Abstract: A method of manufacturing a mirror which comprises the steps of selecting a former of shape complementary to the shape of the desired mirror surface, applying to such former a plurality of mirror elements each constituted by a glass element having a reflective coating on one face thereof, and applying and adhesively bonding directly to such mirror elements a preformed, substantially rigid, unitary structural support.

Abstract: A solar panel comprising at least one solar energy transducer laminated between a transparent vitreous sheet and a second sheet in which the transducer is imbedded in a layer of transparent polymeric material which bonds the sheets together. The polymeric material comprises an acrylic compound. A method of making the aforesaid solar panel in which the acrylic compound is allowed to set in situ is described.

Abstract: A process for producing a composite element comprising a plurality of sheet members 64 rigidly secured to a support 65 with their rear main faces in contact therewith, characterized in that the sheet members, which have a perceptible reflectance, are placed on a jig 61 in one or more predetermined orientations relatively to one another, and a fluid, settable substance is applied to the thus arranged sheet members 64 e.g. by pouring from a ladle 66 and is caused or allowed to set at least partially while the sheet members 64 remain on the jig 61 to form at least part of a substantially rigid support structure 65 for the sheet members 64.

Abstract: A method of producing a composite element by securing a plurality of sheet members to a support with their rear main faces in contact with the support. The method includes placing the sheets on a jig in a desired relationship and one or more fluid, settable substances are applied to the rear main faces thereof and allowed to set to form a support structure for the sheets.