David Allen Little

Title: David Allen Little: Innovator in Gas Turbine Technology

Introduction: David Allen Little, an esteemed inventor based in Chuluota, FL, has made significant contributions to the field of gas turbine technology. With an impressive portfolio of 29 patents, Little is recognized for his innovative designs and arrangements that enhance the efficiency and performance of combustion engines.

Latest Patents: Among his latest patents, one notable invention is an arrangement for a gas turbine combustion engine. This arrangement is designed for delivering gases from combustors to a first row of blades. It features an upstream flow path that includes an aft first side wall and a downstream flow path incorporating a forward second side wall. The convergence junction trailing edge is defined at the downstream terminal edge of the first side wall, with the second side wall converging toward the first side wall in the direction of this edge. Furthermore, an impingement sheet structure is located between the two side walls, delivering impingement cooling air. Openings in the design allow for a cooling air passage, enhancing efficiency by providing a flow of post-impingement air into the gas path.

Another significant patent is the impingement cooling arrangement featuring a snap-in plate. This cooling arrangement includes a substrate with a pocket defined by a rib side surface and a bottom surface, along with a feature in the rib side surface and an impingement plate. The resilience of the impingement plate allows for interference with the feature, effectively locking the plate in position when installed. Elastic compression of the plate facilitates ease of removal when needed.

Career Highlights: David Allen Little has worked with notable companies such as Siemens Energy, Inc. and Siemens Westinghouse Power Corporation. His tenure at these leading firms has provided him with invaluable experience and the opportunity to innovate within the gas turbine sector.

Collaborations: Throughout his career, Little has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Abdullatif M. Chehab and Richard Colin Charron. These collaborations have further advanced technology and fostered innovation within their projects.

Conclusion: David Allen Little stands as a prominent figure in the innovation of gas turbine technology. His extensive patent portfolio and collaborations highlight his commitment to advancing efficiency and performance in combustion systems. As he continues to develop creative solutions, Little's contributions will undoubtedly influence the future of the industry.