Motive Fluid Outlet Movable Relative To Motor Part Patents (Class 60/232)
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Patent number: 5505408Abstract: An actuation system for controlling the steerable nozzle of a missile or like vehicle is combined with an aerofin control system, both of which are driven in unison by associated drive motors and gear assemblies, one set for each aerofin. The nozzle steering system comprises two essentially identical yoke plates mounted along a plane generally transverse to the missile axis and oriented orthogonally relative to each other about the missile axis for pivoting the nozzle through mutually orthogonal axes, thereby achieving omni-directional steering. The yoke plates are coupled at opposite ends to pinion gears which are driven by the same gear assemblies which drive the associated aerofins. The arrangement permits common directional control of the steerable nozzle and the aerofins while maintaining the nozzle in a neutral direction when the aerofins are rotated to a missile roll control mode.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1993Date of Patent: April 9, 1996Assignee: Versatron CorporationInventors: John M. Speicher, Allan A. Voigt, Che-Ram S. Voigt
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Patent number: 5481868Abstract: A variable area convergent-divergent nozzle for use as an attitude control thruster on a VTOL aircraft is formed by a curved wall forming a chamber a convergent section a throat section and a divergent section and a pair of parallel side plates, one of the side plates being movable to alter the area of the nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1994Date of Patent: January 9, 1996Assignee: GEC-Marconi LimitedInventors: Guy E. Davies, David R. Tucker
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Patent number: 5398499Abstract: Orientable axisymmetric nozzle of variable geometry for gas turbine engines which comprises convergent (2) and divergent (3) sections formed by master petals (4, 5) and slave petals (33, 34) duly connected together, each divergent master petal (5) being connected to an outer annular control part (6) by a biarticulated bar (15). This bar is connected by one end to the part (6) by a cylindrical articulation (16) while by its opposite end it is connected to the divergent master petal (5) via intermediate bars (26, 27).Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 1994Date of Patent: March 21, 1995Assignee: Sener, Ingenieria y Sistemas, S.A.Inventor: Jose R. Urruela
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Patent number: 5392991Abstract: A thrust reversing nozzle for a jet engine in which a collar is mounted on the discharge nozzle so as to be movable axially relative thereto and between the collar and the nozzle, two thrust reversal half shells are pivotally mounted and, in their closed position, register with and are flush with the collar so that these half shells and the collar extend the nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1993Date of Patent: February 28, 1995Assignee: Finmeccanica S.p.A. - Ramo Aziendale AleniaInventors: Alfredo Gatti, Luigi Gerbi
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Patent number: 5379585Abstract: A method of controlling a system is adapted to control flow to throat nozzle and vectoring nozzle actuators. The method comprises the steps of summing a plurality of signals representative of flow to the vectoring nozzle actuators with a signal representative of flow to the throat nozzle actuators to generate a total hydraulic flow signal. The total flow signal is then compared to a signal representative of total pump output to generate a reserve signal. Finally, a scaled rate limit signal is generated from the reserve signal and multiplied by predetermined ratio signals such that the ratio signals are limited by the difference between pump output and pump demand.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 1993Date of Patent: January 10, 1995Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Barton H. Snow, David M. Leighton, Michael J. Steckler
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Patent number: 5372006Abstract: A thrust reverser system for a turbine engine of the type having a central relatively hot gas generator nozzle conducting a core flow and a relatively cold duct conducting a fan flow and surrounding the hot flow, a pair of thrust reverser door, each of the doors being pivotally mounted on an axis which is substantially diametrically positioned with respect to the exhaust nozzle of the engine so as to pivot between a stowed position in which the doors are out of the direct path of exhaust from the engine and a deployed position in which the doors are in the path of the engine exhaust for deflecting the exhaust and creating a braking thrust, a flow modifying arrangement acting on the hot gas generator nozzle for simultaneously decreasing the total pressure of the core flow and increasing the total pressure of the fan flow by increasing the area of the hot gas generator nozzle at the discharge end thereof and moving the boundary between the hot gas and cold gas flows radially outwardly.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 1993Date of Patent: December 13, 1994Assignee: Aeronautical Concept of Exhaust, Ltd.Inventor: Jean-Pierre Lair
