Douglas L Straub

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Douglas L. Straub

Introduction

Douglas L. Straub, an esteemed inventor located in Morgantown, West Virginia, has made significant strides in the field of combustion and sensor technology, holding a total of five patents. His contributions focus on enhancing the stability and efficiency of combustion systems, fostering improvements in the energy sector.

Latest Patents

Among his notable inventions, the "Lean Blowoff Detection Sensor" stands out. This apparatus provides a method for detecting incipient lean blowoff conditions in a lean premixed combustion nozzle of a gas turbine. By placing a sensor near the flame, it detects the concentration of hydrocarbon ions and/or electrons generated during combustion. The monitored concentration over time serves as an indicator of lean blowoff conditions.

Another significant patent is the "Method and Apparatus for Detecting Combustion Instability in Continuous Combustion Systems." This invention presents a system to sense the onset of combustion stability. An electrode, positioned within a turbine combustion chamber, is exposed to gases, allowing a control module to detect combustion ionization signals and determine potential oscillations indicative of combustion instability. Additionally, a second electrode provides critical feedback to the control module, ensuring continuous monitoring and alerting if the combustion process becomes unstable.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Douglas has worked with prestigious organizations such as the United States Department of Energy and the United States' Government entities. His work often intersects with advanced combustion systems, highlighting his critical role in research and development in this area.

Collaborations

Douglas has collaborated with notable peers, including Jimmy Dean Thornton and George Alan Richards. Their collective expertise has undoubtedly contributed to the innovation and success of the projects they undertook together, reinforcing the importance of teamwork in the field of invention.

Conclusion

Douglas L. Straub's contributions to the field of combustion technology through his patents underline the importance of innovation in enhancing energy efficiency and safety. His work not only advances scientific understanding but also paves the way for future developments in combustion systems. With a focus on stability and detection methods, Straub continues to influence the landscape of energy innovation.