Abstract: An energy conversion apparatus and method for the transfer and utilization of kinetic energy received by one or more natural kinetic energy receptors from one or more "natural kinetic energy source" such as for example solar energy, wind energy, water currents and tides, geothermal energy and the like, for powering one or more electricity generating devices. The "natural kinetic energy" is converted into fluid pressure by "receptor(s)" coupled with hydraulic fluid pressure pump(s). Back flow of fluid is prevented from flowing through the non-operating fluid pumps by check valve(s). The fluid pressure is used to operate one or more fluid pressure motors coupled with electricity generating unit(s). When first and second fluid pressure motors are used, means is provided for directing all of the fluid under pressure through the first pressure motor until it is operating at a desired speed before fluid pressure is permitted to operate the second pressure motor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the ce ntrifugal separation of a fluid having heavier and lighter fractions into a first portion having an increased concentration of the heavier fraction and a second portion having an increased concentration of the lighter fraction and discharging the first portion peripherally and the second portion more centrally and retaining fluid between the first and second portions in the apparatus for the centrifugal separation.

Abstract: Steam is generated by moving liquid into contact with a (pre-heated) heat retaining substance, typically metal. The heat retaining subtance is maintained at essentially a predetermined temperature by a heat responsive switch that electrically commences and terminates the combustion of fuel for heating the heat retaining substance. Fluid is moved into contact with the heat retaining substance in response to pressure changes in the apparatus so that the pressure within the apparatus is maintained at essentially a predetermined pressure. Superheated gas (steam) may or may not be formed in the process. An expanded surface area for heating the heat retaining substance is provided; an expanded surface area for heating fluid by the heat retaining substance is provided; and an expanded surface area for heating liquid by superheated gas, if present, is provided for generation of steam.

Abstract: A solid fuel laser disintegrator for the disintegration of solid fuel particles by laser beams in an environment consisting of a gaseous substance with insufficient oxygen to support combustion, typically principally nitrogen. The disintegration of fuel particles results in the production of minute flammable particles which disperse in nitrogen forming a flammable gaseous mixture. The device provides means for controlling the ratio of nitrogen and minute flammable particles dispersed in nitrogen. Optional means are provided for controlled mixing of oxygen with the mixture of nitrogen and minute flammable particles. The device is typically used in conjunction with a molecular air separator for separating air into its component parts, oxygen and nitrogen.

Abstract: A rapid response steam generator wherein steam pressure is generated by moving fluid in contact with preheated metal in a heat exchanger having vertical grooves surrounding a downwardly expanding central passage, the passage having an obturator urged upwardly for directing the fluid being heated into the vertical grooves. The obturator is movable downwardly for releasing excess pressure into the central passage. Liquid is stored in a cylindrical housing below said heat exchanger. Steam is discharged through upwardly directed discharge means in the cylindrical housing positioned below said heat exchanger. Liquid is stored in said cylindrical housing and is pumped to the said heat exchanger for steam generation. Superheated steam, if formed in said heat exchanger, passes through fiberous or particulate matter saturated with liquid in the cylindrical housing for generating additional steam.

Abstract: Provided is a steam generating system effective to rapidly and momentarily respond to a drop in steam pressure when utilized in connection with a steam-operated device. Super-heated steam is passed from a heating unit to a vaporization chamber in which a liquid-saturated cartridge is positioned and through which super-heated steam is passed. In addition, a heat storage and liquid supply means are provided above the cartridge whereby, upon a drop in pressure in the generating system, steam is rapidly raised to a desired, predetermined pressure. Steam in the system is recycled through a superheating chamber and is conveyed back into the vaporization chamber, this for a duration in which the steam pressure is below the set predetermined level. Control means are provided to regulate ratio of fuel, typically powdered fuel, and air, typically oxygen or oxygen-rich air. Also controlled is the rate of vaporization and the recirculation of steam in the heating unit.