal combustion engine and a variable geometry turbocharger. The turbocharger is adjustable to operate efficiently under various engine operating and environmental conditions. The turbocharger includes a turbine and compressor, with the compressor including a compressor housing, an impeller rotatably mounted in the housing, and an adjustable diffuser vane assembly. The diffuser vane assembly includes a plurality of pivotal diffuser vanes spaced about the impeller and a vane rotation drive that interconnects the vanes and permits simultaneous adjustment of the diffuser vanes to improve the efficiency and operating range of the turbocharger. The diffuser vane assembly also includes a vane locking drive operable to engage the pivotal vanes and prevent vane movement during turbocharger operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Kansas State University Research Foundation
    Inventors: Kirby Chapman, Ueli Honnegger
  • Publication number: 20120027567
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hermetically sealed turbomachine, such as a motor-driven blower and a turbine driven generator, capable of reliable high-temperature operation, especially for large sized turbomachines. The hot blower, compressor or turbine end of the turbomachine is separated from the cooler electric motor, generator or alternator end of the turbomachine by a compliant mechanical coupling and a thermal choke assembly, providing reliable high-temperature operation. The turbomachine housing is also hermetically sealed, providing control over the process gas within the machine housing, and permitting an internal cooling method within the turbomachine, whereby a small amount of process gas itself is used within the turbomachine for providing cooling of the rotating shafts, the axial fan, radial fan, or turbine impeller, the bearings and the electric motor, generator or alternator disposed within the turbomachine housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: R&D Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Giridhari L. Agrawal, Charles W. Buckley, Muthusamy Rajendran
  • Patent number: 8105012
    Abstract: An adjustable bleed apparatus and method for bleeding air to or from the impeller inlet region of a centrifugal compressor through a segmented annular bleed slot. An annular support member, connected to the fixed intake casing, supports a downstream annular shroud segment and an upstream annular shroud segment such that the downstream end of the downstream shroud segment is unconstrained. The spaced-apart distance between the shroud segments defines an annular bleed slot, which is segmented by bridge members. The connections between the shroud segments and the annular support member are configured such that the spaced apart distance of the annular bleed slot is adjustable. The connections between the annular support member and the fixed intake casing are configured such that the running clearance between the downstream shroud segment and the impeller is adjustable independently from the width of bleed slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Opra Technologies B.V.
    Inventor: Atte Anema
  • Patent number: 8100631
    Abstract: A fluid-type absorption dynamometer that includes a rotary impeller and one or more of a variety of features that enhance the shaft-horsepower range for which the dynamometer can be used. One of these features is a variable restriction intake that allows a user to adjust the flow of fluid to the impeller. Other features are a unique impeller shroud and shroud guide that are each movable relative to the impeller to allow a user to adjust flow characteristics at the exhaust and blade regions of the impeller. Yet another feature is a set of exhaust baffles that facilitate an increase in the range of shaft power ratings of the device and the reduction of deleterious vibration and noise. The dynamometer also includes impeller blades having a unique configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Concepts ETI, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas M. DeBenedictis, Kevin D. Fairman, Daniel V. Hinch, David Japikse, Tsuguji Nakano, Frederick L. Zink
  • Publication number: 20110305556
    Abstract: A method and system for power generation including a turboexpander with at least two expansion stages, the turboexpander being connected to a power generation unit, is provided. The system includes a controller configured to control (i) an angle of a first inlet guide vane provided at an inlet of a first expansion stage of the turboexpander for maintaining an inlet pressure of the first expansion stage in a predetermined range, and (ii) an angle of a second inlet guide vane provided at an inlet of a second expansion stage of the turboexpander. The controller is configured to determine a highest power from determined powers of the power generation unit and a corresponding angle of the second inlet guide vane and to adjust the angle of the second inlet guide vane independent of the angle of the first inlet guide vane to achieve the highest power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventors: Antonio ASTI, Alberto Scotti Del Greco, Paolo Del Turco, Alessio Miliani
  • Publication number: 20110293405
    Abstract: A hydromechanical device arranged to be provided in a streaming water for generating power. A first inlet conduit is arranged to convey a first flow of water. A second inlet conduit is arranged to convey a second flow of water. A switching device is provided immediately downstream the inlet conduits. A turbine is provided downstream the switching device. The switching device is arranged to convey in an alternating order, the first flow and the second flow to the turbine in such a way that the first flow and the second flow alternately drives the turbine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2007
