Patent Publication Number: US-2016226354-A1

Title: Apparatus comprising counter-rotational mechanisms and related methods to convey current

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of, and claims the benefit of priority from, U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/832,520, filed Mar. 15, 2013, which is a continuation-in-part of, and claims the benefit of priority from, U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/423,413, filed Mar. 19, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,672,799, issued Mar. 18, 2014), which is a continuation-in-part of, and claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/219,683, filed Aug. 28, 2011 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,715,133, issued May 6, 2014), which is a continuation-in-part of, and claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/184,332, filed Jul. 15, 2011 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,668,618, issued Mar. 11, 2014), which claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 61/365,290, filed Jul. 16, 2010 and 61/376,725, filed Aug. 25, 2010, which are each incorporated by reference in their entirety. U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/184,332, filed Jul. 15, 2011 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,668,618, issued Mar. 11, 2014) is also continuation-in-part of, and claims the benefit of priority from, U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 12/577,326, filed Oct. 12, 2009 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,152,679, issued Apr. 10, 2012), which claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/104,748, filed on Oct. 12, 2008 and International Patent Application No. PCT/US09/60386, filed on Oct. 12, 2009, which are each incorporated by reference in their entirety. U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/832,520, filed Mar. 15, 2013, also claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 61/646,348, filed May 13, 2012 and 61/640,530, filed Apr. 30, 2012, which are each incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates generally to mechanical, electrical, or electromechanical devices, and provides rotary units, rotary mechanisms, methods, and related devices and other applications that are useful for a wide variety of purposes. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     In electricity generation, an electric generator is a device that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy. A generator forces electric current to flow through an external circuit. The source of mechanical energy may be a reciprocating or turbine steam engine, water falling through a turbine or waterwheel, an internal combustion engine, a wind turbine, a hand crank, compressed air, or any other source of mechanical energy. Generators provide nearly all of the power for electric power grids. 
     The reverse conversion of electrical energy into mechanical energy is done by an electric motor, and motors and generators have many similarities. Many motors can be mechanically driven to generate electricity and frequently make acceptable generators. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one aspect, the invention provides an apparatus that includes at least one rotary mechanism that comprises at least first and second rotational components and at least a first counter-rotational mechanism that operably engages at least the first and second rotational components, wherein the first and second rotational components are configured to rotate substantially non-concentrically relative to one another at least partially around a rotational axis and wherein at least one surface of the first and/or second rotational component comprises at least a first implement, which first implement comprises at least a first winding, at least a first pole, a first electromagnetic radiation source, and/or at least a first magnet. The apparatus also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that operably engages one or more of the rotational components and/or the first counter-rotational mechanism such that when the first rotational component rotates in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates in a second direction, and the first implement rotates proximal to at least a second implement (e.g., to effect current induction, etc.), which second implement comprises at least a second winding, at least a second pole, a second electromagnetic radiation source, and/or at least a second magnet, wherein at least one other rotational component and/or at least one stator component comprises the second implement. The apparatus typically includes more than two rotational components. In some embodiments, a motor comprises the apparatus. In certain embodiments, a generator comprises the apparatus. In some embodiments, a device (e.g., a DC electric machine, a synchronous electric machine, an induction electric machine, etc.) comprises the apparatus. To further illustrate, the apparatus of the invention are optionally used or adapted for use in or with numerous devices, including without limitation, vehicles, aircraft, watercraft, turbines (e.g., wind turbines, etc.), meters (e.g., galvanometers, ammeters, voltmeters, ohmmeters, etc.), and audio speakers, among many other applications or installations. In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus is configured to receive an electrical power input and to generate a mechanical output. In certain embodiments, the apparatus is configured to receive a mechanical input and generate an electrical power output. The apparatus of the invention typically include various types of electrical connections (e.g., commutators, brushes, and/or the like). These and many other aspects will be apparent upon a complete review of this disclosure. 
     In some embodiments, at least one of the rotational components comprises at least one pole rotor. In certain embodiments, at least one of the rotational components comprises at least one magnet rotor. In some embodiments, at least one of the rotational components comprises at least one winding rotor. In certain embodiments, for example, at least one of the rotational components comprises two or more substantially equi-angularly positioned windings. In certain embodiments, at least one of the rotational components comprises two or more magnets comprising alternating north/south and south/north orientations and separated by non-magnetic material spacer components. In some embodiments, the stator component comprises at least one housing. In some embodiments, the stator component comprises one or more Delta-connected and/or Y-connected stationary windings. 
     In some embodiments, at least one of the rotational components comprises one or more pole assemblies comprising one or more sets of bar poles. In certain embodiments, for example, at least a portion of the pole assemblies comprises magnetic steel. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes two or more pole assemblies, wherein at least one non-magnetic material separates the pole assemblies from one another. In certain embodiments, for example, the non-magnetic material is disposed in at least one arbor. 
     In some embodiments, the rotary mechanism comprises two or more rotational components (e.g., three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more rotational components). In some embodiments, the surface is configured to rotate substantially parallel to the rotational axis of the rotational components. In certain embodiments, the implement is rotatably coupled to the rotational component. In some of these embodiments, the implement is configured to operably engage one or more gear components of one or more other components. 
     In certain embodiments, the drive mechanism component or portion thereof comprises at least one shaft component that operably engages at least the rotary mechanism or a portion thereof. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or portion thereof is configured to effect reversible rotation of at least the rotational component at least partially around the rotational axis. In certain embodiments, the drive mechanism component or portion thereof comprises at least one gear component (e.g., that operably engages or meshes with another gear component of the apparatus). 
     In some embodiments, the rotary mechanism comprises at least first and second rotational components and at least a first counter-rotational mechanism that operably engages at least the first and second rotational components, wherein the drive mechanism component or portion thereof operably engages one or more of the rotational components and/or the first counter-rotational mechanism such that when the first rotational component rotates in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates in a second direction. 
     In certain embodiments, the rotary mechanism comprises at least two rotary units that each comprises: at least one rotational component that comprises at least one sun gear component and at least one ring gear component, and at least one gear structure that comprises at least one support component and at least one planetary gear component rotatably coupled to the support component, and wherein the planetary gear component is configured to operably engage the ring gear component. In these embodiments, the sun gear component of at least a first rotary unit operably engages (e.g., meshes with) the planetary gear component of at least a second rotary unit such that when the rotational component of the first rotary unit rotates in a first direction, the rotational component of the second rotary unit rotates in a second direction. In some embodiments, the gear structure of the first rotary unit is operably connected to the gear structure of the second rotary unit such that the support components are substantially fixedly positioned relative to one another at least when the rotational component of the first rotary unit rotates in the first direction, the rotational component of the second rotary unit rotates in the second direction. 
     In certain embodiments, the rotary mechanism comprises: at least a first rotary unit that comprises at least one rotational component that comprises at least first and second sun gear components; at least a second rotary unit that comprises at least one rotational component that comprises at least first and second ring gear components; and at least a first planetary gear component that is configured to operably engage the second sun gear component of the first rotary unit and the first ring gear component of the second rotary unit such that when the rotational component of the first rotary unit rotates in a first direction, the rotational component of the second rotary unit rotates in a second direction. In some of these embodiments, the apparatus includes at least one gear structure that comprises at least one support component, wherein the first planetary gear component is rotatably coupled to the support component, which support component is substantially fixedly positioned when the rotational component of the first rotary unit rotates in the first direction, the rotational component of the second rotary unit rotates in the second direction. 
     In certain embodiments, the rotary mechanism comprises at least two rotary units that each comprises: at least one rotational component that comprises at least one ring gear component; and at least one second gear component configured to operably engage the ring gear component. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes one or more alignment components that align at least the rotational components relative to one another when the rotational components rotate. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or portion thereof operably engages at least the second gear components of at least first and second rotary units, which drive mechanism component or portion thereof is configured to effect rotation of the second gear components such that the rotational component of the first rotary unit rotates in a first direction and the rotational component of the second rotary unit rotates in a second direction. In some of these embodiments, the drive mechanism component or portion thereof comprises at least two shaft components, wherein at least a first shaft component operably engages at least the second gear component of the first rotary unit and at least a second shaft component operably engages at least the second gear component of the second rotary unit. In certain embodiments, the first and second shaft components each comprises at least one drive gear component that operably engage one another. 
     In certain embodiments, the rotary mechanism comprises: at least two rotational components that each comprises at least one ring gear component; and at least one counter-rotational mechanism that comprises at least a first gear component that operably engages the ring gear component of at least a first rotational component, at least a second gear component that operably engages the ring gear component of at least a second rotational component, and at least a third gear component that operably engages at least the second gear component such that when the first gear component rotates in a first direction, the first rotational component rotates in the first direction and the second gear component and the second rotational component rotate in a second direction. In certain of these embodiments, the apparatus includes one or more alignment components that align at least the first and second rotational components relative to one another when the rotational components rotate. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism component or portion thereof operably engages at least the first gear component, which drive mechanism component or portion thereof is configured to effect rotation of at least the first gear component. In certain embodiments, the drive mechanism component or portion thereof operably engages the third gear component. In certain embodiments, the drive mechanism component or portion thereof comprises at least one shaft component that operably engages at least the first gear component. 
     In some embodiments, rotary mechanisms include at least a first rotary unit that comprises at least one rotational component that comprises at least two ring gear components and at least a second rotary unit that comprises at least one rotational component that comprises at least two ring gear components. In these embodiments, rotary mechanisms also typically include at least a first planetary gear component that is configured to operably engage at least one of the ring gear components of the first rotary unit and at least one of the ring gear components of the second rotary unit such that when the rotational component of the first rotary unit rotates in the first direction, the rotational component of the second rotary unit rotates in the second direction. In some of these embodiments, rotary mechanisms include at least one gear structure that comprises at least one support component, wherein the first planetary gear component is rotatably coupled to the support component, which support component is substantially fixedly positioned when the rotational component of the first rotary unit rotates in the first direction, the rotational component of the second rotary unit rotates in the second direction. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides an apparatus that includes at least first, second, and third rotational components, wherein at least one of the rotational components comprises at least a first implement, which first implement comprises at least a first winding, at least a first pole, a first electromagnetic radiation source, and/or at least a first magnet. The apparatus also includes at least first and second counter-rotational mechanisms, wherein the first counter rotational mechanism operably engages at least the first and second rotational components, and wherein the second counter-rotational mechanism operably engages at least the second and third rotational components. In addition, the apparatus also includes at least one drive mechanism component or a portion thereof operably engaged with one or more of the rotational components and/or with one or more of the counter-rotational mechanisms, which drive mechanism component or portion thereof is configured at least to effect rotation of the rotational components and the counter-rotational mechanisms such that the first and third rotational components rotate in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates in a second direction, and the first implement rotates proximal to at least a second implement (e.g., to effect current induction, etc.), which second implement comprises at least a second winding, at least a second pole, a second electromagnetic radiation source, and/or at least a second magnet, wherein at least one other rotational component and/or at least one stator component comprises the second implement. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides a method of inducing current that includes providing an apparatus. The apparatus includes at least one rotary mechanism that comprises at least first and second rotational components and at least a first counter-rotational mechanism that operably engages at least the first and second rotational components, wherein the first and second rotational components are configured to rotate substantially non-concentrically relative to one another at least partially around a rotational axis and wherein at least one surface of the first and/or second rotational component comprises at least a first implement, which first implement comprises at least a first winding, at least a first pole, a first electromagnetic radiation source, and/or at least a first magnet. The apparatus also includes at least one drive mechanism component or portion thereof that operably engages one or more of the rotational components and/or the first counter-rotational mechanism. The method also includes rotating the first rotational component in a first direction such that the second rotational component rotates in a second direction, and the first implement rotates proximal to at least a second implement, which second implement comprises at least a second winding, at least a second pole, a second electromagnetic radiation source, and/or at least a second magnet, wherein at least one other rotational component and/or at least one stator component comprises the second implement, thereby inducing current. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides a rotary unit that includes at least a first rotational component configured to operably engage and non-concentrically rotate relative to at least two other rotational components such that when the first rotational component rotates in a first direction, the other two rotational components rotate in a second direction, wherein the first rotational component comprises at least a first implement, which first implement comprises at least a first winding, at least a first pole, a first electromagnetic radiation source, and/or at least a first magnet. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides a rotary mechanism that includes at least first, second, and third rotational components, wherein at least one of the rotational components comprises at least one electromagnetic radiation source. The rotary mechanism also includes at least first and second counter-rotational mechanisms, wherein the first counter-rotational mechanism operably engages at least the first and second rotational components, and wherein the second counter-rotational mechanism operably engages at least the second and third rotational components. In addition, the rotary mechanism also includes at least one drive mechanism component or a portion thereof that operably engages one or more of the rotational components and/or one or more of the counter-rotational mechanisms, which drive mechanism component or portion thereof is configured at least to effect rotation of the rotational components and the counter-rotational mechanisms such that the first and third rotational components rotate in a first direction and the second rotational component rotates in a second direction. In some embodiments, each rotational component comprises one or more electromagnetic radiation sources. In certain embodiments, the rotary mechanism includes more than three rotational components and/or more than two counter-rotational mechanisms. Typically, the electromagnetic radiation source is operably connected (e.g., electrically connected) to at least one power source. In certain embodiments, the electromagnetic radiation source comprises a visible light source (e.g., an incandescent lamp, a fluorescent lamp, a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), a high-intensity discharge lamp, a light-emitting diode lamp (LED), etc.), a radio wave source, a microwave source, an infrared light source, an ultraviolet light source, an X-ray source, or a gamma ray source. In some embodiments, a ground vehicle, a marine vehicle, an aircraft, a device, or the like includes the rotary mechanism. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The description provided herein is better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which are included by way of example and not by way of limitation. It will be understood that like reference numerals identify like components throughout the drawings, unless the context indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that some or all of the figures may be schematic representations for purposes of illustration and do not necessarily depict the actual relative sizes or locations of the elements shown. 
