Abstract: The outer wall surfaces of a building are formed with spaced elongated recesses to receive radiant solar energy. Elongated fluid bearing lines are partially disposed within the recesses and incorporated into a continuous fluid circulating system. Solar energy is absorbed by the wall surfaces and also reflected by the sides of the recessed to heat the fluid bearing lines. The specific cross sectional shape of the recesses and the location of the fluid bearing lines is designed to provide the maximum efficiency of the collector at a given location.

Abstract: A solar energy conversion panel is provided by means of which solar energy is recovered as converted electrical energy and also thermal energy. An array of solar energy collectors direct solar energy received from the sun upon photovoltaic cells within the collectors. The photovoltaic cells convert a portion of this energy into electrical energy. The balance of the solar energy is recovered as thermal energy which is carried from the panel by a circulating fluid. Specific shapes and arrangements of energy collectors are disclosed by means of which the energy recovered may be maximized. A means for protecting the panel from wind damage is also disclosed.

Abstract: A container for holding organic waste matter while it is being decomposed biologically to produce methane gas and other products. The container also houses one or more paddlewheels which stir the waste matter and assist in maintaining it at constant, elevated temperature. Temperature control means include a temperature sensor, heating pipes, and two external heat exchangers for stabilizing the temperature of the waste material. In addition, a two-way valve (controlled by the temperature sensor) switches liquid in the heating pipes from one heat exchanger to the other to maintain the predetermined operating temperature.

Abstract: A series of panels for converting solar energy into heat for warming gas or liquid are incorporated between the rafters of a building. Access to each of the panels for easy installation or repair is possible from within the building by panel securing means carried by the rafters. The rafters are provided with openings which enable them to form part of the panel and the air or liquid distribution protion of the system.

Abstract: A solar energy absorbing panel having two or more conduits for the passage of a gas therethrough, in which the said gas is shielded from the cooling effect of the ambient temperature. Control means are provided to use the warmed gas for heating a structure.

Abstract: A plurality of mirrors carried upon a support is disposed to reflect and focus solar energy upon an absorber or into an enclosure. The mirrors are mounted upon the support to deflect under high wind conditions and thereafter return to their optimum reflecting or focusing position. Simplified control mechanisms are disclosed for following the sun to insure the continuity of operation of the apparatus throughout each day.

Abstract: A system of generating electric power derived from the energy of the sun, the atmosphere, the ground or the heat stored in ground water, whichever provides the greatest temperature differential with another adjacent source of energy. During the daytime when the sun is shining, a solar absorber composed of a plurality of black pipes may provide the heat necessary to generate power. At night when the air temperature is lowered, a set of pipes in the ground or in a lake may provide the heat necessary to extract power by using the low temperature of the environment. A third source of heat such as geothermal heat, stored heat or a heat pump may be part of the system. Switching means are used to convert from one system to another depending upon which system has the greatest temperature differential.