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: IBRANOVA LIMITED
    Inventor: Ismo Pentikäinen
  • Publication number: 20110252823
    Abstract: An air cycle machine includes a turbine wheel, a turbine inlet nozzle, a valve body, and a poppet member. The turbine wheel is mounted to rotate within the air cycle machine and the turbine inlet nozzle is positioned to direct airflow thereto. The poppet member selectively extends into the turbine inlet nozzle and the valve body controls a pressure on the poppet member to move the poppet member relative to the turbine inlet nozzle to vary the size of the turbine nozzle directing airflow to the turbine wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Christopher McAuliffe, John M. Dehais, Craig M. Beers
  • Publication number: 20110219784
    Abstract: A compressor section to be mounted in a gas turbine engine has a plurality of compressor rotors arranged from an upstream location toward a downstream location. A tie shaft applies an axial force at one end of the compressor section to a downstream one of the compressor rotors, and biases the compressor rotors against a hub at the opposite end. Vane sections are mounted intermediate the compressor rotors. The vane sections include at least some variable vanes driven by actuators mounted at a radially outer position and at least some of the fixed vanes are cantilever mounted , such that they are spaced from a compressor rotor, but unsecured at a radially inner end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventors: Christopher St. Mary, Roland R. Barnes, Carl S. Richardson, Daniel Benjamin
  • Patent number: 7982323
    Abstract: There is provided an apparatus 2 for generating electrical charge from a motive power source 3. The apparatus 2 comprises an alternator 3a and a worm drive assembly 4 connectable to the motive power source 3. The worm drive assembly 4 comprises a drive shaft 14 a worm gear 20; and, a worm wheel 32 configured so as to mesh with the worm gear 20 and as is further arranged so as to be operatively associated with the alternator 3a. During use, rotation of the drive shaft 14 by the motive power source 3 effects generation of electrical charge by the alternator 3a.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Frank Seghezzi
  • Publication number: 20110142601
    Abstract: A turbine engine includes a plurality of variable fan inlet guide vanes. Where the turbine engine is a tip turbine engine, the variable fan inlet guide vanes permit the ability to control engine stability even though the fan-turbine rotor assembly is directly coupled to the axial compressor at a fixed rate. The fan inlet guide vanes may be actuated from an inner diameter of the fan inlet guide vanes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventors: Gabriel L. Suciu, Brian Merry, James W. Norris, Steven J. Sirica
  • Patent number: 7946806
    Abstract: Gas turbine engine systems and related methods involving heat exchange are provided. In this regard, a representative heat exchange system for a gas turbine engine includes: a heat exchanger; and a flow restrictor operative to selectively restrict a flow of gas flowing along an annular gas flow path; in an open position, the flow restrictor enabling gas to flow along the gas flow path and, in a closed position, the flow restrictor restricting the flow of gas such that at least a portion of the gas is provided to the heat exchanger, the heat exchanger being located radially outboard of the flow restrictor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Michael Joseph Murphy
  • Publication number: 20110110765
    Abstract: A variable vane system includes a plurality of vanes each being pivotal about an axis. A mechanical linkage drives the plurality of vanes to rotate about the axis. The mechanical linkage includes a ring gear to rotate, and in turn drive the plurality of vanes. There is at least one rod to drive the ring gear to rotate. The rod is driven by a hydraulic servo motor. A spring bias force is provided in the mechanical linkage to resist either translational or rotational oscillation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventors: Loc Quang Duong, Xiaolan Hu
  • Publication number: 20110100000
    Abstract: A variable geometry turbine comprises a turbine wheel supported in a housing for rotation about a turbine axis. The housing defines an annular inlet passage around an inducer portion of the turbine wheel and an outlet passage including a tubular wall disposed around an exducer portion of the turbine wheel; the inlet passage is defined between first and second radial inlet surfaces, one of the inlet surfaces being defined by a moveable wall member and the other of the inlet surfaces being defined by a facing wall of said housing. The moveable wall member is moveable relative to the facing wall of the housing along the turbine axis to vary the size of the inlet passageway. The moveable wall member is displaceably mounted within an annular cavity defined between the tubular wall and a surrounding wall of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventor: Stephen Edward Garrett
  • Publication number: 20110103938
    Abstract: A variable geometry turbine comprising: a turbine wheel mounted for rotation about a turbine axis within a housing, the housing defining an annular inlet surrounding the turbine wheel and defined between first and second inlet sidewalls; a cylindrical sleeve axially movable across the annular inlet to vary the size of a gas flow path through the inlet; the annular inlet divided into axially adjacent annular portions by at least one annular baffle which is axially spaced from the first and second inlet sidewalls; inlet formations extending axially across at least two of said annular portions defined by the or each baffle so as to divide said annular inlet into at least two axially offset inlet passages; the baffle(s) and inlet formations forming part of a nozzle assembly located within said annular inlet; wherein first and second components of the nozzle assembly define complementary features which co-operate to connect together said first and second components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Robert L. Holroyd, Tom J. Roberts