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Patent number: 5370312Abstract: The spherical portions of two gimbal (18) mounted convergent flaps (26,28) have hub structures (24) of concentric hubs (54,56). A piston (38) within each hub carries an annular seal (36) which is urged into sealing contact with the spherical static structure (10).The hub communicates air to a plenum between the convergent flaps to cool the convergent flaps.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1993Date of Patent: December 6, 1994Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventor: Mathew S. Kight
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Patent number: 5351888Abstract: A convergent-divergent exhaust nozzle is mounted to an exhaust duct of a jet aircraft engine by a circumferentially-spaced set of hydraulic cylinders. The cylinders are interconnected in captured flow via hydraulic circuits which allow the cylinders to function as a gimbal mounting. This mounting allows the entire nozzle to vector the exhaust without additionally loading the divergent flaps with vectored exhaust so that cool, low pressure ram air can be channeled directly to the divergent flaps for efficient cooling.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1993Date of Patent: October 4, 1994Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: John B. Taylor, Dudley O. Nash
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Patent number: 5343696Abstract: An engine has a shroud which surrounds one of a propfan and a propeller having blades. The shroud has a variable geometry. A direction of the air flow inside a duct of the shroud is reversible via an adjustment of the blades for the reversal of the thrust of the engine. A separately movable nozzle ring forms a rearward end of the shroud. The nozzle ring is axially displaceable to an extent such that its trailing edge forms wherein air flow is promoted around the end of the shroud.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 1993Date of Patent: September 6, 1994Assignee: MTU Motoren- Und Turbinen-UnionInventors: Alois Rohra, Peter Tracksdorf
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Patent number: 5329763Abstract: A thrust vectoring variable geometry exhaust nozzle for gas turbines, which includes a convergent section (2) followed, in the direction of the flow, by a divergent section (3), both formed by master (4 and 5) and slave petals (41 and 42), whose convergent section (2) defines a throat (15) having a variable area. The divergent section (3) has variable geometry in order to orientate the thrust, and includes a governing and external radial support system for regulating the throat area (15), and a governing system for regulating the vectoring of the thrust. Both system are formed by a single governing system consisting of three annular pieces (6,7 and 8), concentric among themselves and with the axis of the turbine, and by a plurality of linear actuators (9). The master petals (5) of the divergent section (3) are transversely subdivided into at least two segments (5a, 5b).Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1993Date of Patent: July 19, 1994Assignee: Sener, Ingenieria y Sistemas, S.A.Inventors: Jose I. Ibarreche Mendia, Jose Rivacoba Urruela
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Patent number: 5323606Abstract: A vectorable nozzle for directing the thrust produced by a gas turbine engine includes a duct, at least one toroidal nozzle segment, and a carrier ring for mounting the nozzle segment to the duct. The nozzle segment is hinged to the outer circumferential surface of the carrier ring about its toroidal axis. The carrier ring is rotatably mounted to the external surface of the duct at the downstream end thereof by means of a roller element bearing. The arrangement is such that the nozzle segment is moveable between a stowed location within the airframe space envelope and a deployed location. Once deployed the carrier ring is able to rotate the nozzle segment relative to the duct in order to vector the thrust produced by the engine.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1993Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Assignees: Rolls-Royce plc, Rolls-Royce IncorporatedInventors: Kenneth M. Pesyna, William J. Lewis
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Patent number: 5285637Abstract: A seal centering and restraining device for positioning the seals between the divergent flaps of a vectoring convergent/divergent nozzle. The device includes a restraint bar that spans between two adjacent divergent flaps and is pivotally attached to the air side of a seal and slidably secured by sliders to tracks on the adjacent divergent flaps, thereby sandwiching the adjacent divergent flaps between the seal and sliders. A positioning linkage connecting the two adjacent divergent flaps centers the seal at all nozzle operating conditions.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 1992Date of Patent: February 15, 1994Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventor: William K. Barcza
