Attachable heat radiating panel

Abstract

A radiant heating system is provided. The system includes a tube, a heat radiating panel, a fastener, and a heat transfer device. The heat radiating panel includes a heat radiating portion, and a channel extending from the heat radiating portion. The channel is sized to hold a section of the tube. The heat radiating portion may further include a plurality of slats extending from a substantially planar surface. To improve the heat distribution, the plurality of slats extend from the surface at an angle less than 90 degrees. The fastener is used to attach the heat radiating panel to the section of the tube. The heat transfer device includes an outlet valve operably coupled to supply a heat transfer medium to a first end of the tube, and an inlet valve operably coupled to receive the heat transfer medium from a second end of the tube. The heat transfer device may heat or cool the heat transfer medium.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/161,708, filed Aug. 12, 2005, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present application relates generally to a heat radiating panel utilized in a radiant heating system. More specifically, the present application relates to a heat radiating panel that is attachable to heat transfer tubing and to a floor joist, wall stud, or ceiling joist.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various radiant heating systems have been developed for installation in walls, floors, and/or ceilings. The radiant heating systems can be mounted to and/or formed in diverse building materials. Of the various types of radiant heating systems, one of the more popular types utilizes a heat transfer medium such as water which is pumped through a closed-loop piping system. Typically, the closed loop piping is mounted in close contact with a floor for Radiant Floor Heating (RFH) or with a wall for Radiant Wall Heating (RWH). Generally, the piping runs parallel to the floor/ceiling joists or wall studs. Attached to the piping at various intervals are heat radiating panels that abut the sub-flooring or the inner walls to enhance the radiation of heat from the closed loop piping to the floor, wall, or ceiling. Prior art radiant heating systems are generally difficult and time consuming to install. Thus, there is a need for a system and a method for easily installing a radiant heating system. Additionally, prior art radiant heating systems generally provide uneven and inefficient heat distribution. Thus, there is also a need for a radiant heating system that provides more even and efficient heat distribution.

SUMMARY

Exemplary embodiments described in the present application provide for a more even and efficient heat distribution from a radiant heating system for heating and/or cooling. The system is simple and inexpensive to install and can be installed after construction of the enclosure to be heated or cooled. A tube containing a heat transfer medium is hung below a sub-floor, above a ceiling, and/or offset from a wall. Additionally, the tube is generally hung between floor joists, ceiling joists, and/or wall studs to reduce the need for drilling holes in the joists and/or studs. Thus, the tube generally extends parallel to the floor joists, ceiling joists, and/or wall studs. A heat radiating panel is mounted to the floor joists, ceiling joists, and/or wall studs to support the tube and provide even distribution of the heating and/or cooling.

An exemplary device for radiating heat from a heat transfer medium provided in a tube includes, but is not limited to, a panel and a fastener which attaches the panel to a section of the tube. The panel includes, but is not limited to, a heat radiating portion and a channel that extends from the heat radiating portion. The channel is sized to hold the section of the tube.

An exemplary heat radiating panel for radiating heat from a heat transfer medium provided in a tube includes, but is not limited to, a heat radiating portion and a channel that extends from the heat radiating portion. The heat radiating portion includes, but is not limited to, a substantially planar surface and a plurality of slats that extend from the surface. To improve heat distribution from the heat radiating panel, the plurality of slats extend from the surface at an angle less than 90 degrees.

In an exemplary method of installing a heat transfer system, a heat radiating panel is mounted to a support member. Exemplary support members include floor joists, wall studs, and ceiling joists of a structure. The panel includes, but is not limited to, a heat radiating portion and a channel that extends from the heat radiating portion. A section of a tube is placed in the channel which is sized to hold the section of the tube. The panel is attached to the section of the tube using a fastener.

An exemplary radiant heating system includes, but is not limited to, a tube, a heat radiating panel, a fastener, and a heat transfer device. The heat radiating panel includes a heat radiating portion and a channel that extends from the heat radiating portion. The channel is sized to hold a section of the tube. The fastener is used to attach the heat radiating panel to the section of the tube. The heat transfer device includes an outlet valve operably coupled to supply a heat transfer medium to a first end of the tube, and an inlet valve operably coupled to receive the heat transfer medium from a second end of the tube. The heat transfer device may heat or cool the heat transfer medium.