  • Patent number: 7927064
    Abstract: A Pelton turbine is disclosed that includes at least one needle valve injector assembly and at least one high efficiency injector assembly. The high efficiency injector assembly provides a generally unimpeded flow path for water from a distributor to a runner of the turbine. The high efficiency injector assemblies and needle valve injector assemblies are operated in cooperation to provide the overall desired flow rate through the turbine and to increase the efficiency of the turbine. A high efficiency injector assembly may be retrofitted for a needle valve injector assembly to improve the efficiency of existing turbine systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Shashishekara Sitharamarao Talya, Daniel Jason Erno, Olav Rommetveit, Elnar Mikal Sundsvold, Morten Bjerke
  • Publication number: 20110085891
    Abstract: There is provided a variable capacity turbine that is capable of suppressing separation from an outer peripheral face of an involute dividing wall at an inlet portion of an outer scroll, enhancing performance, and increasing a flow rate. The variable capacity turbine includes: a turbine housing having an involuted scroll formed therein; a turbine wheel rotatably provided on an inner periphery side of the scroll; the involute dividing wall mounted on the turbine housing to divide the scroll into an inner scroll and the outer scroll; and a flow regulating valve for opening and closing an introducing port formed at an inlet end of the outer scroll. The inlet portion of the outer scroll is formed to have a continuous and gentle throttle flow path from an upstream side to a downstream side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventor: Atsushi Matsuo
  • Publication number: 20110027062
    Abstract: A system for improved fluid capture comprises a first vertical turbine. A first radial vane support module comprises a first vertical pole and a second vertical pole and is disposed adjacent to the first vertical turbine. The first radial vane support module comprises a first radial vane storage module coupled to the first vertical support pole and the second vertical support pole and the first radial vane storage module comprises a first motor and a first radial vane. The first radial vane comprises a first retractable panel. The first motor couples to the first radial vane and is configured to extend and retract the first radial vane. A first radial vane control module couples to the first motor and is configured to control the operation of the first motor. In one embodiment, a saucer vane module couples to the first vertical turbine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: Abundant Energy, LLC
    Inventors: Doug Moore, Kurt Knapton, Allen James Williston
  • Publication number: 20110014034
    Abstract: A turbocharger, comprising: at least one of a turbine housing, a bearing housing and a turbine wheel, wherein the turbine wheel is rotatably mounted about an axis and includes a guide apparatus with a plurality of guide vanes rotatably mounted in pivot bearings on a guide vane support, wherein the guide vanes influence the flow in a flow channel of the turbine housing; and a spring element, which moveably loads the guide apparatus in an axial direction against a wall of the turbine housing, and wherein the disc springs seal a displacement chamber provided with a displacement mechanism of the guide apparatus against the flow channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventors: Dirk Blümmel, Claus Fleig, Matthias Stein, Andreas Wengert
  • Publication number: 20100329898
    Abstract: A compressor airflow control assembly is operable to control airflow through a centrifugal compressor. The control assembly includes an air valve mounted in the airflow path to control airflow through the compressor. The control assembly also includes a controller operable to sense an airflow condition and control shifting of the air valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: ACCESSIBLE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Matthew Scott Dunn, Michael A. Carlson
  • Publication number: 20100329851
    Abstract: An inlet guide vane for a compressor is provided. The inlet guide vane is adjustable to modify gas flow properties in the compressor, wherein electroactive polymers are arranged in the inlet guide vane such that the shape of the inlet guide vane is adjusted in a specified manner upon applying a voltage to the inlet guide vane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: Ulf Nilsson
  • Patent number: 7850419
    Abstract: The bleed valve actuating system is for use in a gas turbine engine. The system comprises an actuator mounted adjacent the engine case and having a main actuation axis extending generally parallel to a surface of the engine case. A drive rod extends from the bleed valve to the actuator generally perpendicularly with reference to the main actuation axis of the actuator. The drive rod connected to the actuator via a linkage mechanically connects the actuator to the drive rod. The linkage is configured to convert axial motion of the actuator along the main actuation axis into generally perpendicular motion of the drive rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp.
