Abstract: A spherical system for the concentration and extraction of solar energy includes a boiler fitted with a heat transfer fluid such as liquid sodium and connectable to means for converting heat energy to electrical energy such as a magneto-hydrodynamic generator. The boiler is surrounded by a concentrically spaced spherical shell having a plurality of aplanatic lenses set into the shell in such manner as to receive and collect the sun's rays onto the boiler. Apparatus is provided for cleaning the exterior of the shell and lenses to facilitate the passage of radiant energy therethrough, this means being shown as comprising a pair of circular conduits supported in concentrically spaced relation to the shell upon carriages movable along a circular trackway so the conduits can rotate around the vertical axis of the shell.

Abstract: A marine vessel with a spherical rolling hull having a rotatably mounted shaft disposed through the horizontal poles of the sphere. A frame assembly is rigidly fixed to the shaft on the interior of the sphere for carrying a propulsion apparatus and cargo. The propulsion apparatus operates to turn wheels supporting the frame assembly and running upon a pair of annular tracks on the sphere's interior surface so as to cause the sphere to rotate. This rotational effect propells the vessel by means of fins or paddles on the outer surface of the sphere. Air propellers, elevators, and rudders to assist in navigation are mounted on the exterior of a pair of elongated cabins which are detachably connected to the shaft's terminals at the sides of the hull. Cargo and passengers are carried by these cabins which also can serve as independently powered, seaworthy marine vessels when detached from the mother ship. To expedite the handling of cargo, elevators are provided in the undercarriage of each cabin.