Abstract: A marine vessel can be propelled by using wind or solar energy. This propulsion results in the forward movement and six degrees of motion (roll, heave, pitch, yaw, surge, and sway) of the marine vessel. This invention capitalizes on the fact that solar, wind and wave energy are cyclical by nature. The invention enables the vessel to manage stored and harvested energy and use the stored energy during periods when the external natural sources of energy are not available in adequate quantities to maintain a reasonable speed of advance for the vessel. The vessel's natural energy management system (NEMS) manages it in such a way that harvesting of the energy during high energy cycles, storing it and using it when needed during low external energy cycles, allows a marine vessel to maintain faster average speed without reliance on any fossil or chemical fuel and by only using renewable energy sources.

Abstract: A means of reducing fluid density in front of Savonius blades by installing magnus rotors to accelerate onrushing fluid away from the blade itself. Several magnus rotors are mounted on either external side of the centerline of each blade, so as the Savonius rotor is revolved by the surrounding fluid and the magnus rotors are revolved on either side of the centerline in opposite directions, then fluid pressure is reduced and the Savonius rotor's speed is increased. Also, if the magnus rotor is formed from a sheathed flexible shaft and attached to an underlying contoured surface of a vehicle, such as a racing car or a helical Savonius rotor, fluid resistance to the forward motion of the vehicle is reduced.

Abstract: This invention, the “Internal Combustion Boundary Layer Turbine Engine” (BLTE), embodies the description of a “flat-disk radial flow turbine engine”. The BLTE uses the effects of “working fluid” or “exhaust” drag to convert the pressure of fuel combustibles to kinetic output energy in the form of a driven shaft. The BLTE application of “differentially sized flat blades” solves the problem of internal combustion and multi-stage operation for this new category of engine. This engine offers the light weight and high power output capability of a continuous or pulsed burn-mode of a radial turbine engine. Relative to conventional radial flow turbine engines, this engine provides reduced exhaust flow, reduced emissions and offers simple, inexpensive construction with commonly available machine tools.

Abstract: A rotor or propeller may have rotor blades and a passive pitch angle adjustment apparatus. The passive pitch angle adjustment apparatus may include levers, rods, and central rod. Levers may be connected to rotor blades and rotate them around a respective pitch axis. Rods may be connected to levers and mechanically link levers with each other via central point that is located outside rotor plane. Central rod may connect central point with base point that is located in a longitudinal direction of rotor axis. The passive pitch angle adjustment apparatus may enable a cyclic pitch adjustment of the rotor blades and block a collective pitch adjustment of the rotor blades.

Abstract: The present invention flow rollers are a moving surface boundary layer control method that can reduce surface friction in, automobiles, aircrafts, ships, high speed trains, launch vehicles, sound barriers, temperature barriers, and housings. In a moving surface airflow control system, a flow roller device for mounting on a vehicle for reducing fluid resistance has a first elongated rotating body mounted on a first axis of rotation. The first axis of rotation defines a first forward portion and a first rear portion. The first forward portion is in front of the first axis of rotation, and the first rear portion is behind the first axis of rotation. The first forward portion is configured to move with the fluid flow in a direction along a longitudinal midline and rotate with the airflow.

Abstract: An aerodynamic dome component that is placed in front of a wind turbine hub includes an outer ring, a central axle disposed relative to the outer ring, a plurality of radially extending tensioning members and a skin-like covering. The plurality of radially extending tensioning members are coupled to the outer ring at a first end and to the central axle at a second end. The outer ring, the plurality of radially extending tensioning members and the central axle together form an underlying dome support structure. The skin-like covering is configured to envelop at least a portion of the underlying dome support structure to form at least a portion of the aerodynamic dome component and define a front dome portion. The skin-like covering enveloping at least a portion of the underlying dome support structure may further define a rear dome portion, wherein the rear dome portion is configured downwind from the front dome portion.

Abstract: A wind turbine is disclosed. The wind turbine includes comprising an inflatable portion comprising one or more blades and a device for rotatably driving the inflatable portion at a predetermined rate for a predetermined time.

Abstract: There is provided a ship, in particular a cargo ship. It has a plurality of Magnus rotors, wherein associated with each of the plurality of Magnus rotors is an individually actuable electric motor (M) for rotating the Magnus rotor, wherein associated with each electric motor (M) is a converter (U) for controlling the rotary speed and/or the rotary direction of the electric motor (M).

