Abstract: A system for receiving, transferring, and storing solar thermal energy. The system includes a concentrating solar energy collector, a transfer conduit, a thermal storage material, and an insulated container. The insulated container contains the thermal storage material, and the transfer conduit is configured to transfer solar energy collected by the solar energy collector to the thermal storage material through a wall of the insulated container.

Abstract: A cooling circuit comprising a liquid circulation path and arranged on the path: in series, an engine and a radiator, mounted on a first branch in parallel between the inlet and outlet of the radiator, a store-exchanger containing at least one volume: enclosing elements for storing and releasing thermal energy, involving a phase change material PCM, placed in a heat exchange relationship with said liquid, and around which are arranged at least one first layer containing a PCM and one second layer containing a porous thermally insulating material, and valves so positioned as to direct the circulation of the liquid arriving from the engine toward the radiator and/or the store-exchanger.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a solar heat absorber including: an inlet through which a heat collecting medium enters the solar heat absorber; a passage member configured to be fluidly connected with the inlet such that the heat collecting medium enters the passage member through the inlet; and a collection member configured to be fluidly connected with the passage member such that the heat collecting medium enters the collection member through the passage member. In the solar heat absorber according to the present disclosure, the ceramic particles are used as the heat collecting medium. In addition, the present disclosure also provides a solar heat collecting system including the solar heat absorber, and a solar power generation system including the solar heat collecting system.

Abstract: A heat exchange system with at least one heat exchange chamber with heat exchange chamber boundaries which surround at least one heat exchange chamber interior of the heat exchange chamber, wherein the heat exchange chamber boundaries include at least one first opening for guiding in an inflow of at least one heat transfer fluid into the heat exchange chamber interior and at least one second opening for guiding out an outflow of the heat transfer fluid out of the heat exchange chamber interior is provided. At least one heat storage material is arranged in the heat exchange chamber interior such that a heat exchange flow of the heat transfer fluid through the heat exchange chamber interior causes a heat exchange between the heat storage material and the heat transfer fluid.

Abstract: An electromagnetic radiation collecting and directing apparatus is described herein. The electromagnetic radiation collecting and directing apparatus facilitates directing light from an exterior of a structure to an interior of a structure. The directed light is then distributed as necessary within the structure for heating, illumination, or is stored for use at a later time.

Abstract: An electromagnetic radiation collecting and directing apparatus is described herein. The electromagnetic radiation collecting and directing apparatus facilitates directing light from an exterior of a structure to an interior of a structure. The directed light is then distributed as necessary within the structure for heating, illumination, or is stored for use at a later time.

Abstract: A passive illuminator includes a luminescent region with a semiconductor material that absorbs first photons having energy greater than or equal to a threshold energy. In response to absorbing the first photons, the semiconductor material emits second photons, through a spontaneous emission process, having less energy than the first photons. A waveguide is optically coupled to the luminescent region to transport the second photons a distance from the luminescent region. An extraction region optically coupled to the waveguide to emit the second photons, and the waveguide is disposed between the extraction region and the luminescent region.

Abstract: Various embodiments of shutters for thermal imaging cameras, cameras comprising such shutters, and methods for providing such shutters are disclosed. The shutter may include a substrate with various layers and components thereon, such as a temperature sensor. The shutter may resemble a printed circuit board (PCB), utilizing efficient, cost-effective materials and methods known in the art.

Abstract: Disclosed is a solar collection assembly for collection of incident solar energy and generation of electricity. Such assembly includes a central vertically oriented support column. A solar collection assembly includes a plurality of dual faced solar receptor assemblies, each solar receptor assembly having an upper solar receptor surface and a lower solar receptor surface. The central vertically oriented support column carries each solar collection assembly. A solar collector reflective assembly surrounds the central vertically oriented support column and is oriented to reflect incident solar energy onto the solar collection assembly.

