U.S. patent application number 11/400558 was filed with the patent office on 2007-10-04 for modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element, and modular system for forming solar energy-collecting enclosures on buildings.
Invention is credited to Josep Garcia Cors, Jose Garcia Sanchez.
Application Number | 20070227531 11/400558 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34942774 |
Filed Date | 2007-10-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070227531 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Garcia Cors; Josep ; et
al. |
October 4, 2007 |
Modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element, and modular
system for forming solar energy-collecting enclosures on
buildings
Abstract
A solar energy-collecting modular element for enclosure, and
modular system for forming solar energy-collecting enclosures in
buildings is described. The modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure element comprises an outer plate and inner plate, facing
each other and joined together by at least one leak-tight joint
line along a closed perimeter. One or both plates include one or
more hollow conformations within the perimeter that form a circuit
for a heat-carrying fluid with an inlet and an outlet. The joint
line is at a distance from the downstream transversal edges from
the outer and inner plates thereby providing an accessible gap
between respective free outer and inner portions of the outer and
inner plates downstream from the joint line. This accessible gap is
adapted to be plug-connected to an upstream free portion of the
outer plate of a similar adjacent modular element located
downstream.
Inventors: |
Garcia Cors; Josep;
(Barcelona, ES) ; Garcia Sanchez; Jose;
(Barcelona, ES) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RATNERPRESTIA
P O BOX 980
VALLEY FORGE
PA
19482-0980
US
|
Family ID: |
34942774 |
Appl. No.: |
11/400558 |
Filed: |
April 7, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
126/622 ;
126/621; 126/633; 126/663 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y02E 10/44 20130101;
F24S 80/40 20180501; F24S 10/503 20180501; Y02B 10/20 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
126/622 ;
126/633; 126/621; 126/663 |
International
Class: |
F24J 2/24 20060101
F24J002/24; E04D 13/18 20060101 E04D013/18 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 7, 2005 |
EP |
05380065.2 |
Claims
1. Modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element for buildings,
applicable to facade and roof, of the type comprising an outer
plate and an inner plate facing each other and joined together by
at least one leak-tight joint line along a closed perimeter, with
at least one of said outer and inner plates including one or more
conformations within said perimeter, spaced apart from the other of
the plates to form a circuit for a heat-carrying fluid with an
inlet and an outlet, wherein said leak-tight joint line is at a
distance from downstream transversal edges of the outer and inner
plates in relation to the direction of a possible flow of water
over the outer plate, thereby providing an accessible gap between
respective free outer and inner portions of the outer and inner
plates downstream from the joint line, said accessible gap being
adapted to receive plug-connected a free portion located next to an
upstream transversal edge of an outer plate of a similar modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element, or of an adjacent
complementary enclosure element located downstream.
2. Modular element, in accordance with claim 1, wherein the
leak-tight joint line is also at a distance from an upstream
transversal edge of the outer plate, thereby providing a free outer
portion of the outer plate upstream from the joint line, said free
upstream outer portion of the outer plate being adapted to be
plug-connected within said accessible gap of an adjacent similar
modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element located upstream,
or in a free space existing between two outer and inner plates of
an adjacent complementary enclosure element located upstream.
3. Modular element, in accordance with claim 2, wherein the
leak-tight joint line also provides a free inner portion of the
inner plate upstream from the joint line, with the downstream and
upstream free outer portions of the outer plate being longer than
the corresponding downstream and upstream free inner portions of
the inner plate, thereby, in the plug-in connection of two similar
modular elements, the corresponding downstream and upstream free
inner portions of the respective inner plates do not overlap.
4. Modular element, in accordance with claim 1, wherein the outer
plate has longitudinal edges, in relation to the direction of a
possible flow of water over it, from which respective fins extend
outwards, said fins being configured and arranged so that they
respectively match up with the fins of an adjacent similar modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element located on the
corresponding side, or with similar fins of an adjacent
complementary enclosure element located on the corresponding side,
the matched fins being able to be mutually seamed or clamped at the
top by means of a fitted additional cover element.
5. Modular element, in accordance with claim 4, wherein from
opposite edges of the inner plate, whether said edges are said
transversal edges or longitudinal edges, respective flaps extend
towards the inner side, and terminate in folds that extend towards
each other, with said flaps and folds acting as stiffening and
support elements.
6. Modular element, in accordance with claim 5, wherein it
comprises reinforcing members that extend from one to the other of
said flaps with their ends fitting into the folds, with said
reinforcing members, together with the flaps and folds acting as
stiffening elements.
7. Modular element, in accordance with claim 6, wherein some panels
are installed between said reinforcing members, with their ends
fitting into the folds of the flaps of the inner plate, said panels
being made of an thermal insulation material that performs the
functions of building thermal insulation, whether it is a closed or
ventilated enclosure.