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Patent number: 5267436Abstract: Exhaust vectoring control for gas turbine engines having an exhaust nozzle mounted on a ring that is positionally controlled by a plurality of actuators in response to pitch and yaw commands uses signal processing to convert pitch and yaw signals into actuator extensions based upon stored coordinates identifying the location of each actuator connected to the ring in relation to the X, Y and Z reference axes of the engine. The computation of these coordinates takes into account the orientation of the ring. The largest actuator change is selected and limited to a stored maximum allowable change in extension for a fixed or set time interval, such as a signal processor cycle, thereby limiting actuator vector rate. The limited change is divided by the largest computed extension change, producing a ratio or factor that is multiplied by the computed changes for the other actuators, producing a set of actuator signals that are simultaneously applied to their respective actuators for the processor cycle.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1992Date of Patent: December 7, 1993Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Coy B. Wood, Jr., Calvan G. DeFreese
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Patent number: 5261606Abstract: A divergent flap assembly having a divergent flap connected to a sync-ring by first and second divergent struts that cross adjacent the center portions thereof providing a linkage arrangement that produces a uniform vectoring of all of the divergent flaps for a given angle of rotation of the sync-ring about the center thereof.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1992Date of Patent: November 16, 1993Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventor: William K. Barcza
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Patent number: 5245823Abstract: An external flap vectoring mechanism on an axisymmetric gas turbine exhaust nozzle, the external flap vectoring mechanism comprising a plurality of external flaps, each such flap having first and second flaps, the first flap pivotably connected to a sync ring and the second flap pivotably connected to the aft end of the first flap thereby providing for lateral movement of the second flap relative to the first.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1991Date of Patent: September 21, 1993Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventor: William K. Barcza
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Patent number: 5232158Abstract: A divergent seal is located on the gas side of a convergent/divergent nozzle between adjacent divergent flaps. A scissors linkage both centers the seal between the flaps and restrains the seal against the flaps.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1992Date of Patent: August 3, 1993Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventor: W. Kevin Barcza
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Patent number: 5188292Abstract: In a gas turbine engine, in a wall aperture of a 2-D variable area gas turbine exhaust nozzle, at least two members are rotatably and concentrically mounted in such aperture, substantially flush with the wall and in the path of hot exhaust gases flowing thereover, wherein an improvement is provided such that a) a heat shield is mounted on the wall downstream of the two concentric members b) a second liner is mounted on the inner concentric member and spaced thereabove and extends downstream over the outer concentric member, which is recessed relative to the second liner, which liner then overlaps the first liner, c) a third liner is mounted on the wall, upstream of the concentric members and spaced thereabove and extends downstream over the outer concentric member (to effectively submerge same) and overlaps the second liner, the liners being mounted in shingle-style overlap over the members including over the recessed outer concentric member, to thermally shield same.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1991Date of Patent: February 23, 1993Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventors: Luther R. Frey, Francis L. DeTolla
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Patent number: 5174502Abstract: The present invention provides support for a vectoring ring used to pivot flaps in a gas turbine engine thrust vectoring nozzle. The ring support transfers at least a portion of the side loads acting generated by a gas turbine engine thrust vectoring nozzle to a relatively stationary portion of the engine. The support includes apparatus that provides for allowing two degree of freedom (2 DOF) pivoting or gimballing motion and axial translation of the vectoring ring.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1991Date of Patent: December 29, 1992Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: William C. Lippmeier, Todd T. Wilkinson, Robert M. Ausdenmoore
