Abstract: An exemplary power inverter comprises a push-pull inverter circuit that includes a transformer having a primary winding coupled to a DC bus and a secondary winding coupled to an AC bus, main power switches coupling each end of the primary winding to a DC return, and one or more supplemental power switches coupling at least one end of the primary winding to a snubber bus. The supplemental switch at a given end of the primary winding forms a buck-mode converter in combination with the primary winding and the associated free-wheeling diode at that end of the primary winding, and can be controlled by a switching controller to effect energy transfer between the snubber bus and DC bus. The switching controller can be configured to control power flow between the DC, AC, and snubber buses by controlling the common-mode and differential-mode voltages of the primary winding via main/supplemental power switch control.

Abstract: A method for forming an organic or partly organic switching device, comprising: depositing layers of conducing, semiconducting and/or insulating layers by solution processing and direct printing; defining high-resolution patterns of electroactive polymers by self-aligned formation of a surface energy barrier around a first pattern that repels the solution of a second material.

Abstract: A mudguard comprises a first portion that is fixed relative to the frame of a bicycle and a second arcuate portion mounted to tracks associated with the first portion to be extended from or telescoped therein as desired. The distal end of the second portion is supported by struts which are rotatable about a rim forming a part of a mount secured to the wheel axis in concentric relation therewith. The arrangement permits a relatively rattle free attachment of the mudguard.

Abstract: A solar collector comprising a collector frame surrounding a transparent collector pane, the frame being mounted to the frame of an existing window inside a building, a plurality of narrow heat sinks fixed to opposite sides of the frame containing solar energy absorbing and retaining means, the heat sinks being spaced so as to allow significant amounts of solar illumination incident on the existing window to pass through the collector pane into the building, a lower port passing through the solar collector and located adjacent the bottom of the collector and an upper port passing through the solar collector adjacent the top of the collector, whereby air from the building can pass through the lower port into a space between the existing window and the collector pane, and out the upper port into the building, thereby heating the interior of the building.