Abstract: A pump uses the steam hammer effect to pump water from a reservoir into a control volume. Steam is injected into a water conduit extending between a liquid water reservoir and the control volume forms a liquid steam interface. Steam within the conduit condenses on the interface creating a region of partial vacuum. Water accelerates into the region of partial vacuum and is vented into the control volume, flow being controlled by a valve.

Abstract: A solar collector panel characterized by an integral base having a heat transfer liquid channel and weir at each end of a corrugated heat transfer surface. The channel and weir define a self-contained heat transfer liquid system which provides for the even distribution and collection of such liquid over and from the heat transfer surface.

Abstract: A structure for collecting solar energy and storing the same as heat in a body of water. An inclined southerly wall is provided with a solar absorption surface protected from convection losses by a transparent membrane overlaying the absorption surface. The absorption surface is also formed as a membrane which is wetted at its underside within the structure by water spray and as solar radiation is absorbed and converted to heat at the membrane, the water at the underside of the membrane is heated. This heated water drops from the membrane and flows to a reservoir.

Abstract: A caster has a horn of semi-circular configuration about an axle receiving apertured boss, a web extending radially outwardly from the boss to a semi-cylindrical flange and a pair of wheels, one on each side of the horn, the tread of the wheels being flush with the outer cylindrical surface of the flange. Hub shields are mounted on the wheels in such manner as to avoid load transmission to the shields, yet accommodating a variety of appearance features, ease of installation and reliable retention of the shields in place of the wheels.

Abstract: A caster assembly has a brake shoe member including a wheel tread contacting shoe, and a foot operable brake applying and release lever, the shoe member being guided horizontally, both longitudinally and laterally adjacent the wheel contacting shoe for positive shoe action in response to operation of the lever.