Abstract: The invention relates to a Magnus rotor comprising a cylindrical body of revolution for converting wind power into a feed force using the Magnus effect. The Magnus rotor comprises: a rotational shaft about which the body of revolution rotates; a support member on which the body of revolution is mounted; and a body of revolution which has means for the reinforcement thereof. The body of revolution is primed in at least two planes arranged at a mutual spacing in the axial direction perpendicular to the rotational shaft of the body of revolution in order to accommodate balancing weights. The invention further relates to a method for balancing a body of revolution according to the invention.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a Magnus rotor comprising a carrier arranged in the interior of the Magnus rotor, a rotor which in operation of the Magnus rotor rotates about the carrier, a bearing which carries the rotor on the carrier and a heating device provided for producing heated air in the interior of the carrier. The carrier has at least one opening at its outside, which connects the internal space in the carrier to the intermediate space between the carrier and the rotor in such a way that air can pass through between those two spaces.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a Magnus rotor comprising a carrier arranged in the interior of the Magnus rotor, a rotor which rotates about the carrier in operation of the Magnus rotor, a plate which horizontally closes off the rotor, and a bearing which carries the rotor on the carrier. The rotor has at least one opening in the plate. The carrier has at least one fixing point for lifting the Magnus rotor by means of at least one fixing means and a lifting apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a Magnus rotor comprising a guide roller which is arranged at the lower outer periphery of the Magnus rotor and which bears against the Magnus rotor in play-free relationship, a walkway surface arranged beneath the guide roller, and a cover which covers the guide roller and the walkway surface. In an opened condition the cover exposes the guide roller and the walkway surface so that a person on the walkway surface can perform working operations at the guide roller.

Abstract: The invention concerns a ship, in particular a cargo ship, comprising at least one Magnus rotor for driving the ship, which has a stationary carrier. The invention concerns in particular a ship in which arranged on the carrier is a measuring device for determining a flexural loading on the carrier. The invention further concerns a method of determining the thrust of a Magnus rotor, a Magnus rotor and a carrier for mounting a Magnus rotor.

Abstract: The efficiency of compressed air vehicle is enhanced by adapting the compressed air storage tank with a Magnus rotor that creates lift so as to reduce the effective weight of the tank during operation. A compressed air tank has an outlet in fluid communication with the inlet of a compressed air motor. Air leaving the compressed air motor is caused to flow across the Magnus rotor whereby lift is generated to counter gravitational force thereby reducing the effective weight of the system. A battery powered electric fan has an inlet disposed to draw air across the Magnus rotor thereby increasing the velocity of the air so as to maximize the Magnus effect. A thermoelectric cooler transfers heat across the compressed air motor, i.e. from air exiting the compressed air motor outlet, to the air entering the compressed air motor inlet, whereby the temperature of the air entering the compressed air motor is increased resulting in increased pressure.

Abstract: A watercraft includes a deck and no more than two flettner rotors having a height to diameter ratio of less than five. At least one of the flettner rotors is elevated above the deck such that individuals on the deck can walk underneath the flettner rotor. A portion of a footprint of at least one of the flettner rotors is suspended over an edge of the deck.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a Magnus rotor comprising a drive and a control means which controls the drive in such a way that the Magnus rotor attains a peripheral speed which is greater than the mean wind speed by a factor ?. In addition the present invention concerns a method of operating a Magnus rotor comprising a drive which causes the Magnus rotor to rotate, and a control means, as well as a ship. In order better to utilize the action of the Magnus rotor than occurs in the state of the art, ? is greater than 4. In that respect the present invention is based on the realization that the assumption that, above a high-speed factor of four, there would no longer be a significant increase in the lift coefficient, which above all is in relation to the drive power to be used, is based on a technical prejudice. It was possible to empirically ascertain that an increase in the high-speed factor leads to a significantly higher lift coefficient.

Abstract: A hybrid rotor for an aircraft includes a Magnus rotor rotatable around a Magnus rotor axis and a transverse flow rotor that is kept rotating around an axis of rotation and has a number of axially extending rotor blades that are actuatable to rotate around the axis of rotation and are configured stationary relative to the tangential angle position. The Magnus rotor is located within the transverse flow rotor and has an axis extending in the direction of the axis of rotation. The guide mechanism has a housing segment partially surrounding the transverse flow rotor in the circumferential direction. The housing segment has an adjustment mechanism and is deflectable relative to the Magnus rotor axis. The housing segment is aligned such that the transverse flow rotor generates a propulsion force and causes a transverse flow onto the Magnus rotor to generate lifting force by way of a Magnus effect.

