Abstract: An apparatus and method for using same for extracting energy from waves, including near-shore waves by imparting momentum to an energy roller or energy car. The energy roller or car is moved along a flexible floating belt by the action of waves on the shape of the flexible floating belt. The invention also provides for a hydrodynamically shaped float to be driven along a rigid floating structure by the action of a wave at the rear of the float.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for better sealing a piston to its cylinder, to effectively eliminate efficiency loss due to leakage of the high-temperature, high pressure driving gas around the edges of the piston. An elastomeric seal is located so as to seal the piston and cylinder combination at a minimum sufficient distance from the combustion chamber to prevent heat damage to the seal material by conduction of heat through the piston or cylinder material.

Abstract: Apparatus and process for use in converting the energy of ocean waves to useful power form wherein two floats supporting a rigid structure are spaced apart to maximize the end movement of said rigid structure, and an energy extraction device preferably of the cylinder and piston type is operated by the movement of the end of said structure producing movements of four times the wave height when the two floats are spaced one-half the wave length of the wave and the energy conversion device is spaced further away from said floats by a similar amount.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for protecting a relatively low temperature rated pressure seal from a relatively high temperature gas residing between a cylinder head and its associated piston. A low temperature rated pressure seal as for example an elastomeric seal is protected from high temperature gas in a heat engine, potentially in excess of 2,000.degree. F. (1093.degree. C.) by the use of an intermediary fluid that is trapped in a reservoir in the head of the cylinder said seal being maintained in a liquid fashion by a skirt extension from the head of the piston into the reservoir holding the described liquid, the intermediary liquid also being in contact with the elastomeric seal in the space between the piston and the cylinder.

Abstract: A heliostatic solar energy conversion system in which a plurality of multi-faceted heliostats are supported on one or more platforms that move in a segment of a circular path about a central receiver as a center. The heliostats are mounted in frames that pivot on the platform on an edge of each heliostat. In one embodiment the platforms are supported in a concave spherical depression in the ground. The heliostats of the invention are constructed with a plurality of intersecting beams and stringers, and the stringers are formed with parabolic flanges which support the facets so that the angle of incidence between the sun and the focal point of the central receiver is generally in the center of each facet. A vernier adjustment is provided for each heliostat.

Abstract: A system and method for converting the energy of sea waves to useful power through the use of a buoyant float. This float is preloaded (i.e. submerged a predetermined distance beneath the level of a wave trough) and retained at that submerged elevation until such time as it is located beneath a wave crest. The float is then released from beneath the crest to rise through it and the flotational motion is converted to power. The system also provides for an upwardly directed preloading technique and combined systems wherein work is removed in both vertical movement of the float. Unusual gains in efficiency are achieved by this method and system.