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Patent number: 5142862Abstract: In the preferred configuration, the assembly is characterized in that the lateral and longitudinal thrust reversing loads exerted on the thrust reversing subassembly are transmitted into the fan duct structure which is arranged to in turn transmit these thrust reversing loads into outer structure to which the jet engine and thrust reversing assembly is mounted. In the preferred form, there are vane means which, with the thrust diverting structure in the thrust reversing position, is positioned in the thrust reversing opening to properly direct flow through the thrust reversing opening. Also in the preferred form, the thrust diverting structure is pivotally mounted to the fan duct structure at a lower location so that the thrust diverting structure rotates with a downward component of motion to the thrust reversing position, so that the thrust diverting opening is directed upwardly.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 1990Date of Patent: September 1, 1992Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Robert B. Brown
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Patent number: 5141159Abstract: A variable area nozzle 20 comprising spaced fixed inner and outer walls (21,22 respectively) downstream of which is provided a pivotal visor 24, a translatable shroud 31 and an intermediate wall 27 which extends at least partly across the gap between the visor 24 and shroud 31. The leading edge of the wall 27 is constrained by trackways 28 move along a path adjacent the arc of movement of the visor and the wall 27 is constrained either by the pressure in the nozzle or by means on the shroud 31 to contact the shroud 31 at a downstream region of the wall 27. The visor 24 is rotated about its pivot to vary the cross-sectional area of the nozzle and the geometry of the nozzle is defined by the relative positions of the visor 24 and wall 27. The attitude of the wall 27 is varied by moving the shroud 31 and by moving the leading edge of the wall 27 along the trackways 28.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 1982Date of Patent: August 25, 1992Assignee: Rolls-Royce plcInventor: Kenneth R. Langley
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Patent number: 5137789Abstract: A composite ceramic and metal article having a thermal insulating component formed of single phase magnesium stabilized aluminum titanate and an in situ cast structural component formed of a high melting temperature metallic material. The composite article is particularly useful as exhaust port and manifold structures in internal combustion engines.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1990Date of Patent: August 11, 1992Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventor: Tony S. Kaushal
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Patent number: 5107675Abstract: A gas turbine engine of the type comprising a first compressor 4, a second compressor 6, a combustor 8 and turbines 10 for driving the compressors 4 and 6 is provided with an air intake 16, leading to the second compressor 6. The flow from the first compressor 4 is discharged through vectorable nozzles 12,14. The nozzles 12,14 are movable between a first position where they discharge to ambient and a second position where they register with the intake 16 and the flow from the first compressor 4 discharges to the second compressor 6.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 1983Date of Patent: April 28, 1992Assignee: Rolls-Royce LimitedInventor: Derek A. Roberts
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Patent number: 5103634Abstract: An engine end and thrust reversing assembly comprising an annular thrust diverting structure which in the cruise configuration is a rearward extension of a fan duct cowl structure. For thrust reversal, the thrust diverting structure is swung rearwardly and inwardly about an inboard hinge axis to form a laterally and forwardly directed thrust reversing opening. A transversely curved blocking plate is pivotally mounted about a vertical axis to the fan duct structure, and in the cruise configuration it is positioned adjacent to a forward extension of the thrust diverting structure so as to surround a portion of the exhaust passageway. In the thrust reversing position, the blocking plate is swung to a position where it extends across the exhaust passageway defined by the thrust diverting structure.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1989Date of Patent: April 14, 1992Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Geoffrey E. Harrison, Robert B. Brown
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Patent number: 5082182Abstract: An axisymmetric thrust vectoring exhaust nozzle includes a plurality of divergent flaps (30) each supported at the upstream end by a universal joint (32) and at the downstream end by a load link (34) connected to a unison ring (36) positioned by actuators (45).Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 1990Date of Patent: January 21, 1992Assignees: United Technologies Corporation, Grumman Aerospace CorporationInventors: Raymond J. Bruchez, Jr., George E. Mount, James T. Dixon, Russell H. Hagerman, Wayne K. Movick, Aldo Arena, Jim D. Stewart
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Patent number: 5081835Abstract: Disclosed is a two-dimensional nozzle for a gas turbine engine which, through the use of divergent flaps mounted on pivot shafts eccentric to the side disks in which they are received, provides thrust vectoring and low observability flight operation.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 1990Date of Patent: January 21, 1992Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventor: Joseph H. Ewing, Jr.