8. Modular element, in accordance with claim 7, wherein it
comprises a plate externally secured to the folds of the flaps of
the inner plate, covering the reinforcing members and the panels,
where the plate is made of a single or composite material that is
suitable to carry out one or more of the following functions:
forming a vapour barrier; breaking a thermal bridge; and providing
fire protection.
9. Modular element, in accordance with claim 4, wherein it has an
elongated quadrilateral shape and said opposite edges of the inner
plate from which the flaps extend, are the longest lateral
edges.
10. Modular element, in accordance with claim 1, wherein said
transverse edge of the downstream free portion of the outer plate
has a fold, which provides rigidity to said transverse edge and, in
virtue of a certain elasticity of the plate, mechanically acts as a
leak-tight barrier against the outer plate of a similar modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element, or a complementary
enclosure element located downstream.
11. Modular element, in accordance with claim 1, wherein the outer
plate has adhered at a distance from its transverse upstream edge
at least one tab adapted to receive fitted the transverse edge of
the downstream free portion of the outer plate of a similar
adjacent modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element located
upstream, or the downstream transverse edge of the outer plate of
an adjacent complementary enclosure element located upstream.
12. Modular element, in accordance with claim 1, wherein it
comprises a leak-tight strip made of an elastomeric material
located so as to be compressed between the downstream free portion
of the outer plate and the upstream free portion of the outer plate
of a similar adjacent modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
element located downstream, or the outer plate of an adjacent
complementary enclosure element located downstream.
13. Modular element, in accordance with claim 1, wherein said inlet
has a flow section area that is smaller than that of said outlet,
in order to ensure that there is no increase of heat-carrying fluid
pressure inside the modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
element.
14. Modular system for forming solar energy-collecting enclosures
on buildings, applicable to facade and roof, wherein it comprises a
plurality of enclosure elements, including at least one modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element in accordance with claim
1, and at least one complementary enclosure element having, whether
on at least one of the longitudinal or transverse edges, in
relation to a possible flow of water over it, at least one joint
configuration for a leak-tight joint with an adjacent edge of said
modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element.
15. A modular system, in accordance with claim 14, wherein said
joint configuration of said complementary enclosure element
includes at least an accessible gap between downstream free
portions of outer and inner plates of the complementary enclosure
element, with said accessible gap being able to receive
plug-connected an upstream free portion of an outer plate of a
modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element or other adjacent
complementary enclosure element located downstream.
16. A modular system, in accordance with claim 15, wherein the
complementary enclosure element defines a ridge part for a
roof.
17. A modular system, in accordance with claim 14, wherein said
joint configuration of the complementary enclosure element includes
at least one upstream free portion of an outer plate of the
complementary enclosure element adapted to be plug-connected in an
accessible gap next to the downstream transverse edge of a modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element or other adjacent
complementary enclosure element located upstream.
18. A modular system, in accordance with claim 17, wherein the
complementary enclosure element defines a gutter part or lower
finishing element cooperating with a roof gutter.
19. A modular system, in accordance with claim 14, wherein said
joint union of said complementary enclosure element includes at
least one fin adapted to be matched and attached with one of the
fins of the at least one modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
element or a similar fin on a complementary enclosure element
located on the corresponding side.
20. A modular system, in accordance with claim 19, wherein the
complementary enclosure element defines a lateral enclosure part
for either a roof or a facade.
21. A modular system, in accordance with claim 15, wherein the
complementary enclosure element defines a complementary modular
plate that includes at least one opening for a ventilation duct or
other building construction element.
22. A modular system, in accordance with claim 15, wherein the
complementary enclosure element defines a complementary modular
plate that is suitable for covering the piping that forms part of a
heat-carrying fluid primary circuit that communicates with the
heat-carrying fluid circuit of the at least one modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element.
23. A modular system, in accordance with claim 14, wherein it
comprises an open profile for housing piping that forms part of a
heat-carrying fluid primary circuit that communicates with the
heat-carrying fluid circuit of the at least one modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element, with said open profile being
adapted to fit between two matched fins of two adjacent enclosure
elements with their longitudinal edges mutually adjacent, with at
least one of said enclosure elements being a solar energy collector
enclosure element, a cover element being included and adapted to
clamp over the fins in a leak-tight fashion covering a mouth on
said open profile, with said cover element being detachable to
allow access to said open profile from the outside.
24. A modular system, in accordance with claim 23, wherein said
open profile is structural and adapted to be secured to a building
structure, the enclosure elements adjacent to the open profile
being adapted to be fixed thereto.
25. A modular system, in accordance with claim 14, wherein it
comprises support profiles adapted to be secured to a building
structure and provided with support surfaces on which the modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure elements and other complementary
enclosure elements are supported.
26. A modular system, in accordance with claim 25, wherein said
support surfaces of said support profiles include elongated holes
for the installation of fastening elements from the inside able to
be secured to the modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
elements for joining the same to the support profiles, said
elongated holes providing sufficient free play to allow for any
movements caused by enclosure expansion.
