Abstract: The present invention includes a device and method for more particularly evaluating the compaction of soil by automating the use of a prior art dynamic cone penetrometer such that user error and error caused by field conditions are eliminated. Recordation of penetrometer data previously not recorded is made more precise by the present invention such that standardized measurement results. The device further includes means for facilitating the determination of compaction of soils through keyhole openings and a means for automating the collection and processing of the generated compaction data.

Abstract: A heat actuated heat pumping apparatus and process having two working chambers to provide a Vuilleumier cycle for space conditioning. The working chamber volumes are in pressure communication with each other in the vicinity of intermediate thermal exchange means in each volume equalizing the pressure between the two working volumes with one module acting as the driver for the heat pumping action of the second module. Pressure communication may be maintained through a floating piston thereby providing two different intermediate heat rejection temperature levels resulting in a four temperature level Vuilleumier heat pump. The apparatus and process of this invention reduces mechanical complexity and improved thermal exchange in a heat pump system suitable for large air conditioning applications and hot water heating as well as small refrigeration and cryogenic applications.