         FIG. 1A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 1B  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 1A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 1C  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 1A  from a side view. 
         FIG. 1D  schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of  FIG. 1A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 1E  schematically illustrates the gear structure of  FIG. 1D  from a front side view.  FIG. 1F  schematically shows the gear structure of  FIG. 1D  from a side view.  FIG. 1G  schematically illustrates a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 1A .  FIG. 1H  schematically shows a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 1A .  FIG. 1I  schematically depicts a partially exploded view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIGS. 2  A-F schematically show side elevational views of various exemplary implements. 
         FIG. 3A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 3B  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 3A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 3C  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 3A  from a side view.  FIG. 3D  schematically depicts a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 3A .  FIG. 3E  schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of  FIG. 3A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 3F  schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of  FIG. 3A  from a front side view.  FIG. 3G  schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of  FIG. 3A  from a side view. 
         FIG. 4A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 4B  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 4A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 4C  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 4A  from a side view.  FIG. 4D  schematically depicts a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 4A .  FIG. 4E  schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of  FIG. 4A  from a front side view.  FIG. 4F  schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of  FIG. 4A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 4G  schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of  FIG. 4A  from a side view. 
         FIG. 5A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 5B  schematically shows a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 6A  schematically shows a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 6B  schematically illustrates the rotary unit of  FIG. 6A  from a side view.  FIG. 6C  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 6A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 6D  schematically shows a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 6A .  FIG. 6E  schematically illustrates a gear structure of the rotary unit of  FIG. 6A  from a rear side view. 
         FIG. 6F  schematically shows the gear structure of  FIG. 6E  from a front side view.  FIG. 6G  schematically illustrates the gear structure of  FIG. 6E  from a side view. 
         FIG. 7A  schematically shows a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 7B  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 7A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 7C  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 7A  from a side view. 
         FIG. 8A  schematically shows a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 8B  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 8A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 8C  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 8A  from a side view. 
         FIG. 9A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 9B  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 9A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 9C  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 9A  from a side view.  FIG. 9D  schematically shows a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 9A .  FIG. 9E  schematically illustrates a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 9A .  FIG. 9F  schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of  FIG. 9A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 9G  schematically illustrates the gear structure of  FIG. 9F  from a front side view.  FIG. 9H  schematically shows the gear structure of  FIG. 9F  from a side view.  FIG. 9I  schematically depicts a partially exploded view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 9A .  FIG. 9J  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 9A  with implements from a rear side view.  FIG. 9K  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 9A  with implements from a front side view.  FIG. 9L  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 9A  with implements from a side view. 
         FIG. 10A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 10B  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 10A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 10C  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 10A  from a side view.  FIG. 10D  schematically shows a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 10A .  FIG. 10E  schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of  FIG. 10A  from a front side view.  FIG. 10F  schematically illustrates the gear structure of  FIG. 10E  from a rear side view.  FIG. 10G  schematically shows the gear structure of  FIG. 10E  from a side view.  FIG. 10H  schematically illustrates a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 10A .  FIG. 10I  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 10A  including a friction reducing material from a front side view.  FIG. 10J  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 10A  including a friction reducing material from a side view.  FIG. 10K  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 10I  with implements from a front side view.  FIG. 10L  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 10A  with implements from a rear side view.  FIG. 10M  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 10I  with implements from a side view. 
         FIG. 11A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 11B  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 11A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 11C  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 11A  from a side view.  FIG. 11D  schematically shows a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 11A .  FIG. 11E  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 11A  with implements from a front side view.  FIG. 11F  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 11A  with implements from a rear side view.  FIG. 11G  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 11A  with implements from a side view. 
         FIG. 12A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 12B  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 12A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 12C  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 12A  from a side view.  FIG. 12D  schematically shows a gear structure of the rotary unit of  FIG. 12A  from a front side view.  FIG. 12E  schematically illustrates the gear structure of  FIG. 12D  from a rear side view.  FIG. 12F  schematically shows the gear structure of  FIG. 12D  from a side view. 
         FIG. 13A  schematically illustrates a rotational component of a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 13B  schematically shows a sectional view of the rotational component of  FIG. 13A .  FIG. 13C  schematically depicts the rotational component of  FIG. 13A  from a side view.  FIG. 13D  schematically shows a gear component used in the rotary unit referred to with respect to  FIG. 13A  from a front side view.  FIG. 13E  schematically illustrates the gear component of  FIG. 13D  from a side view. 
         FIG. 14A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 14B  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 14A  from a side view.  FIG. 14C  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 14A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 14D  schematically shows a sectional view of the gear structure of  FIG. 14A . 
         FIG. 15A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 15B  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 15A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 15C  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 15A  from a side view.  FIG. 15D  schematically shows a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 15A . 
         FIG. 16A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 16B  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 16A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 16C  schematically depicts the rotary unit of  FIG. 16A  from a side view.  FIG. 16D  schematically shows a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 16A .  FIG. 16E  schematically illustrates a planetary gear component from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 16F  schematically illustrates the planetary gear component of  FIG. 16E  from a side view.  FIG. 16G  schematically shows an exploded side view of a gear structure according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 16H  schematically depicts the gear structure of  FIG. 16G  from a side view.  FIG. 16I  schematically shows the gear structure of  FIG. 16H  from a rear side view.  FIG. 16J  schematically shows the gear structure of  FIG. 16H  from a front side view.  FIG. 16K  schematically illustrates a gear structure prior to assembly with another gear structure from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 16L  schematically shows an assembly that includes two gear structures from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 16M  schematically shows an exploded view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 16A  with the gear structure of  FIG. 16G  from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 16N  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 16A  with the gear structure of  FIG. 16G  from a front side view.  FIG. 16O  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 16A  with the gear structure of  FIG. 16G  from a rear side view.  FIG. 16P  schematically shows the rotary unit of  FIG. 16A  with the gear structure of  FIG. 16G  from a side view.  FIG. 16Q  schematically shows a sectional view of the rotary unit of  FIG. 16A  with the gear structure of  FIG. 16G . 
         FIG. 17A  schematically depicts rotary units and a shaft from side elevational views prior to assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 17B  schematically illustrates the rotary units and the shaft from  FIG. 17A  from side elevational views in an assembled format. 
         FIG. 18A  schematically shows rotary units prior to assembly of a rotary mechanism from side views according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 18B  schematically shows a partially assembled rotary mechanism with the rotary units of  FIG. 18A  from side views.  FIG. 18C  schematically illustrates a rotary mechanism that includes the rotary units of  FIG. 18A  from a side view. 
         FIG. 19A  schematically illustrates a rotary mechanism that includes the rotary unit of  FIG. 9A  from a sectional view prior to assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 19B  schematically depicts the rotary mechanism of  FIG. 19A  from a sectional view following assembly.  FIG. 19C  schematically shows a portion of a rotary mechanism that includes the rotary unit of  FIG. 9A  with implements from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 20A  schematically illustrates a positioning component of a rotary mechanism from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 20B  schematically depicts a portion of a rotary mechanism that includes the rotational component of  FIG. 13A  from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 20C  schematically depicts a portion of a rotary mechanism that includes the rotational component of  FIG. 13A  and gear component of  FIG. 13D  from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 20D  schematically shows the portion of the rotary mechanism of  FIG. 20B  from a sectional view.  FIG. 20E  schematically depicts the positioning component of  FIG. 20A  from a side view.  FIG. 20F  schematically shows the positioning component of  FIG. 20A  with a drive mechanism from a side view.  FIG. 20G  schematically illustrates a positioning component of a rotary mechanism from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 20H  schematically illustrates a rotary mechanism that includes the rotational component of  FIG. 13A  from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 20I  schematically shows the rotary mechanism of  FIG. 20H  from a sectional view.  FIG. 20J  schematically shows the rotary mechanism of  FIG. 20H  from a front side view.  FIG. 20K  schematically shows the rotary mechanism of  FIG. 20H  from a rear side view.  FIG. 20L  schematically depicts a portion of a drive mechanism from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 20M  schematically depicts a portion of a drive mechanism from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 20N  schematically depicts the portion of the drive mechanism of  FIG. 20M  without a motor from a side view.  FIG. 20O  schematically depicts the portion of the drive mechanism of  FIG. 20M  from a side view. 
         FIG. 21A  schematically illustrates a rotary mechanism that includes the rotary unit of  FIG. 14A  from a sectional view prior to assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 21B  schematically depicts the rotary mechanism of  FIG. 21A  from a sectional view following assembly.  FIG. 21C  schematically shows the rotary of  FIG. 21A  from a side view.  FIG. 21D  schematically illustrates a rotary mechanism that includes the rotary unit of  FIG. 14A  with implements from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 21E  schematically illustrates a rotary mechanism that includes the rotary unit of  FIG. 14A  with implements from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 22A  schematically illustrates a gear structure from the rotary unit of  FIG. 14A  prior to assembly with another gear structure from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 22B  schematically shows an assembly of multiple gear structures from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 22C  schematically depicts the gear structure assembly of  FIG. 22B  from a rear side view.  FIG. 22D  schematically depicts the gear structure assembly of  FIG. 22B  from a front side view.  FIG. 22E  schematically shows a rotary mechanism that includes the gear structure assembly of  FIG. 22B  from a sectional view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 22F  schematically shows a rotary mechanism that includes the gear structure assembly of  FIG. 22B  from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 23A  schematically depicts a rotational or rotary mechanism from an exploded side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 23B  schematically depicts the rotational mechanism from  FIG. 23A  from a side view.  FIG. 23C  schematically depicts the rotational mechanism from  FIG. 23A  from an exploded sectional view.  FIG. 23D  schematically depicts the rotational mechanism from  FIG. 23A  from a sectional side view.  FIG. 23E  schematically shows a portion of a drive mechanism component from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 23F  schematically shows the portion of the drive mechanism component of  FIG. 23E  from a rear side view.  FIG. 23G  schematically shows the portion of the drive mechanism component of  FIG. 23E  from a side view.  FIG. 23H  schematically shows the portion of the drive mechanism component of  FIG. 23E  from a sectional side view.  FIG. 23I  schematically shows an exploded side view of a gear structure according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 23J  schematically depicts the gear structure from  FIG. 23I  from a rear side view.  FIG. 23K  schematically depicts the gear structure from  FIG. 23I  from a side view.  FIG. 23L  schematically depicts the gear structure from  FIG. 23I  from a front side view.  FIG. 23M  schematically shows an exploded side view of the drive mechanism component of  FIG. 23E  and the gear structure of  FIG. 23I  according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 23N  schematically shows an exploded sectional side view of the drive mechanism component of  FIG. 23E  and the gear structure of  FIG. 23I  according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 23O  schematically depicts the drive mechanism component of  FIG. 23E  and the gear structure of  FIG. 23I  from a side view.  FIG. 23P  schematically depicts the drive mechanism component of  FIG. 23E  and the gear structure of  FIG. 23I  from sectional side view.  FIG. 23Q  schematically depicts an exploded side view of the rotational mechanism from  FIG. 23B  and the portion of the drive mechanism component of  FIG. 23E  according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 23R  schematically depicts an exploded side sectional view of the rotational mechanism from  FIG. 23B  and the portion of the drive mechanism component of  FIG. 23E  according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 23S  schematically depicts a side view of the rotational mechanism from  FIG. 23B  and the portion of the drive mechanism component of  FIG. 23E  according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 23T  schematically depicts a sectional side view of the rotational mechanism from  FIG. 23B  and the portion of the drive mechanism component of  FIG. 23E  according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 24A-H  schematically show exemplary winding rotors from various views according to certain embodiments of the invention.  FIG. 24A  schematically illustrates a rotary unit from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 24B  schematically shows the rotary unit from  FIG. 24A  from a front side view.  FIG. 24C  schematically depicts a rotary unit from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 24D  schematically depicts the rotary unit from  FIG. 24C  from a front side view.  FIG. 24E  schematically shows a rotary unit from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 24F  schematically shows the rotary unit from  FIG. 24E  from a front side view.  FIG. 24G  schematically shows a rotary unit from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 24H  schematically shows the rotary unit from  FIG. 24G  from a front side view. 
         FIGS. 25  A and B schematically show a magnet rotor from various views according to certain embodiments of the invention.  FIG. 25A  schematically shows a rotary unit from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 25B  schematically shows the rotary unit from  FIG. 25A  from a front side view. 
         FIGS. 26  A and B schematically show a pole rotor from various views according to certain embodiments of the invention.  FIG. 26A  schematically shows a rotary unit from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 26B  schematically shows the rotary unit from  FIG. 26A  from a front side view. 
