Abstract: A model airplane engine uses a heated backplate to replace the conventional, non-heated backplate of the engine. The backplate incorporates a heater, which is electrically, temporarily energized during the start cycle of the engine. The higher temperature of the engine results in vaporization of the fuel prior to its entry into the combustion cylinder thus preventing crankcase and cylinder flooding and allowing easy starts during operation in cold weather, and also makes possible the use of inexpensive low-volatility heavier fuels, rather than special, expensive fuels.

Abstract: A compressed gas engine (20) has a piston (25) mounted for reciprocating movement within a cylinder (22). A valve (29) is slideably mounted on the cylinder head (31) to control the flow of compressed gas from a source (24) through an inlet (23) to a plenum chamber (28). The valve is arranged to be selectively engaged and opened by the piston to permit flow of compressed gas into the plenum chamber. When the valve is closed, compressed gas within the plenum chamber is permitted to flow into the variable-volume chamber (26). Spent gases are exhausted through ports (69) as the piston approaches its bottom dead center position. Residual gases in the variable-volume chamber are recompressed into the plenum chamber (28) as the piston moves upwardly toward its top dead center position.

Abstract: The present invention provides a compliant molded diaphragm which includes an operable surface area for forming a flexiblle barrier to prevent fluid flow between opposing sides of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is formed as a sandwich structure having first and second elastomeric layers and a third gas impermeable layer located between the first and second layers. The third layer may be provided as a thin layer of metal which is vapor deposited between the two elastomeric layers or may be a thin gas impermeable polymer film. The impermeable layer is preferably formed as a grid pattern in the operable surface area of the diaphragm such that portions of the first and second layers are exposed to each other whereby the first and second layers may be bonded to each other to prevent separation of the layers of the diaphragm.

Abstract: An electrochemical stripping process is employed to selectively remove the metallic sheath from a thermocouple or resistance element without affecting the core material. The sheath is connected as a consumable anode and is inserted to a depth corresponding to the amount of the sheath to be removed. The core material is electrically isolated from the sheath and is therefore unaffected by the electrochemical process.