Inventors with similar research interests:
Location History:
- Irvine, CA (US) (1977 - 1985)
- Ranchos Santa Fe, CA (US) (1996)
- Rancho Santa Fe, CA (US) (1992 - 2000)
- Snowmass, CO (US) (2010)
- San Diego, CA (US) (2003 - 2011)
- Snowmass Village, CO (US) (2006 - 2019)
- Colorado Springs, CO (US) (2019 - 2020)
- Aspen, CO (US) (2015 - 2022)
Company Filing History:
56 out of 71 
10 out of 12 
1 out of 1 Years Active: 1977-2024
Areas of Expertise:
Title: Innovations and Contributions of Robert O. Hunter, Jr.
Introduction
Robert O. Hunter, Jr., based in Snowmass Village, Colorado, is a prolific inventor with an impressive portfolio of 73 patents. His work primarily focuses on advancements in inertial confinement fusion (ICF) technologies, where he aims to enhance the efficiency and design of fusion reactors.
Latest Patents
Among his latest inventions are two significant patents. The first is related to propellant grading for laser-driven multi-shell inertial confinement fusion targets. This innovation involves a confinement chamber that incorporates a closed hohlraum and an ICF target designed with a central spherical fuel region, inner and outer shells, and a propellant region. This design utilizes cylindrical beam channels that penetrate the hohlraum's thickness, ending in hemispherical cavities lined with gold foam radiators. The layering of materials in the propellant region allows for a tailored pressure profile on the outer shell.
The second patent is focused on confinement walls for ICF chambers. This invention presents a compact and economical design for an ICF target chamber that maintains low internal pressure and minimizes neutron flux on pressure-bearing vessels. This innovative design reduces radiant target emissions towards the hohlraum walls while effectively converting the energy released from ICF targets into usable heat for steam generation. The novel chamber also has the capability to convert excess neutrons into tritium for collection alongside unburnt fuel.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Robert O. Hunter, Jr. has worked with notable companies, including Litel Instruments and Innoven Energy LLC. His contributions to these organizations have been crucial in advancing ICF technologies and their commercial applications.
Collaborations
Hunter's collaborations with fellow innovators like Adlai H. Smith and Bruce B. McArthur have played a vital role in pushing forward the boundaries of research and development in the field of fusion energy. Their collective efforts have enhanced the efficiency and safety of fusion reactors.
Conclusion
Robert O. Hunter, Jr. continues to be a leading figure in the field of inertial confinement fusion, with his extensive patent portfolio reflecting his commitment to innovation and advancement in energy technologies. His inventions not only contribute to the scientific community but also hold promise for sustainable energy solutions in the future.
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