         FIGS. 27  A-G schematically illustrate rotary units or components thereof from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 27A  schematically shows a rotational component from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 27B  schematically shows the rotational component from  FIG. 27A  from a side sectional view.  FIG. 27C  schematically depicts the rotational component from  FIG. 27A  from a side view.  FIG. 27D  schematically depicts the rotational component from  FIG. 27A  from a side view with a surface including implements.  FIG. 27E  schematically shows the rotational component from  FIG. 27D  from a front side view.  FIG. 27F  schematically shows a rotary unit that includes the rotational component from  FIG. 27A  and first and third gear components from a front side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 27G  schematically shows a rotary unit that includes the rotational component from  FIG. 27A  and a second gear component from a front side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 28  A-I schematically illustrate a rotary mechanism or components thereof from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 28A  schematically shows a rotary mechanism from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 28B  schematically shows rotational components positioned relative to one another from a cross-sectional view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 28C  schematically illustrates gear components of a counter-rotational mechanism operably engaging a drive mechanism component from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 28D  schematically illustrates gear components of a counter-rotational mechanism operably engaging a drive mechanism component from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 28E  schematically shows the gear and drive mechanism components from  FIGS. 28  C and D positioned relative to one another from a side view.  FIG. 28F  schematically shows the rotary mechanism from  FIG. 28A  from a side view.  FIG. 28G  schematically depicts the rotary mechanism from  FIG. 28A  from a side sectional view.  FIG. 28H  schematically depicts the rotary mechanism from  FIG. 28G  from a side sectional view with an exemplary motor.  FIG. 28I  schematically shows the rotary mechanism from  FIG. 28H  from a side view with rotational components including implements. 
         FIGS. 29  A-C schematically illustrate a rotary mechanism or components thereof from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 29A  schematically shows portions of a rotational component prior to assembly from a side view.  FIG. 29B  schematically depicts a rotary mechanism that includes the rotational component from  FIG. 29A  prior to assembly from a front side view.  FIG. 29C  schematically depicts the rotary mechanism from  FIG. 29B  from a side view. 
         FIGS. 30  A and B schematically show gear and drive mechanism components prior to and following assembly, respectively, according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 31  A and B schematically show gear and drive mechanism components prior to and following assembly, respectively, according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 32A  schematically shows a detailed front side view of a drive mechanism component receiving area according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 32B  schematically shows a detailed front side view of a drive mechanism portion configured to be received by the drive mechanism component receiving area from  FIG. 32A  according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 33  schematically shows a rotary mechanism prior to assembly from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 35  A-F schematically show a rotary mechanism or components thereof from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 35A  schematically illustrates gear and drive mechanism components of a rotary mechanism prior to assembly from a side view.  FIG. 35B  schematically illustrates gear and drive mechanism components of a rotary mechanism from a side view.  FIG. 35C  schematically illustrates the gear and drive mechanism components from  FIG. 35B  positioned relative to rotational components from a sectional side view.  FIG. 35D  schematically shows the rotary mechanism from  FIG. 35C  from a front side view.  FIG. 35E  schematically shows the rotary mechanism from  FIG. 35C  from a side view.  FIG. 35F  schematically shows a drive mechanism positioning component from a front side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 36  schematically shows portions of a generator from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 37A  schematically shows portions of a motor from a cutaway side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 37B  schematically illustrates the portions of the motor from  FIG. 37A  from a cutaway top side view. 
         FIG. 38  schematically illustrates portions of an apparatus from a cutaway side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 39  schematically illustrates a generator operably connected to portions of a vehicle drive train from a front side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 40A-J  schematically show a pole rotor or portions thereof from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 40A  schematically shows a pole assembly from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 40B  schematically shows the pole assembly from  FIG. 40A  from another side view.  FIG. 40C  schematically shows the pole assembly from  FIG. 40A  from a rear side view.  FIG. 40D  schematically shows the pole assembly from  FIG. 40A  from a front side view.  FIG. 40E  schematically illustrates two pole assemblies being positioned relative to one another.  FIG. 40F  schematically shows the two pole assemblies from  FIG. 40E  positioned relative to one another.  FIG. 40G  schematically depicts a pole rotor that includes two pole assemblies from a rear side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 40H  schematically shows the pole rotor from  FIG. 40G  from a front side view.  FIG. 40I  schematically shows the pole rotor from  FIG. 40G  from a side view.  FIG. 40J  schematically shows a rotational component that includes the pole rotor from  FIG. 40G  from a side view. 
         FIG. 41  schematically illustrates a rotational component that includes a magnet rotor from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 42A  schematically illustrates portions of a generator from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 42B  schematically shows portions of a generator from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 43A  schematically shows portions of a generator from a cutaway side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 43B  schematically illustrates the portions of the generator from  FIG. 43A  from a cutaway top side view. 
         FIG. 44A  schematically depicts portions of a wind turbine from a cutaway side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 44B  schematically illustrates the wind turbine that includes the portions from  FIG. 44A  from a front side view.  FIG. 44C  schematically illustrates the wind turbine from  FIG. 44B  from a side view. 
         FIG. 45  schematically depicts a wind turbine from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 46A  schematically illustrates a rotational component of a rotary unit from a front side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 46B  schematically depicts the rotational component of  FIG. 46A  from a side view.  FIG. 46C  schematically shows a sectional view of the rotational component of  FIG. 46A .  FIG. 46D  schematically depicts a gear structure from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 46E  schematically illustrates the gear structure of  FIG. 46D  from a top view.  FIG. 46F  schematically illustrates a gear structure prior to assembly with another gear structure from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 46G  schematically shows an assembly that includes four gear structures from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 47A  schematically illustrates a rotary mechanism that includes the rotational component of  FIG. 46A  and a drive mechanism component from a sectional view prior to assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 47B  schematically depicts the rotary mechanism of  FIG. 47A  from a sectional view following assembly. 
         FIG. 48A  schematically shows portions of an apparatus from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 48B  schematically shows portions of the apparatus of  FIG. 48A  from a top view.  FIG. 48C  schematically depicts portions of the apparatus of  FIG. 48A  positioned relative to a stator component from a cutaway side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 48D  schematically illustrates portions of the apparatus and stator component of  FIG. 48C  from a cutaway top side view. 
         FIG. 49A  schematically shows portions of a generator that includes electromagnetic radiation sources from a cutaway side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 49B  schematically illustrates the portions of the generator from  FIG. 49A  from a side view. 
         FIG. 50  schematically illustrates an apparatus that includes electromagnetic radiation sources from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 51A  schematically shows a generator that includes a propeller component from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 51B  schematically shows a marine vehicle that includes the generator of  FIG. 51A  from a front view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     I. Introduction 
     Before describing the invention in detail, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular methods, rotary units, rotary mechanisms, devices, or systems, which can vary. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” also include plural referents unless the context clearly provides otherwise. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. Further, unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. In describing and claiming the invention, the following terminology, and grammatical variants thereof, will be used in accordance with the definitions set forth below. 
     The term “coaxially positioned” refers to objects that are positioned relative to one another such that they can rotate about a substantially coincident axis. 
     The term “fixed position” refers to objects that are positioned relative to one another such that they do not move separately from one another. In some embodiments, for example, gear components (e.g., sun gear components) are attached (e.g., integrally fabricated, bonded, welded, adhered, or the like) to rotational components, such that when the rotational components move in one direction, the gear components move in the same direction as the rotational components. 
     The term “counter-rotate” or “contra-rotate” refers to objects that rotate in opposite directions relative to one another. In some embodiments, for example, rotary mechanisms include rotational components that are configured to rotate in opposite directions. 
     The term “communicate” refers to the direct or indirect transfer or transmission, and/or capability of directly or indirectly transferring or transmitting, something at least from one thing to another thing. In some embodiments, for example, devices include housings having openings through which hair, finger nails, or the like can be transferred to contact implements within housing cavities of the devices. 
     The invention relates to rotary units and rotary mechanisms that are suitable for use in numerous applications. Rotary units typically include rotational components that are configured to rotate. In some embodiments, for example, multiple rotary units are assembled in rotary mechanisms such that neighboring pairs of rotational components counter-rotate or contra-rotate relative to one another during operation of the rotary mechanisms. Rotational components generally include one or more implements that are structured to perform or effect one or more types of work as the rotational components rotate relative to one another in a given rotary mechanism. In certain embodiments, implements are configured to rotate and/or to effect the movement of other components as rotational components rotate. The representative embodiments described herein are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, the invention. Essentially any combination of components or portions thereof described herein are optionally utilized or adapted for use together in certain embodiments. 
     II. Exemplary Rotary Units 
       FIGS. 1  A-H schematically show a rotary unit or components thereof according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  100  includes rotational component  102 , which includes first gear component  104  disposed on a first side of rotational component  102  (e.g., in an inner region of the first side) and second gear component  106  disposed on a second side of rotational component  102  (e.g., in an outer region of the second side). As shown, the first and second sides substantially oppose one another. Gear components used with the rotary units, rotary mechanisms, and other applications of the invention typically include gear teeth. Any operable gear tooth configuration and/or type are optionally used in the rotary units, rotary mechanisms and applications of the invention. Second gear component  106  substantially defines gear structure receiving area  108 , which is configured to receive gear structure  110 . Gear structure  110  includes support component  112  and third gear components  114 . Third gear components  114  are configured to operably engage second gear component  106  such that when third gear components  114  rotate in a first direction, second gear component  106  and rotational component  102  also rotate the first direction. Third gear components  114  are configured to operably engage other gear components, such as a first gear component of another rotary unit such that when the other gear components rotate in a second direction, third gear components  114 , second gear component  106 , and rotational component  102  all rotate in the first direction. Rotary unit  100  also includes retaining mechanism  116  (shown as a wall or lip in this exemplary embodiment) that is structured to retain gear structure  110  at least partially in gear structure receiving area  108 . As further shown in  FIG. 1I , for example, in some embodiments during rotary unit assembly retaining mechanism  116  is attached to rotational component  102 , once gear structure  110  is positioned in gear structure receiving area  108 , via attachment components  118  (e.g., which clip into corresponding notches (not within view) in rotational component  102  in this representative embodiment). 
     Rotary unit  100  also includes implements  120  shown as beads that can be used, for example, as part of a massaging device or the like. Essentially any implement (e.g., type(s) and/or number on a given rotational component, etc.) is optionally adapted for use with the rotary units of the present invention, e.g., depending on the intended application of a given rotary unit. Representative implements that are optionally used include one or more of, e.g., a winding, a core, a pole, a magnet, a blade, a razor, a prong, a peg, a claw, a tine, a chain, a stake, a column, a pillar, an arch, a bracket, a gear component, a bristle, a plume, an abrasive component, an elastomeric component, a nail filing component, a nail buffing component, a hair cutting component, a massaging component, a post, or the like. Some exemplary implements  200 - 210  are also illustrated from side elevational views in, e.g.,  FIGS. 2  A-F. 
     In addition, rotary unit  100  also includes drive mechanism component receiving area  122  (shown as a hole disposed through rotational component  102 ) that is configured to receive a drive mechanism component, such as a drive shaft or a portion thereof. Other exemplary drive mechanism components are described herein or otherwise known in the art. 
       FIGS. 3  A-G schematically illustrate a rotary unit or components thereof according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  300  includes rotational component  302 , which includes first gear component  304  extending from a first side, and second gear component  306  on a second side and substantially defining gear structure receiving area  308 . Rotary unit  300  also includes gear structure  310 , which includes third gear components  312  rotatably coupled to support component  314 . As also shown, gear structure  310  includes hole  316  that is structured to align with drive mechanism component receiving area  318  of rotational component  302 , e.g., to receive a drive mechanism component, such as a drive shaft about which gear structure  310  and rotational component  302  rotate. 
     Rotary unit  300  also includes a retaining mechanism that is configured to retain gear structure  310  in position relative to rotational component  302  such that the components can operably engage one another during operation. The retaining mechanism of rotary unit  300  includes groove or track  320  disposed approximately around gear structure receiving area  308  in rotational component  302 . In addition, the retaining mechanism also includes projections  322  of gear structure  310  that insert into groove or track  320  such that gear structure  310  is retained and rotates within gear structure receiving area  308 . 
     In some embodiments, the rotational components of the rotary units of the invention include implements that are configured to effect the movement of one or more other components (e.g., propeller components or the like) when the rotational components rotate and the implements operably engage the other components. To illustrate, rotational component  302  of rotary unit  300  also includes gear component  324  that is configured to operably engage other gear components of other components, e.g., to effect rotation of those components when rotational component  302  rotates. 
       FIGS. 4  A-G schematically show another exemplary embodiment of a rotary unit of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  400  includes rotational component  402  that includes first and second surfaces that substantially oppose one another. First gear component  404  is disposed on the first surface of rotational component  402  and is configured to operably engage third gear components of another rotary unit. Second gear component  406  is disposed on the second surface of rotational component  402  and substantially defines gear structure receiving area or cavity  408 . 
     Rotary unit  400  also include gear structure  410 , which includes support structure  412  and third gear components  414  rotatably coupled to support structure  412 . Rotary unit  400  also includes a retaining mechanism formed, in part, by groove or track  416  formed in rotational component  402 . Circular projection  418  disposed on support structure  412  of gear structure  410  is configured to fit within groove or track  416  such that gear structure  410  is retained, yet permitted to rotate, within gear structure receiving area  408 . As also shown, rotary unit  400  also includes implements  420  (shown as blades) extending from a surface of rotational component  402 . 
       FIGS. 5  A and B schematically illustrate a rotary unit according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  500  includes rotational component  502 . First gear component  504  extends from a first side of rotational component  502 , while gear structure  506  engages a second gear component in a gear structure receiving area on a second side of rotational component  502  and partially extends from the gear structure receiving area. Gear structure  506  includes third gear components  508  rotatably coupled to support structure  510 . Rotary unit  500  also includes a retaining mechanism formed, in part, by groove or track  512  formed in the gear structure receiving area of rotational component  502 . Circular projection  514  disposed on support structure  510  of gear structure  506  is configured to fit within groove or track  512  such that gear structure  506  is retained, yet permitted to rotate, within the gear structure receiving area of rotational component  502 . First gear component  504  is configured to engage one or more third gear components of another rotary unit. Third gear components  508  are configured to engage the second gear component in the gear structure receiving area and a first gear component of another rotary unit. 
