Solar heat absorber panels

Abstract

An array of panels absorptive to solar radiation 21 is made up of individual panels 24, 25 etc. A duct runs along a panel 25 and terminates near the edge of the panel as a terminals 27. This terminal is positioned so that it shares a common axis with a second terminal on a second panel 24, whereby the terminals may be brought into close proximity and connected with a connector 26. This connection may be made by sliding one panel along the axis of its terminal towards a second panel.

Description

[0001] This applications claims priority from UK patent application number 0314232 filed on Jun. 19, 2003. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Many different kinds of solar heat exchange panels are known. Conventional flat plate panels have the disadvantage in that they normally lie over the roof covering, and are thus visually obtrusive and not easy to fit in the form of an array. [0003] My international patent application PCT / GB01 / 04440 describes panels which are integrated into a roof or wall covering and linked by a fluid duct. This application discloses some advantageous improvements which may be made to the system, and in particular to the method of connecting absorber panels together. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0004] This invention concerns heat exchange panels of the type used for absorbing solar radiation and using it to heat water. More specifically it concerns that type of panel designed to be fitted as an array to a wall or roof face. [0005] Thus according to the invention...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007] The panels may be arranged adjacent to each other in rows, and a number of rows may be arranged next to each other so as to form an array of panels. One way of achieving this is to support the panels in the rows by means of a number of horizontal battens of wood or suitable alternative material. The panels may overlie these battens, and a portion of batten between two adjacent panels may be left uncovered to receive fasteners to hold a covering of translucent or transparent roofing tiles, slates or shingles. Such a covering will let solar radiation pass through onto the panels, while preventing heat loss to the external air. Alternatively the panels may be made to overlap each other so they themselves form a covering impermeable to precipitation.

[0010] An insulating layer may be placed behind the panels to reduce heat loss from the rear. A waterproof membrane may be placed behind the panels catch any water penetrating through the panels. Such a membrane may be damaged by ultraviolet radiation from the sun, and so it is advantageous to provide a barrier to this radiation. This barrier may be provided by means of offsetting the gaps between panels, and the gaps in the insulation layer, so a gap in one layer does not coincide with a gap in another. This may be achieved by attaching the insulation layer to the panels, but offset slightly in one direction.

Problems solved by technology

Conventional flat plate panels have the disadvantage in that they normally lie over the roof covering, and are thus visually obtrusive and not easy to fit in the form of an array.

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