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Title: Integrated solar energy system

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6073841

An integrated system and the process of its manufacture are disclosed for the absorption of solar energy and for the release of that energy for utilization as required using modular elements that are pre-cast out of low-cost building materials and which can be designed for use with others of the like kind to form structural components of buildings, patios and walkways, and other areas of human activity. Each of the modules has labyrinthine integral passageways cast therein through which a fluid is circulated for the transfer of absorbed energy therefrom. The modules can be combined into a system forming walls of a building in which the outer elements act to absorb solar energy which is transferred to intermediate elements for thermal storage with means being provided to transfer stored energy on demand into interior elements for release of the energy into the interior of the building. In a further embodiment, the modules are assembled to form the patio around a swimming pool and water from the pool is heated by being circulated through the modules. In a still further embodiment, the body of the collector is cast concrete with a system of grooved fluid passageways therein and the side thereof exposed to solar radiation is provided with a perforated metal energy absorber plate having spaced above it a transparent cover plate.

Assignee:
Grumman Energy Systems Inc
Patent Number(s):
US 4267822
OSTI ID:
6073841
Resource Relation:
Patent File Date: Filed date 8 Nov 1978
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English