Abstract: An exterior wall is kept free of moisture condensation in both heating and cooling seasons by four one-way valves that utilize pressure differentials of a chimney effect to ventilate the insulating cavity with air from the drier colder side, while maintaining a vapor barrier on the more humid warmer side.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to a method of producing energy from concentrated solar flux. The method includes dropping granular solid particles through a solar flux receiver configured to transfer energy from concentrated solar flux incident on the solar flux receiver to the granular solid particles as heat. The method also includes fluidizing the granular solid particles from the solar flux receiver to produce a gas-solid fluid. The gas-solid fluid is passed through a heat exchanger to transfer heat from the solid particles in the gas-solid fluid to a working fluid. The granular solid particles are extracted from the gas-solid fluid such that the granular solid particles can be dropped through the solar flux receiver again.

Abstract: The invention is for improved solar energy collection apparatus that utilize one or more 3-dimensional porous metal absorber plates that contain one or more materials that can harness either or both solar thermal and solar electric energy. Working fluid can traverse throughout the depth, width, and length of the 3-dimensional porous metal absorber plate in order to extract solar thermal energy absorbed therein. Working fluid can be guided throughout the porous metal absorber plate in an alternating flow pattern with contoured cover glazing, to extract solar energy at high efficiency while reducing flow resistance. Working fluid that contains materials that exhibit the photovoltaic effect can traverse within the solar energy collection apparatus. The utility includes a wide variety of practical uses such as energy for hot water heating, space heating, aquaculture, industrial production processes, and other thermal or electric energy applications.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a thermal vector system for solar concentration plants, in particular for parabolic trough solar concentration plants, both for industrial and domestic use, comprising a solid state thermal vector. A preferred solar concentration plant comprises one or more solar collectors (1), an heat exchanger (3-5), a heat accumulator (2) and a connecting pipe circuit, in which a solid state thermal vector is pushed through said circuit by mechanical means (6).

Abstract: A solar collector receiver tube containing an improved getter system is described. The solar collector receiver tube has a base, pills of getter material that are uniform in height, and a containment metallic mesh having a non-uniform height and presenting at least one depression.

Abstract: A device (1; 10; 11; 12) for storage and transfer of thermal energy associated with an incident solar radiation, which used in a solar plant for the production of energy, based on an optical plant configuration which makes solar radiation converge from above, and comprises: —a containment casing (2); and—a dual bed (31, 32) of fluidizable particles received inside the casing (2) and arranged the one circumscribed to the other one, wherein the casing (2) has at least one receiving cylindrical cavity (20) which extends through the bed (3) of particles and has a open top inlet (21) for receiving the solar radiation concentrated by a field of heliostats and an open or closed bottom (22) at the level of the base of the bed of particles, the overall arrangement being such that one of the beds of particles (31) is arranged in contact with the side skirt (23) of the cylindrical cavity (20) for storing thermal energy received from the solar radiation and the other one bed of particles (32) is arranged in contact with

Abstract: Superheated steam tower receiver with a well-defined configuration that benefits the transfer of heat between the surface of the component and the working fluid. Composed of at least four subpanels that define the circulation circuit for the steam by means of internal passages. The component is provided with saturated steam and for the production of said steam it is possible to use other solar concentrator technology. The proposed configuration minimizes the technological risks inherent in superheated steam receiver technology where drawbacks arise in the structure of the material owing to the thermal cycles to which the solar component is subjected.

Abstract: Solar heat collector, especially an evacuated-tube solar heat collector, filled with first solid heat storage and conducting material transfers the solar heat to an electric power heat insulated utensil through second heat conducting/transferring material for cooking foods and making coffee/tea. A set of solar cooking appliance having a solar heat collector filed with a first solid heat storage and conducting material and a solar cooking range filled with third solid heat storage and conducting material. The solar cooking range having a heat insulated enclosed compartment and also having a cooktop. The cooking range having a set of cooking chambers which are in thermal contact with the first and second heat storage and conducting material for cooking food therein. The cooking appliance also has a group of removable parts that cover the cooking chambers separately. An electric power heater provides a backup energy source and electric heat storage.

Abstract: A device for storage and conveyance of thermal energy for an energy production system apt to receive solar radiation and based on the use of a modular fluidizable granular bed and a heat exchanger associated thereto is described.

