Abstract: The exerciser consists of a platform suspended on springs and connected to adjustably connected to shock absorbers for dissipating energy. The assembly is constructed to have a resonant frequency which matches the tempo of bouncy popular tunes and remains the same regardless of the weight of the user: The user first sets his weight and then makes the platform oscillate by flexing his knees and by exerting pressure on a handle which moves in synchronism with, but oppositely to, the platform. The unit can be constructed for use by one or two persons. In one embodiment, the platform is fastened at one end of a lever frame, the other end of which is pivoted. The frame is suspended on elastic springs fastened to a movable sled whose position on the frame is determined by the user's weight. In other embodiments, a compressed coil spring is employed.

Abstract: The exerciser has a platform which is moved up and down rhythmically by the user to impart energy to a rotating fly wheel. Energy is imparted to the fly wheel by flexing of the knees during the up and down motion or by a rhythmic lifting of weights by the user or by grasping onto the hand rails of the exerciser. The exerciser can be constructed to adjust the extent of the vertical motion of the platform via an internal linkage. Further, the energy delivered by the user to the exerciser can be dissipated through various devices such as an alternator connected to an adjustable resistor.

Abstract: The heat pump/engine operates in an open cycle between a cold air reservoir and a hot air reservoir to pump heat or to obtain energy by exchanging air at atmospheric pressure between the two reservoirs at different temperatures.The heat pump/engine employs a positive displacement compressor, heat exchanger and a positive displacement expander to transfer the air flows. A means is also provided for adjusting the stroke volume of the expander during expansion in the heat pump version. Also, a snowmaker preheater can be used with the heat pump to decrease power consumption.

Abstract: The heat pump/engine operates in an open cycle between a cold air reservoir and a hot air reservoir to pump heat or to obtain energy by exchanging air at atmospheric pressure between the two reservoirs at different temperatures.The heat pump/engine employs a positive displacement compressor, heat exchanger and a positive displacement expander to transfer the air flows. Also, a snowmaker preheater can be used with the heat pump to decrease power consumption.

Abstract: The engine has a compressor which compresses air for delivery via a heat exchanger to an expander. The expander receives the compressed air and fuel and, while combustion occurs during a power stroke, the air pressure is reduced to atmosphere and the expander drives a crankshaft. The fuel is injected at a rate to maintain the air temperature at the entry temperature. The exhaust passes through the heat exchanger to heat the incoming flow of compressed air to the expander. Energy may be stored via the crankshaft or used directly.

Abstract: The heat pump/engine operates in an open cycle between a cold air reservoir and a hot air reservoir to pump heat or to obtain energy by exchanging air at atmospheric pressure between the two reservoirs at different temperatures.The heat pump/engine employs a positive displacement compressor, heat exchanger and a positive displacement expander to transfer the air flows. A means is also provided for adjusting the stroke volume of the expander during expansion in the heat pump version. Also, a snowmaker preheater can be used with the heat pump to decrease power consumption.

Abstract: The portable water distiller is constructed to distill water placed within a housing and to dispense it directly into a separate storage vessel or to a distilled water space in the housing. In the latter case, the distillers are provided with a flexible impermeable partition which may be in the form of a bag and which divides the interior of the housing into a raw water space and a distilled water space. A boiler is disposed within the raw water space in order to vaporize the water and a compact radiator and fan assembly is mounted on top of the housing in order to condense the vapor into distilled water for delivery to the distilled water space within the housing. A heater-thermostat shut-off means is also provided for turning off the heater when the supply of water is too low.

Abstract: The portable water distiller is constructed to distill water placed within a housing and to dispense it directly into a separate storage vessel or to a distilled water space in the housing. In the latter case, the distillers are provided with a flexible impermeable partition which may be in the form of a bag and which divides the interior of the housing into a raw water space and a distilled water space. A boiler is disposed within the raw water space in order to vaporize the water and a compact radiator and fan assembly is mounted on top of the housing in order to condense the vapor into distilled water for delivery to the distilled water space within the housing. A heater-thermostat shut-off means is also provided for turning off the heater when the supply of water is too low.

Abstract: The exercise stair device is a lightweight compact unit which simulates the exercise obtained while climbing stairs.In one form, two small carriages providing foot supports move on adjacent tracks which are about three feet long and inclined at an angle of about 35.degree. with the horizontal. The carriages are connected to one another so that when one moves up, the other moves down and vice versa. The rate of exercise is determined by the rate at which the carriages descend. The apparatus includes means for providing a resistance (counterforce) to motion of the foot supports which increase with velocity. Under the full weight of the user the steps descend at a uniform rate determined by his weight. This resistance means dissipates the energy transmitted thereto in the process.In a second form, the exercise device has two pivotally mounted arms which carry foot supports. These arms are interconnected so that as one pivots upwardly, the other pivots downwardly.