Abstract: A heat dissipating module includes a rotational member, a stationary member and a driving member. The rotational member is provided with a first air outlet and connected to the driving member. The stationary member is provided with a second air outlet and has plural flow passages. Each of flow passages has an air inlet at an end thereof and a third air outlet at another end thereof. When the driving member actuates the rotational member to rotate, air enters the flow passages of the stationary member via the air inlets to gather at the third outlets. Then, the air is guided outward via the first and the second air outlet for concentrating the air to cool the heat-producing object.

Abstract: A pump is disclosed having one or more rotating discs within a housing. The discs have a plurality of relatively small surface perturbations covering at least half of one side of their surface. The perturbations may be recessed or raised. In operation, a boundary layer is formed near the surface of the rotating discs. The fluid within the pump flows in a circular and outward direction, thus moving fluid from a central coaxial inlet to an outlet located at the peripheral wall of the housing. The surface perturbations produce turbulence within the boundary layer during operation. The pump is suitable for pumping liquids with entrained gases, liquids with entrained solids, liquids with both gases and solids, and thick liquids.

Abstract: A turbine blade assembly (106) includes a turbine blade (124) and a moveable surface (126) supported for lateral displacement across the turbine blade. A wind turbine (100) includes a base structure (102), a turbine body (104) and a turbine blade assembly (106) operatively connected to the turbine body. A method (500) of operating a wind turbine is also included.

Abstract: A bladeless pump for fluids, such as gases that may contain particulate matter, drivable by a motor, consisting of an assembly of rotors or discs stacked against each other. Each rotor/disc has a runner portion on an outer area separated from its center, and a central portion having two or more spokes, divided by openings. The spokes are typically thicker than the rest of the discs. When many discs are placed together and spun on a motor-driven axle, air may be drawn in adjacent the rotor assembly, to the inter-disc openings, and compressed as it enters the area A spiral-shape volute is provided adjacent the outer ?M of the disc assembly, receiving pressurized air and releasing it from a motor housing. Applicant's bladeless pump may include a base for receiving the rotor housing and the motor, which may include a housing to substantially enclose the motor and its housing.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, an airborne body extends horizontally along an axis between a first point and a second point. The body may be, for example, at least partially filled with a gas. Two or more vanes may be provided airborne with the body such that the vanes, when acted upon by a wind force perpendicular to the axis, are operable to cause rotation about the axis. Moreover, one or more tethers may be coupled to anchor the body to a third point, and one or more electrical generators may be airborne with the body to convert rotational energy produced by the rotation about the axis into electrical energy. According to some embodiments, each vane comprises a horizontal blade panel attached to and extending along the body.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, systems and methods for tethered wind turbines may be provided. In some embodiments, a system may comprise an airborne body extending horizontally along an axis between a first point and a second point, wherein the body is at least partially filled with a gas. The system may further comprise, for example, two or more vanes coupled to the body such that the vanes, when acted upon by a wind force perpendicular to the axis are operable to cause the body to rotate about the axis to generate a Magnus effect lifting force. According to some embodiments, the system may comprise one or more tethers coupled to anchor the body to a third point.

Abstract: A heat dissipating module includes a rotational member, a stationary member and a driving member. The rotational member meshes with the driving member and has an uneven surface at a side thereof to space to the stationary member. The stationary member has plural flow passages and each flow passage has an air inlet at an end thereof and an air outlet at another end thereof. When the driving member actuates the rotational member to rotate with the fluid, the fluid enters the stationary member via the inlet and gathers at the outlet before being guided outward for concentrating the air and cooling the heat dissipated object.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a Magnus rotor comprising a drive and a control means which controls the drive in such a way that the Magnus rotor attains a peripheral speed which is greater than the mean wind speed by a factor ?. In addition the present invention concerns a method of operating a Magnus rotor comprising a drive which causes the Magnus rotor to rotate, and a control means, as well as a ship. In order better to utilise the action of the Magnus rotor than occurs in the state of the art, ? is greater than 4. In that respect the present invention is based on the realisation that the assumption that, above a high-speed factor of four, there would no longer be a significant increase in the lift coefficient, which above all is in relation to the drive power to be used, is based on a technical prejudice. It was possible to empirically ascertain that an increase in the high-speed factor leads to a significantly higher lift coefficient.