       FIGS. 6  A-G schematically show a rotary unit or components thereof according to another representative embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  600  includes rotational component  602 . Rotational component  602  includes first gear component  604  on a first side and second gear component  606  on a second side. Second gear component  606  substantially defines a gear structure receiving area of rotational component  602 . Rotary unit  600  also includes gear structure  608  disposed within the gear structure receiving area. Gear structure  608  includes third gear components  610  rotatably coupled to support component  612 . Third gear components  610  are configured to operably engage second gear component  606  of rotational component  602  and the first gear component of another rotary unit or another gear component, such as a component of a drive mechanism or the like. Gear structure  608  also includes hole or aperture  614 , which is structured to align with drive mechanism component receiving area  616  of rotational component  602 , e.g., to receive a drive mechanism component, such as a drive shaft about which gear structure  608  and rotational component  602  rotate. Rotary unit  600  also includes a retaining mechanism that is configured to retain and permit gear structure  608  to rotate within the gear structure receiving area of rotational component  602 . In particular, support component  612  of gear structure  608  includes partially circular indentation  618  and rotational component  602  comprises projection  620  (e.g., an elevated circular track or the like). Projection  620  is configured to at least partially fit and move within partially circular indentation  618  to retain gear structure  608  at least partially within the gear structure receiving area when second gear component  606  and third gear components  610  operably engage one another. In some embodiments, gear structures comprise projections, such as projection  620  and rotational components comprise the substantially or partially circular indentation (e.g., a circular track or groove structured to receive the projection). 
     Rotary unit  600  also includes implements  622  that are rotatably coupled to rotational component  602 . As shown, rotatably coupled implements  622  include gear components  624  that are configured to operably engage a corresponding gear component on a neighboring rotary unit when the neighboring rotary unit is disposed suitably proximal to rotary unit  600 . In these embodiments, during operation, as neighboring rotary units counter-rotate relative to one another, rotatably coupled implements, such as implements  622  (e.g., shown as bristles suitable for a toothbrush, household cleaning device, or the like) also rotate. To further illustrate, rotary unit  600  includes gear component  626  that is configured to operably engage rotatably coupled implements disposed on a neighboring rotary unit. 
       FIGS. 7  A-C schematically show a rotary unit according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  700  includes rotational component  702 , which includes first gear component  704  on a first side. Rotary unit  700  also includes a gear structure  706  disposed and able to rotate within a gear structure receiving area of rotational component  702 . Lip or wall  708  retains gear structure  706  in the gear structure receiving area. Rotary unit  700  also includes alignment components that are structured to align rotary units relative to one another, e.g., in a given device or other application. In particular, the first side of rotational component  702  includes circular groove  710 , while the second side of rotational component  702  includes circular ridge  712 . Circular groove  710  is configured to receive a circular ridge (e.g., circular ridge  812 ) of another rotary unit (e.g., rotary unit  800 ), which circular ridge is configured to rotate within circular groove  710 . In contrast, circular ridge  712  is configured to fit and rotate within a circular groove (e.g., circular groove  810 ) of another rotary unit (e.g., rotary unit  800 ). In some embodiments, the first side of rotational component  702  includes circular ridge  712 , while the second side of rotational component  702  includes circular groove  710 . 
     Rotary unit  700  also includes drive mechanism component receiving area  714  that is configured to receive a drive mechanism component (e.g., drive mechanism component  816  (shown as a drive shaft) of rotary unit  800 ). Rotational component  702  is configured to rotate about a drive mechanism component (e.g., drive mechanism component  816  of rotary unit  800 ), while first gear component  704  operably engages a gear component (e.g., a gear component of a gear structure) of another rotary unit (e.g., a rotary unit, such as a rotary unit  800 ) and gear components of gear structure  706  operably engage another gear component (e.g., a first gear component) of yet another rotary unit (e.g., another rotary unit, such as another rotary unit  800 ). As also shown, a surface of rotational component  702  also includes multiple implements  716  (shown as razors or cutting edges) that are optionally used in hair cutting devices or other applications. Other implements are also optionally used. 
       FIGS. 8  A-C schematically show a rotary unit according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  800  includes rotational component  802 , which includes first gear component  804  on a first side. Rotary unit  800  also includes a gear structure  806  disposed and able to rotate within a gear structure receiving area of rotational component  802 . Lip or wall  808  retains gear structure  806  in the gear structure receiving area. Rotary unit  800  also includes alignment components that are structured to align rotary units relative to one another, e.g., in a given device or other application. In particular, the first side of rotational component  802  includes circular groove  810 , while the second side of rotational component  802  includes circular ridge  812 . Circular groove  810  is configured to receive a circular ridge (e.g., circular ridge  712 ) of another rotary unit (e.g., rotary unit  700 ), which circular ridge is configured to rotate within circular groove  810 . In contrast, circular ridge  812  is configured to fit and rotate within a circular groove (e.g., circular groove  710 ) of another rotary unit (e.g., rotary unit  700 ). In some embodiments, the first side of rotational component  802  includes circular ridge  812 , while the second side of rotational component  802  includes circular groove  810 . 
     Rotary unit  800  also includes drive mechanism component receiving area  814  that is configured to receive a drive mechanism component (e.g., drive mechanism component  816  of a rotary unit  800 ). In the embodiment shown, drive mechanism component receiving area  814  includes a female threaded region that is configured to receive a male threaded region of drive mechanism component  816  of another rotary unit  800 . As described above, another rotary unit (such as a rotary unit  700 ) is configured to fit between two rotary units  800  and rotate around a drive mechanism component  816  of one of the rotary units  800 . As also shown, a surface of rotational component  802  also includes multiple implements  818  (shown as razors or cutting edges) that are optionally used in hair cutting devices or other applications. Other implements are also optionally used. 
       FIGS. 9A-L  schematically depict an exemplary rotary unit or components thereof according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  900  includes rotational component  902  that is configured to rotate around rotational axis  904 . Rotational component  902  includes first surface  906  and second surface  908 . First surface  906  includes gear component  910  (e.g., a sun gear component, etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gear components of at least a second rotational component (not shown) when rotational component  902  is disposed proximal to the second rotational component such that when the rotational component  902  rotates in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates in a second direction. In addition, second surface  908  comprises gear component  912  (e.g., a ring gear component, etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gear components (via gear components  914 ) of a third rotational (not shown) component when rotational component  902  is disposed proximal to the third rotational component such that when rotational component  902  rotates in the first direction, the second rotational component rotates in the second direction. 
     Gear structure  915  includes support component  917  and gear components  914  (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatably coupled to support component  917 . Support component  917  of gear structure  915  also includes friction reducing materials  919  (shown as elevated or pointed surface features) to reduce friction as rotational component  902  rotates relative to support component  917 . As also shown in, for example,  FIGS. 9J-L , surface  916  of the rotational component  902  comprises implement  918  (shown as a plurality of bristles), which surface  916  is configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular to rotational axis  904 . In this embodiment, for example, surface  916  of rotational component  902  is configured to rotate substantially parallel to rotational axis  904 . 
     Rotary unit  900  also includes friction reducing materials  920  (shown as roller balls) disposed on first surface  906  of rotational component  902  to reduce friction as rotational component  902  rotates relative to another rotational component. In the embodiments in which friction reducing materials are utilized, essentially any friction reducing material is optionally adapted for use with the rotary units of the invention. Other exemplary embodiments include, for example, coatings (e.g., TEFLON®, etc.), lubricants, surface features, and/or the like. Rotational or rotary mechanisms typically include one or more rotary units  900 . Exemplary rotational mechanisms are described further herein. 
     As further shown in  FIG. 9I , for example, in some embodiments during rotary unit assembly retaining mechanism  922  is attached to another portion of rotational component  902 , once gear structure  915  is positioned in a gear structure receiving area, via attachment components  924  (e.g., which clip into corresponding notches (not within view) in the portion of the rotational component that includes retaining mechanism  922  in this representative embodiment). 
     In addition, rotary unit  900  also includes drive mechanism component receiving area  925  (shown as a hole disposed through rotational component  902 ) that is configured to receive a drive mechanism component, such as a drive shaft or a portion thereof. Other exemplary drive mechanism components are described herein or otherwise known in the art. 
       FIGS. 10A-M  schematically depict an exemplary rotary unit or components thereof according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  1000  includes rotational component  1002  that is configured to rotate around rotational axis  1004 . Rotational component  1002  includes first surface  1006  and second surface  1008 . First surface  1006  includes gear component  1010  (e.g., a sun gear component, etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gear components of at least a second rotational component (not shown) when rotational component  1002  is disposed proximal to the second rotational component such that when the rotational component  1002  rotates in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates in a second direction. In addition, second surface  1008  comprises gear component  1012  (e.g., a ring gear component, etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gear components (via gear components  1014 ) of a third rotational (not shown) component when rotational component  1002  is disposed proximal to the third rotational component such that when rotational component  1002  rotates in the first direction, the third rotational component rotates in the second direction (e.g., in the same direction as the second rotational component). 
     Gear structure  1015  includes support component  1017  and gear components  1014  (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatably coupled to support component  1017 . Support component  1017  of gear structure  1015  also includes friction reducing materials  1019  (shown as elevated or pointed surface features) to reduce friction as rotational component  1002  rotates relative to support component  1017 . As also shown in, for example,  FIGS. 10K-M , surface  1016  of the rotational component  1002  comprises implement  1018  (shown as a plurality of bristles), which surface  1016  is configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular to rotational axis  1004 . In this embodiment, for example, surface  1016  of rotational component  1002  is configured to rotate substantially parallel to rotational axis  1004 . 
     Rotary unit  1000  also includes friction reducing materials  1020  (shown as elevated surface features) disposed on first surface  1006  of rotational component  1002  to reduce friction as rotational component  1002  rotates relative to another rotational component. In the embodiments in which friction reducing materials are utilized, essentially any friction reducing material is optionally adapted for use with the rotary units of the invention. Other exemplary embodiments include, for example, coatings (e.g., TEFLON®, etc.), lubricants, surface features, and/or the like. In some embodiments of the rotary units of the invention, friction reducing materials are not utilized. Rotational mechanisms typically include one or more rotary units  1000 . Exemplary rotational or rotary mechanisms are described further herein. 
     In addition, rotary unit  1000  also includes drive mechanism component receiving area  1024  (shown as a hole disposed through rotational component  1002 ) that is configured to receive a drive mechanism component, such as a drive shaft or a portion thereof. Other exemplary drive mechanism components are described herein or otherwise known in the art. 
     To further illustrate,  FIGS. 11A-G  schematically show a rotary unit or components thereof according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  1100  includes rotational component  1102  that is configured to rotate around rotational axis  1104 . Rotational component  1102  includes first surface  1106  and second surface  1108 . First surface  1106  includes gear component  1110  (e.g., a sun gear component, etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gear components (via gear components  1114 ) of at least a second rotational component (not shown) when rotational component  1102  is disposed proximal to the second rotational component such that when the rotational component  1102  rotates in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates in a second direction. In addition, second surface  1108  comprises gear component  1112  (e.g., a ring gear component, etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gear components of a third rotational (not shown) component when rotational component  1102  is disposed proximal to the third rotational component such that when rotational component  1102  rotates in the first direction, the third rotational component rotates in the second direction (e.g., in the same direction as the second rotational component). 
     Gear structure  1115  includes support component  1117  and gear components  1114  (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatably coupled to support component  1117 . Support component  1117  of gear structure  1115  also includes friction reducing materials  1119  (shown as elevated or pointed surface features) to reduce friction as rotational component  1102  rotates relative to support component  1117 . As also shown in, for example,  FIGS. 11E-G , surface  1116  of the rotational component  1102  comprises implement  1118  (shown as a plurality of bristles in this exemplary embodiment), which surface  1116  is configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular to rotational axis  1104 . In this embodiment, for example, surface  1116  of rotational component  1102  is configured to rotate substantially parallel to rotational axis  1104 . Rotational mechanisms typically include one or more rotary units  1100 . Exemplary rotational or rotary mechanisms are described further herein. 
     In addition, rotary unit  1100  also includes drive mechanism component receiving area  1124  (shown as a hole disposed through rotational component  1102 ) that is configured to receive a drive mechanism component, such as a drive shaft or a portion thereof. Other exemplary drive mechanism components are described herein or otherwise known in the art. 
       FIGS. 12A-F  schematically show a rotary unit or components thereof according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  1200  includes rotational component  1202  that includes gear component  1210  (e.g., a sun gear component, etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gear components of at least a second rotational component (not shown) when rotational component  1202  is disposed proximal to the second rotational component such that when the rotational component  1202  rotates in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates in a second direction. In addition, rotational component  1202  comprises gear component  1212  (e.g., a ring gear component, etc.) that is configured to operably engage one or more gear components (via gear components  1214 ) of a third rotational (not shown) component when rotational component  1202  is disposed proximal to the third rotational component such that when rotational component  1202  rotates in the first direction, the third rotational component rotates in the second direction. Rotational component  1202  is structured similar to rotational component  1002  described herein, but further includes recessed area  1203 , which is described below. 