27. A modular system, in accordance with claim 25, wherein it
includes clamps adapted to secure the modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure elements to the support elements
allowing for any movements caused by enclosure expansion.
28. A modular system, in accordance with claim 14, wherein it
includes a heat-carrying fluid primary circuit that communicates
with the heat-carrying fluid circuit of the at least one modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element, said primary circuit
working at a null or negative relative pressure of approximately 0
to -10 millibars.
Description
SCOPE OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to a modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure element provided with configurations for water-tight
joining to other adjacent modular elements in both longitudinal and
transversal directions, in relation to the possible flow of water
over them, establishing water-tight joints in order to form a
facade or roof of a building. This invention also relates to a
modular system for forming solar energy-collecting enclosures on
buildings, applicable to facades and roofs, which includes the
modular solar energy collection enclosures of the invention,
together with a plurality of supplementary roof elements provided
with similar configurations for their water-tight joining, together
with other structural elements.
PRIOR ART
[0002] The use in a building of panels that perform the functions
of both closing off the building and that of collecting solar
heat-energy is known.
[0003] The document FR-A-2345672 describes a solar energy collector
consisting of a plate with facing corrugations or parallel
undulations that is joined to another flat plate along the lengths
of the areas between the undulations forming channels through which
a heat-carrying fluid is able to flow. The specification in this
document does not describe nor suggest the use of said collector as
a self-supporting element forming a roof and the mentioned joints
between the plates using adhesive could turn out to be too weak if
employed for this purpose. As a solar energy collector, the
construction using corrugated plates leaves all the ends of the
channels open, which must be then connected by means of, for
example, collecting and distributing ducts for collector operation,
which entails a significant amount of work, which would increase
the final cost of the product.
[0004] The utility model ES-A-235692 describes a solar energy
collector element consisting of a pair of facing plates that are
joined at their edges by welding or seaming. One of said plates is
shaped by means of substantially parallel depressions that
communicate at their two ends with end transversal depressions,
while the other plate is flat. It is intended that the areas
between the depressions of the outer plate are joined to the inner
plate by lines of welded points. The parallel depressions form a
number of channels for a heat-carrying fluid and the end
transversal depressions form both a collector and a distributor.
However, the welds, especially in the areas between the
depressions, are quite difficult and slow to produce. On the other
hand, the seaming of only the peripheral edges does not ensure
sufficient strength for the assembly to perform a function, for
example, of self-supporting roof, nor does it guarantee the
leak-tightness between the channels with the element serving as a
solar energy collector.
[0005] Patent ES-A-479755 describes an absorber for a solar
collector that comprises two press-formed thin plates welded
together along their periphery, the plates being press-formed
according to a pattern of repeated shapes, geometrically
distributed and displaced with respect to the shapes of the
opposite plate, so that it forms a network of channels for a
heat-carrying fluid. The plates are also joined by a plurality of
welded points distributed along the non-sunken, backed areas of the
plates. Aforementioned drawbacks associated with welding persists
in this construction; namely, the welding operation that is both
costly in time and money, the difficulty in checking the
leak-tightness and the excessive heating of the plates during
welding. In addition, the suggested press-formed shapes, which
consist of separate squares or rectangles, geometrically
distributed over the plates, do not provide any significant
increase in the stiffness of each of the plates in any given
direction, so that the increase in rigidity of the two joined
plates is only the sum of strength of the two superposed plates
without any two-dimensional cooperation between them in order to
increase this strength.
[0006] Patent application WO 99/63281 describes a building roof
that also accomplishes the function of a solar energy collector.
According to one aspect, said roof comprises adjacent panels, each
of which comprises a plate with a large number of longitudinal
channels formed, at least in part, with the very plate material and
connected at both ends to collecting and distributing ducts. The
adjacent panels comprise configurations for coupling the respective
panels together in a waterproof fashion and inlets and outlets
communicating respectively with the distributing and collecting
ducts for connecting the ducts together and with a general circuit
for a heat-carrying fluid. The geometrical configuration of the
channels and other elements are designed for the panel to be
self-supporting. However, the construction of each of said panels
involves the manufacture, assembly and joining of multiple parts,
which increases the costs of the end product.