Other principal features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following drawings, the detailed description, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the invention will hereafter be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals will denote like elements.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of heating system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a top view of a first heat distribution system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a top view of a second heat distribution system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a heat radiating panel in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a second heat radiating panel in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a third heat radiating panel in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the heat radiating panel of FIG. 4.

FIG. 8 is a side view indicating the distribution of heat from a heat radiating portion in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of a first device for radiating heat from a heat transfer medium provided in a tube in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a side view of the first device of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of a second device for radiating heat from a heat transfer medium provided in a tube in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of the second device of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a top view of a fastener in accordance with the second device of FIGS. 11 and 12.

FIG. 14 is a side view of the fastener of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of a third device for radiating heat from a heat transfer medium provided in a tube in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a bottom perspective view of the third device of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a top view of a fastener in accordance with the third device of FIGS. 15 and 16.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the fastener of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is a bottom perspective view of a fourth device for radiating heat from a heat transfer medium provided in a tube in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a side view of a fastener in accordance with the fourth device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of a fifth device for radiating heat from a heat transfer medium provided in a tube in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a bottom perspective view of the fifth device of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a side view of a fastener in accordance with the fifth device of FIGS. 21 and 22.

FIG. 24 is a side view of the fastener of FIG. 23 bent in the manner used to attach the heat radiating panel of FIG. 4 with the tube.

FIG. 25 is a top perspective view of a first heat distribution system utilizing the second device of FIG. 11 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a bottom perspective view of a second heat distribution system utilizing the third device of FIG. 15 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a bottom perspective view of the first device for radiating heat of FIG. 9.

FIG. 28 is a bottom perspective view of a third heat distribution system utilizing the fastener of FIG. 20 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIG. 1, a heating system 100 is shown in an exemplary embodiment. Heating system 100 may be installed in any type of structure to provide heating or cooling thereof. Heating system 100 may include a heat transfer device 102, a circulating system 104, a heat distribution system 106, and a vent assembly 108. Heating system 100 may include a fewer or a greater number of components than shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1. Heat transfer device 102 may include an outlet valve 110 and an inlet valve 112. Outlet valve 110 supplies a heat transfer medium to heat distribution system 106 through a first pipe 111 that couples to a first inlet valve 120 of a first manifold 114. Inlet valve 112 receives the heat transfer medium from heat distribution system 106 through a second pipe 113 that couples to a first outlet valve 122 of a second manifold 118. First pipe 111 and second pipe 113 may be formed of plastic, of metal, or of a combination of materials. First pipe 111 and second pipe 113 may be formed of the same or different materials.

As used herein, the term “heat transfer” encompasses heat exchange for both heating and cooling purposes. For example, the heat transfer medium may provide for warming or for cooling at heat distribution system 106. Various heat transfer media may be used as known to those skilled in the art both now and in the future. An exemplary heat transfer fluid is water for warming or refrigerant for cooling. Although in an exemplary embodiment a liquid is used as a heat transfer medium, other media for heat transfer may be used. For example, a gas could be used as a heat transfer medium, alone or in combination with a liquid.

Pumping system 104 may include first manifold 114, second manifold 118, and a circulator 116. As known to those skilled in the art both now and in the future, circulator 116 may include a pump of various types that provide circulation of the heat transfer medium throughout heating system 100. The heat transfer medium is circulated from first manifold 114 to second manifold 118 through circulator 116. In a heating system 100 that provides warming at heat distribution system 106, first manifold 114 is coupled at a “hot” side of circulator 116, and second manifold 118 is coupled at a “cold” side of circulator 116. Use of the terms “hot” and “cold” indicates a relative temperature difference and does not indicate a specific temperature. In a heating system 100 that provides cooling at heat distribution system 106, first manifold 114 is coupled at a cold side of circulator 116, and second manifold 118 is coupled at a hot side of circulator 116.

