Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2014-2020
Title: Ethiraj Venkatapathy: Innovator in Thermal Protection Systems
Introduction
Ethiraj Venkatapathy is a notable inventor based in Los Altos, California. He has made significant contributions to the field of thermal protection systems, particularly for space vehicles. With a total of three patents to his name, Venkatapathy's work focuses on enhancing the safety and efficiency of spacecraft during atmospheric entry.
Latest Patents
Venkatapathy's latest patents include a Woven Thermal Protection System and a Three-Dimensional Multifunctional Ablative Thermal Protection System. The Woven Thermal Protection System is designed to withstand severe heating during entry into a planetary atmosphere. It features a first layer made from materials such as carbon, phenolic, silica, and alumina, which are connected by low thermal conductivity fibers. This layer is recession-resistant and has reduced porosity. The second layer serves as a thermal insulator, characterized by a smaller fiber fraction and reduced density. The system evaluates environmental parameters to ensure the ablator can survive the conditions encountered during a mission.
The Three-Dimensional Multifunctional Ablative Thermal Protection System focuses on fabricating a 3D fiber-woven material with specific properties. This system boasts a porosity of 0.5-15 percent, reduced thermal conductivity, and high compression and tensile strength. These features make it suitable for use in high-temperature environments, ensuring the safety of space missions.
Career Highlights
Venkatapathy works for the United States of America as represented by the Administrator of NASA. His role involves developing advanced thermal protection technologies that are critical for the success of space exploration missions. His innovative approaches have positioned him as a key figure in the aerospace industry.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Venkatapathy has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Jay D. Feldman and Curt G. Wilkinson. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that enhances the development of cutting-edge thermal protection systems.
Conclusion
Ethiraj Venkatapathy's contributions to thermal protection systems are invaluable to the field of aerospace engineering. His innovative patents and collaborative efforts continue to advance the safety and efficiency of space exploration.