Available Technologies

Executive Summary

Impellers are used in numerous applications such as turbines or compressors. In some cases, the cost of the impellers are prohibitive and difficult to manufacture and incorporate into a system. MSU researchers have developed a new woven impeller design that is less expensive to produce, ideal for integrating other parts such as conductive and magnetic fibers, and motors. 

Description of Technology

This technology introduces a woven impeller made from continuous fibers such as carbon, aramid, or glass, that forms both blades and a peripheral shroud as a single, seamless component using a resin-based "wetting weaving" process. The process enables complex blade shapes with lightweight, high strength, and cost efficiency. Additionally, an integrated electromagnetic fiber allows the impeller to serve as an electric motor rotor, creating a compact direct-drive system without traditional shafts or seals. The patent claims cover impeller designs, rotatable apparatus, chilling system, compressor, and methods of manufacturing. 

Benefits

• Lightweight yet high-strength impeller design with versatile blade patterns
• Seamless, single-piece construction reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
• Eliminates drive shafts and seals, reducing maintenance and improving reliability
• Integrated electromagnetic components enabling compact, direct-drive operation
• Flexible design options allowing adaptive operational shapes
• Enhanced efficiency through wave rotor integration for higher compression ratios
• Environmentally friendly operation using water as refrigerant

Applications

• High-efficiency turbomachinery for industrial cooling and HVAC
• Direct-drive electric motor applications in compact rotating machinery
• Wave rotor-based compression systems in sustainable energy and refrigeration sectors
• Aerospace and automotive industries requiring lightweight, high-speed impellers
• Advanced refrigeration and chilling systems using environmentally friendly refrigerants

Patent Status

Issued US Patent 7,938,627

Licensing Rights

Full licensing rights available

Inventors

Dr. Norbert Mueller

TECH ID

TEC2004-0084