Fluid flow devices with vertically simple geometry and methods of making the same
US9217370B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 17, 2012 |
| Grant date | Dec 22, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 26, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/85978
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A micro-turbine engine, consisting of at least a compressor, combustor, and turbine, is a complicated fluid flow device that controls the flow rate and thermodynamic properties of a working fluid in order to generate shaft power. Existing micro-turbines are costly to manufacture because they are designed with sophisticated contours and exotic materials. The present invention discloses a method for designing a micro-turbine with stacked layers of structure, each of which is designed with vertically simple geometry such that it can be manufactured using conventional machining technology. The resulting micro-turbine is low cost compared to existing alternatives in the target range of power outputs and applications. The present invention also describes a method for connecting the micro-turbine to an electrical generator to generate power. Lastly, the method for designing the micro-turbine is applied to heat exchangers, Rankine engines, fluid mixers, and other fluid flow devices.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.