Abstract: A steam condensation and water distillation system comprises an evaporation compartment in a vacuum environment in which a water source is evaporated and at least one first column in which high density water is accumulated; a steam line partly located in the evaporation compartment; a condensation pool in which steam is transferred; a condensation compartment in a vacuum environment in which steam in the evaporation compartment is transferred, a second column in which water formed by the condensation of the steam is accumulated, and a water compartment which is provided with an amount of water therein, in which condensation compartment is positioned; a first water line which is in connection with the water compartment and the second column, and by which the water coming from them are transferred to the water compartment again by being cooled; a second water line by which water is transferred for using.

Abstract: A solar collector (2) associated with or incorporated in a heat sink (4), such as a concrete slab, powers an organic Rankine cycle heat engine. Preferably, the working fluid can be heated by a second heat source, derived from biomass or waste incineration for example, after the heat sink (4) has cooled down.

Abstract: A thermal energy storage system includes a storage tank, a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger. The tank includes a plurality of stacked compartments. The first heat exchanger is disposed inside the tank proximate to the periphery of the tank and extends from a top portion of the tank to a bottom portion of the tank through each of the compartments. The first heat exchanger is configured to carry a first heat transfer fluid. The second heat exchanger is disposed inside the tank proximate to a center of the tank and extends from a top portion of the tank to a bottom portion of the tank through each of the compartments. The second heat exchanger is configured to carry a second heat transfer fluid. A third heat transfer fluid disposed inside each of the compartments transfers heat between the first heat transfer fluid and the second heat transfer fluid.

Abstract: A solar receiver includes a cavity that is operable to receive concentrated solar energy and a heat exchanger in thermal-receiving communication with the cavity. The heat exchanger includes a plurality of thermal capacitors. Each of the plurality of thermal capacitors has a regular geometry. The plurality of thermal capacitors defines open flow passages there between and at least two of the plurality of thermal capacitors have a different size. The plurality of thermal capacitors has a packing factor of greater than 74% with regard to the volume of the heat exchanger.

Abstract: This relates to a heating device including a solar energy collector, the solar energy collector transferring collected solar energy to outside air. First collector panels are used to heat outside air which heated air is led to a heater, for example a space heater. Second collector panels are used to transfer solar energy to air led to a heat exchanger of a heat pump. The heat pump transfers the extracted heat to heat storage. The stored heat is added to the air coming from the first collector panels if the temperature of the air coming from the first collector panels is below a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: A heat recovery installation using solar energy includes a three-channel plate, in which the first channel layer, viewed from the outside, alternately discharges used air and supplies fresh air. The third channel layer, viewed from the outside, ensures the supply of used air and the discharge of fresh air, while in the second channel layer, viewed from the outside, the heat exchange between the used and fresh air takes place according to the counterflow principle. In order to produce this flow, small apertures are provided in the second and third plates, viewed from the outside, of the three-channel plate, as a result of which the flow in the channel layer, viewed from the outside, is at right angles to the channel plate.

Abstract: A seasonal thermal energy storage system for heat supply and removal, including an energy-storage device, a solar collector, a refrigerating unit, and a water supply device in closed-loop connection to a user terminal. The energy-storage device includes at least a heat source storage pond and a cold source storage pond. The heat source storage pond and the cold source storage pond are connected to water source via first water pumps. The water supply device includes a hot water supply pool connected to the heat source storage pond and a cold water supply pool connected to the cold source storage pond. The solar collector is connected to the heat source storage pond and the hot water supply pool via second water pumps. The refrigerating unit is connected to the hot water supply pool and the cold water supply pool via third water pumps.

Abstract: An apparatus intended for generating process heat for a packaging arrangement and can be operated using an energy source which can only be regulated to a limited extent, if at all. For this purpose, the apparatus contains a heat-transfer medium and a heat accumulator.

Abstract: Invented is a solar smelter that also manufactures hot air or hot fluids. A curved parabolic-half-shell and curved-overhang focuses the sun's rays, sunlight, unto a crucible, which is buried into a thermal-mass, or the ground. Using a planar-reflector, or heliostat, the sunlight is reflected horizontally unto an interior reflective wall of the curved parabolic-half-shell and curved-overhang. Surrounding the crucible is a thermal-mass with embedded pipes, that manufacture hot and compress air, or heat a gas or fluid. On top of the thermal-mass is a clear transparent-and-insulating floor that captures any stray solar rays, sunlight, adding heat to the thermal-mass. At the foci of the parabolic-half-shell and curved-overhang is a crucible for melting rocks, sand, glass or metals, or processing chemicals.

