What is "resonant power conversion"?
All our devices operate at their natural resonant frequency. Ideally, all the input power is transmitted through the reciprocator (resonant linear motor) with none lost in sustaining the resonant motion. This is the basis for the high efficiency obtained in our STAR™ motors and all our products.

What is "thermoacoustics"?
Thermoacoustics is the study and practice of converting acoustic energy (sound) into heat energy and vice versa. For a detailed explanation of thermoacoustics and how it applies to our machines, see the Technology pages.

What is "cryogenics"?
Cryogenics is the science concerned with low-temperature phenomena. Temperatures less than -40 degrees Celsius are usually classified as cryogenic.

What is a "cryocooler"?
A cryocooler is a mechanical device that can produce cryogenic temperatures with significant cooling capacity for useful application.

Why are Qdrive cryocoolers well suited to cryogenics?
Our non-lubricated non-contact STAR™ motors and acoustic Stirling coldheads eliminate oils and other condensibles that will otherwise foul the cold parts of conventional mechanical coolers. Also, the compact, balanced configuration of our machines produces minimal vibration.

How can a STAR™ or Qdrive device survive without lubrication?
Every STAR™ motor incorporates a unique flexing-beam suspension system that holds the moving element to a single, linear degree of freedom. No other flexures or bearing system in our industry can make that claim. The result is extremely pure linear motion without rubbing, rolling, sliding or any other wearing contact.

What do CFIC and Qdrive stand for?
Clever Fellows Innovation Consortium, Inc. (CFIC, Inc) was established in 1989, and has over 15 years experience with resonant power systems. It is the 'parent' company of Qdrive.  The Qdrive name is derived from our combination of electrical, resonance, and thermal technologies: ‘q’ is the symbol for electric charge; ‘Q’ is used to express the degree of resonant amplification; and Q is a symbol for heat energy.  We drive heat (Q), by applying electricity (q) through resonance (Q).  We are Qdrive!