[0007] Patent U.S. Pat. No. 4,010,733 describes a solar collector
for to be integrated into a building structure comprised of two
facing panels that are joined together by a welding bead along the
perimeter. Conformations in the plates define a circuit for a
heat-carrying fluid with an inlet and outlet. In order to form a
roof, the lateral waterproofing between adjacent panels is resolved
by means of an additional part that covers another part allowing
the fitting of two panes of glass. However, this does not resolve
the butt joining between modules at their longitudinal ends, in the
direction of roof slope, which means the slope has to be covered by
a single panel along its entire length. This means that the panels
have to be manufactured in a single piece to cover the full length
of the roof, which then either limits the length of roof to be
covered or significantly long panels have to be manufactured which,
on the one hand, complicate the production process and, on the
other, reduce the energy-collecting performance. This is due to the
fact that the heat-carrying fluid circulating inside the panel
absorbs the greatest amount of heat that it is able to absorb in
the approximately first three metres of panel length, thereby there
is a very low performance over the remaining panel length. In
addition, although the lateral shapes provide inertia and a certain
structural capacity, this might not be sufficient to withstand a
usage overload at the centre of the panel, for example, in the case
of a walkable roof. Moreover, the fact that the panels are covered
underneath by insulation to overcome the thermal bridge makes it
difficult to resolve the meeting with other structural profiles
that support it, thereby the preferred embodiment of said patent
proposes to locate the panels on top of a board. In addition, this
solar energy collector is covered by glass, which means that a roof
consisting of several of the same would be practically
non-walkable.
[0008] Utility model ES-A-1054282, from one of the current
inventors, describes a multi-function panel that is useful for the
construction of a solar energy collector enclosure for a building.
The mentioned multi-function panel is made up of upper and lower
facing plates that are joined together in a sealed fashion along a
closed perimeter by means of a joining technique known as
"clinching". Respective side-to-side fins that are mutually seamed
or covered by an additional covering element resolve the join
between the longitudinal edges of adjacent panels. The joins
between the transversal edges of adjacent panels is simply made by
overlapping a free protruding portion next to the downstream edge
of the outer plate over a portion next to the upstream end of the
upper plate of an adjacent panel.
[0009] There is no state of the art document that describes or
suggests a male-female joint for the outer and inner plates at the
transversal edges of adjacent panels.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0010] One aspect of the present invention provides a modular
enclosure solar energy-collector element that can be produced from
two facing plates in a relative simple manner, having sufficient
strength to be self-supporting and provided, at both longitudinal
and transversal edges in relation to the direction of a possible
flow of water over it, with configurations for leak-tight joining
to other adjacent elements, whether these are modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure modules or simply complementary
enclosure elements.
[0011] Another aspect of the present invention provides a modular
system for forming solar energy collector enclosures on buildings
comprising structural elements, modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements and other complementary enclosure elements that
are adapted to be assembled together at both longitudinal and
transversal edges in relation to the direction of a possible flow
of water over them, thus establishing leak-tight joints to form a
building enclosure, applicable to both the facade and roof.
[0012] Throughout this specification, the terms "upstream",
"downstream", "longitudinal" and "transversal" will be employed in
relation to the possible flow of water over the enclosure. This
means that since the building enclosure is adapted to receive
rainwater and evacuate it by gravity, the elements that make it up
are installed with a certain inclination, in the case of a roof, or
completely vertical, in the case of a facade, in order to direct
the possible flow of water in a desired direction, and the
enclosure component parts are constructed taking this direction
into account. The term "outer" is used to refer to the side of the
enclosure that is exposed to the rain and sunlight and the term
"inner" refers to the unexposed side of the enclosure.
[0013] According to a first aspect, this invention comprises a
modular solar energy collection enclosure element for buildings,
applicable to both facade and roof, of the type comprising an outer
plate and an inner plate, facing each other and joined together by
at least one leak-tight joint line along a closed perimeter, with
at least one of said outer and inner plates including one or more
structures within said perimeter, spaced apart from the other of
the plates to form a circuit for a heat-carrying fluid with an
inlet and an outlet. The modular element of this invention is
characterised in that said leak-tight joint line is at a distance
from the downstream transversal edges from the outer and inner
plates in relation to the direction of a possible flow of water
over the outer plate. This will produce an accessible gap between
respective free outer and inner portions of outer and inner plates
downstream from the joint line. This accessible gap is adapted to
receive plug-connected a free portion located next to an upstream
transversal edge of an outer plate of a similar modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element, or of an adjacent
complementary enclosure element located downstream.
[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the leak-tight joint line is
also at a distance from the upstream transversal edges of the outer
plate, providing a free outer portion of the outer plate upstream
from the joint line. This free upstream outer portion of the outer
plate is adapted to be plug-connected within said accessible gap of
an adjacent similar modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
element located upstream, or in the free space existing between two
outer and inner plates of an adjacent complementary enclosure
element located upstream. The outer plate has longitudinal edges in
relation to the direction of a possible flow of water over it, from
which respective fins extend upwards that are configured and
arranged so that they respectively match up with fins of an
adjacent similar modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element
located on the corresponding side, or with similar fins of an
adjacent complementary enclosure element located on the
corresponding side. The matched fins can then be mutually seamed or
clamped at the top by means of a fitted additional cover element,
in accordance with a technique known in the sector. In this way,
the modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element in accordance
with this invention can be coupled to other similar enclosure
elements and/or complementary enclosure elements at any of the four
edges to establish leak-tight joints to form a building enclosure,
such as, a facade or roof.