Abstract: A rotor sail is provided having a base (2) and a rotary cylinder (3) mounted on the base (2) in a manner permitting rotation about its longitudinal axis designed as the rotor axis (r), and a drive (5) for rotating the rotary cylinder (3). An enclosing outer surface (4) of the rotary cylinder serves as a wind-exposed surface in operation. So that the rotor sail can be operated in a more environmentally friendly manner, it is provided with a photovoltaic system (7) having solar cells (8) to generate electric energy for the drive (5) having an electric motor (6). The solar cells (8) are located in the rotary cylinder (3) and have photoelectrically active layers facing toward the enclosing outer surface (4). The rotary cylinder (3) has a sleeve (9) which is transparent, at least in an area covering the solar cells (8).

Abstract: A fluid flow device, a method of moving fluid, and a printing system incorporating the device are provided. The fluid flow device includes a passage for a fluid including a wall with the wall having a travel path. A fluid flow source is operable to cause the fluid to flow in a direction through the passage. The travel path of the wall is in the same direction as that of the fluid flow.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, systems and methods for tethered wind turbines may be provided. In some embodiments, a system may comprise an airborne body extending horizontally along an axis between a first point and a second point, wherein the body is at least partially filled with a gas. The system may further comprise, for example, two or more vanes coupled to the body such that the vanes, when acted upon by a wind force perpendicular to the axis are operable to cause the body to rotate about the axis to generate a Magnus effect lifting force. According to some embodiments, the system may comprise one or more tethers coupled to anchor the body to a third point.

Abstract: In a wind power installation with a (hollow) axis tube member and a hollow shaft mounted thereon for the rotor there is provided only a single bearing which also carries moments, between the axis tube member and the hollow shaft, whereby the parts of the machine which are to be fixed to the machine carrier and thus on the top of the pylon are of a markedly lower weight without the required orientation between the rotating and stationary parts of the electrical generator being adversely affected. In that arrangement the rotating part of the generator is radially aligned substantially with the bearing. The bearing to be used is in particular a twin-row inclined roller bearing with rows of rollers arranged at an angle of about 45° relative to each other.

Abstract: A technique of generating a flow from a gas. The technique includes the steps of selecting molecules from the gas on a nanoscopic or microscopic scale, and generating the flow from the selected molecules. The gas can be air. In one embodiment, the molecules are selected based on the direction of movement of the molecules. In another embodiment, the molecules are selected based on the velocities (i.e., direction and speed) of the molecules. Also, devices that implement the technique.

Abstract: A multi-staged boundary layer engine and process cell, (based on the effect known as adhesion and viscosity) which achieves high thermal efficiencies and high mechanical power output for use in the power generation, geothermal, energy recovery, solar, transportation, hydrogen production, desalinating water and hydroelectric fields. The design is novel with a dovetail attachment of the disc packs, allowing lower stress and allowing the use of next generation materials such as ceramics, composites and nanocomposites to improve the maximum temperature and the maximum RPM of the engine, thereby producing more horsepower and torque. In addition, this invention includes multi-stage vacuum, an external combustion chamber and condenser stages to improve the vortex flow through the primary disc pack cell. This engine will also encompass a closed loop cycle for ultimate efficiencies.

Abstract: A heteroscopic turbine with a Knudsen number of less than ten. In one embodiment, the heteroscopic turbine generates a flow from a gas. The turbine includes at least a moving surface and a plurality of turbine blades on or in said surface. Each of the blades has a height comparable to a mean free path distance that characterizes molecules in the gas, and the blades are spaced apart by a distance comparable to the mean free path distance. In operation, the surface moves such that the turbine blades pass through the gas at a speed comparable to the mean thermal velocity. In different embodiments, the turbine can perform filtering of molecules in the gas based on direction and/or speed (velocity). Also, techniques by which such a turbine operates.

Abstract: A fuel feed apparatus accommodates a sub tank. The sub tank includes a pump module The pump module generates vibration, and is supported by a supporting member and a suction filter. The suction filter is covered with a nonwoven fabric. The nonwoven fabric is used as an additional filter for removing debris in fuel drawn by the pump module. The supporting member and the nonwoven fabric have resilience. The pump module is mounted on the sub tank via the supporting member and the non woven fabric. Therefore, vibration of the pump module is not apt to be transmitted to the sub tank. Additionally, the supporting member need not to be rigidly formed, so that the supporting member can be manufactured easily.

Abstract: A micromachine including at least one bladeless rotor, said rotor being adapted to impart energy to device energy to or derive energy from a fluid. A rotor for a micromachine comprising at least a pair of closely spaced co-axially aligned discs defining opposed planar surfaces, at least one disc having at least one aperture whereby a fluid passageway is defined between the aperture, the planar surfaces and the periphery of the rotor, the rotor being formed of a single crystal material.