First manifold 114 may include first inlet valve 120, a second inlet valve 121, a plurality of inlet valves 124, and a third inlet valve 136. First inlet valve 120 receives the heat transfer medium from heat transfer device 102 through outlet valve 110 and first pipe 111. A second end 125 of a tube 128 couples with second inlet valve 121 which receives the heat transfer medium from a heating zone 132. The plurality of inlet valves 124 may couple with one or more of a plurality of tubes 129 to receive the heat transfer medium from additional heating zones. The heating zones include a plurality of heat radiating panels 130. Third inlet valve 136 receives the heat transfer medium from vent assembly 108, which provides venting of gas from within heating system 100. Tube 128 and the plurality of tubes 129 may be formed of plastic, of metal, or of a combination of materials. Tube 128 and the plurality of tubes 129 may be formed of the same or different materials.

Second manifold 118 may include first outlet valve 122, a second outlet valve 123, a plurality of outlet valves 126, and a third outlet valve 138. First outlet valve 122 supplies the heat transfer medium to heat transfer device 102 through second pipe 113 and inlet valve 112. A first end 127 of tube 128 couples with second outlet valve 123 which supplies the heat transfer medium to heating zone 132. The plurality of outlet valves 126 may couple with one or more of the plurality of tubes 129 to supply the heat transfer medium to additional heating zones. Third outlet valve 138 supplies the heat transfer medium to vent assembly 108 for removal of gas.

The heat transfer medium flows from heat transfer device 102 through first manifold 114, circulator 116, and second manifold 118 and, for example, into tube 128. The heat transfer medium flows through tube 128 to a zone inlet end 140 of heating zone 132. The heat transfer medium flows through heating zone 132 to a zone outlet end 142 of heating zone 132. The heat transfer medium flows through tube 128 from zone outlet end 142 to first manifold 114. The heat transfer medium flowing through second inlet valve 121 of first manifold 114 mixes with the heat transfer medium from heat transfer device 102 and any other heating zones. Some of the heat transfer medium flowing through second manifold 118 flows through first outlet valve 122 and to inlet valve 112 of heat transfer device 102. As a result, outlet valve 110 of heat transfer device 102 is operably coupled to supply the heat transfer medium to first end 127 of tube 128. Inlet valve 112 of heat transfer device 102 is operably coupled to receive the heat transfer medium from second end 125 of tube 128. As the heat transfer medium travels through tube 128, heat is conducted from the heat transfer medium to tube 128, from tube 128 to the plurality of heat radiating panels 130, and from the plurality of heat radiating panels 130 to the floor, ceiling, and/or walls either by direct contact or by convection with the surrounding air.

With reference to FIG. 2, a top view of heating zone 132 is shown in a first exemplary embodiment. Heating zone 132 includes, but is not limited to, the plurality of heat radiating panels 130 mounted to a plurality of support members 200 and tube 128. As used herein, the term “mount” includes join, unite, connect, associate, insert, hang, hold, affix, attach, fasten, bind, paste, secure, bolt, screw, rivet, solder, weld, and other like terms. The phrases “mounted on” and “mounted to” include any surface of the support member referenced. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, heating zone 132 encompasses an arrangement of a first support member 216, a second support member 218, a third support member 220, and a fourth support member 222 arranged generally parallel to each other and attached at an end to a fifth support member 224 that is generally perpendicular to support members 216, 218, 220, 222. Various arrangements of the plurality of support members 200 may be utilized as known to those skilled in the art both now and in the future to form, for example, a floor, a ceiling, or a wall. Heating zone 132 may include a fewer or a greater number of components than shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2. In an exemplary embodiment, the support members 216, 218, 220, 222, 224 are floor joists, ceiling joists, or wall studs.

The plurality of heat radiating panels 130, for example, may include a heat radiating panel 202. A heat radiating panel 202 includes, but is not limited to, a first side 204 and a second side 206 opposite first side 204. In the exemplary mounting of FIG. 2, heat radiating panel 202 has a generally rectangular shape though other polygonal and circular shapes are possible. Heat radiating panel 202 mounts to first support member 216 adjacent first side 204. First side 204 and second side 206 generally extend in a direction parallel to tube 128 though this is not required. For example, first side 204 may extend in a direction perpendicular to tube 128.