[0015] One other important aspect of the modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element is that from opposite edges of
the lower plate respective flaps, which terminate in folds that
extend towards each other, extend towards the inner side. These
flaps and folds form stiffening and support elements. In a
characteristic fashion, reinforcing members extend from one to
another of said flaps, with their ends fitting into the folds,
thereby said reinforcing members act in conjunction with the flaps
and folds as stiffening elements.
[0016] The heat-transporting circulation circuit within the modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element is formed, as is
conventional in the state of the art, by a conformation of the
outer plate, the inner plate, or both, and many examples of
different configurations for such a structure are known in the art.
The leak-tight joint line between the two plates is preferably
produced by welding, although a leak-tight joint line achieved by
any other technique is within the scope of this invention. Since
the cited plate conformations are within the closed perimeter
defined by the joint line, the circuit's leak-tight property is
obtained without any type of cap or additional plugging elements
for the plate edge conformations.
[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the inner plate of the modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element, in accordance with this
invention, includes heat insulation sheets housed between the
mentioned reinforcement members, with their ends matched to the
flaps and folds. The assembly may be closed by some means that act
as a vapour barrier and/or to prevent any possible thermal bridges
and/or against fire. Because of this the modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element incorporates all the necessary
elements for a building enclosure and for a solar heat-energy
collector, so that it is completely suitable for direct
installation onto a sub-structure, it is self-supporting in order
to withstand the required structural stresses of a roof or facade
and efficiently complies with the two cited functions integrated
into a single modular element.
[0018] In accordance with a second aspect, this invention comprises
a modular system that forms solar energy collector enclosures for
both building facades and roofs, characterised in that it comprises
a plurality of enclosure elements that include at least one modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element in accordance with this
invention (described above), together with at least one
complementary enclosure element, which is provided with, along at
least one longitudinal or transversal edges in relation to the
direction of a possible flow of water over it, at least one joint
configuration for a leak-tight joint with an adjacent edge of said
modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element. These
complementary enclosure elements include, for example, ridge part
elements, gutter elements, lateral enclosure elements and
complementary modular plates as described below.
[0019] With a plurality of such modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements and complementary enclosure elements coupled
together, it is possible to form a building enclosure that complies
with all waterproofing and insulation functions of a traditional
enclosure, whether a roof or facade, and in addition a function as
a solar heat-energy collector. The system also includes some
structural elements adapted to support the panels and at the same
time house piping that are part of a primary circuit for the
heat-carrying fluid to which the heat-carrying fluid circuits of
the modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element being part of
the enclosure communicate. Another advantage of this invention is
that it includes fastening elements between the modular element and
the structural elements which in no case come into contact with
solar energy-collecting outer plate, but instead the securing is
produced between the structural elements, the inner plate and its
associated reinforcements.
[0020] Thereby, an enclosure produced using the system of this
invention has several advantages. On the one hand, since the actual
solar energy-collecting surface, in other words, the outer plate,
is shaped at its longitudinal and transversal edges for coupling to
the outer plates of the adjacent enclosure elements, a solid and
waterproof joint is obtained between all enclosure elements,
whether these are solar energy collectors or complementary
enclosure elements, which guarantees a waterproof system. Moreover,
all the elements related with the solar energy-collecting
installation are hidden from view, so that when the system is
employed as a roof, it still offers the appearance of a traditional
clear roof, without any piping, connections, joint profiles or
other heat-carrying fluid primary circuit elements being visible.
When the system is employed as a facade, it provides an equally
clear appearance, which is also both functional and modern. On the
other hand, thanks to stiffening elements that are incorporated
into the modular elements, when the system forms a roof, this is
walkable, for example, to facilitate its maintenance, together with
the maintenance of the heat-carrying fluid primary circuit, which
comprises piping housed inside profiles that are accessible from
the outside.
A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] The previous and other advantages and characteristics will
be more fully understood from the following detailed description of
exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings, in
which:
[0022] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element in accordance with an exemplary
embodiment of this invention;
[0023] FIG. 2 is a partial simplified schematic view showing in
cross section the coupling of the transversal edges of two adjacent
modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements of FIG. 1;
[0024] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element in accordance with another
exemplary embodiment of this invention;
[0025] FIG. 4 is a partial simplified schematic view showing in
cross section the coupling of the transversal edges of two adjacent
modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements of FIG. 3;
[0026] FIG. 5 is an upper partial perspective view of the coupling
of two modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements of FIG.
1;
[0027] FIG. 6 is a lower perspective view showing the partially
sectioned parts of a modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
element such as that of FIG. 1, including stiffening, waterproofing
and insulation elements;
[0028] FIG. 7 is a partial cross sectional view showing the
coupling of the longitudinal edges of two modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure elements of FIG. 6 with an open profile
that houses piping that forms part of a heat-carrying fluid primary
circuit;
[0029] FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view showing an exemplary
installation of several modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
elements of FIG. 6 as a facade, employing the open profiles of FIG.