    Inventors: Ljubisa Vrljes, Christopher Daniel Ongley, Zoran Markovic
  • Publication number: 20100303614
    Abstract: A turbine assembly converts kinetic energy from a flowing fluid into electrical or mechanical energy. The turbine assembly includes a turbine and a vane assembly. The turbine has a plurality of vanes disposed on its circumference and rotates about a vertical axis responsive to the flowing fluid contacting the vanes. The vane assembly also rotates about the vertical axis, but does so independently of the turbine. The vane assembly rotates to direct the flowing fluid into contact with the vanes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: Norbert Hector
  • Patent number: 7828516
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for support of an adjusting ring which encompasses at a distance a basically circular blade carrier, which adjusting ring is rotatable in the circumferential direction around a center axis which is identical with the blade carrier, in order to adjust radially extending blades of a ring of a turbo-engine, wherein a plurality of levers are provided between the blade carrier and the adjusting ring, which levers are distributed over the circumference, extend tangentially in each case, and which on their free ends have a rotatable roller in each case, which are rollable in the circumferential direction on the adjusting ring or on the blade carrier. According to the invention, the lever is tightly clamped on one side to disclose a wear-free and reliable device for support of an adjusting ring which encompasses at a distance a circular blade carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Martin Hartmann, Alexandra Küpper, Walter Loch, Vadim Shevchenko
  • Publication number: 20100266390
    Abstract: A simplified, low cost, turbine flow controlling device, using a sliding gate, with an actuator to control exhaust flow to multiple volutes, which volutes have perforated transverse divider walls. By moving the sliding gate (80) from a closed position (88) through a displacement of “a” to the next position b1; and then from position b1 through a displacement of “b” to the next position c1, each a discreet movement, by a simple actuator, an increasing number of volutes are opened for flow from the exhaust manifold, via the volutes with perforated transverse divider walls, to the turbine wheel, without the attenuation of pulse energy usually seen in VTGs, at a cost lower than that of a VTG.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventors: Kurtis E. Henderson, Rajmohan Chandramohanan
  • Publication number: 20100237200
    Abstract: A propulsion unit comprises a turbojet engine and a thermal exchanger, situated above the turbojet engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Herve Marche
  • Publication number: 20100232935
    Abstract: A guide vane for a compressor with an airfoil, and a base plate for mounting the guide vane to a compressor casing is provided. The base plate includes an air duct sized and configured to guide compressor air off the airfoil through the air duct. Further disclosed is a guide vane arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Philip Twell
  • Publication number: 20100232934
    Abstract: Embodiments of this invention include a nozzle assembly for a turbine, the nozzle assembly including an airfoil, inner and outer sidewalls, and inner and outer rings. Each of these sidewalls and rings are coupled together at an interface through a combination of a mechanical interconnection on one end and a welded connection on the other end. The mechanical interconnection includes either the sidewalls or the rings having a protruding hook and the other having a corresponding hook recess. The interconnection can also include axial and radial mechanical stops. The configuration may further include one or more surfaces at an interface between a ring and a sidewall angled away from the interface to form a narrow groove. The configuration further may include a ring with a consumable root portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Steven Sebastian Burdgick, Andrew Paul Greif
  • Publication number: 20100215483
    Abstract: In one embodiment a system is disclosed that includes an actuation device coupled with a turbomachinery mechanism. The actuation device can include multiple fluid pathways and a valve to alternatively place each of these pathways in fluid communication with a supply port while another of the pathways is in fluid communication with a return port to selectively move an actuation member along a range of travel. A brake valve may also be included to provide pressurized fluid to the actuation member when the actuation device is in an on condition and divert at least a portion of the pressurized fluid away from the actuation member through another pathway when the actuation device is in an off condition. A fluid-powered brake is coupled to this further pathway to selectively apply braking force to the actuation member in response to the diverted pressurized fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: Eric Mitchell Arnett, Ross Julian Belloni, Andrew Clifford Dalton
  • Patent number: 7775762
    Abstract: A modular header body is described for distributing fluid to an individually pumped fluid circuit. The modular header body has a valve to selectively isolate the header body's suction chamber from its volute, which permits a pump motor to be disconnected from the header body while the valve is closed. Each modular header body is constructed so that adjacent header bodies can be connected to each other to form a common suction chamber. Each header body's isolation valve operates independently so that the volute of one header body can be isolated from the common suction chamber without affecting fluid supply to the other header bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventor: Kevin J. Koenig
  • Publication number: 20100166543
    Abstract: Inlet guide vanes and gas turbine engine systems involving such vanes are provided. In this regard, a representative an inlet guide vane for a gas turbine engine includes: a fixed strut; and a variable flap located downstream of the fixed strut and being movable with respect thereto; the fixed strut having a leading edge, a trailing edge and side surfaces extending between the leading edge and the trailing edge, the side surfaces being asymmetric with respect to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Applicant: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORP.
