Solar Absorber Connection Layout for Flexible Collector Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar absorber units have limitations in flexibility and variability for interconnection, leading to suboptimal heat transfer effectiveness and reliability in solar collector arrays, often requiring long cable paths and unreliable ventilation systems.
Innovation Solution
A solar absorber unit with at least four connecting pieces distributed across multiple sides, allowing for flexible connection options, including series and parallel arrangements, with the ability to seal unnecessary connections using blind plugs or integrated functional devices like ventilation systems, and produced through blow molding for enhanced flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two connecting pieces are provided on solar absorber units, then the structure is simple, but the flexibility and variability in interconnection to form collector arrays is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The solar absorber unit is equipped with multiple connecting pieces (at least four) distributed over at least three sides, allowing the same unit to be connected in various configurations (series, parallel, or combinations) to form different collector array layouts. This multi-functional connection capability enables a single unit design to serve multiple interconnection purposes, achieving flexibility without requiring different unit types.
2Length of moving object
If solar absorber units are connected with limited connecting pieces, then the unit structure remains simple, but long cable paths must be provided between units
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting pieces are distributed over at least three sides of the solar absorber unit rather than concentrated on one side. This segmentation of connection points across multiple sides allows for more compact and flexible array configurations, enabling shorter cable paths by providing multiple access points for interconnection while maintaining structural simplicity of each individual unit.
3Reliability
If ventilation devices are provided in return lines, then air can be vented, but the functional reliability of ventilation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The ventilation function is extracted from the traditional return line ventilation device and integrated directly into the connecting pieces of the solar absorber unit. By providing ventilation openings in the connecting pieces themselves, the patent eliminates the need for separate ventilation devices in return lines, improving reliability while simplifying the overall system structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables high flexibility and variability in forming collector arrays, ensuring reliable and effective heat transfer with reduced cable lengths and improved ventilation, allowing for various circuit configurations and easy integration into solar collector systems.
Implementation Method 1
a through-flow gap for a heat transfer medium being provided between the absorber surfaces
Implementation Method 2
solar absorber unit with an absorber surface on the upper side and an absorber surface on the lower side
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A solar absorber unit comprising an upper absorber surface (1) and a lower absorber surface (2), wherein a flow space (4) for a heat transfer medium is provided between the absorber surfaces. At least four connection ports (5, 6) are provided, distributed over at least three sides of the absorber unit.