Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1993-2013
Title: Innovations of Kenneth O. Smith
Introduction
Kenneth O. Smith is a prominent inventor based in San Diego, CA. He has made significant contributions to the field of gas turbine technology, holding a total of 8 patents. His work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and performance of gas turbine engines.
Latest Patents
Among his latest innovations is an injector for a gas turbine combustor. This injector features a catalyst-coated surface that forms a passage for feed gas flow and a channel for oxidant gas flow, establishing an axial gas flow through a flow conditioner. The flow conditioner is designed with a length that includes an interior passage, which opens into upstream and downstream ends for the passage of axial gas flow. The interior diameter of this passage smoothly reduces and then increases from the upstream to downstream ends. Another notable patent is a gas turbine fuel injector with a rich catalyst. This fuel injector includes a pilot assembly that directs a pilot fuel-air mixture to the combustor of the gas turbine engine. The design incorporates a rich catalyst module that allows for the simultaneous direction of compressed air and a first fuel-air mixture without intermixing. Additionally, the injector features a post-mix zone and an air swirler to optimize the delivery of the main fuel-air mixture to the combustor.
Career Highlights
Kenneth O. Smith has dedicated his career to advancing gas turbine technology. His innovative designs have contributed to improved performance and efficiency in gas turbine engines. He is currently employed at Solar Turbines Inc., where he continues to develop cutting-edge solutions in the field.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Kenneth has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Philip J. Cederwall and Frank John Ritz. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and the sharing of ideas.
Conclusion
Kenneth O. Smith's contributions to gas turbine technology through his patents and collaborations highlight his role as a leading inventor in the field. His work continues to influence advancements in gas turbine efficiency and performance.