Heatronic valves

Claim 2

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; and capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein one of the phase change regions further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the other phase change region; and wherein said regional areas of phase change are spaced apart by less than 0.1 inch.

Claim 3

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits tHe chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; and capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein one of the phase change regions further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a first multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the other change region; and a second multiplicity of passages spaced relatively less closely together than the first multiplicity of passages and in vapor communication between the first multiplicity of passages and the other phase change region.

Claim 4

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits tHe chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; and capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein one of the phase change regions further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a first multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the other change region; and a second multiplicity of passages spaced relatively less closely together than the first multiplicity of passages and in vapor communication between the first multiplicity of passages and the other phase change region.

Claim 5

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; and capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein one of the phase change regions further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the other phase change region; and wherein said body of capillary material further comprises: a first volumetric portion relatively nearer the regional areas of phase change and having a relatively higher thermal conductivity; and a second volumetric portion relatively further from the regional areas of phase change and having a relatively lower thermal conductivity.

Claim 6

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; and capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein one of the phase change regions further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the other phase change region; and wherein said body of capillary material further comprises: a first volumetric portion relatively nearer the regional areas of phase change and having a relatively higher thermal conductivity; and a second volumetric portion relatively further from the regional areas of phase change and having a relatively lower thermal conductivity.

Claim 7

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow Of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; and capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein one of the phase change regions further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the other phase change region; and wherein said body of capillary material further comprises: a first volumetric portion relatively nearer the regional areas of phase change and having a relatively larger capillary surface per volume ratio delta ; and a second volumetric portion relatively further from the regional areas of phase change and having a relatively smaller capillary surface per volume ratio delta .

Claim 8

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow Of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; and capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein one of the phase change regions further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the other phase change region; and wherein said body of capillary material further comprises: a first volumetric portion relatively nearer the regional areas of phase change and having a relatively larger capillary surface per volume ratio delta ; and a second volumetric portion relatively further from the regional areas of phase change and having a relatively smaller capillary surface per volume ratio delta .

Claim 9

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein the first and second phase change regions are arrayed substantially on planes parallel to each other.

Claim 10

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein the first and second phase change regions are arrayed substantially on planes parallel to each other.

Claim 11

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of condensation comprising surface portions of the capillary material; and wherein the heat of condeNsation is conducted through the capillary material from the regional areas of condensation to the chamber boundary through which heat exits; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of condensation and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein vaporization takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for restricting the access of the heat transfer vapor to the second phase change region comprising additional heat transfer fluid in excess of the amount necessary for full heat conduction and means for regulating the quantity of the additional heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 12

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of condensation comprising surface portions of the capillary material; and wherein the heat of condeNsation is conducted through the capillary material from the regional areas of condensation to the chamber boundary through which heat exits; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of condensation and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein vaporization takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for restricting the access of the heat transfer vapor to the second phase change region comprising additional heat transfer fluid in excess of the amount necessary for full heat conduction and means for regulating the quantity of the additional heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 13

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for restricting the access of the heat transfer vapor to the second phase change region comprising additional heat transfer fluid in excess of the amount necessary for full heat conduction and means for regulating the quantity of the additional heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 14

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for restricting the access of the heat transfer vapor to the second phase change region comprising additional heat transfer fluid in excess of the amount necessary for full heat conduction and means for regulating the quantity of the additional heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 15

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary maTerial between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein a multiplicity of said vapor passages are embedded substantially into the capillary material; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for restricting the access of the heat transfer vapor to the second phase change region comprising additional heat transfer fluid in excess of the amount necessary for full heat conduction and means for regulating the quantity of the additional heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 16

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary maTerial between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein a multiplicity of said vapor passages are embedded substantially into the capillary material; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for restricting the access of the heat transfer vapor to the second phase change region comprising additional heat transfer fluid in excess of the amount necessary for full heat conduction and means for regulating the quantity of the additional heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 17

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication through capillary material with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for restricting the access of the heat transfer vapor to the second phase change region comprising additional heat transfer fluid in excess of the amount necessary for full heat conduction and means for regulating the quantity of the additional heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 18

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication through capillary material with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for restricting the access of the heat transfer vapor to the second phase change region comprising additional heat transfer fluid in excess of the amount necessary for full heat conduction and means for regulating the quantity of the additional heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 19

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comPrising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for restricting the access of the heat transfer vapor to the second phase change region comprising additional heat transfer fluid in excess of the amount necessary for full heat conduction and means for regulating the quantity of the additional heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprising: a reservoir portion of the chamber; and means for varying pressure in the reservoir portion of the chamber.