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Patent number: 5050803Abstract: A simplified actuation system for positioning the divergent flaps of a vectorable two-dimensional exhaust nozzle is disclosed. The system includes lever arms having cam surfaces pivotably attached to diverent flap crank shafts. An actuator is pinned to the nozzle sidewall and operably connected to a slider bar which has two cam followers at either end which are fixed with respect to each other and enage the cam surfaces of the lever arms. The slider bar is slideably engaged to the nozzle sidewall so as to permit radial movement with respect to the nozzle centerline. As the convergent flaps are moved the lever arms are translated axially and the cam followers in cooperation with the cam surfaces on the lever arms schedule the relative angle between the divergent flaps and thereby the exit area of the nozzle. Vectoring is provided operating the actuators which translate the cam followers in the radial direction, up or down, thereby rotating the divergent flaps so that they are pitched up or down in unison.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 1989Date of Patent: September 24, 1991Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Thomas G. Wakeman, Thomas S. Clayton, Conrad D. Wagenknecht
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Patent number: 4994660Abstract: A thrust vectoring axisymmetric convergent divergent variable exhaust nozzle is provided with a universally pivoting joint between the divergent and convergent flaps and actuating the linkage mechanisms for changing the divergent nozzle section from axisymmetrical to asymmetrical by pivoting the divergent flaps in the radial and tangential directions with respect to the axisymmetric nozzle centerline in a controlled manner.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1989Date of Patent: February 19, 1991Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Tagasangyo, Ltd.Inventor: Thomas A. Hauer
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Patent number: 4993641Abstract: A spherical exhaust nozzle for a gas turbine engine having gimbal mounted convergent-divergent flaps in which cooling air for the flaps is ducted through the convergent flap pivots and the convergent flaps are actuated by actuators connected to the gimbal structure.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1989Date of Patent: February 19, 1991Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Debora F. Kehret, Edward B. Thayer
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Patent number: 4913354Abstract: A jet pipe for jet propulsion in aircraft has in flow-series a first or fixed duct 13, a second duct 14 and a third duct 15. The second duct 14 is supported on the first duct 13 for rotation about a common axis 13A, 14A of these two ducts. The third duct 15 is supported on the second duct 14 for rotation about an axis 19A having an angle oblique the axis 14A of the second duct. A ring 30 is supported on the second duct 14 for rotation about the axis 14A thereof. A bracket 31 mounted on the ring 30 has a guide and slide connection 32,33 with the third duct 15. A single drive shaft 24, mounted on the fixed duct 13, is connected to rotate the second duct 14 and the ring 30 in opposite directions. The guide and slide connection effects a corresponding rotation of the duct 15 about the axis 19A. The resulting relative rotation of the ducts 14,15 results in the duct 15 moving so that the axis 15A thereof moves through an angle .beta. while remaining in a given plane 11A, 11B.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1985Date of Patent: April 3, 1990Assignee: Rolls Royce plcInventor: Clifford S. Woodward
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Patent number: 4901526Abstract: A bottom unit for the combustion chamber of a liquid-fueled rocket including a bottom plate held on a swivel bearing and having circumferentially distributed openings for the injection of the two fuel components as well as two separate groups of supply passages which are connected to these fuel injection openings. The swivel bearing consists of a rigid thrust plate and a rigid hanger plate which are held and joined together by an internally situated, first annular body of rubber elastic material and by a second annular body of rubber elastic material surrounding the first at a radial distance therefrom. The one group of supply passages is formed by the cavity surrounded by tthe first annular body and the other group of supply passages by the annular space between the first and the second annular body.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 1989Date of Patent: February 20, 1990Assignee: Firma Carl FreudenbergInventors: Thomas Barth, Heinz Keller
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Patent number: 4892253Abstract: An actuation system for controlling the steerable nozzle of a missile or like vehicle. The system comprises two essentially identical actuators mounted along a plane generally transverse to the missile axis and oriented orthogonally relative to each other about the missile axis for pivoting the nozzle through mutually orthogonal axes, thereby achieving omni-directional steering. Each actuator includes an elongated yoke plate extending about the nozzle for applying steering forces against a yoke seat circumferentially mounted on the nozzle. Each yoke plate is pivotably mounted at one end and driven laterally at the other end by a gearing mechanism affixed to the nozzle skin.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 1988Date of Patent: January 9, 1990Assignee: Versatron CorporationInventors: John M. Speicher, Allan A. Voigt
