WO2012017387A1 - Transparent insulation panel retrofit for a solar collector - Google Patents

Transparent insulation panel retrofit for a solar collector Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012017387A1
WO2012017387A1 PCT/IB2011/053435 IB2011053435W WO2012017387A1 WO 2012017387 A1 WO2012017387 A1 WO 2012017387A1 IB 2011053435 W IB2011053435 W IB 2011053435W WO 2012017387 A1 WO2012017387 A1 WO 2012017387A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
panel
transparent insulation
solar
glass
insulation panel
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/IB2011/053435
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Royi Efron
Shimon Klier
Zvika Klier
Michael Adel
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
TIGI Ltd
Original Assignee
TIGI Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by TIGI Ltd filed Critical TIGI Ltd
Priority to EP11814190.2A priority Critical patent/EP2601683A4/en
Priority to AU2011287268A priority patent/AU2011287268A1/en
Publication of WO2012017387A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012017387A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S80/00—Details, accessories or component parts of solar heat collectors not provided for in groups F24S10/00-F24S70/00
    • F24S80/60—Thermal insulation
    • F24S80/65—Thermal insulation characterised by the material
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S70/00—Details of absorbing elements
    • F24S70/30—Auxiliary coatings, e.g. anti-reflective coatings
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S80/00—Details, accessories or component parts of solar heat collectors not provided for in groups F24S10/00-F24S70/00
    • F24S80/50—Elements for transmitting incoming solar rays and preventing outgoing heat radiation; Transparent coverings
    • F24S80/56—Elements for transmitting incoming solar rays and preventing outgoing heat radiation; Transparent coverings characterised by means for preventing heat loss
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
    • F24S25/60—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
    • F24S2025/6001—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules by using hook and loop-type fasteners
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
    • F24S25/60—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
    • F24S2025/6006—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules by using threaded elements, e.g. stud bolts
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
    • F24S25/60—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
    • F24S2025/601—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules by bonding, e.g. by using adhesives
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to solar collection panels, and in particular, it concerns retrofitting existing solar collection panels with transparent thermal insulation.
  • Solar collection panels convert solar radiation to energy for a variety of applications within residential or industrial structures.
  • Solar collection panels are simply referred to in the industry as solar panels, and are also known as solar energy collectors, collection panels, or solar modules.
  • Typical applications include photovoltaic conversion, such as electricity generation, and thermal conversion, such as water heating, space heating, and industrial process heating.
  • Solar panels used for thermal conversion are also referred to as solar thermal units, solar thermal panels, or solar thermal collectors.
  • a variety of solar panels are commercially available, and deployment, operation, and maintenance of conventional solar panels is well known in the industry.
  • FIGURE 1 A a simplified diagram of a solar panel 150, solar radiation (shown as LIGHT) is collected by a solar collection panel 152 for conversion and eventual use by applications 154.
  • LIGHT solar radiation
  • FIGURE IB is a diagram of a cross-section view of a conventional solar thermal panel.
  • Low emissivity (low-E) glass 100 is held by a frame 102 allowing LIGHT (as near IR and visible wavelength light are typically referred to in this context) to reach, absorber 106.
  • Absorber 106 is also known as an absorber plate.
  • An exterior surface, or face, of the low-E glass that is positioned for accepting solar radiation, or in general terms facing toward the source of solar radiation is also known as the surface of the collection panel.
  • Circulation pipes 120 (end-view as shown by circles below/behind absorber 106) circulate a transfer fluid to absorb heat from the absorber 106 and transfer the heat to applications. Note that connections between circulation pipes 120 and applications are not shown.
  • Insulation 107 such as Melamine insulation, provides an internal insulator between the back of the absorber 106 plate and the backside of the solar panel. Lateral insulation 105 and rear thermal insulation 108 provide a thermal barrier on sides and back, respectively.
  • the invention of insulated solar panels provides a solar thermal collector with much greater energy conversion efficiencies, as compared to conventional solar thermal collectors.
  • An insulated solar panel is a solar thermal collector with a layer of transparent insulation material for the surface of the collection panel.
  • FIGURE 1C a diagram of an insulated solar panel, transparent insulation 104 has been integrated into a conventional solar panel between an interior surface of the collection panel (low-E glass 100) and the absorber 106. LIGHT is transmitted (passes) through transparent insulation 104 to reach absorber 106.
  • insulated refers to the transparent insulation 104 material behind the surface of the collection panel - inside the solar panel, between the low-E glass 100 and absorber 106, as opposed to the conventional insulation typically used in the back and sides of a solar thermal collector (105, 108).
  • Insulated solar panels are available from TIGI of Neve Yarak, Israel. Thermally insulating panels transmissive to solar radiation, while having low transmissivity to thermal infra-red radiation, have been disclosed in US4,480,632, US4.719.902, US4,815,442,
  • a method for insulating a solar thermal panel the solar thermal panel having a surface of a solar collection panel positioned for accepting solar radiation, including the steps of: providing a transparent insulation panel including at least a first piece of glass and transparent insulation; and attaching the transparent insulation panel to the solar thermal panel, such that: an outside surface of the first piece of glass is positioned for accepting solar radiation; and the transparent insulation is positioned on a side of the first piece of glass opposite the outside surface and toward the surface of the solar collection panel.
  • the step of attaching includes using straps between the transparent insulation panel and the solar thermal panel, in another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes using at least one strap from the side of the transparent insulation panel to a corresponding side of the solar thermal panel. In another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes using at least one strap from a first side of the transparent insulation panel, around the solar thermal panel, to a second side of the transparent insulation panel. In another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes using at least one strap from a first side of the transparent insulation panel, around the solar thermal panel, to a second side of the transparent insulation panel. In another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes using at least one bolt to join a frame of the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the solar collection panel. In another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes joining a frame of the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the solar collection panel. In another optional embodiment, the frame of the transparent insulation panel is adhered only to edges of the surface of the solar collection panel.
  • the step of attaching includes joining a frame of the transparent insulation panel to sides of the solar collection panel.
  • the step of providing includes applying one or more anti-reflection coatings to one or more surfaces of the first piece of glass.
  • the transparent insulation panel includes a second piece of glass positioned on a side of the transparent insulation opposite the first piece of glass.
  • the step of attaching includes adhering the second piece of glass to the surface of the solar collection panel.
  • the step of attaching includes adhering only the edges of the second piece of glass to edges of the surface of the solar collection panel.
  • the step of providing includes applying one or more anti-reflection coatings to one or more surfaces of the second piece of glass.
  • an optical matching gel is applied between the second piece of glass and the surface of the solar collection panel, the optical matching gel having a refractive index matched to refractive indices of the second piece of glass and the surface of the solar collection panel.
  • the transparent insulation panel is sealed.
  • the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a temperature-limiting device configured to transfer heat from inside to outside the sealed transparent insulation panel when temperature inside the sealed transparent insulation panel exceeds a pre-defined temperature.
  • the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a mechanism configured to vary a volume available to an enclosed gas inside the sealed transparent insulation panel, the volume varying in accordance with changing temperature of the enclosed gas.
  • the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a frame around the first piece of glass and the transparent insulation
  • the mechanism includes: an expandable compartment contained within the frame such that the expandable compartment: facilitates unimpeded transmission of solar radiation transmission through the sealed solar thermal panel; is connected to an internal volume of the sealed transparent insulation panel containing an enclosed gas; and configured to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume and the expandable compartment, wherein upon heating of the enclosed gas, the enclosed gas flows from the internal volume to the expandable compartment, thereby keeping pressure of the enclosed gas within structurally tolerable limits of the sealed transparent insulation panel.
  • a system for insulating a solar thermal panel having a surface of a solar collection panel positioned for accepting solar radiation, including: a first piece of glass with an outside surface; transparent insulation positioned on a side of the first piece of glass opposite the outside surface so as to configure the first piece of glass and the transparent insulation as a transparent insulation panel; and a mechanism for attaching the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the solar collection panel so that solar radiation is transmitted through the outside surface, the first piece of glass, and then through the transparent insulation to the solar collection panel.
  • the mechanism includes at least one strap for attaching the transparent insulation panel to the solar thermal panel.
  • the system includes a frame around the first piece of glass and the transparent insulation.
  • the system includes one or more anti-reflection coatings applied to one or more surfaces of the first piece of glass.
  • the transparent insulation panel also includes a second piece of glass positioned on a side of the transparent insulation opposite the first, piece of glass.
  • the system includes one or more anti-refiection coatings applied to one or more surfaces of the second piece of glass.
  • the transparent insulation panel is sealed.
  • the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a temperature-limiting device configured to transfer heat from inside to outside the sealed transparent insulation panel when temperature inside the sealed transparent insulation panel exceeds a pre-defined temperature.
