Abstract: A Stirling engine having a configuration which allow spatial separation of the heaters and coolers. The engine includes four cylinders with passageways connecting the cylinders such that a direct fluid connection is formed between each cylinder and every other cylinder. The configuration of the passageways and arrangement of the cylinders is such that heat energy is not wasted. The spatial separation of the heaters and coolers allows the heaters and coolers to be located in separate environments. The pistons within each cylinder are connected to one or two crankshafts through a connecting device which generates no side thrust on the cylinder walls. Preferably, the connecting device used is a hydraulic connecting rod.

Abstract: A connecting rod for an internal-combustion, steam or the like, engine, having hydraulic means for converting the reciprocating motion of engine piston to the rotating motion of crankshaft. While producing the same torque on crankshaft, the hydraulic connecting rod enables the crankshaft throw to be shorter and, therefore, enables a decrease of the centrifugal force and inertia load produced by crankshaft rotating motion. Futhermore, the present invention enables a significant decrease of piston-ring friction and significantly reduces total engine friction. The present invention also yields significant decreases of centrifugal, inertia and friction loads resulting in a significant increase of total engine efficiency and power output.

Abstract: A cylinder bore for an internal-combustion or the like engine, having additional valve ports and an additional combustion chamber machined inside the cylinder wall, is disclosed. Said cylinder bore enables excellent volumetric efficiency and a two-step combustion process which comprises burning of two air-fuel mixtures having different compression ratios and different air-fuel ratios. Increased air provided for the combustion process and better distribution of combustion pressure will result with much more power delivered by engine and less emissions released into the atmosphere.