Active thrust management system
US7559696B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 30, 2004 |
| Grant date | Jul 14, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 2, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16C39/04
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An active thrust management system varies pressure responsive to changes in rotor assembly thrust to maintain a desired position. The system includes a bearing supporting rotation of a rotor assembly within a pressurizing chamber. The rotor assembly is supported on a cushion of air generated between the bearing and the rotor assembly. Pressure within a cavity adjacent the rotor assembly opposes a thrust force to maintain a desired position of the rotor assembly. Modulating airflow into the pressurizing chamber adjacent the rotor assembly compensates for changes in the thrust generated by the rotor assembly to maintain the desired rotor assembly position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.