Abstract: A multi-cylinder diesel engine provides split mode operation in which one or more cylinders function as air pumps. Compressed air supplied by the cylinders is amplified and stored to a high pressure air tank from which it may be used to run air brakes or other systems. Improved energy density is achieved over prior art vehicle air systems and an auxiliary air compressor is eliminated.

Abstract: An energy conserving system for use with vehicles with an internal combustion engine and friction brakes includes a first valve in the air/fuel feed to the engine, a second valve in the exhaust line, a tank for pressurized air, and conduits between the tank and the valves. Actuation of a control system enables a first sensor to determine whether the brakes are being applied which opens the second valve to divert exhaust to the tank. During startup, the compressed air with or without fuel is used to reciprocate the pistons for a limited period after which fuel/air mixture feed at atmospheric pressure is commenced for normal engine operation. During engine startup, the brake sensor is not activated; and fuel supply to the engine is only cut while braking. However, fuel can be mixed with pressurized air from the pressure tank at any time depending upon accelerator position to make the engine work as a compressed air supplied engine or as a turbo combustion engine.

Abstract: An intermediate actuating metal bellows filled with a liquid is positioned between an explosive gas cartridge and an actuating piston in an ordnance ejector system. The bellows is miniaturized, light weight and of low spring rate. The liquid in the bellows creates a fluid pressure internal to the bellows equal to the gas pressure external to the bellows, and is of low compressibility, low viscosity, low coefficient of thermal expansion, wide operating temperature range and high thermal conductivity. The fluid-filled bellows transmits gas pressure to the piston but prevents damage to the piston and piston seals from the high-pressure, high-temperature erosive gas. The liquid in the bellows acts as a heat sink to protect the bellows; as a heat insulator reducing heat losses to the piston housing and insulating the piston and piston seals from high temperature; and as a lubricant for the piston and piston seals. Environmental pressures and temperatures of 18,000 psi and 4500.degree. F.

Abstract: The swash plate engine is provided with an Aspin type rotary valve system with a variable compression capability. The engine may be of four-piston type or six-piston type. The size of the combustion chambers can be changed from time to time to vary the compression ratio. The engine may also be coupled with an accumulator to store the energy of braking for subsequent acceleration of the engine.

Abstract: A method for driving a vehicle driven by an internal combustion engine having a plurality of compression chambers divided into a first set and a second set, each of said sets being able to be separately operated and to be convertible in operation so as to take on compression action.

Abstract: A method for driving a vehicle driven by an internal combustion engine having a plurality of compression chambers divided into a first set and a second set, each of said sets being able to be separately operated and to be convertible in operation so as to take an compression action.