  • the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a mechanism configured to vary a volume available to an enclosed gas inside the sealed transparent insulation panel, the volume varying in accordance with changing temperature of the enclosed gas.
  • the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a frame around the first piece of glass and the transparent insulation
  • the mechanism includes: an expandable compartment contained within the frame such that the expandable compartment: facilitates unimpeded transmission of solar radiation transmission through the sealed solar thermal panel; is connected to an internal volume of the sealed transparent insulation panel containing an enclosed gas; and configured to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume and the expandable compartment, wherein upon heating of the enclosed gas, the enclosed gas flows from the internal volume to the expandable compartment, thereby keeping pressure of the enclosed gas within structurally tolerable limits of the sealed transparent insulation panel.
  • system includes a connecting duct configured to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume and the expandable compartment.
  • a system for collection of solar radiation including a solar thermal panel, the solar thermal panel having a surface of a solar collection panel; and a transparent insulation panel attached to the surface of the solar collection panel.
  • a system for converting solar radiation to thermal energy including: a sealed solar thermal panel including a frame; and a mechanism contained within the frame, the mechanism including an expandable compartment that: facilitates unimpeded transmission of solar radiation transmission through the sealed solar thermal panel; is connected to an internal volume of the sealed transparent insulation panel containing an enclosed gas; and to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume and the expandable compartment, wherein upon heating of the enclosed gas, the enclosed gas flows from the internal volume to the expandable compartment, thereby keeping pressure of the enclosed gas within structurally tolerable limits of the sealed transparent insulation panel.
  • the sealed solar thermal panel is an insulated solar panel.
  • the system includes a connecting duct configured to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume and the expandable compartment.
  • FIGURE 1 A a simplified diagram of a solar panel.
  • FIGURE IB is a diagram of a cross-section view of a conventional solar thermal panel.
  • FIGURE 1C a diagram of an insulated solar panel.
  • FIGURE 2 a diagram of a solar thermal panel that has been, insulated.
  • FIGURE 3A a diagram of a first embodiment of a transparent insulation panel.
  • FIGURE 3B a diagram of a second embodiment of a transparent insulation panel.
  • FIGURE 4A a first diagram of using straps for attaching a transparent insulation panel 400 to a solar collection panel 152.
  • FIGURE 4B a second diagram of using straps for attaching a transparent insulation panel 400 to a solar collection panel 152.
  • FIGURE 4C a side view of mechanical attachment with bolts.
  • FIGURE 4D a top view of mechanical attachment with bolts.
  • FIGURE 4E a side view of mechanical attachment of a long frame with bolts.
  • FIGURE 4F a top view of mechanical attachment of a long frame with bolts.
  • FIGURE 4G a side view of adhering via edges.
  • FIGURE 4H a top view of adhering via edges.
  • FIGURE 41 a side view of adhering via surface.
  • FIGURE 4J a top view of adhering via surface.
  • FIGURE 5A a side view of a variable portion mechanism integrated into the frame of a sealed transparent insulation panel.
  • FIGURE 5B an expanded side view of a variable portion integrated into the frame of a transparent insulation panel.
  • FIGURE 5C an expanded top view of a variable portion integrated into the frame of a sealed transparent insulation panel.
  • FIGURE 6 a plot of efficiency versus temperature in the interior of the solar collector.
  • the present invention is an apparatus and method for retrofitting existing solar collection panels with transparent thermal insulation.
  • the method facilitates upgrading existing conventional solar thermal panels with thermal insulation for the surface of the collection panel, with minimal effect on light transmission to the absorber.
  • Use of a transparent thermal insulation panel improves the performance of an existing solar thermal panel, including, but not limited to increasing the output water temperature, operation at a lower level of solar radiation exposure, operating at a higher water input temperature, and reducing the minimum ambient operating temperature (temperature of the environment of the solar thermal panel).
  • the term “retrofit” generally refers to modifying equipment that has already been manufactured and/or is already in service, using parts developed or made available after the time of the equipment's original manufacture and/or installation.
  • the term “upgrade” is used interchangeably with the term “retrofit”, unless otherwise described.
  • the term “transparent insulation panel” generally refers to an apparatus that includes transparent thermal insulation and is designed for retrofit of existing solar thermal panels. Note that components of the transparent insulation panel can be supplied and assembled on-site or preferably pre-assembled to facilitate ease of installation on site. The specific method of providing the transparent insulation panel parts, partially assembled, or fully assembled will depend on the specifics of the panel(s) to be upgraded and any requirements for the upgrade process.
  • thermal insulation retrofit is for additional transparent thermal insulation on the front of the collection panel, and should not be confused with adding thermal insulation to the other sides of the solar panel, such as the sides and/or back.
  • addition of thermal insulation on the sides and back of the solar panel may be beneficial.
  • an existing solar panel contains little insulation, as the solar panel is intended for use only during summer (warmer) months when heat loss is not an issue, or heat loss is possibly desirable to limit the internal temperature of the solar panel.
  • an optional upgrade to the solar panel for use during winter (colder) months could include upgrading the back and sides of the solar panel with additional insulation sufficient to prevent significant heat loss from the back and sides of the solar panel during operation in winter months.
  • conventional insulation can be used on the back and sides, the selection and installation of which is known in the art.
  • FIGURE 6 a plot of efficiency versus temperature in the interior of the solar collector, plots are shown for various solar thermal collectors.
  • the current plot is for an ambient temperature (T ambient ) of 0 (zero) degrees Celsius and a solar irradiance (G) of 800 Watts per meter squared (w/m ).
  • An insulated solar thermal collector shown as Honeycomb collector efficiency plot 400, has the greatest efficiency of the plotted collectors at all plotted temperatures. While a high-end flat plate collector has good efficiency at low temperatures (left side of plot 402), efficiency decreases at higher temperatures (right side of plot 402), eventually performing below the efficiencies of all the other plotted collectors.
  • the efficiency of a solar thermal collector after adding a transparent insulation panel to a conventional collector is shown in plot 404 as "HC jacket upgrade ⁇ without AR coating", where AR is the abbreviation for anti-reflection. Adding an anti-reflection coating (AR coating) to the transparent insulation panel increases the efficiency, as shown in plot 406.
  • Efficiency (404, 406) of solar thermal collectors retrofitted with a transparent insulation panel tracks with the efficiency (400) of an insulated solar thermal collector.
  • FIGURE 2 a diagram of a solar thermal panel that has been insulated 200, a transparent insulation panel 202 has been attached to the collection panel 152 of a conventional solar thermal panel (such as FIGURE 1 A 150). Attaching secures the transparent insulation panel to the collection panel for proper placement and operation of the combined solar thermal collector.
  • a first side 210 of transparent insulation panel 202 is positioned toward the source of solar radiation, and functions as the (new) surface of the collection panel (surface of the solar thermal panel that has been insulated).
  • a second side 212 of transparent insulation panel 202 is the area of attachment of transparent insulation panel 202 to the exterior surface of the collection panel 152.
  • a transparent insulation panel can be constructed using transparent insulation.
  • Transparent insulation that is a convection and conduction-suppressing insulator, such as a transparent honeycomb substrate, is described in PCT application number PCT/IB2010/050212, included in entirety by reference. A number of implementations are possible for a transparent insulation panel.
  • a diagram of a first embodiment of a transparent insulation panel includes a first piece of glass 300 on the first side 210 and transparent insulation 304 facing the second side 212, held by a short frame 302 A.
  • the size of short frame 302 A in the direction from the first side 210 to the second side 212 is relative to the size of long frame 302B (in FIGURE 3B) in the same direction.
  • the transparent insulation 304 includes support posts 306. Note that for clarity, only one support post is shown. Typically, an array of support posts would be used, with the number, position, and size of the support posts depending on the type of transparent insulation being used, installation, and operational requirements of the solar panel.
  • a diagram of a second embodiment of a transparent insulation panel includes a first piece of glass 300 on the first side 210, a second piece of glass 308 on the second side 212 and transparent insulation 304 between the first and second pieces of glass, held by a long frame 302B.
  • the second piece of glass 308 may not be required for functionality, but can be used to simplify packaging and transport of the transparent insulation panel.
  • the components labeled glass 300 and 308 can be implemented using any rigid material transparent to solar radiation and meeting the construction, deployment, and related requirements for the transparent insulation panel.
  • the term glass is used, as typically glass is used as transparent sheets for solar panels.
  • One skilled in the art will understand that other materials can be used, including but not limited to a polycarbonate.
  • first piece of glass 300 faces the inside of the transparent insulation panel, and is opposite an outside surface of first piece of glass 300 that is positioned toward the source of solar radiation. Note that the outside surface of first piece of glass 300 is toward the first side 210 of the transparent insulation panel.