Claim 20

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comPrising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for restricting the access of the heat transfer vapor to the second phase change region comprising additional heat transfer fluid in excess of the amount necessary for full heat conduction and means for regulating the quantity of the additional heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprising: a reservoir portion of the chamber; and means for varying pressure in the reservoir portion of the chamber.

Claim 21

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 10 wherein the means for varying pressure in the reservoir portion of the chamber comprises means to vary the volume of the reservoir portion of the chamber.

Claim 22

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is varporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; and capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means to regulate the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprising: a fluid reservoir portion of the chamber; and wherein the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber is regulated by regulating the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the reservoir portion of the chamber that is in the vapor state so as to displace a variable amount of heat transfer liquid from the reservoir portion to the heat transfer portion.

Claim 23

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is varporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; and capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means to regulate the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprising: a fluid reservoir portion of the chamber; and wherein the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber is regulated by regulating the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the reservoir portion of the chamber that is in the vapor state so as to displace a variable amount of heat transfer liquid from the reservoir portion to the heat transfer portion.

Claim 24

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting Vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises: a reservoir portion of the chamber; means for regulating pressure in the reservoir portion of the chamber; and means for conducting the liquid from the reservoir portion of the chamber into contact with the body of capillary material in the heat transfer portion of the chamber without substantial vaporization of the liquid being so conducted.

Claim 25

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting Vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises: a reservoir portion of the chamber; means for regulating pressure in the reservoir portion of the chamber; and means for conducting the liquid from the reservoir portion of the chamber into contact with the body of capillary material in the heat transfer portion of the chamber without substantial vaporization of the liquid being so conducted.

Claim 26

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 13 wherein the means for conducting the liquid from the reservoir portion of the chamber into contact with the capillary material in the heat transfer portion of the chamber without substantial vaporization of the liquid being so conducted comprises a passage from the reservoir portion of the chamber to a region in the heat transfer portion of the chamber adjacent a portion of the capillary material which is in thermal contact with a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber.

Claim 27

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 13 wherein the means for conducting the liquid from the reservoir portion of the chamber into contact with the capillary material in the heat transfer portion of the chamber without substantial vaporization of the liquid being so conducted comprises a passage from the reservoir portion of the chamber to a region in the heat transfer portion of the chamber surrounded by a portion of the capillary material which is in thermal contact with a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber.

Claim 28

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regioNal areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for reducing the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber below that necessary for full heat conduction comprising means for withdrawing heat transfer liquid held in the capillary spaces of the capillary material by capillary forces from the capillary material without vaporizing said liquid in the course of withdrawal.

Claim 29

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regioNal areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for reducing the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber below that necessary for full heat conduction comprising means for withdrawing heat transfer liquid held in the capillary spaces of the capillary material by capillary forces from the capillary material without vaporizing said liquid in the course of withdrawal.

Claim 30

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 16 wherein the means for withdrawing heat transfer liquid held in the capillary spaces of the capillary material without vaporizing said liquid in the course of withdrawal comprises: a reservoir portion of the chamber; and means for lowering the pressure in the reservoir portion of the chamber sufficiently lower than the pressure in the heat transfer portion that the pressure difference between them is sufficient to drive liquid from the capillary spaces in the capillary material into the reservoir portion of the chamber.

Claim 31

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 17 wherein the means for lowering the pressure in the reservoir portion of the chamber includes means for preventing vapor from flowing between the heat transfer and reservoir portions of the chamber while allowing heat transfer liquid to flow therebetween.

Claim 32

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and the chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises: a reservoir portion of the chamber; means for regulating the pressure in the reservoir portion of the chamber; and means for preventing vapor from flowing between the heat transfer portion of the chamber and the reservoir portion of the chamber while allowing the heat transfer liquid to flow therebetween.

Claim 33

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and the chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises: a reservoir portion of the chamber; means for regulating the pressure in the reservoir portion of the chamber; and means for preventing vapor from flowing between the heat transfer portion of the chamber and the reservoir portion of the chamber while allowing the heat transfer liquid to flow therebetween.

