Roger Lee Snyder

US Patent:

6681560, Jan 27, 2004

Filed:

Jan 8, 2002

Appl. No.:

10/038858

Inventors:

Michael D. Allen - Manassas VA
Roger S. Snyder - Front Royal VA
Guy B. Spear - Orlean VA

Assignee:

Atlantic Research Corporation - Gainesville VA

International Classification:

F02K 106

US Classification:

60228, 60256, 60771, 23926537

Abstract:

Control apparatus for a nozzle for a rocket or other vehicle having a combustion chamber with a propellant therein in communication with the nozzle, the nozzle having a throat and a pair of bores extending into the throat The bores may be in opposed or any other suitable relation. A pair of plungers are slidably mounted in the bores and are movable between an open position wherein they are disposed outside of the throat and a closed position wherein they extend into the throat to substantially close it. The plungers have a width or diameter substantially the same as the width or diameter of the throat. Actuator devices are provided for moving the plungers independently of each other to control thrust by controlling the flow of combustion gases through the throat and the pressure in the combustion chamber. The movement of the plungers can also be used for thrust vector control.