Abstract: A power output apparatus (20) of the present invention includes a clutch motor (30), an assist motor (40), and a controller (80) for controlling the clutch motor (30) and the assist motor (40). The clutch motor (30) includes an outer rotor (32) linked with a crankshaft (56) of a gasoline engine (50) and an inner rotor (34) connecting with a drive shaft (22). The assist motor (40) includes a rotor (42) connecting with the drive shaft (22). An electric current flowing through three-phase coils (36) in the clutch motor (30) enables the outer rotor (32) to be coupled with the inner rotor (34) with a certain slip. Electrical energy corresponding to the certain slip is recovered as an electric power via a first driving circuit (91). The assist motor (40) is controlled with the electric power via a second driving circuit (92) so as to apply a torque to the drive shaft (22).

Abstract: The invention is an improved piston engine, either two stroke or four stroke. In one, two stroke, one cylinder embodiment, the improvement comprises two springs connecting between the piston and the base of the piston. These springs are relatively relaxed when the crank is at top dead center. Then during the power/intake stroke, some of the fuel's energy is delivered to the crankshaft and some is used to compress the springs. The stored energy in the springs is delivered to the crankshaft during the exhaust/compression stroke while the springs return to their relatively relaxed condition. As a result, energy is delivered to the crankshaft during both strokes of the cycle, and the engine runs smooth.In one, four stroke, two cylinder embodiment, each cylinder has springs as described above, the cranks of each cylinder are aligned, and the cam sets one cylinder in the power stroke while the other is in the intake stroke.

Abstract: Method of and device for producing electric energy from a cyclic combustion process. The device includes two oppositely disposed aligned spark ignited internal combustion engine cylinders axially spaced from each other, means rigidly connecting the pistons so that they reciprocate in unison in their respective cylinders, and a reciprocable electrical linear generator-motor unit driven by said reciprocatory piston system. The generator-motor unit includes a very light coreless (ironless) coil rigidly attached to and reciprocatory with the piston system, the said coil reciprocating through a constant strength magnetic field. The beginning of the combustion process (or cycle) in each combustion chamber takes place at the lowest possible compression ratio sufficient for the initial ignition of the fuel-air mixture, the combustion process proceeding at a diminishing volume under the pressure from the compression- and combustion-forces of the opposite combustion chamber-piston system.

Abstract: An energy recovery system for a machine, and particularly an automotive vehicle, includes an energy storage device which selectively receives energy from the prime mover for storage via a predetermined path and delivers stored energy to the prime mover load via the same path. In the preferred embodiment the energy storage device is an elastomeric tube which is disposed for rotational movement about a shaft and secured at the ends to respective end members. Braking units permit selective braking and releasing of the end members relative to fixed supports. A set of planet gears are controlled by the brake actuation to drive a sun gear or be driven by a ring gear to effect energy inflow and outflow, respectively, from the elastomeric tube. The storage device is permitted to store energy or release its stored energy as a function of vehicle control and operational parameters.