  • second piece of glass 308 faces the inside of the transparent insulation panel, and is opposite an outside surface of second piece of glass 308 that is positioned toward the surface of the collection panel. Note that the outside surface of second piece of glass 300 is toward the second side 212 of the transparent insulation panel.
  • the transparent insulation 304 can be attached to the inside surface of first piece of glass
  • the transparent insulation panel may have a gap between the transparent insulation and the first and/or second pieces of glass.
  • the transparent insulation may be no gap(s) between the transparent insulation and the first and/or second pieces of glass. Due to the high operating temperatures of an insulated thermal panel, preferably only one side of the transparent insulation should be attached to one of the pieces of glass, allowing an air gap on the other side of the transparent insulation.
  • a short frame 302A or long frame 302B can be used in embodiments with or without a second piece of glass 308.
  • a short frame can be attached to the surface of the collection panel, while a long frame facilitates the transparent insulation panel being attached using the sides of the collection panel. Based on this description, one skilled in the art will be able to design a frame suitable for the specifics of the panel being upgraded and requirements for the upgrade.
  • a frame for the transparent insulation panel typically surrounds the components of the transparent insulation panel, providing structure and support for one or more transparent rigid surfaces (transparent sheets, such as glasses 300 and 308), the transparent insulation 304 and any other components.
  • a frame is also known as a casing.
  • the frame is typically constructed of stainless steel, but other materials can be used depending on the specifics of the existing panel and upgrade requirements.
  • the frame can be designed to position the transparent insulation panel in close proximity to the surface of the collection panel, without the transparent insulation being in contact with the surface of the collection panel.
  • the specification of close proximity will vary depending on the application, factors including the structure of the transparent insulation, whether support posts are being used, the general manufacturing tolerances of the transparent insulation panel, and the variation in the surfaces of the existing solar panels to which the transparent insulation panel will be attached.
  • the frame and transparent insulation panel are designed to position the transparent insulation to be in contact with the surface of the collection panel, or in contact with the second piece of glass 308.
  • a method for insulating a solar thermal panel includes attaching a transparent insulation panel to the solar thermal panel.
  • a method for insulating an existing solar thermal panel includes attaching the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the collection panel.
  • a variety of techniques can be used to attach the transparent insulation panel and the existing solar thermal panel.
  • One technique is to use straps on the sides of the transparent insulation panel and the solar thermal panel. Referring to FIGURE 4A, a first diagram of using straps for attaching a transparent insulation panel 400 to a solar collection panel 152, one end of the straps 402 can be connected to the transparent insulation panel, and the other end of the straps 404 clipped, tied, or otherwise secured to the solar thermal panel.
  • FIGURE 4B a second diagram of using straps for attaching a transparent insulation panel 400 to a solar collection panel 152
  • straps 410 can alternatively be run from the transparent insulation panel 400 behind the solar collection panel 152 and connect to each other, in other words, securing the straps around the existing panel.
  • the number of straps used, type of straps (including, but not limited to length, width, strength, and material of each strap), and position of attachment of each strap to each of the transparent insulation panel and solar collection panel and/or other straps will depend on the specifics of the desired upgrade.
  • FIG. 4C a side view of mechanical attachment with bolts, a number of bolts 420 are used to attach the frame to the edge of the collection panel.
  • FIGURE 4D a top view of mechanical attachment with bolts, a number of bolts 420 are shown from a top view, looking at the first side of the first piece of glass.
  • using bolts directly on the panels may be possible.
  • components such as flanges may have to be added to one of both of the panels to provide receptacles for the bolts.
  • the frame of the transparent insulation panel can be designed to overlap the frame of the solar thermal panel, allowing the frame of the transparent insulation panel (long frame 302B) to be attached to the sides of the collection panel.
  • FIGURE 4E a side view of mechanical attachment of a long frame with bolts, a number of bolts 430 are used to attach the long frame 302B to the edge of the collection panel.
  • long frame 302B surrounds the transparent insulation panel, but for clarity in the figure, only two sides are shown in an end-view, while for the portion of the frame facing the viewer (front- view) only the tops of the bolts are shown.
  • FIGURE 4F a top view of mechanical attachment of a long frame with bolts, a number of bolts 430 are shown from a top view, looking at the first side of the first piece of glass.
  • the number of bolts used, type of bolts (including, but not limited to length, width, strength, and material of each bolt), and position of attachment of each bolt to each of the transparent insulation panel and solar collection panel will depend on the specifics of the desired upgrade. All figures are for assistance in clarifying the current description, and are not drawn to scale.
  • the frame can be adhered (glued) to the edges of the surface of the collection panel.
  • an adhesive 440 is applied to the edges of the transparent insulation panel 400 and/or the collection panel 152 and the panels are brought into contact to facilitate adhesion of the panels to each other via the edges of the panels.
  • FIGURE 4H a top view of adhering via edges, one option for placement of an adhesive is sketched.
  • the rough sketches of FlGUREs 4G and 4H, and of FIGURES 41 and 4 J are to assist with the current description and clarify one option for adhesive placement. Based on this description, one skilled in the art will be able to select the number of adhesives to use, type of adhesive(s), area of placement, amount of adhesive(s) to use, and other factors depending on the specific requirements of the desired upgrade.
  • the transparent insulation panel can include a second piece of glass 308 positioned on a side of the transparent insulation opposite the first piece of glass 300.
  • the transparent insulation panel can be attached to the solar thermal panel by adhering (gluing) only edges of the second piece of glass to the surface of the collection panel, similar to the description in reference to FIGURES 4G and 4H.
  • the surface of the second piece of glass can be adhered to the surface of the collection panel.
  • FIGURE 41 a side view of adhering via surface
  • an adhesive 450 is applied to the surface of the outer side of the second piece of glass of the transparent insulation panel 400 and/or the surface of collection panel 152 and the panels are brought into contact to facilitate adhesion of the panels to each other via the surfaces of the panels.
  • FIGURE 4J a top view of adhering via surface, one option for placement of an adhesive is sketched.
  • Another option for adhering the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the collection panel is to pre-configure the transparent insulation panel with adhesive covered by a non-stick covering.
  • the non-stick covering can be peeled from the adhesive, exposing the adhesive and allowing the adhesive to be used to attach, the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the collection panel.
  • a feature of upgrading an existing solar thermal panel with a transparent insulation panel is the addition of at least one more l ayer of glass.
  • FIGURE 1C when an insulated thermal panel is constructed, transparent insulation 104 is built into the panel, which has a single layer of low-E glass 100.
  • FIGURE 3 A attaching a transparent insulation panel 200 to collection panel 152 adds an additional layer of glass, first piece of glass 300. Comparing the panels of FIGUREs 1C and 3 A, an alternative description is that the glass 100 that was formerly on the outside (exterior) surface of the collection panel is now internal to the combined structure, and the extra glass is glass 100.
  • the additional glass and corresponding additional air-glass interfaces (2 or 4 additional interfaces) can reduce the efficiency of light transmission through the panel, as compared to conventional or insulated solar thermal panels.
  • anti-reflection coatings can be added to all or part of the air-glass-transparent insulation interfaces.
  • One technique is to apply one or more anti-reflection coatings to one or more surfaces of the first piece of glass and/or the second pi ece of glass.
  • Another technique is to adhere the transparent insulation 304 to the first piece of glass 300 using a glue with a refractive index intermediate between air and glass, the glue functioning both as a fastening mechanism and as anti-refiective coating.
  • the glue can be used at both interfaces (where each side of the transparent insulation is attached to a piece of glass).
  • optical matching gel or grease
  • the optical matching gel has a refractive index matched to refractive indices of the second piece of glass and the surface of the collection panel.
  • matching the refractive index of the gel refers to choosing a gel with a refractive index close enough to the refractive index of the glass to reduce reflections at the glass interface below a desired level.
  • the transparent insulation panel is sealed. Sealed solar thermal collectors are discussed in PCT/IB2011/050208 filed Jan. 18, 201 1 which is fully incorporated herein by reference.
  • a temperature-limiting device can be incorporated into the sealed transparent insulation panel to transfer heat from inside to outside the sealed transparent insulation panel when temperature inside the sealed transparent insulation panel exceeds a pre-defined temperature.
  • the use of temperature limiting devices in a sealed solar collector can be critical to prevent degradation and/or destruction of components of the collector. Temperature limiting devices are discussed in PCT/IB201 1/050208, as referenced above and incorporated herein.
  • Another feature which can be critical for operation of a sealed soiar collector is to include a mechanism, or variable portion configured to vary a volume available to an enclosed gas inside the sealed transparent insulation panel, the volume varying in accordance with changing temperature of the enclosed gas.
  • Variable portions allow the volume of gas inside a sealed solar collector, or in this case a sealed transparent insulation panel, to vary in accordance with changing temperatures, keeping the internal temperature and/or temperature within structurally tolerable limits that prevent degradation and/or destruction of components of the sealed transparent insulation panel.
