Abstract:
Provided are a plurality of embodiments, including, but not limited to, a device for generating efficient low and high average power output Gamma Rays via relativistic particle bombardment of element targets using an efficient particle injector and accelerator at low and high average power levels suitable for element transmutation and power generation with an option for efficient remediation of radioisotope release into any environment. The devices utilize diamond or diamond-like carbon materials and active cooling for improved performance.
Abstract:
A device and method for providing electrical energy storage of high specific energy density. The device contains a plurality of layers of high dielectric constant material, such as Barium Titanate or Hexagonal Barium Titanate, sandwiched between electrode layers made up of a variety of possible conducting materials. The device includes additional insulating layers, such as Diamond Like Carbon Coating, between the electrodes that provide for very high breakdown voltages. Layers are created by a variety of methods and assembled to form the device that is the High Energy Density Storage Device.
Abstract:
An engine configuration that places multiple pistons on one or two oscillating discs. The engine can be configured to operate as an internal combustion engine that uses diesel fuel, gasoline, or natural gas, or it can be configured as an expander to convert high pressure high temperature gas to rotary power. For any given set of choices of numbers of pistons and sizes of pistons, disks, and gears, there are disclosed dimensional constraints useful for more efficient functioning of the engine. This engine is especially suited as a driver for electrical power generation as it delivers high torque at low engine speeds, among other uses. Its compact design results in high power to weight ratios.
Abstract:
The present invention provides an air cleansing system that removes the polluted air and controls the air temperature. This system may be optionally integrated with other systems including security, surveillance, smoke alarms and the like.
Abstract:
An electrothermal heater mat (3) is provided for an ice protection system for an aircraft (1) or the like. The heater mat (3) is a laminated heater mat and comprises dielectric layers (50-58), a heater element (501) and a temperature sensor (507). Each dielectric layer (50-58) comprises thermoplastic material, and the temperature sensor (507) comprises a sprayed metal track (5010, 5012) deposited on a substrate (50, 5019) comprising thermoplastic material. The substrate may be one of the dielectric layers (50) or a separate carrier (5019) which is smaller than the dielectric layers (50-58). The substrate (50, 5019) is laminated to at least a first one of the dielectric layers (53, 58) and the thermoplastic material of the substrate is (i) the same as the thermoplastic material of the first dielectric layer such that the thermoplastic material of the substrate is dispersed or merged into the thermoplastic material of the first dielectric layer or (ii) compatible with the thermoplastic material of the first dielectric layer such that the thermoplastic material of the substrate is fused to the thermoplastic material of the first dielectric layer. Thus, the formation of an undesirable discontinuity at the interface between the substrate (50, 5019) and the first dielectric layer (53, 58) is substantially prevented or minimised.
Abstract:
An electrothermal heater (2) for an ice protection system for an aircraft (1) or the like is provided with improved protection against lightning strikes. The heater (2) comprises a laminated heater mat (3) formed from dielectric layers (51-54) and a heater element (501). A first connector (41) has a first end (415) which is embedded in the heater mat (3) and is electrically connected to the heater element (501) and a second end which extends away from the heater mat for connection to a heater control unit (6). The heater mat (3) further includes first and second conductive ground planes (71, 72) and the first end (415) of the first connector (41) is positioned between the first and second ground planes so as to be shielded thereby and so as to reduce the current induced therein during a lightning strike.
Abstract:
An innovative device and method for providing a laser system utilizing high efficiency diode lasers and optionally the high quality beam characteristics of a crystal gain medium single mode laser by utilizing an optical and mechanical method of forming the beam and directing it to the desired target.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for operating a flashlamp laser by powering the flashlamp during a series of discrete pulses during an arbitrary time window provides a flashlamp having an extended lifetime. The arbitrary time window may be a time window during which a flashlamp would be continuously pulsed in conventional operation. The laser provides lasing action continuously during a time window during which the associated flashlamp is powered for only portions of the time window. The resulting lowered coulomb transfer rate per pulse and time window utilized produce an extended flashlamp lifetime.
Abstract:
A post and batten for fencing and other purposes which is provided with an opening (6) in one face (5) to facilitate locking engagement of a fastener (11) thereto. Also described a hand post driver to cushion shock during use. A standard driver comprises a post tube, cross-bars and handles, these elements forming a rigid frame. The present invention modifies this arrangement by mounting a cap (35) to the handles (34) and interposing coil springs (36) between the upper cross-bar (33) and the cap (35). A solid plug (37) is fixed in the end of post tube (32). There is no connection between the end of the tube (32) adjacent the cap (35) and the handles (34) are free to slide in top cross-bar (33). When the tube (32) is impacted on a post the post exerts pressure on the plug (37) and simultaneously the springs are extended cushioning the blow and then almost instantaneously the end of the tube (32) is impacted by the cap (35) providing supplementary downward force.
Abstract:
A clip fastener operated by finger pressure having an anchor portion (1) with a barb (3) which fits into the groove (8) of a winged post (6). The fastener is provided with a flange (2) which extends laterally of the anchor portion (1) and is spaced from the barb (3) such that the flange (2) is held firmly against the wings (7) of the post when the barb (3) engages the inner wall (9) of the post groove. The flange (2) serves to retain a fence wire, sign or other member which may be attached to a post.