7;
[0030] FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the
longitudinal edge coupling of two adjacent modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure elements of FIG. 6 employing an
additional cover element;
[0031] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view showing another
exemplary installation of several modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements of FIG. 6 as a facade, employing the additional
cover elements of FIG. 9, together with some complementary modular
plates;
[0032] FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view showing yet another
exemplary installation of several modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements of FIG. 3 as a facade, employing the open
profiles of FIG. 7;
[0033] FIG. 12 is a partial cross section view of the coupling of
two modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements of FIG. 6,
employed as a roof and its joint to a support profile with enlarged
detail;
[0034] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view showing an exemplary
installation of several modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
elements of FIG. 1 as a roof, with some ridge part elements;
[0035] FIG. 14 is a partial perspective view showing an exemplary
installation of several modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
elements of FIG. 1 as a roof, using a lateral enclosure element;
and
[0036] FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view showing yet another
exemplary installation of several modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements of FIG. 1 as a facade, with a trim element that
co-operates with a gutter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0037] First referring to FIG. 1, reference numeral 50 generally
refers to a modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element for
buildings, applicable to both roofs and facades in accordance with
an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect of this invention. The
mentioned modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element 50, in
its most elementary version, comprises an outer plate 1 and an
inner plate 2, facing each other and joined together by at least
one leak-tight joint line 7 along the length of a closed perimeter.
In FIG. 1, the position of this leak-tight joint line 7, which can
be obtained, for example, by a continuous roll welded bead, is
shown as dotted lines 7 in relation to outer plate 1 and inner
plate 2. In the shown exemplary embodiment, the outer plate 1
includes, within the perimeter defined by the leak-tight joint line
7 some conformations 3 that define three slightly concave channels
on the inner side of the outer plate 1, which run parallel to the
longitudinal direction in relation to direction F of a possible
flow of water over outer plate 1 as indicated by an arrow F. The
inner plate 2 includes, within the perimeter defined by the
leak-tight joint line 7 some conformations 4 that define a pair of
slightly concave channels on the inner side of the inner plate 2,
which run transversally to the channels defined by the
conformations 3 on the outer plate 1 and face the ends of the same.
When the two plates, outer plate 1 and inner plate 2 are joined,
the respective conformations 3 and 4 are spaced apart from the
other of the plates forming a circuit for a heat-carrying fluid,
which has an inlet 5 and an outlet 6 in the form of two orifices,
preferably located at diagonally opposite ends of the circuit.
Optionally, in order to ensure that there is no increase of
heat-carrying fluid pressure inside the modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 50, the mentioned inlet 5 has a
flow section area that is smaller than that of said outlet 6.
[0038] The channels defined by the conformations 4 of the inner
plate 2 act as distributor and collector for the mentioned
heat-carrying fluid which circulates through the channels defined
by conformations 3 of the outer plate 1, producing an efficient,
uniform "sweep" of the surface heated by sunlight for optimum
thermal use. To rigidise the plates 1 and 2 against a possible
deformation caused by the inner pressure of heat-carrying fluid,
the two plates 1 and 2 can be joined together by means of joint
lines (not shown) between the channels within the perimeter defined
by the leak-tight joint line 7. In the state of the art, many
alternative examples for the conformations 3 and/or 4 are known
which are them all of application in this invention. Preferably,
the outer plate 1 is chemically treated or painted in order to
enhance its capacity to absorb sunlight and to reduce its
reflection or emission ability.
[0039] One essential feature of the modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure element 50 of this invention is that the leak-tight joint
line 7 is some distance away from the downstream transversal edges
of the outer and inner plates 1 and 2, in relation to direction F
of a possible flow of water over outer plate 1, as is better shown
in FIG. 2. Thereby, the outer and inner plates 1 and 2 present
respective outer and inner free portions 1a, 2a downstream from the
joint line 7, and between these two free portions 1a, 2a an
accessible gap 8 is enabled, which is adapted to receive
plug-connected a free portion located next to an upstream
transverse edge of a similar outer plate of a modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 50, or of an adjacent
complementary enclosure element located downstream. It should be
taken into account that in FIG. 2, the thicknesses of the plates 1,
2 and of the leak-tight joint lines 7 have been exaggerated for
better drawing clarity. This male-female joint provides a
mechanical connection that is able to withstand, for example, a
wind suction effect that tends to raise the modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 50 located upstream, and to
make it difficult for rainwater to ascend against the slope when
driven by the wind.
