Abstract: An internal combustion engine having a plurality of cylinders, comprising a movably mounted distribution element, wherein the distribution element in a first configuration fluidly couples an intake portion of a first cylinder of the plurality of cylinders with a combustion chamber of the first cylinder, and wherein the distribution element in a second configuration fluidly couples the combustion chamber of the first cylinder with an exhaust portion of the first cylinder.

Abstract: A heat converter engine comprising a crank shaft, an actuator assembly coupled to the crank shaft, and a heating means. The actuator assembly includes a plurality of shape memory elements that are malleable when below a critical temperature and return to their original shape when above the critical temperature. The heating means raises the temperature of a first portion of the shape memory elements above the critical temperature and a cooling means lowers the temperature of a second portion of the shape memory elements below the critical temperature. This action of heating and cooling the shape memory elements causes rotation of the crank shaft.

Abstract: An apparatus and method warn drivers of a hazardous condition experienced by another driver. The apparatus generally includes a warning indicator, such as for example a strobe light, coupled to a vehicle warning controller. The vehicle warning controller is connected between a power source and a plurality of vehicle detecting circuits which detect the activation of a safety device. Vehicle detecting circuits can include an antilock braking system (ABS) detecting circuit, an airbag deployment detecting circuit, a rollover protection detecting circuit and an obstacle detector detecting circuit. When at least one of the vehicle's detecting circuits detects the activation of a safety device due to a hazardous condition, a signal is sent to the vehicle warning controller. The warning indicator is activated in response to a signal from the vehicle's warning controller. Therefore, driver intervention is alleviated in warning other motorists of potential danger.

Abstract: A hubcap assembly having a hubcap for installation onto a wheel. The hubcap having an exterior surface provided with a central recess having first and second grooves on opposite sides of the central recess. The hubcap is also provided with openings with lights positioned thereunder. The plurality of lights are electrically connected to the first and second grooves. A battery pack engagable with and removable from the central recess is provided for supplying power to the plurality of lights. The battery pack has a housing provided with a first and second opening on opposite sides of the housing. First and second open cavities are formed on a top surface of the housing. A battery is secured inside of the housing. First and second electrodes are electrically connected to the battery. The first electrode extending through the first opening and the second electrode extending through the second opening.

Abstract: An apparatus and method warn drivers of a hazardous condition experienced by another driver. The apparatus generally includes a warning indicator, such as for example a strobe light, coupled to a vehicle warning controller. The vehicle warning controller is connected between a power source and a plurality of vehicle detecting circuits which detect the activation of a safety device. Vehicle detecting circuits can include an antilock braking system (ABS) detecting circuit, an airbag deployment detecting circuit, a rollover protection detecting circuit and an obstacle detector detecting circuit. When at least one of the vehicle's detecting circuits detects the activation of a safety device due to a hazardous condition, a signal is sent to the vehicle warning controller. The warning indicator is activated in response to a signal from the vehicle's warning controller. Therefore, driver intervention is alleviated in warning other motorists of potential danger.

Abstract: A rotary valve for use in an internal combustion engine and capable of providing high volumetric efficiency is disclosed. The rotary valve generally includes a cylindrical tube having an outer wall that defines intake and exhaust ports positioned to communicate with the engine cylinder as the valve rotates. A divider plate in the cylindrical tube defines an intake passageway from the first end of the valve to the intake port and defines an exhaust passageway from the exhaust port to the second end of the valve. A first generally helically-shaped blade is disposed in the intake passageway for accelerating a flow of intake fluid or fuel/air mixture through the intake passageway and into the cylinder. Similarly, a second generally helically-shaped blade is disposed in the exhaust passageway for facilitating the removal of exhaust gasses from the engine cylinder.