Abstract: A disc turbine inlet collects working fluid, introduces it into the rotor housing at a defined location and imparted at a defined injection angle with respect to the tangential motion of the discs in rotary motion. An injection angle within the optimum range delineated by this invention enables the working fluid to entrain stationary or slowly rotating discs into motion. The inlet design combines smooth sectional transitions and arcuate directional changes to minimize frictional losses. The inlet has a nozzle section which locates precisely into a receiving aperture of the turbine rotor housing.

Abstract: An improved windmill and a method for generating electricity, pumped air or rotational shaft energy are provided. A vertical mast rotatably mounts one end of a substantially horizontal and upward cantilevered support arm whose other end mounts a horizontal axis stator of dual function for both the windmill and the energy generating mechanism. A rotor is mounted co-axially to the stator, being the rotor for both the windmill blades and the energy generating mechanism. Fixed windmill blades or blades which lessen angle of attack in response to increasing wind pressure are attached to the rotor. A fan shroud in the form of a band supported by fins from the stator may encircle a disk defined by the tips of the rotating windmill blades.

Abstract: The present invention is for the efficient transfer of mechanical power through a fluid medium. The various embodiments of the present invention exploit the natural physical properties of fluids to create a more efficient means of driving fluids as well as transferring power from propelled fluids. The present invention employs an impeller assembly in a variety of applications including hydroelectric turbines, fluid turbines, turbine transmissions and pumps of various types. The multi-disk impeller assembly having a central cavity, a specialized central hub design and reinforcing backing plates contribute to greater efficiency and less turbulence, friction and noise.

Abstract: A turbine and method which employ kinetic and potential energy of a fluid to obtain mechanical and/or electric energy, is founded on the use of bulb shaped rotating blades that interact with a fluid, such as water or air, Each rotating blade rotates around its own axis and in the radial direction of the fluid itself.

Abstract: A generator of aerodynamic force by rotational movement, by means of a device which, starting from a rotational movement, induces a field of velocities in the surrounding fluid, which produces a difference in pressure on a surface, which in turn results in an aerodynamic force. The rotor element (1) is set in rotation at high speed by a motor (3). The rotational movement of the rotor element causes the fluid in which the device is immersed to assume a rotational movement, the velocity of the fluid layer that is in contact with the cylinder being equal to the velocity of a point at the surface of the cylinder. The planar element (2) separates the fluid into two regions. The fluid in the region below the surface is motionless, whereas the fluid above the surface is in motion. Since the higher the velocity of the fluid the lower its pressure, the fluid in the region below the surface exerts a higher pressure than that exerted by the fluid in the region below the surface.

Abstract: One or more improved pump impellers are provided and are rotationally supported in a pump having one or more stages. The improved impeller comprises a fluid induction core of flow passages spiraling axially about the impellers rotational axis and a stack of circular disks extending radially and concentrically from the induction core. The stack of disks is preferably a frusto-conical stack with the disks at the downstream end of the impeller having a lesser radial extent than do the upstream disks so that incrementally less fluid issues from each successive radial flow passage between adjacent disks thereby reducing head loss in the issuing viscous fluid flow and increasing pumping efficiency. Increased pump efficiency permits one to provide a conical pump housing profile about each impeller which corresponds with the conical stack, thereby diminishing the fluid flow area and increasing the discharge pressure and flow capacity of each pumping stage.

Abstract: A wind turbine having a central deflecting cone and a shroud surrounding the cone. The shroud in cooperation with the cone direct air flow to turbine blades which extend across the narrowest gap between said shroud and said cone. The wind turbine is rotatably supported at the apex of the cone such that wind passing through the blades causes the turbine to spin. A transfer gear box near the apex of the cone causes rotation of a power transmission shaft which also acts as the support tower for the turbine. The shroud is made of a fabric material and assumes its proper shape under the influence of the wind passing through the turbine.