Tube 128 extends generally parallel to first support member 216 from zone inlet end 140 to near fifth support member 224. Tube 128 curves 180 degrees near fifth support member 224 to extend generally parallel to second support member 218 to near an end of second support member 218. Tube 128 curves 180 degrees near the end of second support member 218 through a first bore 214 drilled through second support member 218. Tube 128 extends generally parallel to second support member 218 on an opposite side to near fifth support member 224. Tube 128 curves 180 degrees near fifth support member 224 to extend generally parallel to third support member 220 to near an end of third support member 220. Tube 128 curves 180 degrees near the end of third support member 220 through a second bore 215 drilled through third support member 220. Tube 128 extends generally parallel to third support member 220 on an opposite side to near fifth support member 224. Tube 128 curves 180 degrees near fifth support member 224 to extend generally parallel to fourth support member 222 to exit heating zone 132 at zone outlet end 142. In another exemplary embodiment, a heat radiating panel may be formed to mount to a curved portion of tube 128.

With reference to FIG. 4, a top perspective view of heat radiating panel 202 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Heat radiating panel 202 may include a first heat radiating portion 400, a second heat radiating portion 402, and a channel 404. First heat radiating portion 400 may include first side 204 and a third side 405 opposite first side 204. Second heat radiating portion 402 may include second side 206 and a fourth side 407 opposite second side 206. Channel 404 extends between third side 405 of first heat radiating portion 400 and fourth side 407 of second heat radiating portion 402. Channel 404 has a generally semi-circular shape to correspond with the circular cross section of tube 128. Channel 404 may have other shapes that correspond with tube 128. For example, if tube 128 has a generally square or rectangular cross section, channel 404 may also have a generally square or rectangular cross section. To provide efficient heat distribution, channel 404 is sized to hold tube 128 in close contact.

First heat radiating portion 400 has a substantially planar surface 409 that defines a plane A-B. Plane A-B is formed from an axis A-A that bisects heat radiating panel 202 along channel 404 and an axis B-B that bisects heat radiating panel 202 in a direction perpendicular to channel 404. In an alternative embodiment, first heat radiating portion 400 has a substantially arc-shaped surface. First heat radiating portion 400 further may include a first louver 406 and a second louver 408. First louver 406 may include a first plurality of slats 414 extending from surface 409 at a first angle. Second louver 408 may include a second plurality of slats 416 extending from surface 409 at a second angle. The second angle is oriented approximately 180 degrees from the first angle relative to plane A-B. A first mounting plate 422 extends generally downward from first side 204 of first heat radiating portion 400. Heat radiating panel 202 mounts to one of the plurality of support members 200 along first mounting plate 422 using a variety of mechanisms known to those skilled in the art both now and in the future.

Second heat radiating portion 402 has a substantially planar surface 411. In an alternative embodiment, second heat radiating portion 402 has a substantially arc-shaped surface. Second heat radiating portion 402 further may include a third louver 410 and a fourth louver 412. Third louver 410 may include a third plurality of slats 418 extending from surface 411 at a third angle. Fourth louver 412 may include a fourth plurality of slats 420 extending from surface 411 at a fourth angle. The fourth angle is oriented approximately 180 degrees from the third angle relative to plane A-B. The first angle is approximately equal to the third angle. The second angle is approximately equal to the fourth angle.

With reference to FIG. 7, a side view of heat radiating panel 202 is shown. With reference to FIG. 8, a side view indicating a first heat distribution 800 of heat from the fourth plurality of slats 420 and a second heat distribution 802 of heat from the third plurality of slats 418 is shown. The plurality of slats 414, 416,418,420 extend from surfaces 409, 411 at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to plane A-B. Preferably, the angle of the plurality of slats 414, 416, 418, 420 relative to plane A-B is approximately 30 degrees.

