Abstract: A lightweight vehicle body and envelope construction for an elongated wheelbased vehicle of relatively narrow track where the aspect ratio for wheelbase to track is between approximately 2:1 and 3:1. The lightweight vehicle approach taught herein relies upon a central truss member within the passenger compartment which extends longitudinally and symmetrically between the wheel mounting positions as the main longitudinal bending load bearing member of the vehicle.

Abstract: Solar heating, especially the use of solar heating to reduce oil and gas consumption in conventional forced air heating systems of the type having supply and return ducts. During daylight hours, solar heated air is circulated as a heating supplement or substitute for furnace heated air in the existing forced air supply ducts. At night the solar heat collecting panel is shut off from the furnace system and electric resistance heated air is circulated to the exclusion of oil and gas consumption. The method is distinguished in its use of solar heat during sunny daylight hours and the use of electric resistance heating at night when existing electric generating and transmission facilities are under utilized.

Abstract: Method of solar heating and cooling in a building of the type having insulated opaque and vision glass areas, including orienting the vision glass so as to avoid solar exposure, while shading said vision glass with a series of heat collecting panels and circulating fluid in adsorbent communication with said collectors for use in winter heating and summer cooling systems. The method is distinguished both in its orienting of shading, according to latitude, as well as blocking or cutting off of circulating fluid from said collectors, except under conditions of solar exposure.