Location History:
- Mississauga, CA (2016 - 2019)
- Oakville, CA (1989 - 2021)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1989-2021
Title: The Innovative Mind of Kari J. Heikurinen
Introduction
Kari J. Heikurinen is an accomplished inventor based in Oakville, CA, renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to the field of gas turbine engine technology. Holding an impressive portfolio of 13 patents, she has made significant advancements that enhance the efficiency and performance of gas turbines.
Latest Patents
Among her recent innovations are two noteworthy patents focusing on rotor design for gas turbine engines. The first patent, titled "Mistuned Compressor Rotor with Hub Scoops," describes a compressor rotor that features a unique hub design. The hub includes a circumferential array of blades, with specific configurations of inter-blade passages optimized for improved airflow and efficiency. The inclusion of a scoop in the design adds a functional cavity that enhances performance.
The second patent, "Mistuned Rotor for Gas Turbine Engine," presents a meticulously engineered rotor that incorporates blades with varying thickness distributions. This design results in distinct natural vibration frequencies that optimize the rotor's overall performance. By ensuring that the thickness distributions differ along the radially-inner half of the span while matching along the outer half, this innovation enhances reliability and efficiency in gas turbine operations.
Career Highlights
Kari J. Heikurinen has dedicated her career to pioneering advancements in gas turbine technology. Her tenure at Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. has been marked by a commitment to innovation and excellence. Through her patents, she has contributed to the development of more efficient and reliable gas turbine systems, positioning her as a leader in the field.
Collaborations
Throughout her career, Kari has had the opportunity to work alongside esteemed colleagues, including Paul Stone and Thomas Veitch. Their collaborative efforts have fostered an environment of innovation that has led to significant breakthroughs in gas turbine technology. These partnerships exemplify the importance of teamwork in driving forward advancements in engineering.
Conclusion
Kari J. Heikurinen's contributions to gas turbine technology demonstrate the vital role of innovation in engineering. With her impressive track record of patents and her collaborations at Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp., she continues to make significant strides that shape the future of aerospace technology. Her work not only enhances the performance of gas turbines but also showcases the impact of dedicated inventors in the field of engineering.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.