Method and structure for solar heating

Patent · Tue Apr 03 04:00:00 EST 1979

OSTI ID:6306297

Milburn, Jr, W W

A method and structure are disclosed for utilizing solar energy for heating utilizing a wall of masonry or other cementitious material having preferably vertical channels defined through the central portion thereof. An outer surface, preferably spaced from the wall, is provided with a radiant energy absorbing surface, and transparent or translucent panels are positioned adjacent to but spaced from the wall and outer surface. Inlets and outlets to the channels within the wall are defined in the lower inner and outer surfaces of the wall respectively, and outlets and inlets to such channels are defined at the upper inner and outer surfaces of the wall respectively. The inner outlets communicate with an air distribution system and the inner inlets serve as return air ducts. The outer outlets and inlets serve to convect heat from the radiant energy absorbing surface. Preferably, the inner surface of the wall is insulated and, optionally, heat flow paths, preferably of metal, extend through the central portion of the wall including the channels. In particularly advantageous embodiments, supplemental heating means are provided in the heat distribution system. A heat pump may be employed to withdraw heat from the wall thereby greatly extending the amount of available heat energy stored in the wall.

• Assignee: TIC; ERA-04-042683; EDB-79-081286
• Patent Number(s): US 4147300
• OSTI ID: 6306297
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140901* -- Solar Thermal Utilization-- Space Heating & Cooling
COVERINGS
DESIGN
DUCTS
ENERGY TRANSFER
HEAT EXCHANGERS
HEAT PUMPS
HEAT TRANSFER
HEATING SYSTEMS
PASSIVE SOLAR HEATING SYSTEMS
SOLAR ABSORBERS
SOLAR AIR HEATERS
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR HEATING SYSTEMS
SURFACES
TROMBE WALLS
WALLS