Abstract: The invention enables determination of an unknown fluid mass contained within a vessel by measuring the resonant frequency response of the vessel and its support structure when an excitation source is activated. The excitation produces a relative displacement between the fluid containment vessel and its support structure which comprise a spring/mass system. The displacement produces signal voltages in one or more attached sensors. The frequency and amplitude of the sensor signals vary in accordance with physical principles that relate the amplitude and the frequency of vibrations to the masses and spring constants of the spring/mass system. Alternatively, determination of the resonant frequency from measurements of the relative displacement of the vessel and its support structure vs. time using a positioning device can be used to determine the unknown mass. For a given mass of fluid the resulting amplitudes and resonant frequency modes are identical even if the fluid secondary properties are different.

Abstract: The invention, the Concentrated Solar Thermoelectric Power System, herein abbreviated as C-STEPS, is a thermo-optical system configuration for the purpose of achieving a high solar energy-to-electricity conversion efficiency based on thermoelectric (TE) devices that use the Seebeck effect. It does so by implementing a system for concentrated solar energy using a design that combines a dual-function reflector/radiator component with an active or passive heat convection mechanism to ensure that TE module operation is maintained in a safe elevated temperature range with respect to the ambient temperature. Unsafe module temperatures are avoided by automatically adjusting the TE module hot side temperature directly or indirectly by regulating the TE cold side temperature using a variety of passive or active mechanisms, including the reflector/radiator component, phase change material, or convection/conduction mechanisms.

Abstract: The basic physical principle of the Apparatus for Gauging Liquid or Solid Mass Contained in a Vessel and Method for Using Same (MAGA) is the detection of a resonant frequency vibration mode or modes associated with the spring/mass system comprising the vessel/fluid, vessel support structure, and physical supports, when an excitation source is present. The excitation produces a relative displacement between the fluid containment vessel and its support frame or other fixture to which it is fastened. The displacement produces a signal voltage in one or more of the sensors, such as strain gauge devices or accelerometers, which are attached to the fluid containment vessel, its physical supports, or the support structure, shell or frame. The frequency and amplitude of the sensor signal varies in accordance with known physical principles that relate the amplitude of vibration and the frequency of vibration to the masses and spring constants of the spring/mass system.

Abstract: The invention, the Concentrated Solar Thermoelectric Power System, herein abbreviated as C-STEPS, is a thermo-optical system configuration for the purpose of achieving a high solar energy-to-electricity conversion efficiency based on thermoelectric (TE) devices that use the Seebeck effect. It does so by implementing a system for concentrated solar energy using a design that combines a dual-function reflector/radiator component with an active or passive heat convection mechanism to ensure that TE module operation is maintained in a safe elevated temperature range with respect to the ambient temperature. Unsafe module temperatures are avoided by automatically adjusting the TE module hot side temperature directly or indirectly by regulating the TE cold side temperature using a variety of passive or active mechanisms, including the reflector/radiator component, phase change material, or convection/conduction mechanisms.