Abstract: A method of and apparatus for heating liquids such as water utilizing microwave energy is disclosed. A microwave fluid heater system comprising a microwave-transparent fluid conductor body is arranged in a microwave-reflective and heat-insulated chamber. The conductor body is provided with a plurality of passages through which the fluid to be heated flows. At least one microwave source is arranged in one wall of the microwave chamber to radiate the fluid conductor body so that fluid passing through the passages in the body is heated primarily by absorption of microwave energy. A water distribution system for a building is also disclosed in which a plurality of microwave fluid heaters are arranged at different locations, each heater being adapted to supply hot or cold water independently of the other heaters.

Abstract: A windmill installation adapted to extract energy from natural wind currents is disclosed wherein a plurality of individual wind wheel modules are stacked vertically in a tower-like structure and are interconnected with one another to operate in a unitary manner. Each module has a rotor assembly which is disengageable from the rotor assemblies of other modules without interrupting the generation of power from the installation. A rotatable windshield is provided about the rotor assembly for improving output efficiency of the wind wheel and protecting the rotor assembly from damage in the event of excessively high wind speeds. The angular position of the windshield is determined by an automatic control system responsive to wind speed and direction.

Abstract: A fluid current motor adapted to extract energy from flowing natural currents is disclosed wherein a wheel-like frame is rotatably mounted about a vertical axis. The frame is positioned over a flowing water current, such as a stream, river, or the like, and is provided with a plurality of radial arms or spokes each of which is fitted with an articulated knuckle intermediate its length. At the outer extremity of each spoke there is mounted a yoke which pivotally supports a fluid reaction blade journaled intermediate its height in its associated yoke. Each yoke and blade assembly is buoyantly supported on the surface of the water by a pair of pontoons which maintain the blade at the same depth relative to the water surface regardless of variations in the level of the flowing water current.

Abstract: A spring motor for providing motive power for vehicles, in particular automobiles, golf carts and the like, includes a plurality of interconnected spirally-wound spring power cells arranged in parallel relation in a supporting frame. Individual power cells are adapted to be wound in situ independently by manual means or collectively by motorized means.