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Patent number: 4884748Abstract: An external fairing flap (26) is provided with an hydraulic spring (42, 44) for causing the external flap (26) to follow the motion of an exhaust nozzle control flap (18). The external flap (26) is hinged (32) at the leading edge thereof, and contacts the control flap (18) via corresponding rubstrips (40, 36) at the flap trailing edges (28, 38).Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 1988Date of Patent: December 5, 1989Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Eric J. Ward, Kevin L. Worley, Kenneth M. Pesyna
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Patent number: 4872612Abstract: A membrane of refractory material having opposed arcuate edges one of which is longer than the other, having opposed straight edges which when welded together in edge-to-edge relationship form the frustum of cone, is deformed by brake or die press means over a portion adjacent the longer arcuate edge to provide thereon a pattern comprising two sets of creases in each of five equal sectors, a first set of which creases points at the viewer from the exterior of the membrane (as it subsequently is formed into the frustum of a cone) and a second set which points away from the viewer. The creases of the first set run both circumferentially and longitudinally with respect to the surface of the cone while the creases of the second set run longitudinally only.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1987Date of Patent: October 10, 1989Assignee: Morton Thiokol, Inc.Inventor: Victor Singer
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Patent number: 4836451Abstract: A yaw and pitch thrust vectoring exhaust nozzle includes a spherical collar, and two surrounding clam shells hinged to a gimbal ring and pivotal about an axis perpendicular to the clam shell hinge axis. The clam shells define a variable area nozzle throat (42) which can be selectively directed vertically by rotation of the clam shells about the hinge axis (38), or horizontally by rotation of the clam shells and gimbal ring about the pivot axis (30), thereby biasing the nozzle exhaust flow vector. Divergent flaps (44, 46) further direct the exhaust downstream of the nozzle throat (42).Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1987Date of Patent: June 6, 1989Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Paul W. Herrick, Edward B. Thayer, Jim D. Stewart
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Patent number: 4821979Abstract: A nozzle for a gas turbine engine having a first fixed petal 44 and a second movable petal 46 which is pivotally mounted at a point intermediate its leading edge 46(a) and its trailing edge 46(b). Actuation means 48 are provided to move the nozzle between a first and a second position. In the petals first position, its leading edge 46(a) is positioned forward of and slightly radially inward of the trailing edge 50 of the exhaust duct 52, such that a small ejector gap 54 is provided therebetween and the trailing edge 46(b) approaches the trailing edge 44(b) of the fixed petal, such that the gap therebetween defines the exit area of the nozzle 36. In the petals second position (shown dotted), its leading edge 46(a) is moved radially inwards of its trailing edge 46(b) such that the exit area of the nozzle is defined by the area between the trailing edge 50 of the exhaust duct 52 on the second petal side and the trailing edge of the first petal 44(b).Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 1987Date of Patent: April 18, 1989Assignee: Rolls-Royce PLCInventors: Ralph M. Denning, John M. Hall, Terence Jordan
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Patent number: 4819876Abstract: A divergent flap actuation system for a two-dimensional exhaust nozzle for a gas turbine engine powered aircraft includes stationary sidewalls (2) and (3) with oppositely disposed movable divergent flaps (10) and (39) located therebetween, and flush mounted rotatable divergent disks (22) and (49) with drive pins (21) and (48) attached thereto for engaging the flaps. Each divergent disk utilizes an individual actuator to provide independent movement of the rearward edges of the flaps in response to disk rotation. Utilizing flush mounted disks for controlling the position of the rearward edges of the opposed flaps minimizes sidewall thickness and allows use of full length, tapered sidewalls to minimize drag and nozzle weight while maximizing flexibility in thrust control.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 1987Date of Patent: April 11, 1989Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventor: Edward B. Thayer
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Patent number: 4781018Abstract: This invention relates to a space vehicle 10 in which solar radiation is utilized to generate thrust by virtue of a solar thermal propulsion unit 12. The propulsion unit comprises basically reaction engines 14 including a DeLaval nozzle 22, heating chamber 26, solar window 28 and inflatable paraboloid solar collector 34.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1986Date of Patent: November 1, 1988Assignee: Rockwell International CorporationInventor: James M. Shoji