[0040] Advantageously, the leak-tight joint line 7 is also is
spaced away from the upstream transversal edge of outer plate 1,
providing a free outer portion 1b of the outer plate 1 upstream
from the leak-tight joint line 7. This free outer portion 1b
upstream from outer plate 1 is adapted to be plug-connected in said
accessible gap 8 of a similar adjacent modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 50, 60 located upstream or in a
free space between two outer and inner plates of an adjacent
complementary enclosure element located upstream. In this way, a
male-female joint is obtained between the two transverse edges of
the modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element 50 with the
corresponding transverse edges of other modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure elements 50 or adjacent complementary
enclosure elements located upstream or downstream.
[0041] Although it is not essential, in the shown exemplary
embodiment, the leak-tight joint line 7 also provides a free inner
portion 2b of inner plate 2 upstream from the leak-tight joint line
7. In this case, the downstream and upstream outer free portions,
1a, 1b of the outer plate 1 are longer than the corresponding
downstream and upstream free inner portions 2a, 2b of the inner
plate 2, so that, when two similar modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements 50 are plug-connected, the corresponding
downstream and upstream free inner portions 2a, 2b of the
respective inner plates 2 do not overlap not do they come into
contact with each other.
[0042] The outer plate 1 has longitudinal edges in relation to the
mentioned direction F of a possible flow of water over it, from
which respective fins 9 and 10 extend upwards, said fins 9 and 10
being shaped and arranged to match with fins 10 and 9 of a similar
adjacent modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element 50
located on the corresponding side, or with similar fins on an
adjacent complementary enclosure element located on the
corresponding side as will be additionally described below. The
fins 9, 10, once matched, can then be mutually seamed or clamped at
the top by means of a fitted additional cover element 11, which is
push-fitted in place (FIG. 9), in accordance with well-known
techniques in the sector.
[0043] From opposite edges of the inner plate 2, which, in the
exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 are said longitudinal edges,
respective flaps 15 and 16 extend towards the inner side with folds
15a, 16a at their ends that extend towards each other. It should be
noted that the modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element 50
of FIG. 1 has an elongated quadrilateral shape and said opposite
edges of the inner plate 2 from which the flaps 15, 16 extend, are
the longest lateral edges. Thus, these flaps 15, 16 and folds 15a,
16a act as stiffening elements for the modular elements against
flexion in the direction of the longest dimension and support.
However, these longest opposite edges do not necessarily have to
always coincide with the longitudinal edges.
[0044] FIG. 3 shows a modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
element 60 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment which
identical to the example of FIG. 1, except that here, the
longitudinal edges, in relation to the direction F of a possible
flow of water over the outer plate 1, are the shortest opposite
edges, so that the flaps 15, 16 extend from the transverse edges.
Otherwise, the outer plate 1 has the conformations 3, which, in
this case, define channels that extend in the transverse direction
and fins 9, 10 which extend from the longitudinal edges. The inner
plate 2, together with flaps 15, 16, incorporate the conformations
4, which here define channels that extend in the longitudinal
direction, and the inlet and outlet orifices 5, 6. In this
exemplary embodiment, the channels determined by the conformations
4 of the inferior plate 2 cooperate with the channels determined by
the conformations 3 of the outer plate 1 in order to provide a
single twisting path for the heat-carrying fluid from the inlet 5
to the outlet 6, which is different from the "sweep" provided in
the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1. The leak-tight joint line 7 is
similarly spaced from the downstream and upstream transverse edges
providing as shown in the schematic view in FIG. 4, the accessible
gap 8 between the two downstream free outer and inner portions 1a,
2a of the outer and inner plates 1, 2 and upstream free outer and
inner portions 1b, 2b of the outer and inner plates 1, 2, the
downstream accessible gap 8 of a modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure element 60 being adapted to receive plug-connected the
upstream outer free portion 1b of another adjacent modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 60 locate downstream, or the
upstream free portion of the outer plate of an adjacent
complementary enclosure element located downstream. Also in FIG. 4,
the thicknesses of the plates 1, 2 and the leak-tight joint lines 7
have been exaggerated for enhanced drawing clarity.
[0045] By comparing FIGS. 2 and 4 it can be seen that, whereas in
FIG. 2, the flaps 15, 16 and folds 15a, 16a of the two
plug-connected modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements
50 are mutually aligned, in FIG. 4, the flaps 15, 16 and folds 15a,
16a of the two plug-connected modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements 60 are mutually side-by side and opposite.
[0046] Now referring to FIG. 6, the modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure element 50 optionally incorporates other necessary or
recommended elements for a building enclosure, whether facade or
roof. It should be stressed that, although FIG. 6 shows said
elements incorporated into a modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure element 50 in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of
FIG. 1, an identical construction is valid for a modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 60 in accordance with the
exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3, because in both cases, the flaps
15, 16 and folds 15a, 16a extend from the longest opposite edges of
the inner plate 2.
