The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jan. 30, 2001
Filed:
Feb. 12, 1999
Holger H. Streckert, Rancho Santa Fe, CA (US);
Daniele Pelessone, San Diego, CA (US);
General Atomics, San Diego, CA (US);
Abstract
A multiple cell thermionic converter having a generally tubular member of electrically conductive refractory metal with an internal cavity and a coaxial tubular envelope of electrically conductive refractory metal disposed in surrounding relationship thereto. Bodies of electrically insulating ceramic material disposed on elongated sections of facing surfaces of the tubular member and the envelope support juxtaposed emitters and collectors to provide a series of thermionic cells. Tubular metal connectors having particular aperture patterns respectively join the collector of one cell to the emitter of the next adjacent cell to create a series electrical interconnection. The aperture patterns include sets of slots in a pair of parallel planes that are perpendicular to the axis, providing necessary flexibility to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction while providing low electrical resistance and long fatigue life. Axial keyhole apertures and auxiliary slits located in a central plane may also be included.