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Patent number: 4754602Abstract: An internal combustion propulsion engine comprises a spherical engine body having radially projecting exhaust nozzle extending from its surface. The spherical engine body is adjustably supported in a complementarily mating socket for unrestricted positioning of the body, for selectively directing the flow of combustion gases emanating from the exhaust nozzle and thus channeling the direction of thrust generated thereby as required. A convergently conical valve member is mounted on the rod of a piston cylinder coaxially with the corresponding divergently conical opening of the exhaust nozzle, the valve member being positioned adjustably projecting into the outlet end of the complementarily mating exhaust opening in direct confrontation with the combustion gases flowing therefrom. Means for positioning the valve member to regulate the distance between valve member and exhaust opening walls are provided to adjust selectively the rate of exhaust flow and thus the magnitude of thrust force developed.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 1986Date of Patent: July 5, 1988Inventor: Peter Sing
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Patent number: 4713935Abstract: One major problem associated with the design of high-speed vertical take-off or landing aircraft is the requirement to have the front vectorable nozzles of the aircraft deployed in the airstream which passes over the fuselage of the aircraft when they are in use. The nozzles tend to act as air brakes and thus seriously effect the forward speed and flight characteristics of the aircraft. This invention attempts to solve this problem by providing a vectorable nozzle which is rotatable about one axis between a first position in which it is stowed inside a cavity within the aircraft fuselage when not required, and a second position in which it is deployed into the airstream when required.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 1986Date of Patent: December 22, 1987Assignee: Rolls-Royce Inc.Inventors: Gary F. Szuminski, Douglas J. Nightingale
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Patent number: 4694645Abstract: A propeller assembly, a so-called rotatable thruster, for propelling, manoeuvering, steering and/or positioning a watercraft, floating docks, pontoons and in particular offshore platforms, includes a propeller (1) having an embracing propeller shroud (2) and mounted on a propeller shaft journalled in a gear housing (3). The gear housing accommodates a bevel gearing through which the propeller shaft is connected to a drive shaft extending through a tubular support strut (4), which is connected at its lower end to the gear housing in order to support the same. The upper end of the support strut is arranged to be rotatably mounted in an opening in a bottom part of the hull of the watercraft, with the propeller shaft extending substantially horizontally, so that the drive shaft can be connected to drive machinery located within the hull and such that the assembly can be rotated about a rotational axis coinciding with the axis of the drive shaft, by means of rotational machinery located within the hull.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1985Date of Patent: September 22, 1987Assignee: Kamewa ABInventors: Nils O. Flyborg, Orvar Bjorheden
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Patent number: 4679732Abstract: A vectorable nozzle (17) comprises a fixed first duct (21), a rotatable second duct (22) scarfed at its downstream end, and a rotatable third duct (23) scarfed at its upstream end. The second and third ducts (22, 23) are mounted in bearings (24,26), respectively, and an epicyclic gear train (30) is provided to rotate them in opposite directions while maintaining the direction of gas efflux issuing from the nozzle (17) in a single plane.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 1985Date of Patent: July 14, 1987Assignee: Rolls-Royce plcInventor: Clifford S. Woodward
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Patent number: 4649701Abstract: A thrust nozzle of the hollow-cone type affixed to a stationary shell having external insulation on the nozzle and the shell and the nozzle having a liner extending beyond its edge and having insulation over the extended portion.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1986Date of Patent: March 17, 1987Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Gary M. Wendel
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Patent number: 4577814Abstract: The invention relates to a variable area nozzle for a turbo-jet engine. This nozzle comprises a convergent portion, formed by a fixed semi-shell (2) and a semi-shell (3) pivotal about a diametral axis (4a-4b); the fluid-tightness of the convergent portion is ensured by a substantially semi-circular seal (6) and by two longitudinal seals (7a, 7b). The nozzle can be used for example with an engine comprising a partial re-heat system of moderate output.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1983Date of Patent: March 25, 1986Assignee: Societe Nationale d'Etude et de Construction de Moteurs d'Aviation "S.N.E.C.M.A."Inventors: Gerard J. P. Bayle-Laboure, Jean G. Bouiller, Marc F. B. Buisson, Marcel R. Soligny
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Patent number: 4550877Abstract: A vectorable nozzle 17 comprising a fixed first duct 21 a rotatable second duct 22 scarfed at its rear end and a rotatable third duct 23 scarfed at its front end. The second and third ducts 22,23 are mounted in bearings 24,26 respectively and the bearing 26 is constrained to swing bodily about trunnions 29, the axis of which lies transverse to the ducts 22,23, and a screw jack 32 is provided to rotate the bearing 26 about the trunnions 29. The second and third ducts 22,23 are provided with means to rotate them in opposite directions in synchronism with the rotation of the bearing 26 in the trunnion 29. The nozzle is provided with external fairings 46,47 to provide aerodynamic streamlining when the nozzle 17 is directed rearwards. The fairings are constrained against axial and radial displacement by rollers 48 and grooves 50 at one of their ends. The fairings 46,47 are connected to their respective ducts 22,23 by members 51 so that the fairings rotate with the ducts 22,23.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1982Date of Patent: November 5, 1985Assignee: Rolls-Royce Inc.Inventor: Gary F. Szuminski
