Abstract: Engine energized by an external heat source and cooled by an external cooling source, driven by a closed body of gas contained in chambers of variable volume and passages connected thereto, and operating on a Carnot cycle. The apparatus of the engine also has heat pump capabilities.

Abstract: Protection of rechargeable battery in power system by placing it in insulated chamber under temperature control of thermoelectric devices operated by the power system to pump heat out of the chamber or by the battery to pump heat into the chamber.

Abstract: A stator enclosure bounded by two side plates confines three fixed blocks and rotor components comprising an internal ring eccentrically disposed about a centrally positioned power delivery shaft which emerges from said enclosure, an outer floating ring which encompasses said blocks, and three identical and equidistantly spaced elliptic plates adapted to rotate about their centers. Rotation of said elliptic plates achieves tangential rolling contact with said internal and outer rings to form three chambers whose volumes vary with rotational displacement of said rotor components. Ports associated with said side plates enable gases to enter and exit said three chambers.

Abstract: A device intended for underground installation and microbiological decomposition of animal excrement has a tubular shaft having hinged closure means at its upper extremity and gripping means at its lower extremity which engage a large bucket. Mounted on the outer periphery of the shaft are an outwardly extending flange, spacer means to separate said flange vertically from the upper rim of said large bucket, and retainer means which function to position the shaft coaxially with said large bucket. A small bucket rests mouth upward on the inside bottom of said large bucket. The buckets confine a microbiologically active liquid. Excess quantities of said liquid are permitted to flow over the upper rim of said large bucket and enter an annular space surrounding said bucket from when the liquid dissipates into the earth. A tether means facilitates the lifting of the small bucket through said shaft. Sensor means are provided to conveniently determine the level of inert sediment accumulated within said small bucket.