Jon B Althof

Title: Innovator Spotlight: Jon B. Althof of Loves Park, IL

Introduction: Jon B. Althof, an accomplished inventor based in Loves Park, Illinois, has made significant contributions to the field of turbine technology. With a total of three patents to his name, Althof's innovations demonstrate a commitment to enhancing performance and safety in air-driven turbines.

Latest Patents: Among Jon B. Althof's latest patents is an innovative design for an air-driven turbine that incorporates a blade pitch control system. This groundbreaking turbine features variable pitched blades with a sophisticated pitch change mechanism that adjusts the blade pitch during both rotating and non-rotating operational modes. Notably, the patented system includes a resettable overspeed protection device, which is actuated by an overspeed condition of the turbine, thereby ensuring safety by moving the blades to a failsafe position. The use of a linear actuator in the form of an acme screw drive enhances the reliability of the pitch control mechanism, while the incorporation of a ball ramp thrust bearing reduces actuation loads during turbine rotation. Althof's design emphasizes simplicity by utilizing straightforward on-off switching circuits for controlling blade pitch, eliminating the complexity of traditional PID control functions.

Career Highlights: Jon B. Althof is a valued member of Sundstrand Corporation, where his engineering expertise has propelled advancements in turbine designs. His innovative spirit and technical knowledge have allowed him to address critical challenges in air-driven turbine operation.

Collaborations: Althof collaborates with esteemed colleagues Teddy L. Jones and Steven C. Paul, contributing to a dynamic team focused on driving innovation within the turbine technology sector. Their collective efforts have fostered a collaborative environment that facilitates the development of pioneering technologies.

Conclusion: Jon B. Althof's contributions to air-driven turbine technology highlight his innovative approach and dedication to improving the efficiency and safety of turbine operations. As a leading inventor based in Loves Park, IL, Althof's work not only sets new industry standards but also inspires future generations of engineers and inventors.