Abstract: A system for starting a ramjet/scramjet engine includes a gas generator for lighting a combustor of a ramjet/scramjet engine, for generating electrical power for vehicle subsystems, for pumping fuel, and for preheating the fuel. In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method for cold starting a ramjet/scramjet engine. The method comprises the steps of using a gas generator to light the combustor, to generate a gas product, using the gas product to generate electrical power for vehicle subsystems and to pump fuel, and using the gas product to preheat liquid fuel.

Abstract: A vehicle has a body and a source of a propellant. An engine is carried by the body. The engine reacts the propellant to produce thrust. The engine has a heat exchanger transferring heat from the reaction to at least a component of the propellant and generating electricity thermoelectrically.

Abstract: The bearing system includes a first component having a first substrate and a first coating. The first coating includes a DLC layer and a DLN layer between the DLC layer and the substrate. A second component is in sliding engagement with the first component.