Abstract: Systems and methods for converting aquatic plants to liquid methane are disclosed. A representative system includes an aquatic plant cultivator, an anaerobic digester operatively coupled to the aquatic plant cultivator to receive aquatic plants and produce biogas, and a biogas converter coupled to the anaerobic digester to receive the biogas and produce liquefied methane and thermal energy, at least a portion of the thermal energy resulting from a methane liquefaction process. The system can further include a thermal path between the biogas converter and at least one of the aquatic plant cultivator and the anaerobic digester. A controller can be coupled to the biogas converter and the aquatic plant cultivator and/or the anaerobic digester. The controller can be programmed with instructions that, when executed (e.g., based on measured variables of the system), direct the portion of thermal energy between the biogas converter and the aquatic plant cultivator and/or anaerobic digester.

Abstract: A system and method for an automated improvised explosive device training is disclosed. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the system utilizes an IED mock-up that embeds a processor and wireless modem. A separate processor and wireless modem is embedded in a trainee unit. A wireless network interface is provided, allowing for communication between the IED and trainee processors. Upon a simulated detonation, the IED processor queries each trainee unit for their current position using a wireless local area network message. The IED processor is configured to determine distance differentiation and casualty assessment data based on received signal strength of exchanged wireless messages or GPS coordinates. The trainee processor is configured to automatically signal casualty status to the trainee based on casualty assessment data.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for providing light, which can be used to promote growth of biological material. The light includes a ceramic core, including a catalyst and a containment vessel. Light forms as fuel is ignited within the containment vessel. Use of the ceramic core increases the efficiency of the light are reduces undesired gas emissions from the light.

Abstract: Systems and methods for converting algae to liquid methane are disclosed. The system in accordance with a particular embodiment includes an algae cultivator, an anaerobic digester operatively coupled to the algae cultivator to receive algae and produce biogas, and a biogas converter coupled to the anaerobic digester to receive the biogas and produce liquefied methane and thermal energy, at least a portion of the thermal energy resulting from a methane liquefaction process. The system can further include a thermal path between the biogas converter and at least one of the algae cultivator and the anaerobic digester. The system can still further include a controller coupled to the biogas converter and at least one of the algae cultivator and the anaerobic digester. The controller can be programmed with instructions that, when executed (e.g., based on measured variables of the system), direct the portion of thermal energy between the biogas converter and the algae cultivator and/or anaerobic digester.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for providing light, which can be used to promote growth of biological material. The light includes a ceramic core, including a catalyst and a containment vessel. Light forms as fuel is ignited within the containment vessel. Use of the ceramic core increases the efficiency of the light are reduces undesired gas emissions from the light.

Abstract: A method (92) of supporting a solar energy collection unit (22, 54, 76) of a solar energy system (20, 52, 78) calls for redistributing (96) earth at a worksite (26) to form an elevated earthen structure (24) having a sun facing surface (28), compacting (102) the earthen structure (24), and arranging (106) the solar energy collection unit (22, 54, 76) upon the sun facing surface (28) of the earthen structure (24). The earthen structure (24) may include internal strengthening material (32) detached from the energy collection unit (22, 54, 76) and the earthen structure (24) may be encased in a binder material (34) for additional stability. Channels (48, 50) may be provided proximate the earthen structure (24) for fluid supply and release functions.

Abstract: An angled rack for supporting footwear includes a plurality of angled brackets securable with conventional fasteners to a vertical wall or door. Each of the angled brackets define a plurality of apertures therethrough which cooperate and support a corresponding plurality of elongated cylindrical rods. The rods pass through the apertures formed in the brackets to provide a supporting platform or footwear or the like. The angled disposition of the brackets and the resulting angled disposition of cylindrical rods provides a convenient stable surface for footwear to rest upon.