Abstract: Electrically deformable material such as piezoelectric material is used to deform a deflectable flap on an airfoil such as a helicopter blade. The electrically deformable material is controlled to deflect the flap in a manner to control vibrations transmitted from a helicopter blade to the helicopter air frame. In a preferred embodiment, the electrically deformable material and mechanical linkages are segmented along the length of the rotor blade. In this way, differential actuation of the deformable elements results in variable flap deflections along the length of the rotor.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a pump for use as a lubricating oil pump in internal combustion engines of handheld portable tools such as motor-driven chain saws or the like. The pump includes a body forming the stator and a body forming the rotor. These bodies lie coaxial with respect to each other and have respective surfaces which lie seal-tight against each other. A screw-shaped spiral slot is formed in one of these surfaces and has an input end connected to a suction connection and an output end connected with a pressure connection. According to a feature of the invention, at least the screw-shaped wall structure is made of an elastomer. This wall structure defines the spiral slot and lies against the smooth surface lying opposite thereto. An absolutely seal-tight contact engagement of the wall structure defining the spiral slot against the opposite-lying surface is assured by the elasticity of the elastomer. The service life of the pump is increased and its production and assembly simplified.

Abstract: A device for producing a force when in a moving fluid, such as air or water, and a method for using said device. The device may be placed in a fluid moving in a first direction for producing a force in a second direction, which is substantially transverse with respect to the first direction. The device avoids the use of large sail areas needed where the force derived from wind is proportional to said area. The device according to the invention comprises an elongated body having in cross-section a rounded symmetrical profile, which defines an elongated and rounded leading portion whose thickness increases from the front to the rear and a rounded trailing portion whose thickness decreases from the front to the rear, the leading portion being longer than the trailing portion. The device according to the invention is also provided with at least one flap, which projects from the body and which is located on the trailing portion of the profile.

Abstract: A propulsion system for a vessel comprises a conventional screw and rudder arrangement and includes one or more rotor sails in the form of an elliptical cylinder upstanding from the deck of the vessel formed from a rigid outer surface which is rotatable about a central longitudinal axis. The rotation by the Magnus effect develops a propulsion force transverse to wind currents crossing the vessel. The speed of rotation, direction of rotation and a position of park of the cylinder can be controlled. The position of park allows the major axis to be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the vessel or with the direction of the wind for feathering or transverse to the longitudinal axis of the vessel to act as a conventional sail downwind.

Abstract: A machine for economical recovery of wind power employs a self-adjusting mass-balanced aerodynamic blade weathervaning freely around a lengthwise pitching axis forward of its aerodynamic center, and an aerodynamic roller in its leading edge, spun at high RPM by a motor. The roller controls aerodynamic performance to high levels of efficiency at high lift coefficients, employing novel roller/airfoil profiles. For ship propulsion, the self-adjusting blade with roller stopped is like a furled sail, and with the blade held angling to the wind with roller spinning is like a large, efficient, easily controlled sail. On a horizontal axis wind turbine, the self-adjusting blade is continuously held to an efficient angle of attack by centrifugal lift-increasing pitching moments balancing aerodynamic lift-decreasing pitching moments. The blade whirls steadily despite fluctuations of wind speed and direction, reducing stresses, and preventing structural damage or loss of efficiency.

Abstract: The thrust of a Magnus propeller is made reversible by reversing the rotation of the Magnus cylinders independently of the direction of rotation of the propeller shaft. Reversible drives for the cylinders are provided that are mechanical, fluid or electric. Reversible motors for the propeller shaft are provided as an alternative reversing mechanism while the cylinders continue to rotate in the same direction. Separate motor drives are provided for the Magnus cylinders and the propeller shaft.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electric rudder rotor which in its simplest construction is in the form of an externally running underwater electric motor and comprises a fixed stator and a rotating rotor, which carries the rotor cylinder, the stator being supplied with electric current and the rotor being rotated by magnetic interaction between the stator and the rotor.

Abstract: The Horizontal Axis Rotatory Frustum Toy is a catapulted cylinderlike flying-wing glider that rotates horizontally to produce lift and quite slow flight, suitable indoors or out. A rubber band or string can be used to launch it. Unique shape provides good lateral stability. The design principle may have military dispersion bomb applications.

Abstract: Magnus cylinders are mounted for rotation at right angles to shafts that are revolved about a generally vertical axis. The shafts are free to rotate 180.degree.. The Magnus cylinders are continuously rotated in the same angular direction. At one position of revolution of the shafts, the cylinders rotate on an axis generally parallel to the axis of revolution of the shafts. When the apparatus is immersed in a fluid flow (gaseous or liquid) a torque of rotation is developed when the shafts are aligned with the fluid flow, and this torque of rotation is reduced as the shaft approaches a position transverse to the fluid flow. As the shafts pass this transverse position, a torque is developed by the rotating cylinder that rotates the shafts 180.degree. until the formerly downwardly depending cylinder is now upright and the formerly upright cylinder is now downwardly depending on its shaft.