abstract |
A filtering apparatus with a Body Force Generating Apparatus (BFGA) facilitates diffusion of objects of interest from a first reservoir to a second reservoir. The BFGA applies a body force per unit mass on objects of interest, such as air molecules, water molecules, dust particles, ions, electrons, and other types of elementary particles or constituent parts within a medium. The force field generated by the BFGA gives rise to a spatially varying potential field having a spatial or temporal gradient that is sufficiently strong at at least one location in space or instant in time such that objects of interest experience a departure from normal statistical behavior within that field. This can be employed to increase the pressure of objects of interest in a second reservoir relative to a first reservoir. A pressure modification apparatus and method can convert thermal energy into useful energy, such as mechanical work or electricity. |