Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to an improved kettle using conduction and convection, yielding improved boiling efficiency and methods of making the same. In one embodiment, a tea kettle comprises a handle, a spout, and a voluminous container having at least one passageway positioned about an outer surface of an inner containment wall of the voluminous container, for allowing a heated fluid to pass therethrough and conductively heat the inner containment wall. In another embodiment, a tea kettle comprises a voluminous container comprising an inner containment wall having a surface comprising a plurality of curves, and an outer wall having a surface comprising a plurality of curves, wherein at least one passageway is defined between an outer surface of the inner containment wall and an inner surface of the outer wall, for allowing a heated fluid to pass therethrough and conductively heat the inner containment wall.

Abstract: Organic polymer-based energy harvesting materials may be applied to any surface of a vehicle experiencing contortion, compression, mechanical stress and/or strain, and/or vibration during operation. An organic piezoelectric polymer film is applied to some or all of those parts of the vehicle that exhibit stress and/or strain associated with vehicle operation. Typical parts of the vehicle may include shocks, springs, control arms, and other points where one body or vehicle component is mounted to another, such as engine mounts or body mounts. A suitable rectifier may be coupled to the piezoelectric film to convert the AC signal generated by the piezoelectric film to a DC signal for use by the vehicle's onboard electrical system and/or a secondary electrical energy storage system (e.g., a battery).

Abstract: An ultrasonic fracking system and methods of using the same to extract hydrocarbons from underground geological formations (e.g., oil shale, coal beds, etc.) are disclosed. The system includes piezoelectric devices that are used to produce ultrasonic mechanical vibrations and induce fractures in the geological formations. In one embodiment, a system for extracting underground hydrocarbons comprises a plurality of piezoelectric devices capable of producing mechanical waves sufficient to fracture oil shale and other geological formations, a system of delivery for innocuous proppants to create a path of least resistance for enhanced hydrocarbon flow, and a vacuum pump connected to the fractures created by the piezoelectric devices to assist in removing the hydrocarbons.

Abstract: A system and methods for recycling lithium-containing battery materials are disclosed. More specifically, the system and method use a high energy ball mill for recrystallizing, reordering and/or reconstituting the lithium-ion containing battery material. In one embodiment, the system for recrystallizing the lithium-containing battery material restores it to its original state of functionality.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are generally related to a system for harvesting energy from surfaces upon which motor vehicles travel and methods thereof. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to a system and method for harvesting energy by utilizing piezoelectric devices embedded within a roadway or surface, capable of producing electrical power when traversed by a motor vehicle. In one embodiment of the present invention, a system for power harvesting comprises a plurality of piezoelectric devices capable of producing electrical power, a power conditioning unit connected to the piezoelectric devices, and electrical conductors, wherein electrical power is generated when a vehicle traverses over a surface having the plurality of piezoelectric devices therein.