Abstract: A concentrating solar power device may include a primary mirror, a secondary mirror, and a thermal storage device. The primary mirror may reflect solar rays from the sun towards the secondary mirror. The secondary mirror may reflect the solar rays reflected from the primary mirror towards the thermal storage device. The thermal storage device, which may comprise a thermal medium such as salt, may collect/absorb energy from the solar rays which may be used to run multiple Stirling engines, and/or an energy storing or energy expending device.

Abstract: A novel thermal storage device includes a container of metallic phase change material (MPCM). The MPCM has a high latent heat of fusion and a high thermal conductivity in its solid state. A thermal energy receiver is adapted to receive thermal energy from a thermal energy source and transfer the thermal energy directly to the MPCM, without the need for an intermediate thermal transfer fluid. A thermal energy discharge mechanism transfers thermal energy directly from the MPCM to a device that uses the thermal energy. In a solar energy embodiment, the thermal energy receiver is formed from a material (e.g., polished copper) that has a relatively low absorptivity value and a relatively low emissivity coefficient, which unexpectedly results in the attainment of a highly efficient solar receiver.

Abstract: The invention provides a solar thermal storage method capable of supplying heat of about 1000-1300 K to an external facility for 24 hours. Disclosed is a solar thermal storage method for storing heat using solar light energy, comprising a concentrated beam irradiation step S1 of irradiating a reactive ceramics layer with a concentrated beam obtained by concentrating solar light to heat the same while moving the reactive ceramics layer formed using reactive ceramics that transforms from an oxidized form to a reduced form with a release of oxygen when heated and returns to the oxidized form when brought into contact with the oxygen; and a thermal storage step S2 of storing the heat emitted from the reactive ceramics layer in thermal storage means while bringing the reactive ceramics layer heated in the concentrated beam irradiation step S1 into contact with gas containing the oxygen.

Abstract: We present an improved system for solar energy collection and electricity generation, comprising a solar collector apparatus, said apparatus comprising an array of square Fresnel lenses arranged in rows with modular energy absorption devices located below, wherein the array is mounted on arms at a low height above ground, the rows of said array are rotatable horizontally about their lengthwise axis, and the array is mounted on a rotatable base The system further comprises transportable insulated storage tanks containing a storage medium, Stirling engines and generators. The solar collection apparatus heats the storage medium, the storage medium supplies the Stirling engines with heat, and each engine is coupled to a generator. In a preferred embodiment, the system additionally comprises embedded controllers using real-time algorithms providing smart on-the-fly management of the system.

Abstract: A fluidized-bed concentrating solar power plant comprises a particle receiver configured to contain solid state particles, wherein the particle receiver heats the solid state particles by transferring thermal energy from sunlight to the solid state particles. The plant also comprises a first silo configured to receive and store heated solid state particles from the particle receiver; a heat exchanger configured to receive the heated solid state particles from the first silo and generate a fluidized mixture comprising the heated solid state particles suspended in a gas; and a second silo configured to feed cooled solid state particles to the particle receiver, the cooled solid state particle extracted from the fluidized mixture. The first silo and the second silo each comprise a foundation comprising a base supported by a plurality of micropile units. Each micropile unit comprises a plurality of micropile columns coupled to a support block which supports the base.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to a method of producing energy from concentrated solar flux. The method includes dropping granular solid particles through a solar flux receiver configured to transfer energy from concentrated solar flux incident on the solar flux receiver to the granular solid particles as heat. The method also includes fluidizing the granular solid particles from the solar flux receiver to produce a gas-solid fluid. The gas-solid fluid is passed through a heat exchanger to transfer heat from the solid particles in the gas-solid fluid to a working fluid. The granular solid particles are extracted from the gas-solid fluid such that the granular solid particles can be dropped through the solar flux receiver again.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for storing heat in industrial systems where large sources of stored energy are called upon to meet a work load, storing the heat content of a hot working fluid by using the hot working fluid as a heat transfer fluid in vapor form and depositing its heat content on a heat storage medium and then removing the cooled and condensed liquid phase of that heat transfer fluid, and when hot working fluid again is needed, the liquid heat transfer fluid is returned to the heated storage medium and is reheated as it passes through the hot storage medium and then is returned to the working system to be used as a hot working fluid.