  • Mechanisms for variable portions are discussed in US patent application 13/143,201 filed July 5, 201 1, and fully incorporated herein by reference.
  • a desirable characteristic of the transparent insulation panel is to have a maximum unobstructed surface for accepting solar radiation and transmission to the existing solar thermal panel. Also desirable is to be able to deploy a single structure for installation at site, as opposed to deploying multiple components that need to be assembled on site.
  • An innovative apparatus for a variable portion facilitates an unobstructed surface in a single deployable structure.
  • the sealed transparent insulation panel 520 includes a frame 302 A around the first piece of glass 300 and the transparent insulation 304.
  • a variable portion includes an internal volume of the sealed transparent insulation panel, shown as area 502.
  • the internal volume 502 contains an enclosed gas.
  • the variable portion also includes an expandable compartment 504 contained within the frame, such that the expandable compartment 504 does not impede solar radiation transmission through the sealed transparent insulation panel. Note that the expandable compartment 504 is contained within a hollow portion of the frame 302A, and is internal to the frame, as compared to components such as first piece of glass 300 that are inside the frame, but not within the frame.
  • the expandable compartment 504 is connected to the internal volume 502 and configured to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume 502 and the expandable compartment 504.
  • the internal temperature of the internal volume rises, heating the enclosed gas and increasing the internal pressure of the sealed transparent insulation panel.
  • the enclosed gas flows from the internal volume 502 to the expandable
  • the internal volume 502 is connected to the expandable compartment 504 via a connecting duct 506.
  • Expandable compartment 504 is designed to expand due to increasing temperature from the heated enclosed gas, thereby providing more volume for the enclosed gas and stabilizing the internal pressure within structurally tolerable limits that prevent degradation and/or destruction of components of the sealed transparent insulation panel Based on this description, one ordinarily trained in the art will be able to design an expandable compartment, including but not limited to the size, shape, construction material(s), position, and integration with the sealed transparent insulation panel.
  • an expanded side view of a variable portion integrated into the frame of a transparent insulation panel is an expanded view of section 500 of FIGURE 5A.
  • Internal volume 502 is in the space internal to the sealed transparent insulation panel 520 and in thermal contact with the enclosed gas.
  • FIGURE 5C an expanded top view of a variable portion integrated into the frame of a sealed transparent insulation panel 520, as the expandable compartment 504 is internal to the frame 302A, the expandable compartment 504 does not impede solar radiation transmission through the sealed transparent insulation panel.
  • variable portion is not limited to use in a transparent insulation panel, and can also be used in other applications, including in construction of an insulated solar panel.
  • a result of upgrading a conventional solar thermal panel with a transparent insulation panel is a higher operating temperature inside the conventional solar thermal panel.
  • the stagnation temperature of the upgraded panel will rise, potentially to a level that could be beyond the structurally tolerable limits of the conventional solar thermal panel.
  • Good engineering practice advises that consideration be given to the operating temperatures of the upgraded solar collection panel, and in particular, consideration given to adding or modifying a system-level over-heating prevention device.
  • Limiting heat in a solar thermal panel using system-level techniques is known in the art, and based on this description one skilled in the art will be able to select and implement an appropriate technique for a particular system upgrade. It should be noted that the above-described examples, numbers used, and exemplary caicuiations are to assist in the description of this embodiment. Inadvertent typographical and mathematical errors should not detract from the utility and basic advantages of the invention.

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Abstract

An apparatus and method for retrofitting existing solar collection panels with transparent thermal insulation facilitates upgrading existing conventional solar thermal panels with thermal insulation for the surface of the collection panel, with minimal effect on light transmission to the absorber. Use of a transparent thermal insulation panel improves the performance of an existing solar thermal panel, including, but not limited to increasing the output water temperature, operation at a lower level of solar radiation exposure, and reducing the minimum ambient operating temperature.

Description

TRANSPARENT INSULATION PANEL RETROFIT FOR A SOLAR COLLECTOR
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention generally relates to solar collection panels, and in particular, it concerns retrofitting existing solar collection panels with transparent thermal insulation.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Solar collection panels convert solar radiation to energy for a variety of applications within residential or industrial structures. Solar collection panels are simply referred to in the industry as solar panels, and are also known as solar energy collectors, collection panels, or solar modules. Typical applications include photovoltaic conversion, such as electricity generation, and thermal conversion, such as water heating, space heating, and industrial process heating.
Solar panels used for thermal conversion are also referred to as solar thermal units, solar thermal panels, or solar thermal collectors. A variety of solar panels are commercially available, and deployment, operation, and maintenance of conventional solar panels is well known in the industry.
Referring to FIGURE 1 A, a simplified diagram of a solar panel 150, solar radiation (shown as LIGHT) is collected by a solar collection panel 152 for conversion and eventual use by applications 154.
Referring to FIGURE IB is a diagram of a cross-section view of a conventional solar thermal panel. Low emissivity (low-E) glass 100 is held by a frame 102 allowing LIGHT (as near IR and visible wavelength light are typically referred to in this context) to reach, absorber 106. Absorber 106 is also known as an absorber plate. An exterior surface, or face, of the low-E glass that is positioned for accepting solar radiation, or in general terms facing toward the source of solar radiation is also known as the surface of the collection panel. Circulation pipes 120 (end-view as shown by circles below/behind absorber 106) circulate a transfer fluid to absorb heat from the absorber 106 and transfer the heat to applications. Note that connections between circulation pipes 120 and applications are not shown. Note also that for clarity a single solar panel is shown. Typically, multiple solar panels are used with serial and/or parallel connections between solar panels within a solar array. In a case like this connections to and from circulation pipes of a single solar panel can be from or to (respectively) applications or one or more solar panels. Configuration and connection between solar panels and applications will be obvious to one skilled in the art. Insulation 107, such as Melamine insulation, provides an internal insulator between the back of the absorber 106 plate and the backside of the solar panel. Lateral insulation 105 and rear thermal insulation 108 provide a thermal barrier on sides and back, respectively.
The invention of insulated solar panels provides a solar thermal collector with much greater energy conversion efficiencies, as compared to conventional solar thermal collectors. An insulated solar panel is a solar thermal collector with a layer of transparent insulation material for the surface of the collection panel. Referring to FIGURE 1C, a diagram of an insulated solar panel, transparent insulation 104 has been integrated into a conventional solar panel between an interior surface of the collection panel (low-E glass 100) and the absorber 106. LIGHT is transmitted (passes) through transparent insulation 104 to reach absorber 106. In this case "insulated" refers to the transparent insulation 104 material behind the surface of the collection panel - inside the solar panel, between the low-E glass 100 and absorber 106, as opposed to the conventional insulation typically used in the back and sides of a solar thermal collector (105, 108). Insulated solar panels are available from TIGI of Neve Yarak, Israel. Thermally insulating panels transmissive to solar radiation, while having low transmissivity to thermal infra-red radiation, have been disclosed in US4,480,632, US4.719.902, US4,815,442,
084,928,665, and US5, 167,217 all to Klier and Novik. Greater energy conversion efficiencies occur particularly under conditions of substantial temperature differentials between the ambient temperature and the temperature of the circulating fluid (for example, heated water) inside the collector, for example in cold, high latitudes in winter.
The majority of existing solar thermal collectors, both deployed and available for purchase in the market, do not include a transparent insulation layer. While the front glass (low- E glass 100 in FIGURE 1) may technically provide some insulation, the surface of the collection panel is typically not intended for insulating a conventional solar thermal collector and has poor insulation characteristics, as compared to the transparent insulation layer.
There is therefore a need for an apparatus and method for retrofitting (upgrading) conventional solar thermal panels with thermal insulation with minimal effect on light transmission to the absorber. SUMMARY
According to the teachings of the present embodiment there is provided a method for insulating a solar thermal panel, the solar thermal panel having a surface of a solar collection panel positioned for accepting solar radiation, including the steps of: providing a transparent insulation panel including at least a first piece of glass and transparent insulation; and attaching the transparent insulation panel to the solar thermal panel, such that: an outside surface of the first piece of glass is positioned for accepting solar radiation; and the transparent insulation is positioned on a side of the first piece of glass opposite the outside surface and toward the surface of the solar collection panel.
In an optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes using straps between the transparent insulation panel and the solar thermal panel, in another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes using at least one strap from the side of the transparent insulation panel to a corresponding side of the solar thermal panel. In another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes using at least one strap from a first side of the transparent insulation panel, around the solar thermal panel, to a second side of the transparent insulation panel. In another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes using at least one strap from a first side of the transparent insulation panel, around the solar thermal panel, to a second side of the transparent insulation panel. In another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes using at least one bolt to join a frame of the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the solar collection panel. In another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes joining a frame of the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the solar collection panel. In another optional embodiment, the frame of the transparent insulation panel is adhered only to edges of the surface of the solar collection panel.