Claim 34

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 19 wherein the means for preventing vapor from flowing between the heat transfer portion of the chamber and the reservoir portion of the chamber while allowing the heat transfer liquid to flow therebetween comprises a barrier of capillary material wetted by the heat transfer liquid and placed to form a barrier to vapor flow between the reseRvoir and heat transfer portions of the chamber while allowing the heat transfer liquid to flow therebetween through the capillary spaces of the barrier.

Claim 35

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises: a reservoir portion of the chamber; a second fluid, liquid of the second fluid being in the reservoir portion of the chamber; means for regulating the pressure in the reservoir portion of the chamber; and means for preventing vapor from flowing from the reservoir portion towards the heat transfer portion while allowing the liquid of the second fluid to so flow from the reservoir.

Claim 36

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises: a reservoir portion of the chamber; a second fluid, liquid of the second fluid being in the reservoir portion of the chamber; means for regulating the pressure in the reservoir portion of the chamber; and means for preventing vapor from flowing from the reservoir portion towards the heat transfer portion while allowing the liquid of the second fluid to so flow from the reservoir.

Claim 37

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means to control the quantity of the heat transfer fluid in the heat tranSfer portion of the chamber comprising: a fluid reservoir portion of the chamber having a variable volume; and means for controlling the volume of said fluid reservoir portion.

Claim 38

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means to control the quantity of the heat transfer fluid in the heat tranSfer portion of the chamber comprising: a fluid reservoir portion of the chamber having a variable volume; and means for controlling the volume of said fluid reservoir portion.

Claim 39

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 22 wherein said one phase change region comprises the vaporization phase change region.

Claim 40

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 22 wherein said one phase change region comprises the condensation phase change region.

Claim 41

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises: a second fluid; and means for varying the volume of the second fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 42

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises: a second fluid; and means for varying the volume of the second fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 43

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 25 wherein the second fluid comprises a gas which does not condense during normal operation.

Claim 44

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 26 further comprising a reservoir portion of the chamber and wherein the gas is contained within the chamber boundaries.

Claim 45

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 25 further comprising a reservoir portion of the chamber and wherein the second fluid is retained in part as a liquid in the reservoir portion of the chamber.

Claim 46

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 28 wherein the means for varying the volume of the second fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprises means for vaporizing liquid of the second fluid in the reservoir portion of the chamber.

Claim 47

A variable heat transfer device as defined in claim 28 wherein the means for varying the volume of the second fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprises: means for displacing the second liquid from the reservoir portion of the chamber; and means for vaporizing the displaced second liquid after it leaves the reservoir portion.

Claim 48

A variable heat transfer device as defined in claim 28 wherein the means for varying the volume of the second fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprises means for varying the volume of the reservoir portion of the chamber.

Claim 49

A variable heat transfer device as defined in claim 28 wherein the means for varying the volume of the second fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprises means for displacing the second liquid from the reserVoir portion of the chamber into the heat transfer portion of the chamber by varying the vapor pressure within the reservoir portion of the chamber.

Claim 50

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for varying the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprising: a reservoir portion of the chamber containing some heat transfer liquid; a second fluid; means for varying the pressure of the second fluid; and means for the pressure of the second fluid to influence the distribution of the heat transfer fluid between the reservoir portion and the heat transfer portion of the chamber by effecting transfer of heat transfer liquid between the reservoir portion of the chamber and the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 51

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for varying the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprising: a reservoir portion of the chamber containing some heat transfer liquid; a second fluid; means for varying the pressure of the second fluid; and means for the pressure of the second fluid to influence the distribution of the heat transfer fluid between the reservoir portion and the heat transfer portion of the chamber by effecting transfer of heat transfer liquid between the reservoir portion of the chamber and the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 52

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 33 wherein at aleast a portion of the second fluid is contained in the reservoir portion of the chamber and wherein the means for the pressure of the second fluid to influence the distribution of the heat transfer fluid comprises direct pressurization of the reservoir portion and the heat transfer fluid therein by the second liquid in the reservoir portion.

Claim 53

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 34 wherein a portion of the second fluid contained in the reservoir portion of the chamber is in the liquid state and wherein the means for varying pressure comprises means for varying the vapor pressure of the second fluid including means for varying the temperature of at least a portion of the second fluid in the liquid state within the reservoir portion of the chamber.

