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Title: Method and structure for solar heating

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6306297

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
Resource Relation:
Patent File Date: Filed date 8 Dec 1976
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English