Abstract: A novel "three-dimensional" appearing light-transmitting and insulating sandwich panel of planar outer facing sheets in which the illusion of a three-dimensional array of step-like block structures is produced by periodic light transmission contrasting blocks containing, internally of the panel, contrasting light-transmitting insulation filler battes in alternate blocks, and method of constructing the same.

Abstract: A clamping structure for joining a pair of panels along curved and other seams comprising longitudinally extending opposing clamping surfaces for receiving therebetween the abutting but spaced apart edges of the panels, and provided with marginal sealing strips compressible against the outer and inner panel sheets along and overlapping the abutting panel edges, sealing the space between the panel edges and rigidly joining the panel edges along the seams.

Abstract: The invention is a sealed thermal energy storage container device including front and rear walls which together are partially absorptive and partially transmissive of visible light with a transmittance in the range between 4% and 85% and an absorptance of at least 9%. Retained within the container between the front and rear walls is an at least partially light transmissive energy storage substance that experiences a liquid-solid phase change between 45.degree. F. and 190.degree. F. After being strategically positioned for exposure to solar radiation, the energy storage substance accumulates a substantial quantity of energy when changed to a liquid state by incident sunlight and subsequently releases that energy when again freezing. In addition to sequentially and alternatively storing and releasing thermal energy, the container device transmits a predetermined level of incident sunlight.

Abstract: This disclosure deals with novel clamping structures for stagger-joining wall panels as of the translucent sandwich type and the like, provided with panel overlapping clamping elements having weather sealants and adapted to be threadedly locked in offset position.