Claim 54

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 33 wherein the second fluid is isolated from direct contact with the heat transfer fluid and wherein the means for the varying pressure of the second fluid to influence the distribution of the heat transfer fluid comprises means for varying the volume of the reservoir portion of the chamber in response to pressure of the second fluid.

Claim 55

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 33 wherein the means for varying the pressure of the second fluid comprises means for varying the temperature of at least a portion of the second fluid in the liquid state, whereby the vapor pressure of the second fluid is varied.

Claim 56

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for varying the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprising: a reservoir portion of the chamber containing some heat transfer liquid; a second fluid; and means for regulating the pressure of the second fluid; and means for the pressure of the second fluid to influence the distribution of the heat transfer fluid between the reservoir portion and the heat transfer portion of the chamber by effecting transfer of heat transfer liquid between the reservoir portion of the chamber and the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 57

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein said means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle comprises means for varying the quantity of heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer portion of the chamber comprising: a reservoir portion of the chamber containing some heat transfer liquid; a second fluid; and means for regulating the pressure of the second fluid; and means for the pressure of the second fluid to influence the distribution of the heat transfer fluid between the reservoir portion and the heat transfer portion of the chamber by effecting transfer of heat transfer liquid between the reservoir portion of the chamber and the heat transfer portion of the chamber.

Claim 58

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 38 wherein the second fluid comprises a gas and wherein the means for regulating the pressure of the second fluid comprises a gas reservoir means for maintaining the pressure of the gas.

Claim 59

A variable conductance heat transfer device as defined in claim 39 wherein the gas reservoir is in fluid communication with the reservoir portion of the chamber and wherein the means for the second fluid to influence the distribution of heat transfer fluid in the reservoir portion of the chamber comprises direct pressurization of the reservoir portion and the heat transfer liquid therein by the gas.

Claim 60

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of rEgional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein the regional areas of phase change are spaced sufficiently closely to each other that the centers of the regional areas of phase change are closer to the centers of their nearest neighbors than to the nearest substantial portion of the phase change region whereat the opposite phase change takes place.

Claim 61

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces substantially the entire distance from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein at least one phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of rEgional areas of phase change comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of phase change is conducted through the capillary material between the regional areas of phase change and a chamber boundary; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of phase change and in vapor communication with the phase change region wherein the phase change opposite to that occurring in said regional areas of phase change takes place; and wherein the regional areas of phase change are spaced sufficiently closely to each other that the centers of the regional areas of phase change are closer to the centers of their nearest neighbors than to the nearest substantial portion of the phase change region whereat the opposite phase change takes place.

Claim 62

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein the second phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of condensation comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of condensation is conducted through the capillary matrix from the regional areas of condensation to the chamber boundary through which heat exits; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of condensation and in vapor communication with the first phase change region; and wherein the regional areas of condensation are spaced sufficiently closely to each other that the centers of the regional areas of phase change are closer to the centers of their nearest neighbors than to the nearest substantial portion of the first phase change region.

Claim 63

A variable conductance heat transfer device comprising: a chamber; a first phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat enters the chamber; a second phase change region adjacent a boundary of the chamber through which heat exits the chamber; a heat transfer fluid, comprising a liquid and its vapor, in the chamber; said fluid transferring heat from the first phase change region to the second phase change region by means of a heat transfer cycle wherein the liquid is vaporized in the first phase change region and the resulting vapor is condensed in the second phase change region from which the resulting liquid returns to the first phase change region; means for regulating the flow of heat transfer fluid through the heat transfer cycle; capillary material in the chamber for conveying the heat transfer liquid by capillary forces at least a portion of the way from the second phase change region to the first phase change region; and wherein the second phase change region further comprises: a multiplicity of regional areas of condensation comprising surface portions of the capillary material, and wherein the heat of condensation is conducted through the capillary matrix from the regional areas of condensation to the chamber boundary through which heat exits; and a multiplicity of vapor passages in direct vapor communication with said regional areas of condensation and in vapor communication with the first phase change region; and wherein the regional areas of condensation are spaced sufficiently closely to each other that the centers of the regional areas of phase change are closer to the centers of their nearest neighbors than to the nearest substantial portion of the first phase change region.