Patents Assigned to Sunmaster Corporation
  • Patent number: 4413617
    Abstract: A frame for supporting a parallel array of a plurality of tubular glass solar energy collectors. A transverse manifold, which extends perpendicularly to all the collector tubes, supports one end of each tube and serves also to direct the flow of the heat transfer fluid through the tubes. The manifold is secured to brackets which in turn are secured to longitudinal structural members. A rigid transverse support member is secured to the ends of the longitudinal structural members and mounts the other end of each tube, permitting preassembly of the glass tubes in the frame and installation on a roof as a module. Tension rods between the brackets and the transverse support member prestress the frame and add rigidity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1983
    Assignee: Sunmaster Corporation
    Inventors: Glenn H. Dunlap, Wayne J. Zitkus