Abstract: A durable, low-cost, heat transfer panel of the type typically employed as a solar energy collector is disclosed. The panel includes a flow channel defining structure, preferably formed as a corrugated sheet and a superimposed flexible membrane, to which manifolds or headers are secured. The manifolds have mating corrugated surfaces that are interengaged with the corrugations on the panel sheet to provide transverse rigidity to the overall panel structure as well as distribution of heat transfer fluid to and from the panel. Modified forms of the panel are disclosed in which the panel includes a selective absorber and a venting structure. A method for blow-molding the manifold into mating interengagement with the corrugated support sheet of the panel is also disclosed.

Abstract: A heat transfer panel is disclosed which can be used as a solar energy collector or as a heat rejecting and absorbing panel. The heat transfer panel employs a thin, flexible membrane mounted to the panel in a distorted condition to define, in part, a plurality of fluid channels. The membrane may take the form of a sealed envelope having inlet and collection means communicating fluid to and from the envelope or may simply be a single membrane. Preferably the membrane is mounted over and distorted against a support surface having side-by-side recesses formed therein. Several apparatus for distorting the membrane against the support surface to form fluid channels are disclosed, as are apparatus for incorporating the panel as an integral building element of a structure. The heat transfer panel is further formed for operation as a contained but low pressure fluid heat transfer system.