Abstract: A closed tunnel system for distilling fresh water from ocean salt water is provided with an elongated evaporation plate adapted to hold ocean water for evaporation therefrom. During the distillation process, a vacuum is drawn in the tunnel, and sunlight is focused onto the evaporation plate with a concave lens-structure roof. External concave mirrors automatically track the sun and focus additional sunlight onto the lens-structure roof. An agitator-wiper unit agitates the ocean water on the evaporation plate to maintain a homogeneous liquid mixture, and to present additional water surface area for evaporation of fresh water. The fresh water vapor then condenses under pressure in heat exchangers that simultaneously pre-heat the ocean water prior to entry onto the evaporation plate.

Abstract: A closed tunnel system for distilling fresh water from ocean salt water is provided with an elongated evaporation plate adapted to hold ocean water for evaporation therefrom. During the distillation process, a vacuum is drawn in the tunnel, and sunlight is focused onto the evaporation plate with a concave lens-structure roof. External concave mirrors automatically track the sun and focus additional sunlight onto the lens-structure roof. An agitator-wiper unit agitates the ocean water on the evaporation plate to maintain a homogeneous liquid mixture, and to present additional water surface area for evaporation of fresh water. The fresh water vapor then condenses under pressure in heat exchangers that simultaneously pre-heat the ocean water prior to entry onto the evaporation plate.

Abstract: A wave powered generator incorporating a plurality of paddle and hydraulic cylinder units. Each paddle and hydraulic cylinder unit has a paddle in the path of waves and is pivotally supported to reciprocate and operate a hydraulic pump. Each hydraulic pump discharges into an accumulator that in turn delivers fluid to an electric generator station. The accumulator automatically accommodates variations in flow rate from the hydraulic cylinder. There are provisions for accommodating variations in the height and velocity of waves, of changes in the period of the waves, and of changes in the level of the sea.

Abstract: A grinding machine having a frame that supports an overhead grinder having a generally horizontal grinding wheel. Longitudinal beam assemblies are supported by the frame. The upper edges of the beam assemblies define inverted V guide tracks on which the wheels of a truck are supported. The truck has an upper deck that supports an object to be ground. The beam assemblies are supported from the frame by universal mounted adjustable legs. Cam and cam follower connections between the beam assemblies and the frame restrict lateral movements and maintain the alignment of the beam assemblies as they are vertically adjusted by the adjustment of the adjustable legs. The adjustment of the beam assemblies allows the tracks to be set parallel to one another defining an inclined plane. The truck has wheels on adjustable bearings so the deck will remain parallel to the grinding surface of the grinding wheel to be ground.

Abstract: A modular block for engagement to a plurality of similar blocks arranged in a line to form a structural element, the modular blocks being engaged to each other by tension members extending through the blocks. The configuration of the structural element can be easily modified by substituting special blocks. The block has a generally hollow, T-shaped cross-section with an axial hole extending therethrough. The block further has three axial passages for receiving tension members, the passages arranged in a triangular pattern to withstand the high shear and torsional stresses encountered during erection and in service.