Abstract: A device for storing and releasing heat energy for an electrical power production plant is described. The device has: at least one bed of fluidisable particles, arranged at least partly at receiving surfaces for such radiation; means for feeding a fluidisation gas for the fluidisation of said particles; and heat exchange elements flown through, in use, by an operating fluid and arranged at or in proximity of said bed of fluidisable particles.

Abstract: A method for alternate storage and outputting of the thermal energy which is obtained in the primary circuit of a solar-thermal power station, using a heat carrier medium, which can be partially fed between a plurality of storage tanks, in each case flowing through a heat transmission apparatus which is operatively connected to the primary circuit and/or to the steam/water circuit, which heat carrier medium can be heated to a higher temperature or can be cooled to a lower temperature, the aim is to provide a solution which makes it possible, with a storage capacity which is the same as that of installations known from the prior art, to avoid the disadvantages of the prior art, in particular with a smaller space requirement and occupying a smaller installation area.

Abstract: A solar heating block, designed for use in assembling solar heating panels in the walls of buildings, has a first compartment and a second compartment within its interior volume. The first compartment contains a translucent insulating material, such as an aerogel. The second compartment, which is inward of the solar heating block from the first compartment, contains a heat-absorbing material. The translucent insulating material allows light to be transmitted through the solar heating block, but reduces heat loss to the exterior of the building from the heat-absorbing material.

Abstract: Integral, thermal storage and receiver system. The system includes a heat storage medium and a receiver for capturing incoming radiation, the receiver being in thermal contact with the heat storage medium and forming an integral part of it. In a preferred embodiment, the storage medium is a molten salt and the receiver is a black body cavity formed of polyhedral structures and immersed within the molten salt.

Abstract: One embodiment of the invention is a thermosiphon vessel for storing seasonal environment energy in the ground. The thermosiphon includes: a fluid vessel comprising a heat exchange tube, configured to contain a working fluid, and further configured to receive a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a wicking material arranged within the fluid vessel and configured to retain liquid-state working fluid substantially adjacent an inner wall of the heat exchange tube; a fluid level sensor arranged within the fluid vessel and configured to determine the level of liquid-state working fluid therein; and a pump arranged within the fluid vessel and configured to maintain the level of liquid-state working fluid below a threshold level within the fluid vessel. The pump is operable between an energy capture mode to absorb thermal energy from an above-ground heat source and an energy release mode to release thermal energy to an above-ground heat sink.

Abstract: A boiler for a solar receiver includes a plurality of boiler panels arranged side by side with each other so that the panels form a boiler wall section. Piping fluidly connects the plurality of boiler panels together to route a working fluid through the boiler wall section from an inlet of the boiler wall section to an outlet of the boiler wall section. The piping and boiler panels are configured and adapted to route the working fluid through each of the boiler panels in a common direction.

Abstract: A solar energy collector and thermal storage device for placement in a building's exterior architectural opening is provided, having an insulating cavity including a first lite on the device exterior side and a second lite spaced inwardly therefrom, defining a depth of the insulating cavity, and being substantially filled with an insulating gas. A provided thermal storage cavity includes the second lite and a third lite spaced inwardly therefrom, defining a depth of the thermal storage cavity which is at least the same size as the insulating cavity depth, and is substantially filled with a thermal storage medium, which is a hydrogel adhering to the second lite and the third lite and having cohesion characteristics such that it is self supporting and maintains its shape within the thermal storage cavity. A low-emissivity coating disposed on the insulating cavity side of the second lite inhibits exterior thermal radiation transfer.

Abstract: A device for storage and conveyance of thermal energy for an energy production system apt to receive solar radiation and based on the use of a modular fluidizable granular bed and a heat exchanger associated thereto is described.

