Abstract: A solar collector utilizes an inflated tubular film which concentrates sunlight onto a solar receiver. The film incorporates refractive elements in a pattern which focuses light in one or two dimensions to create foci in the form of lines, spots, or other shapes. The film may be replaceable. The film may include layers of material to optimize optical, structural, thermal, and durability characteristics.

Abstract: A switch assembly for an automotive power window having a housing and an actuator with two spaced-apart ends pivotally mounted to the housing about a transverse axis extending across a central portion of the actuator. The actuator includes a first actuator surface extending between the axis on one end of the actuator and a second actuator surface extending between the axis and the other end of the actuator. The actuator is pivotal in a first direction from a rest position by depression of the first actuator surface and is pivotal in the opposite direction from the rest position and to a second position upon depression of the second actuator surface. The second actuator surface is recessed within the housing in an amount sufficient to prevent actuation of the actuator to its second position by a sphere having a radius greater than or equal to 19 millimeters which approximates the size of a child's knee.

Abstract: A tubular printing blanket having an axial center has a carrier sleeve layer having a uniform thickness, a compressible layer, a reinforcing layer over the compressible layer, and a print layer disposed over the reinforcing layer. At least one of the reinforcing layer and the compressible layers has a non-uniform thickness so as to be thicker in the axial center. An outer surface of the print layer is convex.

Abstract: A printing blanket includes a carrier sleeve layer having at least one axially convex surface and a print layer disposed over the carrier sleeve layer. A blanket cylinder with a convex outer surface and a convex shim is also provided. An offset printing press is also provided.

Abstract: A tubular printing blanket having an axial center has a carrier sleeve layer having a uniform thickness, a compressible layer, a reinforcing layer over the compressible layer, and a print layer disposed over the reinforcing layer. At least one of the reinforcing layer and the compressible layers has a non-uniform thickness so as to be thicker in the axial center. An outer surface of the print layer is convex.

Abstract: A printing blanket includes a carrier sleeve layer having at least one axially convex surface and a print layer disposed over the carrier sleeve layer. A blanket cylinder with a convex outer surface and a convex shim is also provided. An offset printing press is also provided.

Abstract: A printing blanket includes a carrier sleeve layer having at least one axially convex surface and a print layer disposed over the carrier sleeve layer. A blanket cylinder with a convex outer surface and a convex shim is also provided. An offset printing press is also provided.