     Gear structure  1215  includes support component  1217  and gear components  1214  (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatably coupled to support component  1217 . Support component  1217  of gear structure  1215  also includes friction reducing materials  1219  (shown as elevated or pointed surface features) to reduce friction as rotational component  1202  rotates relative to support component  1217 . As also shown, gear structure  1215  also includes retaining features  1220  that are structured to fit and move within recessed area  1203  when gear structure  1215  is disposed in the gear structure receiving area of rotational component  1202 . Retaining features  1220  further align and retain gear structure  1215  relative to rotational component  1202 . In some embodiments, retaining features  1220  are not included. Although not shown, rotary unit  1200  also typically includes one or more implements. Rotational or rotary mechanisms typically include one or more rotary units  1200 . Exemplary rotational mechanisms are described further herein. 
     In addition, rotary unit  1200  also includes drive mechanism component receiving area  1224  (shown as a hole disposed through rotational component  1202 ) that is configured to receive a drive mechanism component, such as a drive shaft or a portion thereof. Other exemplary drive mechanism components are described herein or otherwise known in the art. 
       FIGS. 13A-E  schematically show components of rotary unit according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, the rotary unit includes rotational component  1302  and gear component  1304  (e.g., a planetary gear component or the like). Although not shown, rotational component  1302  typically includes one or more implements (e.g., gear components, bristles, prongs, blades, etc.). Rotational component  1302  includes gear component  1310  (e.g., a ring gear component, etc.) that is configured to operably engage or mesh with gear component  1304 . Rotational mechanisms that include these components are described further herein. 
       FIGS. 14A-D  schematically show a rotary unit or components thereof according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  1400  includes rotational component  1402  that includes gear component  1410  (e.g., a sun gear component, etc.), gear component  1412  (e.g., a ring gear component, etc.), and gear structure receiving area  1413 . Gear component  1410  substantially fixedly extends from first surface  1406  of rotational component  1402 . Gear component  1410  is configured to operably engage or mesh with one or more other gear components of another rotary unit when gear component  1410  is disposed proximal to the other gear components. Gear component  1412  substantially fixedly extends from second surface  1408  of rotational component  1402 . Gear component  1412  communicates with gear structure receiving area  1413 . Gear structure receiving area  1413  is configured to receive gear structure  1415 . 
     Gear structure  1415  includes support component  1417  and gear components  1414  (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatably coupled to support component  1417 . Gear components  1414  are configured to operably engage or mesh with one or more other gear components when gear components  1414  are disposed proximal to the other gear components. Rotational component  1402  is configured to rotate relative to support component  1417 , which support component  1417  is substantially fixedly positioned when rotational component  1402  rotates relative to support component  1417 . Gear components  1414  are configured to rotate relative to rotational component  1402 . Gear structures that include support components  1417  are described further herein. Although not shown, rotary unit  1400  also typically includes one or more implements. Rotational or rotary mechanisms typically include one or more rotary units  1400 . Exemplary rotational mechanisms are described further herein. 
       FIGS. 15A-D  schematically illustrate a rotary unit according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  1500  includes rotational component  1502  that includes first sun gear component  1504  and second sun gear component  1506  on first and second surfaces, respectively, of rotational component  1502 , which substantially oppose one another. First sun gear component  1504  is configured to operably engage one or more gear components of at least a second rotational component (not shown) when rotational component  1502  is disposed proximal to the second rotational component such that when rotational component  1502  rotates in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates in a second direction. Second sun gear component  1506  is configured to operably engage one or more gear components of at least a third rotational component (not shown) when rotational component  1502  is disposed proximal to the third rotational component such that when rotational component  1502  rotates in the first direction, the third rotational component rotates in the second direction. Exemplary gears that are optionally adapted for use with the rotary units, rotational mechanisms, and related applications of the invention are also described in, e.g., Dudley, Handbook of Practical Gear Design (Mechanical Engineering Series), CRC Press, 1 st  Ed. (1994) and Litvin and Fuentes, Gear Geometry and Applied Theory, Cambridge University Press; 2 nd  Ed. (2004), which are both incorporated herein in their entirety for all purposes. 
     Rotary unit  1500  also includes hole  1508  disposed through rotational component  1502 . Hole  1508  is configured to receive, e.g., a drive mechanism component (e.g., an axle, a shaft, a gear structure component, etc.) or a support component such that rotational component  1502  can rotate around the drive mechanism component, the support component, or the like. Rotational component  1502  also includes friction reducing materials  1510  (shown as elevated or pointed surface features) to reduce friction as rotational component  1502  rotates relative to, e.g., other rotational components. In addition, rotational component  1502  also includes implements  1512  on a surface of rotational component  1502  that is configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular to a rotational axis of rotary unit  1500 . Essentially any implement is optionally adapted for use with rotary unit  1500 , including the exemplary implements described herein. Rotary unit  1500  is typically included in a rotational or rotary mechanism, a device or the like. Exemplary rotational mechanisms that include rotary unit  1500  are described herein. In addition, representative devices that are optionally adapted to include rotary unit  1500  are also described herein. 
       FIGS. 16  A-Q schematically illustrate a rotary unit or components thereof according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  1600  includes rotational component  1602  that includes first ring gear component  1604  and second ring gear component  1606  on first and second surfaces, respectively, of rotational component  1602 , which substantially oppose one another. First ring gear component  1604  is configured to operably engage one or more gear components of at least a second rotational component (not shown) when rotational component  1602  is disposed proximal to the second rotational component such that when rotational component  1602  rotates in a first direction, the second rotational component rotates in a second direction. Second ring gear component  1606  is configured to operably engage one or more gear components of at least a third rotational component (not shown) when rotational component  1602  is disposed proximal to the third rotational component such that when rotational component  1602  rotates in the first direction, the third rotational component rotates in the second direction. 
     Rotary unit  1600  also includes hole  1608  disposed through rotational component  1602 . Hole  1608  is configured to receive, e.g., a drive mechanism component (e.g., an axle, a shaft, a gear structure component, etc.) or a support component such that rotational component  1602  can rotate around the drive mechanism component, the support component, or the like. Exemplary drive mechanism components and support components are described herein. Although not shown, rotational component  1602  optionally also includes friction reducing materials (e.g., elevated or pointed surface features, surface coatings, roller balls, etc.) to reduce friction as rotational component  1602  rotates relative to, e.g., other rotational components. In addition, rotational component  1602  also includes implements  1610  on a surface of rotational component  1602  that is configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular to a rotational axis of rotary unit  1600 . Essentially any implement is optionally adapted for use with rotary unit  1600 , including the exemplary implements described herein. Rotary unit  1600  is typically included in a rotational or rotary mechanism, a device or the like. Exemplary rotational mechanisms that include rotary unit  1600  are described herein. In addition, representative devices that are optionally adapted to include rotary unit  1600  are also described herein. 
     In some embodiments, rotary unit  1600  also includes gear structure  1612 , which includes support component  1614  and first planetary gear components  1616  and second planetary gear components  1618  rotatably coupled to support component  1614 . As shown, first planetary gear components  1616  are configured to operably engage or mesh with first ring gear component  1604 , second planetary gear components  1618  are configured to operably engage or mesh with second ring gear component  1606 , and rotational component  1602  is configured to rotate relative to support component  1614 , which is substantially fixedly positioned (e.g., in an assembled rotational mechanism, device, etc.) when rotational component  1602  rotates relative to support component  1614 . As also shown, for example, in  FIGS. 16  A and B, respectively, first ring gear component  1604  at least partially defines first gear structure receiving area  1605  and second ring gear component  1606  at least partially defines second gear structure receiving area  1607 . First gear structure receiving area  1605  and second gear structure receiving area  1607  are configured to receive first portion  1622  and second portion  1624 , respectively, of support component  1614  of gear structure  1612 . First portion  1622  and second portion  1624  of support component  1614  of gear structure  1612  are described, e.g., further below. 
       FIG. 16G  schematically shows an exploded side view of gear structure  1612  according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, threaded region  1620  of first portion  1622  of support component  1614  inserts into a threaded region receiving area (not within view in  FIG. 16G ) of second portion  1624  of support component  1614  during assembly of gear structure  1612 . In addition, first planetary gear components  1616  are rotatably coupled to second portion  1624  of support component  1614  via pronged retaining elements  1626  and second planetary gear components  1618  are rotatably coupled to first portion  1622  of support component  1614  via pronged retaining elements  1628  during assembly of gear structure  1612 . As also shown, first portion  1622  and second portion  1624  of support component  1614  include friction reducing materials  1630  (shown as elevated or pointed surface features), e.g., to minimize friction when rotational component  1602  rotates relative to support component  1614  during operation of assembled rotary unit  1600 . To further illustrate,  FIG. 16M  schematically shows an exploded view of rotary unit  1600  with first portion  1622  and second portion  1624  of support component  1614  of gear structure  1612  prior to assembly with rotational component  1602 . 
     To further illustrate,  FIG. 16K  schematically illustrates gear structure  1612  prior to assembly with another gear structure  1612  from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, during assembly, threaded region  1632  of one support component  1614  is inserted into threaded region receiving area  1634  of another support component  1614  such that the assembled support components  1614  are substantially fixedly positioned relative to one another, e.g., when rotational components  1602  of rotary units  1600  rotate relative to support components  1614 . Essentially any attachment technique is optionally utilized to attach support components  1614  of gear structures  1612  to one another or first portion  1622  and second portion  1624  of support component  1614  to one another. Some exemplary techniques include, for example, bonding, welding, adhering, or the like. In some embodiments, multiple support components  1614  are fabricated as single integral part (e.g., as a molded part or the like). 
       FIGS. 27  A-G schematically illustrate rotary units or components thereof from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary unit  4200  or rotary unit  4202  each include rotational component  4204 , which includes gear component  4206  (e.g., a ring gear component) and surface  4208  that includes implements  4210 . Rotational component  4204  is configured to rotate around rotational axis  4212 . Surface  4208 , which includes implements  4210  is configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular to rotational axis  4212 . In some of these embodiments, surface  4208  is configured to rotate substantially parallel to rotational axis  4212  of rotational component  4204 . Rotary unit  4200  includes first gear component  4214  and third gear component  4216 . First gear component  4214  operably engages (e.g., meshes with) gear component  4206  such that when first gear component  4214  rotates in a first direction, rotational component  4204  rotates in the first direction. Rotary unit  4202  includes second gear component  4218  operably engages (e.g., meshes with) gear component  4206  of rotational component  4204 . Second gear component  4218  operably engages (e.g., meshes with) third gear component  4216  when rotational component  4204  of rotary unit  4200  is disposed proximal to (e.g., operably engages) rotational component  4204  of rotary unit  4202  such that when first gear component  4214  rotates in the first direction, the rotational component  4204  of rotary unit  4200  rotates in the first direction and second gear component  4218  and rotational component  4204  of rotary unit  4202  rotate in a second direction. 
     Rotational component  4204  also includes alignment component  4220  and alignment component receiving area  4222 . Alignment component  4220  and alignment component receiving area  4222  are configured to align rotational component  4204  relative to other rotational components when the other rotational components are disposed proximal to rotational component  4202 . For example, alignment component  4220  of rotational component  4204  is configured to be received by an alignment component receiving area of another rotational component, while alignment component receiving area  4222  of rotational component  4204  is configured to receive an alignment component of another rotational component. 
     The drive mechanism components or portions thereof of the rotary units of the invention include various embodiments. Rotary unit  4200 , for example, includes drive mechanism component or portion thereof  4224  (e.g., shown as a shaft component), which operably engages first gear component  4214  and at least one other gear component (i.e., third gear component  4216  in this embodiment). Drive mechanism component or portion thereof  4224  is configured to effect rotation of first gear component  4214  and third gear component  4216 . To further illustrate, rotary unit  4202  includes drive mechanism component or portion thereof  4226  (e.g., shown as a shaft component), which operably engages second gear component  4218 . Drive mechanism components or portions thereof, including drive mechanism component receiving areas are described further herein. 
     To further illustrate,  FIGS. 24A-H ,  25  A and B, and  26  A and B schematically illustrate various rotary units from different views according to certain embodiments of the invention. Each of these illustrated embodiments include rotary unit  1400 , as described herein, with various exemplary implement embodiments. Any other rotary unit described herein is also used or adapted for use in these embodiments.  FIGS. 24  A and B show exemplary winding rotor  2451 , which includes winding  2450  (e.g., copper or the like) wound around the rotational component of rotary unit  1400  (e.g., which functions as a core in certain embodiments).  FIGS. 24  C and D show exemplary winding rotor  2453 , which includes substantially equi-angularly positioned windings  2452  disposed on a surface of the rotational component of rotary unit  1400  and wound around cores  2454 .  FIGS. 24  E and F show exemplary winding rotor  2455 , which includes substantially equi-angularly positioned windings  2456  disposed on a surface of the rotational component of rotary unit  1400  and wound around cores  2458 .  FIGS. 24  G and H show exemplary winding rotor  2457 , which includes substantially equi-angularly positioned windings  2460  disposed on a surface of the rotational component of rotary unit  1400  and wound around cores  2462 .  FIGS. 25  A and B schematically show exemplary magnet rotor  2459  that includes an array of magnets  2464  with circumferentially alternating north/south and south/north orientations N, S. Magnets  2464  are circumferentially separated from each other by non-magnetic material spacer components  2466 .  FIGS. 26  A and B schematically show exemplary pole rotor  2461  that includes poles  2468  separated by non-magnetic material  2470 . Other rotor embodiments may have different arrangements of, and/or more or fewer cores, windings, poles, and/or magnets than are schematically depicted in, for example,  FIGS. 24A-H ,  25  A and B, and  26  A and B. 
