United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Air Force

Rolf Sondergaard

Jordi Estevadeordal

Christopher R Marks

Christopher G Murawski

James M Wolff

Three-dimensional surface illumination using curved laser sheets is described for optical flow measurements over conformal curved surfaces. The illumination method is applicable to many different optical-based flow visualization and measurement techniques, particularly for particle image velocimetry. An alignment sheet increases the accuracy of determining the position and movement of particles used in optical-base fluid flow techniques.

Curved laser sheet for conformal optical diagnostics

A gas turbine engine structure is described wherein the compressor region and the turbine region of the engine are disposed substantially concentrically of each other between fixed inner and outer casings, with the combustor disposed at one common end of the compressor and turbine, and wherein the rotor components of the engine include one or more rings, bands, housings or casings with the turbine blades and compressor blades mounted respectively on the inner and outer surface thereof, and wherein the compressor and turbine stator components are mounted respectively on the inner surface of the outer casing and the outer surface of the inner casing, or, alternatively, wherein the turbine and compressor stator components are mounted respectively on the inner surface of the outer casing and the outer surface of the inner casing, which structure geometries eliminate much of the weight associated with the disks and interconnecting shafts that characterize conventional engines.

Shaftless gas turbine engine spool

A turbine blade having an extensible tail is described. The extensible tail is selectively positionable during engine operation, enabling fine-tuning for maximum power and efficiency during engine operation. During periods of operation exhibiting low Reynolds number flows, the extensible tail is projected out from the trailing edge of the turbine blade, into the gas path. As Reynolds number flows increase, the extensible tail is retracted back into the turbine blade, maximizing turbine engine efficiency.

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Beavercreek, OH, United States of America

Rolf Sondergaard