Abstract: A balanced compound, regenerative cycle, external heat source engine is mad by using mechanically double acting rigidly affixed and self-aligned reciprocating opposed piston and cylinder structure in which substantially all of the energy created during reciprocating motion is converted or translated into rotational motion by the action of a scotch yoke type, transfer lubricated, sliding/roller bearing mechanism which acts on a single and centrally located crankshaft which is contained in a telescopic crankcase structure. A balanced compound engine structure may be constructed so that two or more subsystems are housed in one or more modules. Two or more power modules may then be coupled together and an engine power and speed control may be attained by varying the relative phase angle of the couple.

Abstract: Filled fluorosilicone and filled fluorophosphazene composite films and unfilled fluorosilicone, fluorophosphazene, or copolymers provide atomic oxygen resistance to protect surfaces on spacecraft in low earth orbit. The preferred composite films are generally made by polymerizing suitable precursors on the exposed surfaces, the filler being mixed with the polymer precursors prior to curing. Second surface mirrors can be protected with these films while the flexibility of the mirror is retained.

Abstract: Filled fluorosilicone and filled fluorophosphazene composite films and unfilled fluorosilicone, fluorophosphazene, or copolymers provide atomic oxygen resistance to protect surfaces on spacecraft in low earth orbit. The preferred composite films are generally made by polymerizing suitable precursors on the exposed surfaces, the filler being mixed with the polymer precursors prior to curing. Second surface mirrors can be protected with these films while the flexibility of the mirror is retained.

Abstract: A bearing unit has rolling elements separated by floating solid-lubricant spacers which interfit with the roller elements. When the rolling elements are rollers, the ends of the rollers are lubricated by solid lubricant caps on the rollers, or by end portions of the spacer which overlap the roller ends, or by end ring members of solid-lubricant material. If the bearing unit includes a cage, floating solid-lubricant spacers are located between the cage dividers and the rolling elements.

Abstract: A regenerative heat exchanger in which a compact arrangement of alternating thermally conductive and thermally insulating solid layers have an array of communicating passages therethrough. One of the outer thermally conductive layers is heated and the other is cooled. The intermediate thermally conductive layer(s) has a regenerative function when flow is alternated through the passages. Although each passage is preferably small, the total number of passages in the array is such as to give a large combined cross-sectional area for heat transfer providing improved overall performance and efficiency when incorporated in stirling and other heat engines without sacrificing structural integrity.

Abstract: Freestanding glass reinforced ceramic protective coatings are made with a shrinkable silica preform technique. The coatings may be bonded to heat sensitive organic (plastic) or inorganic (ceramic or metal) substrates to provide thermal and impact protection.