With reference to FIG. 5, a top perspective view of a second heat radiating panel 500 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Second heat radiating panel 500 may include first heat radiating portion 400, second heat radiating portion 402, and channel 404. A second mounting plate 502 extends generally upward from first side 204 of first heat radiating portion 400. Second heat radiating panel 500 mounts to one of the plurality of support members 200 along second mounting plate 502 using a variety of mechanisms known to those skilled in the art both now and in the future.

With reference to FIG. 3, a top view of heating zone 132 is shown in a second exemplary embodiment. Heating zone 132 includes, but is not limited to, the plurality of heat radiating panels 130 mounted to a plurality of support members 200 and tube 128. A third heat radiating panel 300 of the plurality of heat radiating panels 130 includes, but is not limited to, a first side 302 and a second side 304 opposite first side 302. In the exemplary mounting of FIG. 3, third heat radiating panel 300 has a generally rectangular shape though other polygonal and circular shapes are possible. Third heat radiating panel 300 mounts to first support member 216 adjacent first side 302 and mounts to second support member 218 adjacent second side 304. First side 302 and second side 304 generally extend in a direction parallel to tube 128 though this is not required.

With reference to FIG. 6, a top perspective view of third heat radiating panel 500 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Third heat radiating panel 500 may include a fifth heat radiating portion 602, a sixth heat radiating portion 604, a seventh heat radiating portion 606, a second channel 608, and a third channel 610. Fifth heat radiating portion 602 may include first side 302 and a third side 616 opposite first side 302. Sixth heat radiating portion 604 may include a fourth side 618 and a fifth side 620 opposite fourth side 618. Second channel 608 extends between third side 616 of fifth heat radiating portion 602 and fourth side 618 of sixth heat radiating portion 604. Seventh heat radiating portion 606 may include a sixth side 622 and second side 304 opposite sixth side 622. Third channel 610 extends between fifth side 620 of sixth heat radiating portion 604 and sixth side 622 of seventh heat radiating portion 606. A third mounting plate 612 extends generally downward from first side 302 of fifth heat radiating portion 602. A fourth mounting plate 614 extends generally downward from second side 304 of seventh heat radiating portion 606. In an alternative embodiment, either or both of third mounting plate 612 and fourth mounting plate 614 may extend downward. Third heat radiating panel 300 mounts between a pair of the plurality of support members 200 along third mounting plate 612 and along fourth mounting plate 614 using a variety of mechanisms known to those skilled in the art both now and in the future.

With reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, a top perspective view and a side view, respectively, of a first device 910 for radiating heat from the heat transfer medium provided in tube 128 are shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. First device 910 may include a fourth heat radiating panel 900, a first fastener 904, and a second fastener 906. Fourth heat radiating panel 900 may include a first slit 901 and a second slit 902 that extend through surface 409. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10, first slit 901 is located between the second plurality of slats 418 and first side 204. Second slit 902 is located between the first plurality of slats 416 and first side 204. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10, first fastener 904 and a second fastener 906 comprise a strip clasp 905. Strip clasp 905 includes an elongated strip of material having a first edge 908 and a second edge 910. First edge 908 and/or second edge 910 can be inserted through one of first slit 901 and/or second slit 902. First fastener 904 and second fastener 906 attach fourth heat radiating panel 900 to a section of tube 128 by extending each fastener 906, 906 across fourth heat radiating panel 900 over channel 404 perpendicular to tube.128. First edge 908 and second edge 910 are bent or hooked around a portion of fourth heat radiating panel 900. With reference to FIG. 27, a bottom perspective view of first device 910 mounted to a support member 200 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. First device 910 may include a fewer or a greater number of fasteners 904, 906. Strip clasp 905 may be formed of a variety of materials as known to those skilled in the art. For example, strip clasp 905 may be formed of a metal material.

