Abstract: The present invention provides a preformed insulating layer having a flat web of metal foil having a plurality of spaced generally X-shaped protuberances deformed from the web. Each protuberance has a length dimension, a width dimension, and a height dimension, the length dimension and the width dimension define a ratio of from 1:1 to 4:1. A uniform gap is left around each protuberance and is from about ?? to about ½?.

Abstract: The present invention provides a preformed insulating layer having a flat web of metal foil having a plurality of spaced generally X-shaped protuberances deformed from the web. Each protuberance has a length dimension, a width dimension, and a height dimension, the length dimension and the width dimension define a ratio of from 1:1 to 4:1. A uniform gap is left around each protuberance and is from about ?? to about ½?.

Abstract: The present invention provides a motion-translation mechanism for rotating blades of a vertical-axis wind turbine. Two or more axles are mounted for rotation about the first axis and each having a first end connected to the power shaft and the second end having a blade holder. A surface is mounted circumjacent the power shaft and is axially spaced from the two axles and the shape of the surface defines the path of each of the connector arms as each connector arm assembly rotates radially about the surface while maintaining connection to the blade holder. Each connector arm has a third end and a fourth end opposed to the third end. The third end being connected to its associated blade holder, the fourth end being in cooperative engagement with the surface.