Abstract: The method and associated apparatus for recovering fractions from hydrocarbon material, comprising the steps of generating electromagnetic energy generally in the frequency range of from about 300 megahertz to about 300 gigahertz, in accordance with the lossiness of the material, transmitting the generated electromagnetic energy to the hydrocarbon material, sensing the temperature of the hydrocarbon material, varying the electromagnetic energy in accordance with the sensed temperature, exposing the hydrocarbon material to the electromagnetic energy for a sufficient period of time to sequentially separate the hydrocarbon material into fractions, and removing the resulting fractions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reducing the viscosity of high viscosity material within a container. An electromagnetic enery source is mounted within a housing which is provided with a fixture that is configured to interconnect with the container of high viscosity material. A waveguide and a deflector are provided for directing the electromagnetic energy from the source to the container for heating the high viscosity material therein and reducing its viscosity.

Abstract: A sporting implement and more specifically, a racket. The racket has a frame connected to a handle and a tubular member disposed about the frame and handle. A liquid refrigerant located in the tubular member serves to dissipate heat generated by the user's hand. The tubular member has portions which define an evaporator and a condenser such that heat from the user's hand evaporates the refrigerant and the evaporated refrigerant travels to the condensing area where it changes back to a liquid state.

Abstract: A combined structural support and solar energy system with parallel joists having tubular upper chords defining conduits through which a fluid circulates for collection of solar energy and tubular lower chords defining conduits through which a fluid circulates for radiant heating and panel cooling.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling fluency of hydrocarbon fluids having a kinematic viscosity in the range of 350 seconds Saybolt Universal to 10,000 seconds Saybolt Universal at 100.degree. F. Electromagnetic waves generated by a power source are directed through a dielectric medium towards a contained hydrocarbon fluid of the foregoing type. The electromagnetic energy is converted into thermal energy within the hydrocarbon fluid for controlling its fluency.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling .Iadd.the .Iaddend.fluency of hydrocarbon fluids having a kinematic viscosity in the range of 350 seconds Saybolt Universal to 10,000 seconds Saybolt Universal at 100.degree. F. Electromagnetic waves generated by a power source are directed through a dielectric medium towards a contained hydrocarbon fluid of the foregoing type. The electromagnetic energy is converted into thermal energy within the hydrocarbon fluid for controlling its fluency. .Iadd.The hydrocarbon fluid whose fluency is to be controlled may be located within a geological substrate to which the electromagnetic energy is applied. .Iaddend.