Abstract: The apparatus can distribute and collect air. As a collector, a fan draws air from the proximal end of an elongated tube disposed in an air-environment. The tube is closed at the distal end but receives air all along its length through its air-permeable wall. The wall is more permeable to air at its distal end than at its proximal end. Wall permeability gradually increases from the proximal end to the distal end so that a substantially constant rate of air ingestion occurs at all points along the wall. A reversal of the airflow direction converts the air collector into an air distributor for distributing air evenly along its length.

Abstract: A self-sufficient apparatus and method for conveying solar heat energy from an attic (20) under a solar energy absorbing roof (10) to a place remote from the attic. A synergetic combination of in-attic air controlling devices such as fans and motorized vents (40a, 40b) are energized by stored electrical energy generated by a sunlight-to-electrical-energy panel (14), located adjacent the roof. The panel, preferably a photovoltaic array, has a limited size, providing just sufficient electrical energy to operate the electrical elements of the apparatus. It will not impair the heat absorbing capability of the roof and can be located where it is not aesthetically objectionable. In a preferred embodiment a forced-air-to-water heat exchanger (30) provides solar heated domestic hot water (90). In another embodiment solar heated attic air is drawn into a fan (50) and forced via a duct to another part of the building (100).