Abstract: A gasification process of improved efficiency is disclosed. A dual bed reactor system is used in which carbon-containing feedstock materials are first treated in a gasification reactor to form pyrolysis gases. The pyrolysis gases are then directed into a catalytic reactor for the destruction of residual tars/oils in the gases. Temperatures are maintained within the catalytic reactor at a level sufficient to crack the tars/oils in the gases, while avoiding thermal breakdown of the catalysts. In order to minimize problems associated with the deposition of carbon-containing materials on the catalysts during cracking, a gaseous oxidizing agent preferably consisting of air, oxygen, steam, and/or mixtures thereof is introduced into the catalytic reactor at a high flow rate in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the reactor. This oxidizes any carbon deposits on the catalysts, which would normally cause catalyst deactivation.

Abstract: A trailer hitch positioning apparatus directs the driver of a pickup truck or other towing vehicle during backing up to a trailer or other towed vehicle for hitching the coupling elements of the vehicles together. The apparatus includes an infrared light unit mounted on the trailer for transmitting a first collimated light beam of a predetermined horizontal width toward the vehicle. A support bar mounted to the rear of the vehicle carries a plurality of infrared alignment sensors for detecting the first beam and hence when the truck is aligned with the trailer. A position emitter mounted on the trailer emits a second focused infrared light beam that is detected by a position sensor on the truck when the coupling elements of the vehicles are in position to be hitched together.