In another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes joining a frame of the transparent insulation panel to sides of the solar collection panel. In another optional
embodiment, the step of providing includes applying one or more anti-reflection coatings to one or more surfaces of the first piece of glass. In another optional embodiment, the transparent insulation panel includes a second piece of glass positioned on a side of the transparent insulation opposite the first piece of glass. In another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes adhering the second piece of glass to the surface of the solar collection panel. In another optional embodiment, the step of attaching includes adhering only the edges of the second piece of glass to edges of the surface of the solar collection panel. In another optional embodiment, the step of providing includes applying one or more anti-reflection coatings to one or more surfaces of the second piece of glass. In another optional embodiment, an optical matching gel is applied between the second piece of glass and the surface of the solar collection panel, the optical matching gel having a refractive index matched to refractive indices of the second piece of glass and the surface of the solar collection panel.
In an optional embodiment, the transparent insulation panel is sealed. In another optional embodiment, the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a temperature-limiting device configured to transfer heat from inside to outside the sealed transparent insulation panel when temperature inside the sealed transparent insulation panel exceeds a pre-defined temperature. In another optional embodiment, the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a mechanism configured to vary a volume available to an enclosed gas inside the sealed transparent insulation panel, the volume varying in accordance with changing temperature of the enclosed gas. In another optional embodiment, the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a frame around the first piece of glass and the transparent insulation, and the mechanism includes: an expandable compartment contained within the frame such that the expandable compartment: facilitates unimpeded transmission of solar radiation transmission through the sealed solar thermal panel; is connected to an internal volume of the sealed transparent insulation panel containing an enclosed gas; and configured to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume and the expandable compartment, wherein upon heating of the enclosed gas, the enclosed gas flows from the internal volume to the expandable compartment, thereby keeping pressure of the enclosed gas within structurally tolerable limits of the sealed transparent insulation panel.
According to the teachings of the present embodiment there is provided a system for insulating a solar thermal panel, the solar thermal panel having a surface of a solar collection panel positioned for accepting solar radiation, including: a first piece of glass with an outside surface; transparent insulation positioned on a side of the first piece of glass opposite the outside surface so as to configure the first piece of glass and the transparent insulation as a transparent insulation panel; and a mechanism for attaching the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the solar collection panel so that solar radiation is transmitted through the outside surface, the first piece of glass, and then through the transparent insulation to the solar collection panel.
In an optional embodiment, the mechanism includes at least one strap for attaching the transparent insulation panel to the solar thermal panel. In another optional embodiment, the system includes a frame around the first piece of glass and the transparent insulation. In another optional embodiment, the system includes one or more anti-reflection coatings applied to one or more surfaces of the first piece of glass.
In an optional embodiment, the transparent insulation panel also includes a second piece of glass positioned on a side of the transparent insulation opposite the first, piece of glass. In another optional embodiment, the system includes one or more anti-refiection coatings applied to one or more surfaces of the second piece of glass. In another optional embodiment, the transparent insulation panel is sealed. In another optional embodiment, the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a temperature-limiting device configured to transfer heat from inside to outside the sealed transparent insulation panel when temperature inside the sealed transparent insulation panel exceeds a pre-defined temperature. In another optional embodiment, the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a mechanism configured to vary a volume available to an enclosed gas inside the sealed transparent insulation panel, the volume varying in accordance with changing temperature of the enclosed gas.
In an optional embodiment, the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a frame around the first piece of glass and the transparent insulation, and the mechanism includes: an expandable compartment contained within the frame such that the expandable compartment: facilitates unimpeded transmission of solar radiation transmission through the sealed solar thermal panel; is connected to an internal volume of the sealed transparent insulation panel containing an enclosed gas; and configured to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume and the expandable compartment, wherein upon heating of the enclosed gas, the enclosed gas flows from the internal volume to the expandable compartment, thereby keeping pressure of the enclosed gas within structurally tolerable limits of the sealed transparent insulation panel.
In another optional embodiment, the system includes a connecting duct configured to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume and the expandable compartment.
According to the teachings of the present embodiment there is provided a system for collection of solar radiation including a solar thermal panel, the solar thermal panel having a surface of a solar collection panel; and a transparent insulation panel attached to the surface of the solar collection panel. According to the teachings of the present embodiment there is provided a system for converting solar radiation to thermal energy including: a sealed solar thermal panel including a frame; and a mechanism contained within the frame, the mechanism including an expandable compartment that: facilitates unimpeded transmission of solar radiation transmission through the sealed solar thermal panel; is connected to an internal volume of the sealed transparent insulation panel containing an enclosed gas; and to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume and the expandable compartment, wherein upon heating of the enclosed gas, the enclosed gas flows from the internal volume to the expandable compartment, thereby keeping pressure of the enclosed gas within structurally tolerable limits of the sealed transparent insulation panel.
In an optional embodiment, the sealed solar thermal panel is an insulated solar panel. In an optional embodiment, the system includes a connecting duct configured to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume and the expandable compartment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
The embodiment is herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
FIGURE 1 A, a simplified diagram of a solar panel.
FIGURE IB is a diagram of a cross-section view of a conventional solar thermal panel. FIGURE 1C, a diagram of an insulated solar panel.
FIGURE 2, a diagram of a solar thermal panel that has been, insulated.
FIGURE 3A, a diagram of a first embodiment of a transparent insulation panel.
FIGURE 3B, a diagram of a second embodiment of a transparent insulation panel.
FIGURE 4A, a first diagram of using straps for attaching a transparent insulation panel 400 to a solar collection panel 152.
FIGURE 4B, a second diagram of using straps for attaching a transparent insulation panel 400 to a solar collection panel 152.
FIGURE 4C, a side view of mechanical attachment with bolts.
FIGURE 4D, a top view of mechanical attachment with bolts.
FIGURE 4E, a side view of mechanical attachment of a long frame with bolts.
FIGURE 4F, a top view of mechanical attachment of a long frame with bolts.
FIGURE 4G, a side view of adhering via edges. FIGURE 4H, a top view of adhering via edges.
FIGURE 41, a side view of adhering via surface.
FIGURE 4J, a top view of adhering via surface.
FIGURE 5A, a side view of a variable portion mechanism integrated into the frame of a sealed transparent insulation panel.
FIGURE 5B, an expanded side view of a variable portion integrated into the frame of a transparent insulation panel.
FIGURE 5C, an expanded top view of a variable portion integrated into the frame of a sealed transparent insulation panel.
FIGURE 6, a plot of efficiency versus temperature in the interior of the solar collector.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The principles and operation of the apparatus and method according to a present embodiment may be better understood with reference to the drawings and the accompanying description. The present invention is an apparatus and method for retrofitting existing solar collection panels with transparent thermal insulation. The method facilitates upgrading existing conventional solar thermal panels with thermal insulation for the surface of the collection panel, with minimal effect on light transmission to the absorber. Use of a transparent thermal insulation panel improves the performance of an existing solar thermal panel, including, but not limited to increasing the output water temperature, operation at a lower level of solar radiation exposure, operating at a higher water input temperature, and reducing the minimum ambient operating temperature (temperature of the environment of the solar thermal panel).
The terms "existing", "preexisting", "conventional", and "pre-installed" when used herein to refer to solar thermal panels, generally refer to solar panels such as described in reference to FIGURE 1 B, the conventional panels lacking transparent insulation as described above in reference to FIGURE 1C.
In the context of this document, the term "retrofit" generally refers to modifying equipment that has already been manufactured and/or is already in service, using parts developed or made available after the time of the equipment's original manufacture and/or installation. The term "upgrade" is used interchangeably with the term "retrofit", unless otherwise described. in the context of this document, the term "transparent insulation panel" generally refers to an apparatus that includes transparent thermal insulation and is designed for retrofit of existing solar thermal panels. Note that components of the transparent insulation panel can be supplied and assembled on-site or preferably pre-assembled to facilitate ease of installation on site. The specific method of providing the transparent insulation panel parts, partially assembled, or fully assembled will depend on the specifics of the panel(s) to be upgraded and any requirements for the upgrade process.
Note that the thermal insulation retrofit is for additional transparent thermal insulation on the front of the collection panel, and should not be confused with adding thermal insulation to the other sides of the solar panel, such as the sides and/or back. Depending on the specifics of the application, including but not limited to the age, previous use, and intended future use of the existing solar thermal panel, addition of thermal insulation on the sides and back of the solar panel may be beneficial. In one non-limiting example, an existing solar panel contains little insulation, as the solar panel is intended for use only during summer (warmer) months when heat loss is not an issue, or heat loss is possibly desirable to limit the internal temperature of the solar panel. In this case, an optional upgrade to the solar panel for use during winter (colder) months could include upgrading the back and sides of the solar panel with additional insulation sufficient to prevent significant heat loss from the back and sides of the solar panel during operation in winter months. In this case, conventional insulation can be used on the back and sides, the selection and installation of which is known in the art.
