Abstract: This disposal unit comprises a means for applying a dissolvent to medical sharps, thereby converting the hazardous and possibly contaminated sharps into metallic ions existing in solution within the dissolvent. The dissolvent is absorbed in a perforatable pad and the sharp is plunged into the pad whereby the sharp makes contact with the dissolvent which effects its disposal. After the sharp has been dissolved, the syringe or handle for the sharp falls into an antiseptic solution and is disinfected. After disinfectation, a net facilitates removal of the residual plastic parts for recycling.

Abstract: A recuperating four-stroke internal combustion engine obtains improves Carnot efficiency by use of a new and novel cylinder head which captures thermal energy normally thrown away in the exhaust and re-introduces it to the working cycle. This result, long sought by others, has been achieved by incorporating within the head a compact internal recuperative heat exchanger in series with a combustion chamber or pre-chamber. A recuperator-protecting valve segregates the recuperator from hot combustion gases until the gases reach maximum expansion in the cylinder. Recuperators of both common-duct and seperated-duct design are described, the separated duct recuperator permitting higher recuperator temperature and increased efficiency and a reduction in the number of valves necessary to control gas flow. A preferred embodiment employs four valves per cylinder unit, a separated duct recuperator, and an insulating liner that surrounds both the combustion chamber and the recuperator.

Abstract: A rotary valve is disclosed suitable for replacement of poppet valves. The valve is temperature controlled through a combination of heat transfer techniques and means for reducing heat transfer between gas flows and the valve components. Assymetric geometry is used in the seals to reduce wear and friction, and a removable combustion chamber in the valve housing is used to facilitate fabrication, servicing and performances. A prototype of the valve was developed for a 30 cubic inch displacement four-stroke spark-ignition engine. The gas seals and lubricated parts of the rotary valve have been found to remain below 400 degrees Fahrenheit during test runs wherein the valve controlled gas flows and has maintained a brake mean effective pressure of 108 to 121 psi for periods of up to an hour. The valve uses pure rotation, and can be dynamically balanced for operation to the peak RPM permissible with reciprocating pistons. A four-stroke engine converted to rotary valving needs very few parts.

Abstract: A Recuperative Cycle tow-stroke internal combustion engine having an expander cylinder with an open combustion chamber in its working end and a separate compressor for injecting a compressed air charge into the chamber obtains improved Carnot efficiency by the containment of all its working components in a new and novel cylinder head. This head captures thermal energy normally thrown away in engine exhaust and transfers it advantageously back into the working cycle. The result, long sought by others, has been achieved by incorporating compactly within the head an internal exhaust heat recuperator or heat exchanger closely coupled with a combustion chamber open to the expansion cylinder. A recuperator-protecting valve isolates the recuperator from hot combustion gases until they have been cooled by full piston expansion and a catalytic convertor may be placed in an optimum temperature position within the recuperator chamber.

Abstract: This disposal unit comprises a means for applying a dissolvent to medical sharps, thereby converting the hazardous and possibly contaminated sharps into metallic ions existing in solution within the dissolvent. The dissolvent is absorbed in a perforatable pad and the sharp is plunged into the pad to effect its disposal. After the sharp has been dissolved, the syringe or handle for the sharp falls into an antiseptic solution and is disinfected. After disinfectation, a net facilitates removal of the residual plastic parts for recycling.

Abstract: This waste recycling processing mechanism combines in a self powered unit in a preferred embodiment on a vehicle apparatus that sorts and processes recyclable materials. In another embodiment, this processing mechanism is constructed as a transportable unit that is self contained for road, rail or marine delivery to government, military, industrial, commercial and public sites. This unit may be set up for stationary operation with cruise ships, cargo vessels, and military ships as well as passenger trains and aircraft. This processing mechanism reduces the volume of recyclable waste by factors as high as 20 or more into the most compact forms in separated bins, and is capable of yielding uncontaminated, market-ready recyclable products by operator or by automatic means. Operator safety and comfort with resultant increased efficiency are paramount considerations provided in all units.