Abstract: A vortex hydroturbine includes a tank to be filled with a liquid, such as water. At least one turbine is driven exclusively by flowing water to circulate the liquid within the tank and produce a vortex. A central turbine is driven by the circulating liquid and an electric generator is driven by the central turbine for producing electricity to be supplied to a load. A method for operating a vortex hydroturbine is also provided.

Abstract: A vortex hydroturbine includes a tank to be filled with a liquid, such as water. At least one turbine circulates the liquid within the tank and produces a vortex. A central turbine is driven by the circulating liquid and an electric generator is driven by the central turbine for producing electricity to be supplied to a load. A method for operating a vortex hydroturbine is also provided.

Abstract: A germ trapping device is constructed for preventing germs from spreading due to coughing or sneezing. The germ trapping device includes a receptacle having a closed position and an open position. The receptacle is made of a material hindering liquid from passing through the receptacle. The receptacle has an interior with a germicide. The receptacle has a plurality of biasing members biasing the front wall and the rear wall of the receptacle toward each other such that the receptacle is normally in the closed position. The method of using the device includes applying a force to the biasing members to move the front wall and the rear wall apart and to place the receptacle in the open position. When the receptacle in the open position, a person can sneeze or cough into the receptacle of the germ trapping device to prevent germs from spreading.