Referring to FIGURE 6, a plot of efficiency versus temperature in the interior of the solar collector, plots are shown for various solar thermal collectors. The current plot is for an ambient temperature (Tambient) of 0 (zero) degrees Celsius and a solar irradiance (G) of 800 Watts per meter squared (w/m ).
An insulated solar thermal collector, shown as Honeycomb collector efficiency plot 400, has the greatest efficiency of the plotted collectors at all plotted temperatures. While a high-end flat plate collector has good efficiency at low temperatures (left side of plot 402), efficiency decreases at higher temperatures (right side of plot 402), eventually performing below the efficiencies of all the other plotted collectors. The efficiency of a solar thermal collector after adding a transparent insulation panel to a conventional collector is shown in plot 404 as "HC jacket upgrade ~ without AR coating", where AR is the abbreviation for anti-reflection. Adding an anti-reflection coating (AR coating) to the transparent insulation panel increases the efficiency, as shown in plot 406. Efficiency (404, 406) of solar thermal collectors retrofitted with a transparent insulation panel tracks with the efficiency (400) of an insulated solar thermal collector.
Referring to FIGURE 2, a diagram of a solar thermal panel that has been insulated 200, a transparent insulation panel 202 has been attached to the collection panel 152 of a conventional solar thermal panel (such as FIGURE 1 A 150). Attaching secures the transparent insulation panel to the collection panel for proper placement and operation of the combined solar thermal collector. A first side 210 of transparent insulation panel 202 is positioned toward the source of solar radiation, and functions as the (new) surface of the collection panel (surface of the solar thermal panel that has been insulated). A second side 212 of transparent insulation panel 202 is the area of attachment of transparent insulation panel 202 to the exterior surface of the collection panel 152.
A transparent insulation panel can be constructed using transparent insulation.
Transparent insulation that is a convection and conduction-suppressing insulator, such as a transparent honeycomb substrate, is described in PCT application number PCT/IB2010/050212, included in entirety by reference. A number of implementations are possible for a transparent insulation panel.
Referring to FIGURE 3 A, a diagram of a first embodiment of a transparent insulation panel includes a first piece of glass 300 on the first side 210 and transparent insulation 304 facing the second side 212, held by a short frame 302 A. The size of short frame 302 A in the direction from the first side 210 to the second side 212 is relative to the size of long frame 302B (in FIGURE 3B) in the same direction. Optionally, the transparent insulation 304 includes support posts 306. Note that for clarity, only one support post is shown. Typically, an array of support posts would be used, with the number, position, and size of the support posts depending on the type of transparent insulation being used, installation, and operational requirements of the solar panel.
Referring to FIGURE 3B, a diagram of a second embodiment of a transparent insulation panel includes a first piece of glass 300 on the first side 210, a second piece of glass 308 on the second side 212 and transparent insulation 304 between the first and second pieces of glass, held by a long frame 302B. The second piece of glass 308 may not be required for functionality, but can be used to simplify packaging and transport of the transparent insulation panel. In general, the components labeled glass 300 and 308 can be implemented using any rigid material transparent to solar radiation and meeting the construction, deployment, and related requirements for the transparent insulation panel. For clarity in the present description, the term glass is used, as typically glass is used as transparent sheets for solar panels. One skilled in the art will understand that other materials can be used, including but not limited to a polycarbonate.
The position of transparent insulation 304 in relation to first piece of glass 300 and/or second piece of glass 308 can vary depending on the specifics of deployment and operation of the upgraded solar thermal panel. For reference in the current description, an inside surface of first piece of glass 300 faces the inside of the transparent insulation panel, and is opposite an outside surface of first piece of glass 300 that is positioned toward the source of solar radiation. Note that the outside surface of first piece of glass 300 is toward the first side 210 of the transparent insulation panel. Similarly, but opposite in orientation, an inside surface of second piece of glass 308 faces the inside of the transparent insulation panel, and is opposite an outside surface of second piece of glass 308 that is positioned toward the surface of the collection panel. Note that the outside surface of second piece of glass 300 is toward the second side 212 of the transparent insulation panel.
The transparent insulation 304 can be attached to the inside surface of first piece of glass
300, the inside surface of second piece of glass 308, both pieces of glass, and/or neither piece of glass (held in position via supports such as support posts 306, or attached to the frame, such as 3Θ2Α and 302B.) Depending on how the transparent insulation is positioned in relation to the first piece of glass 300 and/or the second piece of glass 308, the transparent insulation panel may have a gap between the transparent insulation and the first and/or second pieces of glass.
Alternatively, there may be no gap(s) between the transparent insulation and the first and/or second pieces of glass. Due to the high operating temperatures of an insulated thermal panel, preferably only one side of the transparent insulation should be attached to one of the pieces of glass, allowing an air gap on the other side of the transparent insulation.
A short frame 302A or long frame 302B can be used in embodiments with or without a second piece of glass 308. A short frame can be attached to the surface of the collection panel, while a long frame facilitates the transparent insulation panel being attached using the sides of the collection panel. Based on this description, one skilled in the art will be able to design a frame suitable for the specifics of the panel being upgraded and requirements for the upgrade.
A frame for the transparent insulation panel, as indicated by short frame 302 A and long frame 302B, typically surrounds the components of the transparent insulation panel, providing structure and support for one or more transparent rigid surfaces (transparent sheets, such as glasses 300 and 308), the transparent insulation 304 and any other components. A frame is also known as a casing. The frame is typically constructed of stainless steel, but other materials can be used depending on the specifics of the existing panel and upgrade requirements.
The frame can be designed to position the transparent insulation panel in close proximity to the surface of the collection panel, without the transparent insulation being in contact with the surface of the collection panel. The specification of close proximity will vary depending on the application, factors including the structure of the transparent insulation, whether support posts are being used, the general manufacturing tolerances of the transparent insulation panel, and the variation in the surfaces of the existing solar panels to which the transparent insulation panel will be attached.
Preferably, the frame and transparent insulation panel are designed to position the transparent insulation to be in contact with the surface of the collection panel, or in contact with the second piece of glass 308.
A method for insulating a solar thermal panel includes attaching a transparent insulation panel to the solar thermal panel. In particular, a method for insulating an existing solar thermal panel includes attaching the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the collection panel. Depending on the application, a variety of techniques can be used to attach the transparent insulation panel and the existing solar thermal panel. One technique is to use straps on the sides of the transparent insulation panel and the solar thermal panel. Referring to FIGURE 4A, a first diagram of using straps for attaching a transparent insulation panel 400 to a solar collection panel 152, one end of the straps 402 can be connected to the transparent insulation panel, and the other end of the straps 404 clipped, tied, or otherwise secured to the solar thermal panel.
Referring to FIGURE 4B, a second diagram of using straps for attaching a transparent insulation panel 400 to a solar collection panel 152, straps 410 can alternatively be run from the transparent insulation panel 400 behind the solar collection panel 152 and connect to each other, in other words, securing the straps around the existing panel. The number of straps used, type of straps (including, but not limited to length, width, strength, and material of each strap), and position of attachment of each strap to each of the transparent insulation panel and solar collection panel and/or other straps will depend on the specifics of the desired upgrade.
Another technique is to join the frame of the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the solar thermal panel. As the frame is only on the edges surrounding the glass and transparent insulation, the frame is attached near the edges of the surface of the collection panel. The frame can be mechanically attached using bolts, clips, or other known techniques. Referring to FIGURE 4C, a side view of mechanical attachment with bolts, a number of bolts 420 are used to attach the frame to the edge of the collection panel. Referring to FIGURE 4D, a top view of mechanical attachment with bolts, a number of bolts 420 are shown from a top view, looking at the first side of the first piece of glass. Depending on the specific design of the transparent insulation panel and solar thermal panel, using bolts directly on the panels may be possible. Alternatively, components such as flanges may have to be added to one of both of the panels to provide receptacles for the bolts.
As described above in reference to FIGURE 3B, the frame of the transparent insulation panel can be designed to overlap the frame of the solar thermal panel, allowing the frame of the transparent insulation panel (long frame 302B) to be attached to the sides of the collection panel. Referring to FIGURE 4E, a side view of mechanical attachment of a long frame with bolts, a number of bolts 430 are used to attach the long frame 302B to the edge of the collection panel. As will be obvious to one skilled in the art, long frame 302B surrounds the transparent insulation panel, but for clarity in the figure, only two sides are shown in an end-view, while for the portion of the frame facing the viewer (front- view) only the tops of the bolts are shown. Referring to FIGURE 4F, a top view of mechanical attachment of a long frame with bolts, a number of bolts 430 are shown from a top view, looking at the first side of the first piece of glass.
