Abstract: A fluid/vacuum chamber (FVC) is disclosed comprising a rigid porous membrane element wherein a vacuum is applied to one side of the porous element and a fluid is passed along the other side of the porous element to remove the heat of vaporization via the pressure differential. This chamber is useful as to reduce energy consumption in a desalination unit, a heat pump, an ice-making system and refrigeration systems. The porous material may be constructed of sintered brass, sintered stainless steel, polymeric plastic, a paper filter element, etc. in order to provide porous openings, of about 5 to about 100 microns. Also disclosed is the use of a fluid/vacuum chamber (FVC) in a heating cycle or cooling cycle. A compressor or vacuum pump normally provides the vacuum suction for the fluid/vacuum chamber (FVC).

Abstract: A composite aluminum wheel for use with an inflatable tire on vehicles such as automobiles, vans, trucks and the like is disclosed in which a cast aluminum insert is permanently and integrally mounted within a base aluminum wheel to form a composite structure. The cast aluminum insert is mounted into the aluminum base wheel so as to prohibit axial movement thereof by means such as swage-forging or the like. The cast aluminum insert allows almost unlimited styling variations for the face of the composite wheel and adds structural strength to the aluminum base wheel such that weight reduction from the rim area of the aluminum base wheel can be accomplished.