    Inventor: Christian A. Carroll
  • Publication number: 20100143093
    Abstract: An arrangement for determining a rotational-speed of a blade rotating around an axis is provided. A transmit-unit is located at the rotating blade, while a receive-unit is located at the rotating hub of the blade. The transmit-unit and the receive-unit are connected by a transmission-system, which is used to transmit a signal from the transmit-unit to the receive-unit. A detection-unit is located at the blade, which is used to detect a force acting on the blade due to the rotation of the blade. The detection-unit is built to interrupt the transmission of the signal when the detected force exceeds a predetermined value. The receive-unit comprises a control-unit, which detects a high rotational-speed of the blade by evaluating the interrupted transmission of the signal. The transmission-system is built as an optical-transmission system, which transmits an optical-signal from the transmit-unit to the receive-unit for evaluation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventors: Per Egedal, Jens Christian Kjeldsen
  • Publication number: 20100135768
    Abstract: A turbine system includes a turbine positioned so that its blades are exposed during at least part of their rotation to a region of fluid flow accelerated by a columnar structure, such as a building or a bridge pylon. A protective casing moves to isolate the turbine blades from the fluid flow, thereby protecting the turbine from overpowering conditions. Upwind and downwind fairings may be used when retrofitting pre-existing buildings. Turbines may be positioned on opposing sides of a building. Multiple turbine modules may be positioned in line along peripheries of a building. Turbines may be mounted on in-water structures, such as buoys.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: Natural Power Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: John Pitre
  • Publication number: 20100119359
    Abstract: A steam turbine with an operating temperature of more than 650° C. includes a thermally highly-loaded housing (G) which is produced by a casting technique at least partially from a nickel-based alloy. Production of such a steam turbine is simplified by the housing (G) being divided into a multiplicity of smaller housing sections (G1, . . . , G8; G21, G22, G31, G32) which are interconnected and together form the housing (G).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventors: Richard Brendon Scarlin, Roger Padfield, Helen Elizabeth Parker, Robert Jupp, Ian Michael Vale, Martin Reigl, Maurus Herzog, Rolf Doebler
  • Publication number: 20100092278
    Abstract: A variable vane arm has a hook portion comprising a radially inner leg connected to a radially outer leg by an arcuate connection, and an actuation lever extending from the hook portion. The hook portion and actuation lever are formed from a singular piece of material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Daniel W. Major, Bernard W. Pudvah
  • Patent number: 7694518
    Abstract: An engine system incorporating an air breathing, reciprocating internal combustion engine having an inlet for air and an exhaust for products of combustion. A centripetal turbine receives products of the combustion and has a housing in which a turbine wheel is rotatable. The housing has first and second passages leading from the inlet to discrete, approximately 180°, portions of the circumference of the turbine wheel. The passages have fixed vanes adjacent the periphery of the turbine wheel and the angle of the vanes in one of the passages is different than those in the other so as to accommodate different power levels providing optimum approach angles between the gases passing the vanes and the blades of the turbine wheel. Flow through the passages is controlled by a flapper valve to direct it to one or the other or both passages depending upon the load factor for the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Todd Mathew Whiting, Carl Thomas Vuk
  • Publication number: 20100021287
    Abstract: A turbocharger includes a thin-walled insert installed in the bore of the turbine housing. The insert is generally ring-shaped and is radially resilient. The insert can be made of sheet metal formed into a ring shape, and in some embodiments is a split ring. A piston is axially slidable in the bore for varying the size of the turbine nozzle. The outer surface of the piston slides against the inner surface of the insert, and in preferred embodiments a piston ring that encircles the piston engages the inner surface of the insert to substantially seal the interface between the insert and the piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventors: Emmanuel Bouvier, Lorrain Sausse, Pierre Barthelet, Manuel Marques, Laurent Vautier, Francis Abel, Alain Claudon
