Abstract: A plurality of batteries located in battery-operated devices by a charger through a distributor where there is no communication between the distributor and the batteries in the battery operated devices are charged in automated sequence in situ by a charger through a distributor where there is no communication between the distributor and the batteries, preferably using pulsed charge technology. In preferred embodiments the pulsed charge technology includes both forward and reverse pulses.

Abstract: A method of purifying fluids in which a filter is disposed at sufficient depth in a channel, a fluid is electrolyzed to produce a gas, and expansion of the gas is used to raised the filtrate upwards. The methods are contemplated to be particularly useful with salty or brackish feed fluids, and in which the channel provides a head pressure equivalent to a depth of at least 100 meters, or more preferably several hundred meters. The electrolysis preferably employs a catalyst, and produces hydrogen and oxygen.

Abstract: A combination of an air lift pump and a mechanical pump is used to lift a fluid from a lower level to a higher level. In preferred embodiments compressed air is released below the level of a submerged mechanical pump having an impeller, such that the compressed air impinges upon the low pressure side of the impeller. The combination may be used advantageously in conjunction with a semipermeable membrane disposed within a deep channel to lift a purified fluid.

Abstract: An auxiliary failsafe engine starting apparatus locates the batteries or other power storage devices with respect to the current carrying cable(s) to provide high conformability between extended and storage configurations, and includes a protective power control switching module. High conformability of an apparatus is defined herein as being configurable between a greatest extended configuration having a length (l.sub.e) and a storage configuration having a length (l.sub.s), wherein l.sub.e .gtoreq.3 l.sub.s. Preferred apparatus have conformability ratios of .gtoreq.3, .gtoreq.4, .gtoreq.5, .gtoreq.7.5, and .gtoreq.10. Preferred power sources provide an electrical potential of at least 6 volts, and a current of at least 40 amps. More preferable power sources provide sustainable currents of at least 100 amps, and even more preferable power sources provide sustainable currents of at least 250 amps. Preferred cables are relatively long, measuring up to 4 feet or more, total extended length.