Airknife with Remotely Controllable Bow Effect and Outflow Angle

A method and apparatus for controlling local flow along a slot jet with applications to airknives is disclosed. The airknife provides improved options for on-line control over coating thickness and edge build-up prevention. The gap of the slot nozzle of the airknife can remain constant while the outflow pattern is controlled by a series of preset throttle valves in combination with a single moving component, the multi-port aero-valve. This valve can be actuated locally or remotely, in rotation or translation, thereby changing gradually from a conventional uniform outflow to one which increases in velocity and mass flow rate along the airknife span to produce a bow effect. The valve can also change gradually from a conventional uniform outflow to one which increases in velocity, mass flow rate and outflow angle along the span to simulate bow effect in combination with fan-like outflow.

Intellectual Property Status
Disclosure 384. Patent Pending

Inventors
John L. Loth