       FIGS. 46A-E  schematically show components of a rotary unit according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, the rotary unit includes rotational component  2602  and gear structure  2604 . Rotational component  2602  includes gear components  2606  (e.g., ring gear components, etc.). Although not shown, rotational component  2602  typically includes one or more implements (e.g., windings, poles, electromagnetic radiation sources, magnets, gear components, etc.). Gear structure  2604  includes support component  2608  and gear components  2610  (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatably coupled (see, directional arrows in  FIG. 46D ) to support component  2608 . Gear components  2610  of gear structure  2604  are configured to operably engage or mesh with gear components  2606  (e.g., neighboring pairs of rotational components  2602 ).  FIG. 46F  schematically illustrates a gear structure prior to assembly with another gear structure from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention. During assembly, threaded region  2612  of one support component  2608  is inserted into a threaded region receiving area (not within view) of another support component  2608  such that the assembled support components  2608  are substantially fixedly positioned relative to one another when rotational components  2602  of the rotary units and gear components  2610  rotate relative to support components  2608  and to one another. Essentially any attachment technique is optionally utilized to attach support components  2608  to one another. Some exemplary techniques include, for example, bonding, welding, adhering, or the like.  FIG. 46G  schematically shows an assembly that includes four gear structures  2604  from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention. Portions of support components  2608  that include threaded regions  2612  are also configured to be disposed through holes  2614  of rotational components  2602 . Rotational components  2602  are configured to rotate around those portions of support components  2608 . 
     III. Exemplary Rotary Mechanisms 
     In certain embodiments, the invention provides rotary or rotational mechanisms that include two or more rotational components or rotary units (e.g.,  2 ,  3 ,  4 ,  5 ,  6 ,  7 ,  8 ,  9 ,  10 ,  11 ,  12 ,  13 ,  14 ,  15 , or more rotational components or rotary units). Rotary mechanisms also typically include at least one counter-rotational mechanism operably coupled to one or more of the rotational components. The counter-rotational mechanism is generally configured to effect substantially simultaneous counter-rotation of the rotational components relative to one another when movement of at least a portion of the counter-rotational mechanism is effected. Rotary mechanisms also typically include drive mechanisms operably coupled to the counter-rotational mechanism and/or rotational components. Drive mechanisms are typically configured to effect movement of at least the portion of the counter-rotational mechanisms such that the rotational components substantially simultaneously counter-rotate relative to one another. In some embodiments, for example, multiple rotary units are included as components (e.g., rotational components and counter-rotational mechanisms, etc.) of rotary mechanisms. 
     In some embodiments, rotary units are operably coupled to one another via one or more shafts. To illustrate one embodiment,  FIG. 17A  schematically depicts rotary units  100  and drive mechanism component  1702  (shown as a shaft) prior to assembly. As shown, gear component  1704  is fixedly coupled to shaft  1702  and is configured to operably engage third gear components  114  (not within view in  FIGS. 17  A and B) of a rotary unit  100  in assembled rotary mechanism  1700 . During assembly, shaft  1702  is inserted through drive mechanism component receiving areas  122  (shown as holes, e.g., in  FIG. 1A ) of rotary units  100  to operably couple rotary units  100  to one another.  FIG. 17B  schematically illustrates rotary units  100  and shaft  1702  following assembly. Suitable shafts include a variety of cross-sectional shapes (e.g., circular, oval, triangular, square, rectangular, polygonal, etc.). In some embodiments, a given shaft includes multiple cross-sectional shapes. In some of these embodiments, individual rotary units include drive mechanism component receiving areas (e.g., holes, apertures, etc.) that correspond to those different cross-sectional shapes. In some embodiments, for example, one member of a pair of neighboring rotary units includes a square hole that fits on a square cross-section of a shaft, while the other member of the pair includes a circular hole that fits on a circular cross-section of the shaft. In these embodiments, the rotary unit with the square hole typically rotates in a substantially fixed position relative to the shaft, whereas the rotary unit with the circular hole typically rotates substantially free or independent relative to the shaft. 
     To further illustrate,  FIGS. 18  A-C schematically show rotary mechanism  1800  assembled from pairs of rotary units  700  and  800 , which are both described further herein. More specifically,  FIG. 18A  schematically shows an individual pair of rotary units  700  and  800  prior to assembly of rotary mechanism  1800  from side views.  FIG. 18B  schematically shows partially assembled rotary mechanism  1800  with the rotary units of  FIG. 18A  from side views.  FIG. 18C  schematically illustrates rotary mechanism  1800  that includes multiple pairs of rotary units  700  and  800 . 
     In some embodiments, rotary units are operably coupled to one another via one or more shafts. To illustrate one embodiment,  FIG. 19A  schematically depicts rotary units  900 , drive mechanism component  1902  (shown as a shaft), and cap component  1903  prior to assembly. As shown, gear component  1904  is fixedly coupled to shaft  1902  and is configured to operably engage or mesh with gear components  914  of a rotary unit  900  in assembled rotary mechanism  1900 . During assembly, shaft  1902  is inserted through drive mechanism component receiving areas  925  (shown as a hole, e.g., in  FIG. 9A ) of rotary units  900  to operably couple rotary units  900  to one another. Shaft  1902  operably connects with cap component  1903  in assembled rotary mechanism  1900 , e.g., to hold rotary units  900  in position relative to one another.  FIG. 19B  schematically illustrates rotary units  900 , shaft  1902 , and cap component  1903  following assembly of rotary mechanism  1900 . The directional arrows in  FIG. 19B  schematically depict that neighboring pairs of rotary units  900  in rotary mechanism  1900  are configured to counter-rotate relative to one another.  FIG. 19C  schematically shows a portion of a rotary mechanism that includes rotary units  900  with implements  918 . 
       FIGS. 20A-O  schematically show a rotary mechanism or components thereof according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. As shown, rotary mechanism  2000  includes four rotary units that each include rotational component  1302  and gear component  1304 . Rotary mechanism  2000  also includes a drive mechanism that includes shafts  2002  and motors  2004 . Motors  2004  are configured to effect rotation of shafts  2002 . As shown, the drive mechanism is configured to effect rotation of gear components  1304  such that rotational components  1302  of neighboring or adjacent pairs of rotary units rotate in opposite directions. See, e.g., the directional arrows in  FIG. 20H , which schematically depict the counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of rotational components  1302 . As shown, one shaft  2002  is operably connected to a first set of two non-neighboring gear components  1304 , while the other shaft  2002  is operably connected to a second set of two non-neighboring gear components  1304  that is different from the first set of two non-neighboring of gear components  1304 . The two shafts  2002  are configured to rotate in opposite directions. See, e.g., the directional arrows associated with shafts  2002  in  FIGS. 20  H and I. As also shown, surfaces  1305  of rotational components  1302  are configured to rotate substantially non-perpendicular to a rotational axis of rotational components  1302 . 
     Any suitable drive mechanism is optionally utilized with these rotary mechanisms. For example,  FIG. 20L  schematically depicts a portion of a drive mechanism from a side view. As shown, the drive mechanism includes motor  2004  (depicted as a dual shaft motor) that is configured to effect rotation of shafts  2002  in opposite directions via meshing pairs of gear components  2006 . To further illustrate,  FIGS. 20M-O  schematically depict portions of a drive mechanism. As shown, motor  2004  is configured to effect rotation of shafts  2002  in opposite directions via a gear train that includes gear components  2008 . 
     In addition, rotary mechanism  2000  also includes positioning component  2010  (shown as a frame structure) that is configured to position rotary units relative to one another. As shown, shafts  2002  are positioned relative to positioning component  2010  via mount brackets  2012 , which permit rotation of shafts  2002 . As also shown, positioning component  2010  also includes a plurality of friction reducing materials  2014  (shown as roller balls) disposed on a surface of positioning component  2010  to reduce friction as rotational components  1302  rotates relative to positioning component  2010 . In the embodiments in which friction reducing materials are utilized, essentially any friction reducing material is optionally adapted for use with the rotary mechanisms of the invention. Other exemplary embodiments include, for example, coatings (e.g., TEFLON®, etc.), lubricants, surface features, and/or the like.  FIG. 20G  schematically depicts positioning component  2016  according to another exemplary embodiment. 
       FIGS. 21A-E  schematically show rotary mechanisms or components thereof according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. As shown, rotary mechanism  2100  includes drive mechanism component  2102 , which includes ring gear component  2104  and a gear structure. The gear structure includes support component  2106  and planetary gear components  2108  rotatably coupled to support component  2106 . Planetary gear components  2108  are configured to operably engage ring gear component  2104  of drive mechanism component  2102  and gear component  1410  of rotary unit  1400 . Drive mechanism component  2102  also includes motor  2110 , which is configured to effect rotation of ring gear component  2104  via shaft  2112 . Shaft  2112  is fixedly connected to ring gear component  2104 . When ring gear component  2104  rotates, it effects the counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of rotary units  1400  relative to one another. See, e.g., the directional arrows associated with  FIGS. 21  B and C, which schematically depict the counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of rotary units  1400 . As also shown, in assembled rotary mechanism  2100 , support component  2106  is operably connected to support components  1417  of rotary units  1400  such that support component  2106  and support components  1417  are substantially fixedly positioned relative to one another when ring gear component  2104  effects the counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of rotary units  1400  relative to one another. Gear structures that include support components  1417  are described further herein. To further illustrate,  FIG. 21D  schematically depicts rotary mechanism  2114 , which includes rotary units  1400  with implements  1418 . In addition,  FIG. 21E  schematically illustrates rotary mechanism  2116 , which includes rotary units  1400  with implements  1418  and dual shaft motor  2118 . 
     The gear structures of the invention include various embodiments. To illustrate,  FIG. 22A  schematically illustrates gear structure  1415  prior to assembly with another gear structure  1415  from a side view according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, gear structure  1415  includes support component  1417  and gear components  1414  (e.g., planetary gear components or the like), which are rotatably coupled to support component  1417 . Gear components  1414  are configured to operably engage or mesh with one or more other gear components when gear components  1414  are disposed proximal to the other gear components. During assembly, threaded region  1429  of one support component  1417  is inserted into threaded region receiving area  1427  of another support component  1417  such that the assembled support components  1417  are substantially fixedly positioned relative to one another when rotational components  1402  of rotary units  1400  rotate relative to support components  1417  and to one another. Essentially any attachment technique is optionally utilized to attach support components  1417  to one another. Some exemplary techniques include, for example, bonding, welding, adhering, or the like. In some embodiments, multiple support components  1417  are fabricated as single integral part (e.g., as a molded part or the like).  FIG. 22B  schematically shows an assembly of four gear structure  1415  from a side view.  FIG. 22C  schematically depicts the gear structure assembly of  FIG. 22B  from a rear side view, while  FIG. 22D  schematically depicts the gear structure assembly of  FIG. 22B  from a front side view. 
     To further illustrate,  FIG. 22E  schematically shows rotary mechanism  2200  that includes the gear structure assembly of  FIG. 22B  from a sectional view according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary mechanism  2200  includes four rotary units  1400 . Counter-rotation of neighboring rotational components  1402  in rotary mechanism  2200  is effected by drive mechanism component  2202 , which includes shaft component  2206  and gear component  2204 .  FIG. 22F  schematically shows rotary mechanism  2200  from a side view. Rotational components  1402  of rotary units  1400  of rotation mechanism  2200  are configured to rotate relative to support components  1417 , which support components  1417  are substantially fixedly positioned when rotational components  1402  rotates relative to support components  1417 . Gear components  1414  are configured to rotate relative to rotational components  1402 . 
       FIGS. 23A-T  schematically depict a rotational mechanism or components thereof according to one embodiment of the invention. To illustrate,  FIGS. 23A  and C, for example, schematically depicts a portion of rotational or rotary mechanism  2300  from an exploded side and exploded side sectional views, respectively. During assembly of rotational mechanism  2300 , support component  1614  of one rotary unit  1600  is inserted through hole  1508  of rotary unit  1500  and threaded region  1632  of that support component  1614  is received and retained in threaded region receiving area of another rotary unit  1600 . 
       FIGS. 23E-P  schematically show a portion of a drive mechanism component that is utilized to effect counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of rotary unit  1500  and rotary unit  1600  of rotational mechanism  2300 . As shown, the portion of the drive mechanism component includes rotational component  2302 , which includes ring gear component  2304 , hole  2306 , and implements  2308 . The portion of the drive mechanism component also includes gear structure  2310 , which includes support structure  2312  and planetary gear components  2314  rotatably coupled to support structure  2312 . Support structure  2312  also includes friction reducing materials  2316  (shown as elevated or pointed surface features) to, e.g., reduce friction between support structure  2312  and rotational component  2302  when rotational component  2302  rotates relative to support structure  2312 . Support structure  2312  also includes threaded region  2318 , which is received by a corresponding threaded region receiving area of fastener  2320  (e.g., a nut or the like) through hole  2306  to hold gear structure  2310  in position relative to rotational component  2302 , yet permit rotational component  2302  to rotate relative to support structure  2312  and planetary gear components  2314 . In addition, support structure  2312  also includes threaded region receiving area  2322 , which is configured to receiving thread region  1632  of a rotary unit  1600 , e.g., in assembled rotational mechanism  2300 . 
