Nutating disc engine

**Nutating Disc Engine Operation**:
– Core of the engine is a nutating non-rotating disc on a Z-shaped shaft.
– Disc nutates, with ends of shaft rotating, describing a portion of a sphere.
– Compressed air goes to an accumulator and then an external combustion chamber.
– Benefits from overlap of power strokes.

**Patents, Production History, and Innovations**:
– U.S. patent 5,251,594 granted to Leonard Meyer in 1993.
– Meyer Nutating Engine has higher power density than piston engines.
– Prototype shows power-to-weight ratio comparable to current engines.
– Potential power-to-weight ratio of 1.6hp/lb or 2.7kW/kg for UAV applications.
– Nutating engine operates without complex linkages.
– Seal velocities are lower compared to IC piston engines.
– Disc lobes can be configured for different compression and expansion volumes.
– Meyer engine operates on various fuels, including gasoline and hydrogen.

**Historical Development**:
– **Dakeyne hydraulic disc engine** by Dakeyne brothers in the 1820s, generating 35 horsepower.
– **Davies and Taylor** patented steam-powered disc engines in 1836, with engines ranging from 5 to 30 horsepower.
– Birmingham Patent Disc Engine company formed in 1839.
– Bishopp’s engine design reverted to Dakeyne’s original concept.

**Potential Applications and Advantages**:
– Nutating engine suitable for unmanned aerial vehicle propulsion.
– External combustion chamber allows the use of diesel fuel in small engine sizes.
– Unique capabilities for compact engine designs.
– Potential for power-to-weight ratio improvements in automotive and aerospace applications.
– Hydrogen-powered versions offer cleaner operation and high power output.
– Disc engines offer advantages of rotary steam engines without inconveniences, are more fuel-efficient, and capable of higher RPM without gearing.

**Nutating Disc Meter and Water Meters**:
– Nutating disc meters are widely used flow meters globally.
– More than half of water meters in the US and Europe are of this type.
– Nutating disc meters have been in use for over 150 years, essentially Dakeyne Disc Engines.
– Developed by Farey and Donkin, manufactured by Buffalo Meter Company.
– Widely used in domestic premises in the US and Europe.