The number of bolts used, type of bolts (including, but not limited to length, width, strength, and material of each bolt), and position of attachment of each bolt to each of the transparent insulation panel and solar collection panel will depend on the specifics of the desired upgrade. All figures are for assistance in clarifying the current description, and are not drawn to scale.
Alternatively, the frame can be adhered (glued) to the edges of the surface of the collection panel. Referring to FIGURE 4G, a side view of adhering via edges, an adhesive 440 is applied to the edges of the transparent insulation panel 400 and/or the collection panel 152 and the panels are brought into contact to facilitate adhesion of the panels to each other via the edges of the panels. Referring to FIGURE 4H, a top view of adhering via edges, one option for placement of an adhesive is sketched. As will be obvious to one skilled in the art, the rough sketches of FlGUREs 4G and 4H, and of FIGURES 41 and 4 J (described below) are to assist with the current description and clarify one option for adhesive placement. Based on this description, one skilled in the art will be able to select the number of adhesives to use, type of adhesive(s), area of placement, amount of adhesive(s) to use, and other factors depending on the specific requirements of the desired upgrade.
As described above in reference to FIGURE 3B, the transparent insulation panel can include a second piece of glass 308 positioned on a side of the transparent insulation opposite the first piece of glass 300. In this case, the transparent insulation panel can be attached to the solar thermal panel by adhering (gluing) only edges of the second piece of glass to the surface of the collection panel, similar to the description in reference to FIGURES 4G and 4H. Alternatively, the surface of the second piece of glass can be adhered to the surface of the collection panel. Referring to FIGURE 41, a side view of adhering via surface, an adhesive 450 is applied to the surface of the outer side of the second piece of glass of the transparent insulation panel 400 and/or the surface of collection panel 152 and the panels are brought into contact to facilitate adhesion of the panels to each other via the surfaces of the panels. Referring to FIGURE 4J, a top view of adhering via surface, one option for placement of an adhesive is sketched.
Another option for adhering the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the collection panel is to pre-configure the transparent insulation panel with adhesive covered by a non-stick covering. For deployment, the non-stick covering can be peeled from the adhesive, exposing the adhesive and allowing the adhesive to be used to attach, the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the collection panel.
A feature of upgrading an existing solar thermal panel with a transparent insulation panel is the addition of at least one more l ayer of glass. Referring to FIGURE 1C, when an insulated thermal panel is constructed, transparent insulation 104 is built into the panel, which has a single layer of low-E glass 100. Referring to FIGURE 3 A, attaching a transparent insulation panel 200 to collection panel 152 adds an additional layer of glass, first piece of glass 300. Comparing the panels of FIGUREs 1C and 3 A, an alternative description is that the glass 100 that was formerly on the outside (exterior) surface of the collection panel is now internal to the combined structure, and the extra glass is glass 100.
In the case of the transparent insulation panel of FIGURE 3B, two sheets of glass 300 and 308 are being added. In this case there are two additional sheets of glass internal to the combined structure, namely low-E glass 100 and second piece of glass 308.
The additional glass and corresponding additional air-glass interfaces (2 or 4 additional interfaces) can reduce the efficiency of light transmission through the panel, as compared to conventional or insulated solar thermal panels. In order to reduce the amount of reflection losses, anti-reflection coatings can be added to all or part of the air-glass-transparent insulation interfaces. One technique is to apply one or more anti-reflection coatings to one or more surfaces of the first piece of glass and/or the second pi ece of glass. Another technique is to adhere the transparent insulation 304 to the first piece of glass 300 using a glue with a refractive index intermediate between air and glass, the glue functioning both as a fastening mechanism and as anti-refiective coating. In the case of the transparent insulation panel having two pieces of glass, the glue can be used at both interfaces (where each side of the transparent insulation is attached to a piece of glass).
Another technique for reducing loss due to reflection at the interfaces is to use an optical matching gel, or grease, applied between the second piece of glass and the surface of the collection panel. The optical matching gel has a refractive index matched to refractive indices of the second piece of glass and the surface of the collection panel. In this case, matching the refractive index of the gel refers to choosing a gel with a refractive index close enough to the refractive index of the glass to reduce reflections at the glass interface below a desired level.
Note that even if the maximum efficiency (η0 - efficiency at zero temperature differential with environment) is significantly reduced by the introduction of the transparent insulation panel upgrade, the total energy collected by the solar thermal panel throughout the year may still improve. More importantly, the loss in efficiency in summer months when temperature gradients are small, although significant, is at a time when in many cases, such as domestic hot water or space heating applications, there is excess capacity in the amount of thermal heating provided by the solar thermal panel. Hence, the compromise in performance in summer is more than compensated for in winter when the value of the enhanced efficiency of an upgraded solar thermal panel is greater than the efficiency of a non-upgraded panel.
In a preferred embodiment, the transparent insulation panel is sealed. Sealed solar thermal collectors are discussed in PCT/IB2011/050208 filed Jan. 18, 201 1 which is fully incorporated herein by reference. In a case where the transparent insulation panel is sealed, a temperature-limiting device can be incorporated into the sealed transparent insulation panel to transfer heat from inside to outside the sealed transparent insulation panel when temperature inside the sealed transparent insulation panel exceeds a pre-defined temperature. The use of temperature limiting devices in a sealed solar collector can be critical to prevent degradation and/or destruction of components of the collector. Temperature limiting devices are discussed in PCT/IB201 1/050208, as referenced above and incorporated herein. Another feature which can be critical for operation of a sealed soiar collector is to include a mechanism, or variable portion configured to vary a volume available to an enclosed gas inside the sealed transparent insulation panel, the volume varying in accordance with changing temperature of the enclosed gas. Variable portions allow the volume of gas inside a sealed solar collector, or in this case a sealed transparent insulation panel, to vary in accordance with changing temperatures, keeping the internal temperature and/or temperature within structurally tolerable limits that prevent degradation and/or destruction of components of the sealed transparent insulation panel. Mechanisms for variable portions are discussed in US patent application 13/143,201 filed July 5, 201 1, and fully incorporated herein by reference.
A desirable characteristic of the transparent insulation panel is to have a maximum unobstructed surface for accepting solar radiation and transmission to the existing solar thermal panel. Also desirable is to be able to deploy a single structure for installation at site, as opposed to deploying multiple components that need to be assembled on site. An innovative apparatus for a variable portion facilitates an unobstructed surface in a single deployable structure.
Referring to FIGURE 5 A, a side view of a variable portion mechanism integrated into the frame of a sealed transparent insulation panel, the sealed transparent insulation panel 520 includes a frame 302 A around the first piece of glass 300 and the transparent insulation 304. A variable portion includes an internal volume of the sealed transparent insulation panel, shown as area 502. The internal volume 502 contains an enclosed gas. The variable portion also includes an expandable compartment 504 contained within the frame, such that the expandable compartment 504 does not impede solar radiation transmission through the sealed transparent insulation panel. Note that the expandable compartment 504 is contained within a hollow portion of the frame 302A, and is internal to the frame, as compared to components such as first piece of glass 300 that are inside the frame, but not within the frame. The expandable compartment 504 is connected to the internal volume 502 and configured to allow the enclosed gas to flow between the internal volume 502 and the expandable compartment 504. During operation, the internal temperature of the internal volume rises, heating the enclosed gas and increasing the internal pressure of the sealed transparent insulation panel. Upon heating of the enclosed gas, the enclosed gas flows from the internal volume 502 to the expandable
compartment 504, thereby keeping temperature and/or pressure of the enclosed gas within structurally tolerable limits of the sealed transparent insulation panel. Upon cooling of the enclosed gas in the expandable compartment 504, the enclosed gas flows from the expandable compartment 504 to the internal volume 502. Optionally, the internal volume 502 is connected to the expandable compartment 504 via a connecting duct 506.
Expandable compartment 504 is designed to expand due to increasing temperature from the heated enclosed gas, thereby providing more volume for the enclosed gas and stabilizing the internal pressure within structurally tolerable limits that prevent degradation and/or destruction of components of the sealed transparent insulation panel Based on this description, one ordinarily trained in the art will be able to design an expandable compartment, including but not limited to the size, shape, construction material(s), position, and integration with the sealed transparent insulation panel.
Referring to FIGURE 5B, an expanded side view of a variable portion integrated into the frame of a transparent insulation panel, is an expanded view of section 500 of FIGURE 5A. Internal volume 502 is in the space internal to the sealed transparent insulation panel 520 and in thermal contact with the enclosed gas. Referring to FIGURE 5C, an expanded top view of a variable portion integrated into the frame of a sealed transparent insulation panel 520, as the expandable compartment 504 is internal to the frame 302A, the expandable compartment 504 does not impede solar radiation transmission through the sealed transparent insulation panel. Based on this description, one skilled in the art will be able to design a frame size, select an enclosed gas, and select sizes for the expandable compartment 504, as well as designing a connection between the internal volume 502 (if needed) and expandable compartment 504, including, but not limited to direct connection or a connecting duct 506.