With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view, respectively, of a second device 1120 for radiating heat from the heat transfer medium provided in tube 128 are shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Second device 1120 may include heat radiating panel 202, a third fastener 1101, and a fourth fastener 1102. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 11 and 12, third fastener 1101 and fourth fastener 1102 comprise a yoke fastener 1100. With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, a top view and a side view, respectively, of yoke fastener 1100 are shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Yoke fastener 1100 includes a first planar portion 1104, a second planar portion 1106, a first leg 1108, and a second leg 1110. First planar portion 1104 extends from second planar portion 1106 at an angle 1112 defined with respect to a plane defined relative to second planar portion 1106 (shown in FIG. 14). In an exemplary embodiment, angle 1112 is greater than approximately 10 degrees. Preferably, angle 1112 is approximately 30 degrees.

First leg 1108 and second leg 1110 extend from second planar portion 1106 opposite first planar portion 1104 forming a generally u-shaped body. First leg 1108 can be inserted through one of the plurality of slats 416, 418, 420, 422. Second leg 1110 can be inserted through another one of the plurality of slats 416, 418, 420, 422. First fastener 1101 and second fastener 1102 attach heat radiating panel 202 to a section of tube 128 by sliding each leg 1110,1112 through a slat of the plurality of slats 416, 418, 420, 422 with second planar portion 1106 extending across channel 404 perpendicular to tube 128. Angle 1112 of first planar portion 1104 provides a gripping point to simplify insertion and removal of yoke fastener 1100 from heat radiating panel 202. Second device 1120 may include a fewer or a greater number of fasteners 1101, 1102. Yoke fastener 1100 may be formed of a variety of materials as known to those skilled in the art. For example, yoke fastener 1100 may be formed of a metal material.

With reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view, respectively, of a third device 1520 for radiating heat from the heat transfer medium provided in tube 128 are shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Third device 1520 may include heat radiating panel 202, a fifth fastener 1501, and a sixth fastener 1502. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 15 and 16, fifth fastener 1501 and sixth fastener 1502 comprise a binder clasp 1500. With reference to FIGS. 17 and 18, a top view and a side view, respectively, of binder clasp 1500 are shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Binder clasp 1500 includes a concave portion 1504, a first leg 1506, a second leg 1508, a first leg extension 1510, and a second leg extension 1512. First leg 1506 extends from a first end of concave portion 1504. First leg extension 1510 extends at a first angle from first leg 1506 opposite concave portion 1504. Second leg 1508 extends from a second end of concave portion 1504. Second leg extension 1512 extends at a second angle from second leg 1508 opposite concave portion 1504. First leg 1506 and second leg 1508 extend from concave portion 1504 forming a generally u-shaped body. In an exemplary embodiment, first leg extension 1510 and second leg extension 1512 fit within holes in the surface of first heat radiating portion 400 (not shown) and/or second heat radiating portion 402 (not shown) to help guide binder clasp 1500 into position and to hook binder clasp 1500 to heat radiating panel 202.

First fastener 1501 and second fastener 1502 attach heat radiating panel 202 to a section of tube 128 by sliding first leg 1506 and second leg 1508 on opposite sides of channel 404 above tube 128 so that concave portion 1504 extends over tube 128 and each leg compresses against a portion of channel 404 opposite tube 128. Concave portion 1504 extends across channel 404 perpendicular to tube 128. Third device 1520 may include a fewer or a greater number of fasteners 1501, 1502. Binder clasp 1500 may be formed of a variety of materials as known to those skilled in the art. For example, binder clasp 1500 may be formed of a metal material.

With reference to FIG. 19, a bottom perspective view of a fourth device 1920 for radiating heat from the heat transfer medium provided in tube 128 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Fourth device 1920 may include heat radiating panel 202, a seventh fastener 1902, an eighth fastener 1904, and a ninth fastener 1906. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 19, seventh fastener 1902, eighth fastener 1904, and ninth fastener 1906 comprise a compression clip 1900. With reference to FIG. 20, a side view of compression clip 1900 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Compression clip 1900 includes a concave shaped body. Seventh fastener 1902, eighth fastener 1904, and ninth fastener 1906 attach heat radiating panel 202 to a section of tube 128 by pressing the fastener against a portion of channel 404 opposite tube 128. Compression clip 1900 is sized to compress channel 404 against tube 128 thereby attaching heat radiating panel 202 to a section of tube 128. Fourth device 1920 may include a fewer or a greater number of fasteners 1902, 1904, 1906. Compression clip 1900 may be formed of a variety of materials as known to those skilled in the art. For example, compression clip 1900 may be formed of a metal material.

