Abstract: A method of insulating a substrate from repeated thermal transients and/or thermal impulses applied thereto by proximately absorbing and storing the thermal transients and/or thermal impulses for subsequent removal by radiation. According to the method, a coating is placed in energy absorbing contacting relation with the substrate. The coating includes a base material and a plurality of microcapsules dispersed within the base material. The microcapsules may be dispersed throughout the base material and may be submerged therein so that they are substantially spaced apart from one another. The microcapsules contain a thermal energy absorbing material, for example, a phase change material such a paraffinic hydrocarbons or alternatively, plastic crystals. Articles of manufacture may be produced according to the present invention which employ the above described coating.

Abstract: A thermal shield comprising first and second substantially flat flame resistant covering layers adapted to overlie each other. A thermal energy absorbing material is positioned between the respective layers in sandwich fashion. The thermal energy absorbing material may comprise a phase change material in bulk, micro or macro encapsulated and which may further be embedded within a base material to provide enhanced thermal protection.

Abstract: A percussive aid provides percussive force to aid in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis and other pulmonary blockage diseases. The device includes a frame with a pair of reciprocating arms mounted thereto at one of their ends. The other end of the arms mount impactor cups. A spring is associated with each of the cups. A drive mechanism is carried by the frame and moves the arms through a predetermined path of travel from a first uncocked position to a second cocked position of maximum deflection wherein the spring is placed in tension when the arm is tripped.

Abstract: A method of using microencapsulated thermal conducting absorbing materials to cool heat sources is disclosed. Also disclosed are microcapsules containing a thermal energy conducting material. According to the method, these materials may be used alone or as a mixture and may be employed as a powder or incorporated into a hardenable matrix such as an epoxy resin.

Abstract: A quick disconnect heat exchanger is disclosed wherein male and corresponding female members are adapted to be slidably interconnected. Each of the respective male and female members includes a discrete fluid flow so that fluids are not mixed during heat exchange and the coupler may be disconnected without fluid loss or mixing.

Abstract: A method of obtaining enhanced thermal energy between a material forming apparatus and a cooling fluid is disclosed. A two component heat transfer fluid of the type including a carrier fluid and a plurality of discrete particles that undergo a reversible latent energy transition upon the transfer of thermal energy thereto. The temperature of the particles is adjusted (heated or cooled as necessary) to the point of the beginning of latent energy transition of the particles. The fluid is then brought into contact with a heat source such as a metal forming apparatus and a workpiece, proximate the interface therebetween. The slurry may then be collected, adjusted to the point of the beginning of latent energy transition and re-circulated to the heat source.

Abstract: A method of obtaining enhanced heat transfer in a closed loop thermodynamic system is disclosed. A two-component heat transfer fluid comprising a carrier fluid and a plurality of discrete reversible latent energy transition material particles. The fluid slurry is circulated about the loop and the loop is tuned so that a minimum temperature differential exists between the thermal source and sink in order to maximize the latent heat transport by adjustment of the heat transfer fluid flow rate, the rate of thermal energy input into the heat transfer fluid and the rate of cooling of heat transfer fluid.

Abstract: The invention relates to a thermal energy storage apparatus wherein a housing defines a chamber and wherein inlet and outlet means communicate with the chamber. A channelling means is positioned within the chamber for dividing the flow stream of a heat exchange fluid into a plurality of separate flow streams and for directing the heat exchange fluid to flow therethrough. Positioned within the channelling means is means for storing and releasing the thermal energy by heat transfer to and from the exchange fluid as the fluid passes in contacting relation with the thermal energy storing and releasing means as the fluid passes through the housing.