  • Publication number: 20090232641
    Abstract: A fluid-type absorption dynamometer that includes a rotary impeller and one or more of a variety of features that enhance the shaft-horsepower range for which the dynamometer can be used. One of these features is a variable restriction intake that allows a user to adjust the flow of fluid to the impeller. Other features are a unique impeller shroud and an shroud guide that are each movable relative to the impeller to allow a user to adjust flow characteristics at the exhaust and blade regions of the impeller. Yet another feature is a set of exhaust baffles that facilitate an increase in the range of shaft power ratings of the device and the reduction of deleterious vibration and noise. The dynamometer also includes impeller blades having a unique configuration that cooperates with the shroud guide to enhance flow through the dynamometer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: CONCEPTS ETI, INC.
    Inventors: Douglas M. DeBenedictis, Kevin D. Fairman, Daniel V. Hinch, David Japikse, Tsuguji Nakano, Frederick L. Zink
  • Publication number: 20090232643
    Abstract: A tip turbine engine according to the present invention includes a plurality of independently variable inlet guide vanes for the fan and/or for the compressor. An actuator is operatively coupled to each of the flaps, such that each actuator can selectively vary the flap of its associated inlet guide vane. In one embodiment, the inlet guide vanes each include a pivotably mounted flap that is variable independently of the flaps of at least some of the other inlet guide vanes. In another embodiment, the inlet guide vanes each include at least one fluid outlet or nozzle directing pressurized air, as controlled by the associated actuator, to control inlet distortion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventors: James W. Norris, Craig A. Nordeen
  • Publication number: 20090226303
    Abstract: A system and method of controlling a fan blade flutter characteristic of a gas turbine engine includes adjusting a variable area fan nozzle in response to a neural network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventors: Zbigniew M. Grabowski, Robert J. Morris
  • Publication number: 20090196740
    Abstract: This invention relates to increasing the use of an adjustable or flexible augmenter for the increase of power generation primarily used for utilizing wind energy. The adjustable augmenter is a wind enhancement structure with a plurality of flexible walls connected to each other with supporting horizontal elongated members. In the preferred embodiment, the invention is used with a plurality of smaller blades on a rotation connected to a tower structure with a plurality of the rotation and an inlet air flow regulation to achieve optimal power output. A preferred embodiment includes lightweight low cost structure of flexible wall to enhance an air flow into impact impellers connected to a rotation creating a swept area with a height to diameter ratio of greater than four. A preferred embodiment includes wherein said impact impellers connected to a rotation means creating a swept area with a height to diameter ratio of greater than ten.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventor: Jonathan Carl Ricker
  • Patent number: 7556473
    Abstract: The present invention includes an inflow quantity regulating means 5 for regulating the inflow quantity of a fuel gas to a compressor 1; a recycle valve 7 for returning the fuel gas discharged from the compressor 1 to the inlet side of the compressor 1; and a control means which sets a control operating value for operating the compressor 1 at a predetermined operation point, and controls the inflow quantity regulating means 5 and the recycle valve 7 based on the control operating value. The control means has a first control signal generating means 27 which generates a signal increasing with an increase in the operating value as a control signal for the inflow quantity regulating means 5 when the control operating value is a predetermined value or larger and a second control signal generating means 29 which generates a signal decreasing with an increase in the operating value as a control signal for the recycle valve 7 when the control operating value is smaller than the predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuko Takeshita, Kazuhiro Takeda, Susumu Kouno, Jun Nakamura, Kenichiro Nakamura