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Patent number: 4549695Abstract: A system is disclosed for moving a load from an equilibrium position to which it is urged by extraneous forces, with reduced power required of the motive system. In the system, a load is engaged by means storing potential energy when the load is in its equilibrium position and returning the potential energy to the load as it is moved from the equilibrium position. Such a nozzle-actuating system includes generally a frame, an electric motor drive, and a member, driven by the electric motor drive, that is movably carried by the frame and connected with the rocket nozzle. The frame and driven member can include a cam and spring arrangement to provide a force counteracting the force imposed on the driven member by the rocket nozzle when it is displaced from its normal position by the electric motor drive.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1983Date of Patent: October 29, 1985Assignee: Ball CorporationInventor: James T. Sears
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Patent number: 4506832Abstract: An antirotation linkage that allows freedom of angular deflection in two coordinate directions of a first member, for example, a rocket motor nozzle, with respect to the primary axis of a second member, a rocket motor in which the nozzle is mounted for angular displacement of the thrust vector for steering control, but which restricts rotation of the first member about such primary axis.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1982Date of Patent: March 26, 1985Assignee: Thiokol CorporationInventor: Lawrence C. Faupell
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Patent number: 4449678Abstract: An improved pressure balanced nonaxisymmetric high aspect ratio afterburner convergent nozzle of the type adapted to be mounted on a jet engine suspended from an airfoil's wing spar structure, and characterized by its simplicity of construction, ease and reliability of operation, and improved simplified sealing characteristics; yet, which permits substantial reduction of the included angle between the wing chord reference plane WCRP and the visual line-of-sight from the airfoil trailing edge into the jet engine nozzle while in its cruise position. More specifically, the present invention pertains to a simplified pressure balanced nonaxisymmetric high aspect ratio afterburner convergent nozzle construction which permits of simplified, highly effective sealing arrangements and wherein when the nozzle is shifted to a dry nozzle position--i.e., the cruise position--the trailing edge line-of-sight into the nozzle is maintained at a minimum angle, preferably on the order of from about 5.degree. to about 10.degree.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1981Date of Patent: May 22, 1984Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Donald W. Hapke
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Patent number: 4420932Abstract: A system to assist flap actuation of a convergent-divergent exhaust nozzle to overcome the high air loads on the flaps, so that the nozzle flaps can be properly positioned by the actuators. The structural members of the system are operatively associated with a controlled, air-pressurized, cavity positioned in the exhaust nozzle section. Pressurized air from the cavity acts against the flaps, and helps to overcome the load required to move them. The system is useful in any exhaust nozzle, and most particularly where the exhaust nozzle is two-dimensional, i.e., rectangularly shaped.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 1982Date of Patent: December 20, 1983Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventors: Juan A. Mendez, John L. Mayers
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Patent number: 4375276Abstract: An exhaust nozzle for a gas turbine engine including a plurality of primary and secondary flaps which are pivotally positionable for varying the geometry of the nozzle and for providing thrust vectoring. Electromechanical actuators preferably are used to position the flaps. The inner surfaces of the primary flaps are preferably curved convexly to continually maintain the location of the nozzle throat on the primary flaps. Reverser doors can be added to permit thrust reversal and fairing flaps can be included outwardly of the primary and secondary flaps to maintain a smooth, aerodynamic flow.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1980Date of Patent: March 1, 1983Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Mieczyslaw Konarski
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Patent number: 4373328Abstract: A thrust reverser for a fan jet engine having a splitter in the fan duct in a plane with the fixed cascades is designed with blocker doors positioned to block flow between the splitter and the outer wall when in the deployed position. The splitter and supports are positioned to simultaneously uncover the cascades and block flow in the remaining portion of the duct. This design contemplates elimination of the blocker door drag links that typically extends into the duct passageway.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1980Date of Patent: February 15, 1983Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventor: Robert A. Jones