Abstract: There is disclosed a rotary pump or engine or compressor or expander comprising a spherical cavity divided by a pivotable disc into two sections. First and second wedges are pivotally connected at opposed disc surfaces. One wedge may be driven causing the disc to pivot and rotate the second wedge covering and uncovering suitably positioned inlet and outlet ports for transferring fluid. Novel constructions to simplify manufacturing and improve sealing are described. Other features include a transparent housing part, altering the angle between input and output shafts to vary the displacement and output, and a combined compressor-expander interconnected by a Cardan joint to reduce vibration.

Abstract: There is disclosed a rotary pump or engine or compressor or expander comprising a spherical cavity divided by a pivotable disc into two sections. First and second wedges are pivotally connected at opposed disc surfaces. One wedge may be driven causing the disc to pivot and rotate the second wedge covering and uncovering suitably positioned inlet and outlet ports for transferring fluid. Novel constructions to simplify manufacturing and improve sealing are described.

Abstract: An optical sensor for sensing the radial position of a shaft. Detection of radial movement is made when a larger or smaller portion of a light beam incident on the shaft is blocked. In order to obtain a light beam of small diameter a laser light source or fiber optic system may be used. To provide long term stability the shaft is provided with a flat or with groove that is machined around its periphery to pass the entire light beam to a detector. This signal provides AGC compensation for the light source, detector and optical system.