Abstract: A container that experiences vibrations when transported allows an inner container which defines a chamber holding a substance to move relative to an outer shell under the influence of vibrations. An energy generator such as a magnet and a corresponding coil or a piezoelectric generator that does not move with the inner container is juxtaposed with the inner container to cause an electrical current to be introduced in the inner container when the inner container moves relative to the magnet. The electrical current is dissipated as heat to transfer heat into the substance in the chamber.

Abstract: A container that experiences vibrations when transported allows an inner container which defines a chamber holding a substance to move relative to an outer shell under the influence of vibrations. An energy generator such as a magnet and a corresponding coil or a piezoelectric generator that does not move with the inner container is juxtaposed with the inner container to cause an electrical current to be introduced in the inner container when the inner container moves relative to the magnet. The electrical current is dissipated as heat to transfer heat into the substance in the chamber.

Abstract: An electronic voting system provides increased transparency to the public and verification for the individual voters regarding the tallying of their respective votes. A voting record can be made available electronically, thereby eliminating the need to provide a voter with a paper ballot. A voting record identifier is generated without use of, or reference to, voter identity. The voting record identifier is provided to the voter, such that the voter can access a record of his ballot selections and vote number sequence. In addition, a biometric authentication mechanism is provided to reduce, or eliminate, the potential that a voter is able to vote more than once.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an electronic voting system and methods, which, among other things, provides increased transparency to the public and verification for the individual voters regarding the tallying of their respective votes. A business method involves the use of general purpose computer hardware together with a software platform, made up of one or more open-source or proprietary certified software programs, including a voting software program. A voting record can be made available electronically, thereby eliminating the need to provide a voter with a paper ballot. A voting record identifier is generated without use of, or reference to, voter identity. The voting record identifier is provided to the voter, such that the voter can access a record of his ballot selections and vote number sequence. In addition, a biometric authentication mechanism is provided to reduce, or eliminate, the potential that a voter is able to vote more than once.

Abstract: Hydrocarbon fuel is sent to a reformer, which produces carbon and hydrogen. The hydrogen is sent to a fuel cell which uses it to generate electricity, and the electricity is used to actuate an electric motor that is coupled to an output shaft of a turbine to impart torque to the shaft. Additionally, hydrocarbon fuel can be provided to the turbine intake directly and/or carbon from the reformer can be mixed with steam from the fuel cell and sent to the turbine intake, in either case to impinge on the turbine blades and impart further torque to the output shaft.