Abstract: An integrated solar lens and lens system that may be active, a hybrid, or a self-powered system. A solar lens is fabricated and configured to concentrate received solar energy onto a solar sensor material, whereby a medium is provided between the lens and the solar sensor material, such as a fluid and a fluid including micro or nano components including transparent microemulsion balls, and ionized particles. Such balls and particles improve the transducing of the solar energy to heat, and which heated fluid can be circulated throughout a system.

Abstract: A system and method for regulating the temperature of a building interior, the building including at least one thermal mass for receiving and holding heat, distribution vents and an air return, the method including receiving and holding heat in the at least one thermal mass, enabling an air flow from the at least one thermal mass using the distribution vents, and returning the air flow to the at least one thermal mass via the air return, wherein the air flow tends to maintain a generally constant temperature in the building.

Abstract: A dehydration device includes a solar energy collection device connected with a water source so as to transfer solar energy into thermo energy which heats water that is supplied from the water source. A water storage device includes at least one hot water tank which has a heater connected to the solar energy collection device. The water heated by the solar energy collection device is stored in the at least one hot water tank. A heat-exchange device has a pipe connected with the water storage device, and an air delivery unit which blows air toward the pipe to form hot air to dehydrate foods. A windmill generates electric power which is provided to the dehydration device. The dehydration device uses green energy to dehydrate foods to keep proper freshness and nutrition. The dehydration device is easily moved and friendly to the environment.

Abstract: Improved thermal energy storage materials, devices and systems employing the same and related methods. The thermal energy storage materials may include a phase change material that includes a metal-containing compound. This invention is directed at methods of encapsulating thermal energy storage materials, devices containing encapsulated thermal energy storage materials, and capsular structures for encapsulating thermal energy storage materials.

Abstract: A novel cost effective low profile structure that converts and stores solar radiation into heat and electricity for controlled utilization. The inventive material incorporates a large insulated vault or chamber of substantial thermal mass connected to a series of inlet passages and to a solar collector assembly. As solar radiation is collected by the solar collector assembly a temperature gradient is created between the collector and the air that is within the vault resulting in air being drawn out of the chamber and through the collector assembly. This air movement is utilized to rotate turbines that are coupled to the inlet passages generating electricity. The hot air is also captured and utilized. The system provides for an efficient, economical process of harnessing and utilizing solar energy by capitalizing on not only on its thermal nature, but its motive nature as well.

Abstract: The disclosed subject matter relates to methods and systems for operating a solar steam system in response to a detected or predicted reduced insolation condition (for example, sunset or a cloud condition). In some embodiments, for a period of time, enthalpy stored within a solid material of a conduit via which steam travels en route to a steam turbine is used to heat the steam to drive the turbine. In some embodiments, a net migration of heliostats away from the steam superheater is carried out in response to the detected or predicted reduced insolation condition.

Abstract: By the invention a heat storage system for storing solar heat is provided, the system including a subterranean heat storage (2) for storing heat at temperatures above 800° C., a collector structure (8) being placed on or above the ground, the collector structure having at least one reflecting surface (10) or converging lens for deflecting solar radiation (12), an absorber body (6) positioned so as to receive solar radiation (12) deflected by the collector structure (8) and be heated by said solar radiation (12), and a solid material heat conductor (4) for transferring heat from the absorber body (6) to the subterranean heat storage (2). A method of storing solar heat is also provided.

Abstract: Solar heat collector, especially an evacuated-tube solar heat collector, filled with first solid heat storage and conducting material transfers the solar heat to an electric power heat insulated utensil through second heat conducting/transferring material for cooking foods and making coffee/tea. A set of solar cooking appliance having a solar heat collector filed with a first solid heat storage and conducting material and a solar cooking range filled with third solid heat storage and conducting material. The solar cooking range having a heat insulated enclosed compartment and also having a cooktop. The cooking range having a set of cooking chambers which are in thermal contact with the first and second heat storage and conducting material for cooking food therein. The cooking appliance also has a group of removable parts that cover the cooking chambers separately. An electric power heater provides a backup energy source and electric heat storage.