     As also shown, a shaft  2324  is also fixedly connected to rotational component  2302 . Although not shown, a motor or the like is typically operably connected to shaft  2324 , which effects the rotation of shaft  2324  and the counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of rotary unit  1500  and rotary unit  1600  of rotational mechanism  2300  (e.g., as schematically depicted by the directional arrows shown, e.g., in  FIG. 23S ) during operation. In addition, a rotary unit  1600  also operably connects to support component  2326  via threaded region receiving area  1634  of support structure  1614 , e.g., such that support structures  1614  of rotary units  1600  and support structure  2312  of gear structure  2310  are substantially fixedly positioned when rotary units  1500 , rotary units  1600 , and rotational component  2302  rotate relative to one another in rotational mechanism  2300 . Essentially any support component is optionally used. In some embodiments, support components are included in or as part of devices, apparatus, or other applications of the rotational mechanisms of the invention. Exemplary support components and applications are described herein. 
       FIGS. 28  A-I schematically illustrate a rotary mechanism or components thereof from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary mechanism  4300  includes rotational components  4204 , which include gear components  4206  (e.g., ring gear components). Rotary mechanism  4300  also includes counter-rotational mechanism  4313  that includes first gear components  4214  that operably engage (e.g., mesh with) a ring gear component  4206  of a first rotational component  4204  of a neighboring pair of rotational components. Counter-rotational mechanism  4313  also includes second gear components  4218  that operably engage (e.g., mesh with) a ring gear component  4206  of a second rotational component  4204  of a neighboring pair of rotational components. Counter-rotational mechanism  4313  also includes third gear components  4216  that operably engage (e.g., mesh with) second gear components  4218  such that when first gear components  4214  rotate in a first direction, first rotational components  4204  of neighboring pairs of rotational components rotate in the first direction and second gear components  4218  and second rotational components  4204  of neighboring pairs of rotational components rotate in a second direction (e.g., substantially opposite the first direction). 
     Rotational components  4204  include alignment components  4220  and alignment component receiving areas  4222  that are configured to align rotational components  4204  relative to one another, e.g., when rotational components  4204  rotate. As shown, an alignment component receiving area  4222  of a given rotational component  4204  is configured to receive at least a portion of an alignment component  4220  of another rotational component  4204 . In this exemplary embodiment, alignment components  4220  are shown as circular ridge structures. Other alignment components or mechanisms are also optionally used to align rotational components relative to one another in the rotary mechanisms of the invention. In some embodiments, friction reducing materials are disposed between neighboring pairs of rotational components in a rotary mechanism to reduce friction between the rotational components when the rotational components rotate relative to one another. In some embodiments, for example, one or more lubricants are disposed between at least one neighboring pair of rotational components  4204  before and/or after the alignment component  4220  of one rotational component  4204  is inserted into the alignment component receiving area  4222  of another rotational component  4204 . Other exemplary friction reducing materials that are optionally used or adapted for use with the rotary mechanisms of the invention are described herein or otherwise known to those of skill in the art. 
     Rotary mechanism  4300  also includes drive mechanism components or portions thereof  4224  and  4226  (e.g., shown as shaft components in this exemplary embodiment). As shown, shaft component  4224  operably engages first gear components  4214  and third gear components  4216 , while shaft component  4226  operably engages second gear components  4218 . As also shown, rotary mechanism  4300  also includes drive mechanism components or portions thereof  4302  (e.g., shown as motor in this exemplary embodiment) operably connected to shaft component  4224 . Motor  4302  is configured to effect rotation of shaft component  4224  and thereby first gear components  4214  and third gear components  4216  as well as shaft component  4226  and second gear components  4218  such that when first gear components  4214  rotate in a first direction, first rotational components  4204  of neighboring pairs of rotational components rotate in the first direction and second gear components  4218  and second rotational components  4204  of neighboring pairs of rotational components rotate in a second direction (e.g., substantially opposite the first direction). Rotary mechanism  4300  is typically operably incorporated into, or otherwise operably associated with, a device, vehicle, or the like. Exemplary devices, vehicles, or other applications that are optionally used or adapted for use with rotary mechanism  4300  or the like are, e.g., described further herein. 
     The rotary mechanisms of the invention or components thereof are fabricated or assembled using various techniques. In some embodiments, rotary mechanisms are assembled using rotational components that include multiple portions. As shown in  FIGS. 29  A-C, for example, a rotary mechanism is optionally assembled using rotational components  4400 , which each include rotational component portion  4402  and rotational component portion  4404 . Rotational component portions  4402  and rotational component portions  4404  include portions of the ring gear components, alignment components, and alignment component receiving areas described herein, e.g., with respect to rotational components  4204 . Rotational component portions  4402  also include alignment features  4406  and rotational component portions  4404  also include corresponding alignment feature receiving areas (not within view) that are configured to receive alignment features  4406 . As shown, during assembly, rotational component portions  4402  and rotational component portions  4404  are joined (e.g., adhered, bonded, welded, etc.) with one another and positioned in operable engagement with first gear components  4214  and second gear components  4218  to form rotary mechanisms. 
     In certain embodiments, rotary mechanisms are assembled using shaft components that include multiple portions.  FIGS. 30  A and B,  31  A and B,  32  A and B, and  33  show aspects of one of these exemplary embodiments. As shown, shaft component portion  4500  includes drive mechanism component receiving area  4700  and shaft component portion  4502  includes notched portion  4702  that is configured to be received by drive mechanism component receiving area  4700  of shaft component portion  4500 . Shaft component portion  4500  and shaft component portion  4502  are each operably connected to a first gear component  4214  and a third gear component  4216 . In addition, shaft component portion  4504  includes drive mechanism component receiving area  4700  and shaft component portion  4506  includes notched portion  4702  that is configured to be received by drive mechanism component receiving area  4700  of shaft component portion  4504 . Shaft component portion  4504  and shaft component portion  4506  are each operably connected to a second gear component  4218 . As shown, for example, in  FIG. 33  rotational components  4204  are positioned relative to first gear components  4214  operably connected to shaft component portion  4500  or shaft component portion  4502  or second gear components  4218  operably connected to shaft component portion  4504  or shaft component portion  4506  and corresponding drive mechanism component receiving areas  4700  and notched portions  4702  are joined together during the assembly of a rotary mechanism in this exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, multiple shaft portions and multiple rotational component portions are used together in the assembly of rotary mechanisms. Other exemplary rotary mechanism or component fabrication and assembly techniques are described herein. 
     As also shown, rotational components  4204  of rotary mechanism  4300  also include implements  4210 . Other exemplary implements that are optionally used or adapted for use with rotational components  4204  are described further herein. In some embodiments, for example, implements are rotatably coupled to rotation components. In some of these embodiments, implements are configured to operably engage one or more gear components of one or more other rotational components. Rotatably coupled implements are described further herein, for example, with respect to  FIGS. 6A-G ,  24 A-D,  25  A and B, and  26 . 
       FIGS. 35  A-F schematically show a rotary mechanism or components thereof from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, rotary mechanism  5100  includes rotary units that include rotational components  4204 . Rotational components  4204  include gear components  4206  (e.g., ring gear components). Additional details about rotational components (e.g., rotational components  4204 ) are described further herein. The rotary units also include second gear components  4218 , which are configured to operably engage gear components  4206  of rotational components  4204 . Rotary mechanism  5100  also includes a drive mechanism component or portion thereof that operably engages second gear components  4218 . The drive mechanism component or portion thereof is configured to effect rotation of second gear components  4218  such that rotational component  4204  of one rotary unit of a neighboring pair of rotary units rotates in a first direction and rotational component  4204  of the other rotary unit of the neighboring pair of rotary units rotates in a second direction. As shown, the drive mechanism component or portion thereof includes shaft component  5102  and shaft component  5104 . Shaft component  5102  operably engages second gear components  4218  of one rotary unit of each neighboring pair of rotary units, while shaft component  5104  operably engages second gear components  4218  of the other rotary unit of each neighboring pair of rotary units. Shaft component  5102  and shaft component  5104  are also operably connected to drive gear components  5106  and  5108 , respectively. In assembled rotary mechanism  5100 , drive gear components  5106  and  5108  mesh with one another. As shown, shaft component  5102  is also operably connected to motor  5110 . Motor  5110  is configured to effect rotation of shaft component  5102  and thereby second gear components  4218  and corresponding rotational components  4204  of one rotary unit of each neighboring pair of rotary units in a first direction and second gear components  4218  and corresponding rotational components  4204  of the other rotary unit of each neighboring pair of rotary units via drive gear components  5106  and  5108  and shaft component  5104  in a second direction. In some embodiments, rotary mechanisms also include drive mechanism positioning components that are configured to position drive mechanism components or portions thereof relative to one another. To illustrate, rotary mechanism  5100  includes drive mechanism positioning component  5112 , which includes holes  5114 . Shaft component  5102  and shaft component  5104  are configured to fit and rotate within holes  5114  such that shaft component  5102  and shaft component  5104  are positioned relative to one another at least during rotation. Rotary mechanism  5100  is typically operably incorporated into, or otherwise operably associated with, a device, vehicle, or the like. Exemplary devices, vehicles, or other applications that are optionally used or adapted for use with rotary mechanism  5100  or the like are, e.g., described further herein. 
     To further illustrate,  FIG. 47A  schematically illustrates rotary mechanism  2700  that includes rotational components  2602  and gear structure  2604  of  FIGS. 46A-G  from a sectional view prior to assembly according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown,  FIG. 47A  also schematically depicts a portion of a drive mechanism component that is utilized to effect counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of rotational components  2602  (see, e.g., directional arrows in  FIG. 47B ). As shown, the portion of the drive mechanism component includes rotational component  2601 , which includes gear component  2603  and hole  2605 . In some embodiments, rotational component  2601  also includes one or more implements. Exemplary implements are described further herein. A threaded region  2612  of one support component  2608  is inserted through hole  2605  and received by a corresponding threaded region receiving area of fastener  2607  (e.g., a nut or the like) to hold the gear structure in position relative rotational components  2602 , yet permit rotational components  2602  to rotate relative to support components  2608  and gear components  2610 . 
     As also shown, a shaft  2609  is also fixedly connected to rotational component  2601 . In this exemplary embodiment, motor  2611  is operably connected to shaft  2609 , which effects the rotation of shaft  2609  and the counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of rotational components  2602  of rotary mechanism  2700  (e.g., as schematically depicted by the directional arrows shown, e.g., in  FIG. 47B ) during operation. In addition, a support component  2608  also operably connects to support component  2613  via a threaded region receiving area  2608  (not within view) of support structure  2608 , e.g., such that support components  2608  and support component  2613  are substantially fixedly positioned when rotational components  2602  of rotary mechanism  2700  rotate relative to one another in rotary mechanism  2700 . Support component  2613  also includes gear component  2615  that operably engages or meshes with a pair of gear components  2610  in this exemplary embodiment. Essentially any support component is optionally used. In some embodiments, support components are included in or as part of devices, apparatus, or other applications of the rotational mechanisms of the invention. Exemplary support components and applications are described herein.  FIG. 47B  schematically depicts rotary mechanism  2700  of  FIG. 47A  from a sectional view following assembly. 
     IV. Exemplary Applications 
       FIG. 36  schematically shows portions of a generator from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. The portions of generator  3650  include a rotary mechanism configured similar to rotary mechanism  2100 , as described herein, with neighboring pairs of winding rotor  2453  and magnet rotor  2459 , which are configured to counter-rotate (see, e.g., directional arrows) substantially non-concentrically relative to one another at least partially around a rotational axis to, e.g., effect current induction in windings  2452  of magnet rotors  2459 . Although not shown, various electrical connections (e.g., winding connections, etc.) known to those of skill in the art are optionally used to convey the induced current from windings  2452 . In some embodiments of the apparatus of the invention, for example, slip rings or the like are included to conduct current from electrical windings to, e.g., an external electrical system, whereas in other embodiments, slip rings or the like are not included, e.g., depending on the given apparatus configuration. During operation, motor  2110  rotates shaft  2112  to provide mechanical input to effect the counter-rotation of winding rotors  2453  and magnet rotors  2459  to induce current in windings  2452 . This electrical power output is typically conveyed via one or more electrical conductors, e.g., to a given device or apparatus. Additional electrical conductors, electrical connections, rotor or stator configurations, and other aspects that are optionally adapted for use with the apparatus of the invention are described in, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 8,063,528, which issued Nov. 22, 2011, and Rizzoni,  Principles and Applications of Electrical Engineering,  5 th  Ed., McGraw-Hill (2005), which are both incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     To further illustrate,  FIGS. 37  A and B schematically show portions of a motor from cutaway side and top views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, the portions of motor  3750  include a rotary mechanism configured similar to rotary mechanism  2100 , as described herein, with neighboring pairs of magnet rotor  2459  and spacer rotary unit  1400 , which are configured to counter-rotate (see, e.g., directional arrows) substantially non-concentrically relative to one another at least partially around a rotational axis. In addition, motor  3750  also includes stator component  3752 , which includes windings  3754  disposed within housing  3756 . Windings  3754  are separated from magnet rotors  2459  by air gaps  3753 . In this exemplary embodiment, four windings  3754  are substantially equi-angularly positioned relative to an axis of rotation of each magnet rotor  2459 . In other embodiments, more or fewer windings are included. In other exemplary embodiments, magnets and/or poles are disposed within housing and windings are disposed on rotor components. Magnet rotors  2459  and spacer rotary units  1400  are also operably connected to shaft  2112 , which is connected to gear component  3758 . During operation, electrical power is supplied or input to one or more of windings  3754  (electrical connections not shown) to effect counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of magnet rotor  2459  and spacer rotary unit  1400  and the rotation of shaft  2112  and gear component  3758 . Gear component  3758  is typically meshed with one or more gear components of, e.g., a given device or apparatus such that the mechanical output from motor  3750  can be utilized. In other exemplary embodiments, shaft  2112  is directly connected (e.g., without gear component  3758 ) to a given device or apparatus. 
