Abstract: Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) reforming converts carbonaceous compounds into a fuel for use in generating electrical power. Energy rich hydrocarbon fuels, such as coal, marine diesel, oils, and hydrocarbon wastes are employed as a feedstock for the ICP, which transforms the feedstock into a fuel that can be used by fuel cells and gas turbines for the production of electricity. The overall efficiency of an ICP-based electrical power system can be increased by providing partial oxidation within the reaction vessel. The partial oxidation conditions consume a small amount of the reformed fuel gas, thereby liberating sufficient thermal energy to reduce the electrical power requirements of the ICP to maintain desired reactor temperatures, and providing an increase in the overall net electrical power production. The integrated power production system can also adjust to meet an increased requirement for process heat and steam by balancing the effect of partial oxidation.

Abstract: Coal and other mineral seams are uncovered of overburden to a predetermined width by blast casting a portion of the overburden into an adjacent spoil pit followed by fragmentation blasting of the remaining width of the overburden panel. A dragline excavator is moved at least partially onto the fragmented overburden for excavating a keycut portion together with excavation to level the bench for an adjacent overburden panel and placement of the material on a temporary spoil pile.

Abstract: A visual simulation system in combination with a radar simulation system may be used for generating full radar or synthetic aperture radar (SAR) radar images from a common data base that are correlated to video images of the visual system while facilitating radar image processing. The combination of visual and radar simulation systems in accordance with the present invention obviates the need for a separate stand-alone radar processor and dedicated radar data base. Simulated electronic tactical map data may also be provided.