Abstract: A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell generator, a rechargeable energy storage circuit, an auxiliary load, a converter circuit, and a switch circuit. The fuel cell generator is operable to generate electrical power in a stack output signal. The auxiliary load is powered by the rechargeable energy storage circuit while in a first mode, and powered by a local signal while in a second mode. The converter circuit is operable to convert the stack output signal into a plurality of recharge signals while in the first mode and in the second mode, and convert the stack output signal into the local signal while in the second mode. The switch circuit is operable switch the plurality of recharge signals to one or more electric vehicles, and switch the local signal to the auxiliary load while in the second mode.

Abstract: Synthetic drumsticks for musical purposes and methods for making them. The present drumsticks are characterized by having a microcellular foamed structure. The preferred method comprises injection molding of thermoplastic materials that are saturated with gasses, particularly in their supercritical phase. The products of the injection molding process are drumsticks formed to final dimensions and ready for use. The foamed materials are preferably made from filled resins. The formation of micron-scale gas cells during the molding process yields formed drumsticks that are similar to woods or better, in feel and durability. The products of the invention further have advantages of durability, recycleability, exact matching of properties (reproducibility of manufacture), improved shock absorption, and “livelier” rebound from the drumhead thus preventing forearm fatigue in the user. The present drumsticks also provide a better/sharper “ring”, than wooden drumsticks, when used on cymbals.

Abstract: Synthetic drumsticks for musical purposes and methods for making them. The present drumsticks are characterized by having a microcellular foamed structure. The preferred method comprises injection molding of thermoplastic materials that are saturated with gasses, particularly in their supercritical phase. The products of the injection molding process are drumsticks formed to final dimensions and ready for use. The foamed materials are preferably made from filled resins. The formation of micron-scale gas cells during the molding process yields formed drumsticks that are similar to woods or better, in feel and durability. The products of the invention further have advantages of durability, recycleability, exact matching of properties (reproducibility of manufacture), improved shock absorption, and “livelier” rebound from the drumhead thus preventing forearm fatigue in the user. The present drumsticks also provide a better/sharper “ring”, than wooden drumsticks, when used on cymbals.