       FIG. 38  schematically illustrates portions of an apparatus from a cutaway side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, apparatus  3850  (e.g., which can be configured as a generator and/or a motor) is configured similar to motor  3750 , described herein.  FIG. 38  schematically illustrates exemplary electrical connections (I) between windings  3754 . Various electrical connections (e.g., Y-connected windings, Delta-connected windings, etc.) are optionally adapted for use with the apparatus of the invention. 
     To illustrate,  FIG. 39  schematically illustrates generator  3950  (configured as described herein) operably connected to axle  3952  and wheels  3954  via gear components  3956  and  3958  from a front side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. 
       FIGS. 40A-J ,  41 ,  42 A, and  43 A and B schematically illustrate a generator or portions thereof from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, generator  4350  includes magnet rotors  4352  and pole rotors  4354 . Air gaps  4357  are disposed between neighboring pairs of magnet rotors  4352  and pole rotors  4354 . During operation, flux is conveyed across air gaps  4357 . Magnet rotors  4352  and pole rotors  4354  are adapted as implements of rotational components  4204  of rotary units  4202 , as described herein, and are included in a rotary mechanism configured similar to rotary mechanism  5100 , as described herein. Magnet rotor  4352  includes an array of magnets  4353  (e.g., permanent magnets or electromagnets) with circumferentially alternating north/south and south/north orientations N, S. At any given circumferential position, the flux field alternates between an N-S and S-N polarity with an approximately sinusoidal magnitude. Magnets  4353  are circumferentially separated from each other by non-magnetic material spacer components  4355 . 
     In this exemplary embodiment, pole rotors  4354  includes two pole assemblies  4356  (e.g., magnetic steel, etc.) that include bar poles  4358 . Multiple assemblies provide the apparatus of the invention with multiple phase operation or generation in certain embodiments. Pole assemblies optionally include different numbers of poles and/or hubs and may be homogeneous, laminated (e.g., axially stacked, etc.), or the like. Each bar pole  4358 , in this embodiment, includes axially extending outer bar  4360 . Non-magnetic material  4362  (e.g., in the form of an arbor) is disposed axially and radially between two pole assemblies  4356  in pole rotors  4354 , e.g., to provide a solid cylindrically annular shape to the pole rotors. As also shown, pole assembly  4356  includes pole hub  4364 . Optionally, pole rotors having greater or fewer numbers of pole assemblies than the two pole assemblies  4356  of pole rotors  4354  are utilized in various embodiments of the apparatus of the invention. Pole rotors (e.g., having simple magnetic alloy shapes) with no windings or magnets can typically be rotated at higher speeds than, for example, more conventional magnet-bearing rotors which generally have the same speed and diameter limits as in the corresponding conventional machines. 
     Generator  4350  includes a stator component that includes housing  4366  having radial cores  4368 . The stator component is configured to remain substantially stationary, e.g., relative to rotating rotors. Housing  4366  also includes positioning component  4367 , which positions and permits the counter-rotation of the rotary mechanism of generator  4350  within housing  4366 . Stationary radial windings  4370  (e.g., stationary with respect to magnet rotors  4352  and pole rotors  4354 ) are disposed on radial cores  4368  and substantially equi-angularly spaced about corresponding pole rotors  4354  on housing  4366 . In certain embodiments, stationary axial windings and axial cores are adapted for use in the apparatus of the invention. As shown, radial poles  4372  are also operably connected to sets of four radial cores  4368  in this exemplary embodiment. Different numbers of cores, windings, and/or poles are optionally utilized. Air gaps  4374  are disposed between neighboring pairs of radial poles  4372  and pole hub  4364 . During operation, flux is conveyed across air gaps  4374 . As a general rule, the smaller the air gap, the greater the magnetic field strength created in the stator component. Radial poles  4372  conduct the alternative magnetic field from magnets  4353  through electrical windings  4370  on radial cores  4368 . The alternating magnetic field in the windings induce an electrical field in the windings, thereby generating electrical potential to provide, e.g., to an external electrical system. For a given geometry and magnet design, the generated voltage is proportional to the frequency at which the field oscillates, that is the speed at which the magnet rotor rotates. 
     To further illustrate,  FIG. 42B  schematically shows portions of a generator from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, the rotary mechanism of the generator includes magnet rotors  4352  and winding rotors  4376 , which include stationary axial windings. Air gaps  4378  are disposed between neighboring pairs of magnet rotors  4352  and winding rotors  4376 . Magnet rotors  4352  and winding rotors  4376  are adapted as implements of rotational components  4204  of rotary units  4202 , as described herein, and are included in a rotary mechanism configured similar to rotary mechanism  5100 , as described herein. 
     The apparatus of the invention are optionally adapted for various uses. In certain embodiments, for example, the generators of the invention are adapted for use with wind turbines. To illustrate,  FIGS. 44A-C  schematically depict wind turbine  4450  or portions thereof from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, wind turbine  4450  includes one or more generators configured similar to generator  4350  as described herein. For example, generators are optionally positioned within housing  4452  and/or housing  4454  of wind turbine  4450 . Rotating head component  4456  includes blades  4458  and is operably connected to one or more generators, for example, via gear component  4460 . During operation, wind moves blades  4458  and thereby, effect the counter-rotation of magnet rotors  4352  and pole rotors  4354  to generate electrical power output. In some embodiments, animal repellents, such as sonic bird repellents are operably disposed on or proximal to wind turbines to deter animals from getting in the path of moving blades. 
     To further illustrate,  FIG. 45  schematically depicts a wind turbine from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, wind turbine  4550  includes head component  4552  that includes blades  4554 . Wind turbine  4550  includes one or more generators configured similar to generator  4350 , as described herein, disposed within housing  4556  and operably connected to head component  4552 . During operation, wind moves blades  4554  (see, e.g., the directional arrows) and thereby, the counter-rotation of magnet rotors  4352  and pole rotors  4354  to generate electrical power output. In some embodiments, head component  4552  and the one or more generators of wind turbine  4550  are configured to rotate bi-directionally such that electrical power is output whether wind rotates head component  4552  in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. 
       FIGS. 48A-D  schematically show portions of an apparatus from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. More specifically, apparatus  4800  includes rotary mechanism  4802 , which is configured similar to rotary mechanism  2700 , as described herein. In this exemplary embodiment, rotary mechanism  4802  includes three rotational components  4804 , which each include windings  4806  and spacer portion  4808  (e.g., that includes a non-magnetic material). Neighboring pairs of rotational components  4804  are configured to counter-rotate (see, e.g., directional arrows) substantially non-concentrically relative to one another at least partially around a rotational axis. In addition, apparatus  4800  also includes stator component  4810  (shown as a housing), which includes magnets  4812 . Magnets  4812  are separated from windings  4806  by air gaps  4814 . Apparatus  4800  is optionally configured for use as a generator and/or a motor. 
       FIGS. 49  A and B schematically show portions of a generator that includes electromagnetic radiation sources from various views according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, generator  4900  is configured similar to generator  4350 , as described herein, including magnet rotors  4352  and pole rotors  4354 . Generator  4900  also includes housing  4902  that is configured similar to housing  4366 , as described herein. Housing  4902  permits the counter-rotation of the rotary mechanism of generator  4900  within housing  4902 . Counter-rotation of neighboring pairs of magnet rotors  4352  and pole rotors  4354  is effected via drive gear components  4906 ,  5106  and  5108  (e.g., a motor or other motion input source meshes with gear component  4906 ). Stationary radial windings  4370  (e.g., stationary with respect to magnet rotors  4352  and pole rotors  4354 ) are disposed on radial cores  4368  and substantially equi-angularly spaced about corresponding pole rotors  4354  on housing  4902 . As also shown, electromagnetic radiation sources  4904  (e.g., shown as visible light sources, such as incandescent lamps, LED lamps, or fluorescent lamps in this exemplary embodiment) are also disposed on housing  4902 . Although not within view, electromagnetic radiation sources  4904  are electrically connected to windings  4370  to conduct electricity generated by generator  4900  to electromagnetic radiation sources  4904  to effect the emission of light from electromagnetic radiation sources  4904  during operation. Generators, such as generator  4900  are optionally used in various applications, including as emergency vehicle lights, aircraft warning lights, lighthouse warning lights, entertainment lighting (e.g., theater, concert, nightclubs, sporting events, etc.), and the like. 
       FIG. 50  schematically illustrates an apparatus that includes electromagnetic radiation sources from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, the apparatus includes rotary mechanism  5000 , which is configured similar to rotary mechanism  2700 , as described herein. Optionally, essentially any other rotary mechanism described herein or in the references incorporated herein is used or adapted for use in similar apparatus that include electromagnetic radiation sources. Rotary mechanism  5000  includes rotational components  5002  (configured similar to rotational components  2602 , described herein). As also shown, electromagnetic radiation sources  5004  (e.g., shown as visible light sources, such as incandescent lamps, LED lamps, or fluorescent lamps in this exemplary embodiment) are also disposed on rotational components  5002 . Although not within view, electromagnetic radiation sources  5004  are operably connected to power sources that effect the emission of light from electromagnetic radiation sources  5004 . Essentially any power source is optionally adapted for use with this apparatus. During operation, motor  2611  (via  2609 ) causes neighboring pairs of rotational components  5002  to counter-rotate relative to one another such that electromagnetic radiation sources  5004  disposed on neighboring pairs of rotational components  5002  also counter-rotate relative to one another in this exemplary embodiment. Apparatus, such as the exemplary apparatus shown in  FIG. 50  are optionally used in various applications, including as emergency vehicle lights, aircraft warning lights, lighthouse warning lights, entertainment lighting (e.g., theaters, concerts, nightclubs, sporting events, etc.), and the like. 
       FIG. 51A  schematically shows generator  5150  that includes propeller component  5152  from a side view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. Generator  5150  is optionally configured as essentially any of the generators described herein. To further illustrate,  FIG. 51B  schematically shows marine vehicle  5154 , which includes generator  5150  from a front view according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, propeller component  5152  is disposed through the hull of marine vehicle  5154  and is protected by flow-through cover  5156 . Generator  5150  is housed within the hull of marine vehicle  5154  in this exemplary embodiment. During operation, water flows through flow-through cover  5156  and causes propeller component  5152  to rotate, which causes generator  5150  to generate electricity for use, for example, in marine vehicle  5154 . 
     Device components (e.g., rotary units, rotary mechanisms, drive mechanism components, gear components, shafts, rotational components, device housings, doors, support structures, etc.) are optionally formed by various fabrication techniques or combinations of such techniques including, e.g., cast molding, stamping, machining, embossing, extrusion, engraving, injection molding, etching (e.g., electrochemical etching, etc.), or other techniques. These and other suitable fabrication techniques are generally known in the art and described in, e.g., Molinari et al. (Eds.), Metal Cutting and High Speed Machining, Kluwer Academic Publishers (2002), Altintas, Manufacturing Automation: Metal Cutting Mechanics, Machine Tool Vibrations, and CNC Design, Cambridge University Press (2000), Stephenson et al., Metal Cutting Theory and Practice, Marcel Dekker (1997), Fundamentals of Injection Molding, W. J. T. Associates (2000), Whelan, Injection Molding of Thermoplastics Materials, Vol. 2, Chapman &amp; Hall (1991), Rosato, Injection Molding Handbook, 3.sup.rd Ed., Kluwer Academic Publishers (2000), Fisher, Extrusion of Plastics, Halsted Press (1976), and Chung, Extrusion of Polymers: Theory and Practice, Hanser-Gardner Publications (2000), which are each incorporated by reference. Exemplary materials optionally used to fabricate device components include, e.g., metal (e.g., magnetic and/or non-magnetic), glass, wood, polymethylmethacrylate, polyethylene, polydimethylsiloxane, polyetheretherketone, polytetrafluoroethylene, polystyrene, polyvinylchloride, polypropylene, polysulfone, polymethylpentene, and polycarbonate, among many others. In certain embodiments, following fabrication, device components are optionally further processed, e.g., by painting, coating surfaces with a hydrophilic coating, a hydrophobic coating, or the like. 
     Exemplary rotary units, rotational mechanisms, related applications, and other aspects, which are optionally adapted, e.g., for use with the rotary units and rotational mechanisms described herein are also described in, e.g., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/577,326, entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Oct. 12, 2009 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,152,679, issued Apr. 10, 2012), U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/104,748, entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Oct. 12, 2008, International Application No. PCT/US2009/060386, entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Oct. 12, 2009, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/365,290, entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Jul. 16, 2010, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/184,332, entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Jul. 15, 2011, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/218,145, entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Aug. 25, 2011, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/219,683, entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Aug. 28, 2011, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/221,890, entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Aug. 30, 2011, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/423,413, entitled “ROTARY UNITS, MECHANISMS, AND RELATED DEVICES”, filed on Mar. 19, 2012, which are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. 
     While the foregoing invention has been described in some detail for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be clear to one skilled in the art from a reading of this disclosure that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the true scope of the invention. For example, all the techniques and apparatus described above can be used in various combinations. All publications, patents, patent applications, and/or other documents cited in this application are incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, patent application, and/or other document were individually indicated to be incorporated by reference for all purposes.