Modular solar energy collector systems
US4219011A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 1, 1977 |
| Grant date | Aug 26, 1980 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 1, 1997 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/44
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A readily fabricated, high efficient modular solar energy collector that may be arranged in a wide variety of arrays comprises a relatively small, typically but not necessarily rectangular, panel structure that is centrally coupled to an insulative support that may define an outlet conduit. In a specific example, a pair of coextensive, thermally conductive panels, the outer one of which preferably has a light absorptive black upper surface of low emissivity, defines flow paths directed laterally inwardly from side margins of the panel to a central mid-line region at which outlet apertures flow into a manifold region under the panel. The heated fluid in the manifold communicates with an outlet conduit within the support that is connectable at its respective ends to like conduits of adjacent modules. The centrally supported panels are sufficiently rigid to need no additional support, and freely expand and contract in response to temperature changes. An array of modules of this character may be mounted adjacent a single transparent cover of larger size, and for low ambient temperature regions may include an individual transparent cover for each module. The construction further permits…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.