초록 ▼

A solar energy collection and utilization system includes a reservoir having a heat transfer fluid stored therein, and a platform supported by the fluid. A solar energy collector is carried by the platform, the system further including a fluid conductor in the collector for receiving energy collecte

A solar energy collection and utilization system includes a reservoir having a heat transfer fluid stored therein, and a platform supported by the fluid. A solar energy collector is carried by the platform, the system further including a fluid conductor in the collector for receiving energy collected from solar radiation and heating the heat transfer fluid passing therethrough. Appropriate piping is provided between the reservoir and the fluid conductor such that the fluid heated by the collector is stored in the reservoir for subsequent use for heating applications, including methane generation in a separate facility.

대표청구항 ▼

In combination: a reservoir; a fluid stored in said reservoir; a platform carried by said fluid; a solar energy collector comprising at least one flat plate collector carried by said platform; fluid conducting means in said solar collector for receiving energy collected from solar radiation and heat

In combination: a reservoir; a fluid stored in said reservoir; a platform carried by said fluid; a solar energy collector comprising at least one flat plate collector carried by said platform; fluid conducting means in said solar collector for receiving energy collected from solar radiation and heating a fluid passing therethrough; means communicating between said reservoir and said fluid conducting means whereby said fluid is heated by said collector and stored in said reservoir; means for rotating said platform; and means for elevating one edge of said flat plate collector. In combination: a slurry tank; heat exchange means in said tank; a platform; a solar energy collector comprising a parallel array of flat plate collectors carried by said platform; means engaging the periphery of said platform for rotation about the center thereof means for elevating one edge of each of said flat plate collectors; a fluid conductor within each said flat plate collector for transfering heat of radiation to a fluid passing therethrough; means coupling said fluid conductor with said heat exchange means; whereby said heated fluid is moved from said fluid conductor through said heat exchange means to effect heating of a slurry of organic materials therein, causing generation of methane gas within said tank.