Abstract: A fluid motor is disclosed which includes a rotor supported for rotation about a generally horizontal axis by a hollow shaft. The rotor defines a plurality of chambers circumferentially spaced apart relative to the axis. A relatively large area flow passage extends from the trailing wall portion of each chamber to a succeeding chamber to enable fluid flow between said chambers in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the rotor. A relatively dense working fluid partially occupies the rotor. Intake valving introduces a motive fluid into the rotor chambers disposed within a predetermined angular range relative to the axis so that the motive fluid displaces the working fluid from those chambers through associated respective flow passages and in so doing drives the rotor. Exhaust valving communicates with successive rotor chambers disposed in a second angular range relative to the axis for enabling motive fluid to exhaust from the chambers.

Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus for the conversion of thermal energy into mechanical motion. Transducers, such as nickel-titanium alloys, are employed which change their configuration and pliancy upon the application of stimulus such as heat. In the absence of a suitable stimulus, they are pliant and easily flexed. However, when stimulated they tend to assume a prederminable configuration and then become rigid. Apparatus utilizing these phenomena convert the energy of physical transformation into useful mechanical work.Several embodiments are described. In one, the transducer is belt shaped and drivingly connected to several pulleys. Heat stimulus is applied to the belt locally adjacent at least one of the pulleys. The resultant straightening forces, inherent in an alloy such as nickel-titanium, cause rotation of the belt and hence the pulleys. In another embodiment, the transducers are opposingly connected to a reciprocating member so as to produce reciprocating motion when selectively stimulated.

Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus for the conversion of thermal energy into mechanical motion. Transducers, such as nickel-titanium alloys, are employed which change their configuration and pliancy upon the application of stimulus such as heat. In the absence of a suitable stimulus, they are pliant and easily flexed. However, when stimulated they tend to assume a predeterminable configuration and then become rigid. Apparatus utilizing these phenomena convert the energy of physical transformation into useful mechanical work.Several embodiments are described. In one, the transducer is belt shaped and drivingly connected to several pulleys. Heat stimulus is applied to the belt locally adjacent at least one of the pulleys. The resultant straightening forces, inherent in an alloy such as nickel-titanium, cause rotation of the belt and hence the pulleys. In another embodiment, the transducers are opposingly connected to a swinging member so as to produce reciprocating motion when selectively stimulated.