Abstract: A system and method for implementing one or more specific purpose rule-based n-bit virtual processing machines. Specific purposes include, but are not limited to, encryption, compression, and arbitrary precision arithmetic. Each virtual machine consists of a command processor, a rule-base, and an interface between the command processor and the rule-base. Each of the elements of a specific purpose rule-based n-bit virtual machine--the command processor, the rule-base, and the rule-base interface--is preferably implemented as software. In the preferred embodiment, the system uses a stored rule-base as its instruction set and provides for input and output in the form of variable length bit strings of length n where n is any number greater than zero. Each of the rules within the rule-base performs one or more binary string operations against one or more variable length n-bit strings.

Abstract: A hot water probe for use with a wood or other solid fuel burning appliances (stoves, furnaces, fireplaces, etc.) to provide supplemental hot water heating whereby the use of natural gas or other non-renewable fuel can be conserved. The probe may comprise a pair of elongated, coaxial tubes of a predetermined length which extend outwardly from a header block which contains an inlet chamber sealingly coupled to the inner one of said pair of coaxial tubes and an outlet chamber sealingly coupled only to the outer one of said pair of coaxial tubes. The tubular portion of the probe is fitted through a hole formed in a wall of the appliance and it extends for a predetermined distance into the firebox at a desired level relative to the flame. The header block may be bolted or otherwise affixed to the outer side wall of the appliance. A connection is then made between a water outlet of the water heating tank and the inlet chamber of the header.

Abstract: A heat exchanger construction for use in a solid fuel burning heating system. A plurality of tubular members are provided for receiving hot, smoke laden gases and directing said gases through the zone in which clean, forced air to be heated is present. The tubes are supported between two parallel, spaced apart support plates having apertures formed therethrough for receiving opposed ends of the tubes. A clean-out box is provided at one end of the heat exchanger tubes and because a predetermined spacing is maintained between the rear surface of the clean-out box and one of the two support plates, it is possible to utilize an inexpensive tack weld to hold the parts in place, rather than a 360.degree. welded seam between the tubes and the support plate through which they pass.

Abstract: A solid fuel burning system which may be readily combined with a conventional fluid fuel burning furnace in a forced air heating system. The solid fuel burning system comprises, in combination, a draft inducing blower which directs air for combustion into the furnace at a point proximate the burning fuel. Baffle walls are provided which separate the smoke and other products of combustion from the clean air to be heated and a novel heat exchanger comprised of a plurality of elongated tubes provide a relatively large heat transfer surface. The furnace is specifically designed to facilitate periodic cleaning of the interior walls of the heat exchanger where creosote and other products of combustion may accumulate. In addition, the system employs a novel electronic control circuit which is tied in with the room thermostat and with a thermocouple disposed within the solid fuel burning furnace.