Abstract: The system comprises a burner-housing in which to ignite volatile fluids, together with means for admitting such fluids thereinto and means for discharging the combustion product therefrom. A coolant-carrying shell is enclosed within the burner-housing, the same having spray holes for discharging coolant onto the burner-housing inner surface, and for discharging coolant into a burner-housing defined combustion chamber. A distributor carried by the shell admits discrete fluids into the housing, and also has coolant passages formed therein. Additionally, the distributor has a fluid-heating arrangement disposed therewithin, as well as a fluid-ignition arrangement, the latter being selectively operative -- to insure ignition of the housing-admitted volatile fluids. The combustion products are either simply vented from the burner-housing, for use thus, or are conducted through a terminal rocket nozzle for generating thrust.

Abstract: The system comprises a plurality of engine subassemblies having double-acting pistons, for generating power and pressuring fluid for work. Each piston undergoes a power stroke, under the influence of energized fluid addressed thereto and, during the power stroke, the piston(s) pressurizes fluid for powering ancillary fluid-powered machines. The latter fluid is admitted through channels formed in the pistons to lubricate the pistons in their reciprocation in cylinders. Each of the cylinders is enclosed in a surrounding coolant chamber. A carrier element is employed for effecting a common translation of all pistons, and the carrier element supports extending actuators which, through a "lost motion" arrangement, actuate a valve-operating system coupled to the heads of the cylinders. Limit-stop springs, interposed between the carrier element and housings (which confine the cylinders) delimit the travel of the pistons.