With reference to FIGS. 21 and 22, a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view, respectively, of a fifth device 2120 for radiating heat from the heat transfer medium provided in tube 128 are shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Fifth device 2120 may include heat radiating panel 202, a tenth fastener 2101, an eleventh fastener 2102, and a twelfth fastener 2104. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 21 and 22, tenth fastener 2101, eleventh fastener 2102, and twelfth fastener 2104 comprise a staple clasp 2100. With reference to FIG. 23, a side view of staple clasp 2100 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Staple clasp 2100 includes a body portion 2106, a first leg 2108, and a second leg 2110. First leg 2108 extends from a first end of body portion 2106. Second leg 2110 extends from a second end of body portion 2106 opposite the first end of body portion 2106. First leg 2108 and second leg 2110 extend from body portion 1504 forming a generally u-shaped body.

Tenth fastener 2101, eleventh fastener 2102, and twelfth fastener 2104 attach heat radiating panel 202 to a section of tube 128 by sliding first leg 2108 and second leg 2110 through respective holes in heat radiating panel 202 on opposite sides of channel 404 above tube 128 so that body portion 2106 extends over tube 128. Body portion 2106 extends across channel 404 perpendicular to tube 128. The portion of each leg 2108, 2110 extending through the hole in heat radiating panel 202 is bent to hook staple clasp 2100 to heat radiating panel 202. With reference to FIG. 24, a side view of staple clasp 2100 bent in the manner used to attach heat radiating panel 202 to a section of tube 128 is shown. Fifth device 2120 may include a fewer or a greater number of fasteners 2101, 2102, 2104. Staple clasp 2100 may be formed of a variety of materials as known to those skilled in the art. For example, staple clasp 2100 may be formed of a metal material.

With reference to FIG. 25, a top perspective view of a first heat distribution system 2500 utilizing yoke fastener 1100 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. To install first heat distribution system 2500, a plurality of heat radiating panels 130 are mounted to support members 200. A section of tube 128 is placed in channel 404 of each of the plurality of heat radiating panels 130. The sections of tube 128 are attached to the plurality of heat radiating panels 130 using one or more yoke fasteners 1100. Heat transfer media circulating through tube 128 transfers heat from the heat radiating panel to the surrounding air in the direction of the plurality of slats thereby warming or cooling the sub-floor, wall, and/or ceiling surface.

With reference to FIG. 26, a bottom perspective view of a second heat distribution system 2600 utilizing binder clasp 1500 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. To install second heat distribution system 2600, a plurality of heat radiating panels 130 are mounted to support members 200. A section of tube 128 is placed in channel 404 of each of the plurality of heat radiating panels 130. The sections of tube 128 are attached to the plurality of heat radiating panels 130 using one or more binder clasps 1500.

With reference to FIG. 28, a bottom perspective view of a third heat distribution system 2800 utilizing compression clip 1900 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Third heat distribution system 2800 includes a fourth heat radiating panel 2802 that may include first heat radiating portion 400, second heat radiating portion 402, channel 404, first mounting plate 422, and a fifth mounting plate 2804 that extends generally upward from second heat radiating portion 400 opposite channel 404. Fifth mounting plate 2804 increases the rigidity of fourth heat radiating panel 2802, makes fourth heat radiating panel 2802 symmetrical, and increases the area of the heat transfer surface of fourth heat radiating panel 2802. To install third heat distribution system 2800, a plurality of heat radiating panels 130 are mounted to support members 200. A section of tube 128 is placed in channel 404 of each of the plurality of heat radiating panels 130. The sections of tube 128 are attached to the plurality of heat radiating panels 130 using one or more compression clip 1900.

The foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and of description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the invention. For example, the fasteners and/or heat radiating panels may be used in various combinations. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the invention and as practical applications of the invention to enable one skilled in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A device for radiating heat from a heat transfer medium provided in a tube, the device comprising:

a panel, the panel comprising a heat radiating portion; and a channel extending from the heat radiating portion, the channel sized to hold a section of a tube; and

a fastener, the fastener attaching the panel to the section of the tube.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the heat radiating portion comprises:

a substantially planar surface; and

a plurality of slats extending from the surface, wherein the plurality of slats extend from the surface at an angle less than 90 degrees.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the plurality of slats extend from the surface at an angle greater than approximately 20 degrees and less than approximately 70 degrees.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the plurality of slats extend from the surface at an angle of approximately 30 degrees.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the heat radiating portion comprises:

a substantially arc-shaped surface; and

a plurality of slats extending from the surface.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the heat radiating portion comprises:

a first louver comprising a first plurality of slats extending from a surface at a first angle; and

a second louver comprising a second plurality of slats extending from the surface at a second angle, wherein the second angle is oriented approximately 180 degrees from the first angle.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the fastener is selected from the group consisting of one or more strip clasp, one or more compression clip, one or more staple clasp, one or more binder clasp, and one or more yoke fastener.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the fastener hooks to the panel.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the heat radiating portion comprises a plurality of slats extending from a surface, and further wherein the fastener extends through a slat of the plurality of slats.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the fastener compresses against at least a portion of the channel opposite the section of the tube.

11. The device of claim 1, further comprising a second fastener, wherein the panel further comprises:

a second heat radiating portion, the second heat radiating portion extending from the channel opposite the heat radiating portion; and

a second channel extending from the second heat radiating portion opposite the channel, the second channel sized to hold a second section of the tube;

wherein the second fastener attaches the panel to the second section of the tube.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the panel further comprises a third heat radiating portion, the third heat radiating portion extending from the second channel opposite the second heat radiating portion.

13. The device of claim 1, wherein the panel further comprises a slit in a surface of the panel and further wherein the fastener includes a strip clasp having an edge capable of insertion through the slit.

14. The device of claim 1, wherein the panel further comprises a mounting plate, wherein the mounting plate extends from the heat radiating portion.

15. A method of installing a heat transfer system, the method comprising:

mounting a panel to a support member, wherein the panel comprises: a heat radiating portion; and a channel extending from the heat radiating portion;

placing a section of a tube in the channel sized to hold the section of the tube; and

attaching the panel to the section of the tube using a fastener.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein attaching the panel to the section of the tube using the fastener comprises bending an end of the fastener.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein attaching the panel to the section of the tube using the fastener comprises sliding the end of the fastener through an opening in the panel before bending the end of the fastener.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the heat radiating portion comprises a plurality of slats extending from a surface, and further wherein attaching the panel to the section of the tube using the fastener comprises sliding the fastener through a slat of the plurality of slats.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein attaching the panel to the section of the tube using the fastener comprises pressing the fastener against at least a portion of the channel opposite the section of the tube.

20. The method of claim 15, further comprising operably coupling a first end of the tube to an outlet valve of a heat transfer device, wherein the outlet valve is configured to supply a heat transfer medium.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising operably coupling a second end of the tube to an inlet valve of the heat transfer device, wherein the inlet valve is configured to receive the heat transfer medium.

22. A heat radiating panel for radiating heat from a heat transfer medium provided in a tube, the panel comprising:

a heat radiating portion, the heat radiating portion comprising a substantially planar surface; and a plurality of slats extending from the surface, wherein the plurality of slats extend from the surface at an angle less than 90 degrees; and

a channel extending from the heat radiating portion, the channel sized to hold a section of a tube.

23. A heating system comprising:

a tube;

a heat radiating panel, the heat radiating panel comprising a heat radiating portion; and a channel extending from the heat radiating portion, the channel sized to hold a section of the tube;

a fastener, the fastener attaching the heat radiating panel to the section of the tube; and

a heat transfer device, the heat transfer device comprising an outlet valve operably coupleable to supply a heat transfer medium to a first end of the tube; and an inlet valve operably coupleable to receive the heat transfer medium from a second end of the tube.