Note that use of a variable portion is not limited to use in a transparent insulation panel, and can also be used in other applications, including in construction of an insulated solar panel.
A result of upgrading a conventional solar thermal panel with a transparent insulation panel is a higher operating temperature inside the conventional solar thermal panel.
Correspondingly, the stagnation temperature of the upgraded panel will rise, potentially to a level that could be beyond the structurally tolerable limits of the conventional solar thermal panel. Good engineering practice advises that consideration be given to the operating temperatures of the upgraded solar collection panel, and in particular, consideration given to adding or modifying a system-level over-heating prevention device. Limiting heat in a solar thermal panel using system-level techniques is known in the art, and based on this description one skilled in the art will be able to select and implement an appropriate technique for a particular system upgrade. It should be noted that the above-described examples, numbers used, and exemplary caicuiations are to assist in the description of this embodiment. Inadvertent typographical and mathematical errors should not detract from the utility and basic advantages of the invention.
It will be appreciated that the above descriptions are intended only to serve as examples, and that many other embodiments are possible within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A method for insulating a solar thermal panel, the solar thermal panel having a surface of a solar collection panel positioned for accepting solar radiation, comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a transparent insulation panel including at least a first piece of glass and transparent insulation; and
(b) attaching said transparent insulation panel to the solar thermal panel, such that:
(i) an outside surface of said first piece of glass is positioned for accepting solar radiation; and
(ii) said transparent insulation is positioned on a side of said first piece of glass opposite said outside surface and toward the surface of the solar collection panel.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of attaching includes using straps between said transparent insulation panel and the solar thermal panel.
3. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of attaching includes using at least one strap from the side of said transparent insulation panel to a corresponding side of the solar thermal panel.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of attaching includes using at least one strap from a first side of said transparent insulation panel, around said solar thermal panel, to a second side of said transparent insulation panel.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of attaching includes using at least one strap from a first side of said transparent insulation panel, around said solar thermal panel, to a second side of said transparent insulation panel.
6. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of attaching includes using at least one bolt to join a frame of the transparent insulation panel to the surface of the solar collection panel.
7. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of attaching includes joining a frame of said transparent insulation panel to the surface of the solar collection panel.
8. The method of claim 2 wherein said frame of said transparent insulation panel is adhered only to edges of the surface of the solar collection panel.
9. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of attaching includes joining a frame of said transparent insulation panel to sides of the solar collection panel.
10. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of providing includes applying one or more anti-refiection coatings to one or more surfaces of said first piece of glass.
11. The method of claim 1 wherein said transparent insulation panel includes a second piece of glass positioned on a side of said transparent insulation opposite said first piece of glass.
12. The method of claim 11 wherein the step of attaching includes adhering said second piece of glass to the surface of the solar collection panel.
13. The method of claim 11 wherein the step of attaching includes adhering only the edges of said second piece of glass to edges of the surface of the solar collection panel.
14. The method of claim 1 1 wherein the step of providing includes applying one or more anti-reflection coatings to one or more surfaces of said second piece of glass.
15. The method of claim 1 1 wherein:
(c) an optical matching gel is applied between said second piece of glass and the surface of the solar collection panel, said optical matching gel having a refractive index matched to refractive indices of said second piece of glass and the surface of the solar collection panel.
16. The method of claim 1 wherein said transparent insulation panel is sealed.
17. The method of claim 16 wherein the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a temperature-limiting device configured to transfer heat from inside to outside the sealed transparent insulation panel when temperature inside the sealed transparent insulation panel exceeds a pre-defined temperature.
18. The method of claim 16 wherein the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a mechanism configured to vary a volume available to an enclosed gas inside the sealed transparent insulation panel, the volume varying in accordance with changing temperature of said enclosed gas.
19. The method of claim 18 wherein the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a frame around said first piece of glass and said transparent insulation, and said mechanism includes:
(Ϊ) an expandable compartment contained within said frame such that said expandable compartment:
(A) facilitates unimpeded transmission of solar radiation transmission through said sealed solar thermal panel;
(B) is connected to an internal volume of the sealed
transparent insulation panel containing an enclosed gas; and
(C) configured to allow said enclosed gas to flow between said internal volume and said expandable compartment, wherein upon heating of said enclosed gas, said enclosed gas flows from said internal volume to said expandable compartment, thereby keeping pressure of said enclosed gas within structurally tolerable limits of the sealed transparent insulation panel.
20. A system for insulating a solar thermal panel, the solar thermal panel having a surface of a solar collection panel positioned for accepting solar radiation, comprising:
(a) a first piece of glass with an outside surface;
(b) transparent insulation positioned on a side of said first piece of glass opposite said outside surface so as to configure said first piece of glass and said transparent insulation as a transparent insulation panel; and
(c) a mechanism for attaching said transparent insulation panel to the surface of the solar collection panel so that solar radiation is transmitted through said outside surface, said first piece of glass, and then through said transparent insulation to the solar collection panel.
21. The system of claim 20 wherein said mechanism includes at least one strap for attaching said transparent insulation panel to the solar thermal panel.
22. The system of claim 20 further comprising:
(d) a frame around said first piece of glass and said transparent insulation.
23. The system of claim 20 further comprising: (d) one or more anti-reflection coatings applied to one or more surfaces of said first piece of glass.
24. The system of claim 20 wherein said transparent insulation panel also includes a second piece of glass positioned on a side of said transparent insulation opposite said first piece of glass.
25. The system of claim 24 further comprising
(d) one or more anti-reflection coatings applied to one or more surfaces of said second piece of glass.
26. The system of claim 20 wherein said transparent insulation panel is sealed.
27. The system of claim 26 wherein the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a temperature-limiting device configured to transfer heat from inside to outside the sealed transparent insulation panel when temperature inside the sealed transparent insulation panel exceeds a pre-defined temperature.
28. The system of claim 26 wherein the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a mechanism configured to vary a volume available to an enclosed gas inside the sealed transparent insulation panel, the volume varying in accordance with changing temperature of said enclosed gas.
29. The system of claim 28 wherein the sealed transparent insulation panel includes a frame around said first piece of glass and said transparent insulation, and said mechanism includes:
(i) an expandable compartment contained within said frame such that said expandable compartment:
(A) facilitates unimpeded transmission of solar radiation transmission through said sealed solar thermal panel;
(B) is connected to an internal volume of the sealed
transparent insulation panel containing an enclosed gas; and
(C) configured to allow said enclosed gas to flow between said internal volume and said expandable compartment, wherein upon heating of said enclosed gas, said enclosed gas flows from said internal volume to said expandable compartment, thereby keeping pressure of said enclosed gas within structurally tolerable limits of the sealed transparent insulation panel.
30. The system of claim 29 further comprising:
(ii) a connecting duct configured to allow said enclosed gas to flow
between said internal volume and said expandable compartment.
31. A system for collection of solar radiation comprising:
(a) a solar thermal panel, the solar thermal panel having a surface of a solar collection panel; and
(b) a transparent insulation panel attached to the surface of the solar
collection panel.
32. A system for converting solar radiation to thermal energy comprising:
(a) a sealed solar thermal panel including a frame; and
(b) a mechanism contained within said frame, said mechanism including an expandable compartment that:
(A) facilitates unimpeded transmission of solar radiation transmission through said sealed solar thermal panel;
(B) is connected to an internal volume of the sealed
transparent insulation panel containing an enclosed gas; and
(C) configured to allow said enclosed gas to flow between said internal volume and said expandable compartment, wherein upon heating of said enclosed gas, said enclosed gas flows from said internal volume to said expandable compartment, thereby keeping pressure of said enclosed gas within structurally tolerable limits of the sealed transparent insulation panel.
33. The system of claim 32 wherein said sealed solar thermal panel is an insulated solar panel.
34. The system of claim 32 further comprising:
(c) a connecting duct configured to allow said enclosed gas to flow
between said internal volume and said expandable compartment.
PCT/IB2011/053435 2010-08-02 2011-08-02 Transparent insulation panel retrofit for a solar collector Ceased WO2012017387A1 (en)

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EP11814190.2A EP2601683A4 (en) 2010-08-02 2011-08-02 Transparent insulation panel retrofit for a solar collector
AU2011287268A AU2011287268A1 (en) 2010-08-02 2011-08-02 Transparent insulation panel retrofit for a solar collector

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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US36976710P 2010-08-02 2010-08-02
US61/369,767 2010-08-02

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