[0047] Thus, in FIG. 6, the modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure element 50 incorporates reinforcing members 17 that
extend from one to the other flaps 15, 16 with their ends fitting
into the folds 15a, 16a. These reinforcing members 17 act in
conjunction to rigidise the assembly against flexion in the
direction of the shortest dimension, in a complementary manner to
the flaps 15, 16 and folds 15a, 16a, which act as stiffening
elements in the longest dimension. Preferably, the assembly
includes a reinforcement member 17 at each end, together with one
or more reinforcing members 17 in intermediate positions. For
example, wood is a suitable material for the reinforcing members
17. Between the reinforcing members 17 the panels 21 are installed,
with their ends matched to the folds 15a, 16a of the flaps 15, 16
of the inner plate 2. These panels 21 are made of a heat-insulating
material that performs the functions of thermal insulation for the
building in both closed and ventilate enclosures. Externally fixed
to the folds 15a, 16a of the flaps 15, 16 of the inner plate 2 is a
plate 22 that covers the reinforcing members 17 and the panel 21.
This plate 22 is made of a single or composite material that is
suitable for forming a vapour barrier and/or breaking a thermal
bridge, and/or for providing fire protection as required. In the
state of the art in the sector, several suitable materials are
known for both the panels 21 and the plate 22.
[0048] FIG. 12 shows the cross section of the coupling between two
modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements 50 in their most
complete version, in which the transverse edge of the downstream
free portion 1a of the outer plate 1 has a fold 12 (see the
enlarged detail), which rigidises said transverse edge and, in
virtue of a certain elasticity of the plate, mechanically acts as a
leak-tight barrier against the outer plate 1 of the adjacent
modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element 50 located
downstream or against the outer plate of a complementary enclosure
element. In order to further guarantee the joint, the outer plate 1
has several tabs 13 (also see FIG. 5) adhered at a distance from
its upstream transverse edge, that are adapted to match with the
fold 12 of the transverse edge of the downstream free portion 1a of
the plate 1 of the adjacent modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure element 50 located upstream, or the downstream transverse
edge of the outer plate of an adjacent complementary enclosure
element located upstream. Moreover, one or more leak-tight strips
14 of an elastomeric material are transversally arranged on the
outer face of the upstream free portion 1b of the outer plate 1.
When two modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements 50 are
coupled together, these leak-tight strips 14 are compressed between
the downstream free portion 1a of the outer plate 1 of the modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element 50 located upstream and
the upstream free portion 1b of the outer plate 1 of the modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element 50 located downstream.
Obviously, a similar result could be achieved by fixing the
leak-tight strips to the inner face of the outer downstream free
portion 1a of the outer plate 1, or on the outer plate of an
adjacent complementary enclosure element to which the modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 50 is coupled.
[0049] In accordance with a second aspect, this invention provides
a modular system to form solar energy collector enclosures for
buildings, applicable to both facades and roofs, which comprise a
plurality of enclosure elements, including at least one modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure element 50, 60 in accordance with
any of the exemplary embodiments described above and at least one
complementary enclosure element 28, 29, 37, 38 that has, on at
least one of its longitudinal or transverse edges, in relation to
the direction F of a possible flow of water over it, at least one
joint configuration for a leak-tight joint with an adjacent edge of
said modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element 50, 60. With
a combination of these modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
elements 50, 60 and complementary enclosure element 28, 29, 37, 38,
coupled together, a completely leak-tight enclosure of any size can
be formed. The system of the second aspect of this invention also
provides structural elements for supporting and securing the
enclosure elements.
[0050] FIG. 7 shows an open profile 32 which houses piping 33, 34
that forms part of a heat-carrying fluid primary circuit that
communicates with the heat-carrying fluid circuit of one or more
modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements 50, 60
incorporated into the enclosure. The mentioned open profile 32 is
adapted to fit between two modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements 50, 60, so the fins 9, 10 of its respective
adjacent longitudinal edges, which are matched together, are joined
to lateral walls of the open profile next to a mouth on the same.
In order to make the joint between the two modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure elements 50 leak-tight, a cover element
35 is used to clamp the upper parts of fins 9, 10 in a leak-tight
manner and covering said mouth on the open profile 32. This cover
element 35 is preferably plug-connected and is detachable in order
to provide access to said open profile 32 from the outside, for
example, for maintenance of the piping 33, 34. Obviously, a similar
installation could be executed with a modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 50, 60 on one side of the open
profile 32 and a complementary enclosure element on the other side,
provided that this complementary enclosure element is provided with
a corresponding fin matched with the open profile 32.
[0051] As shown in the exemplary installation of FIG. 8, the open
profile 32 is structural and adapted to be secured to a building
structure 43. In this case, a plurality of modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure elements 50 in accordance with the
exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 are arranged between open profiles
32, acting as a facade. The leak-tightness between the transverse
(shortest) edges of the modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
elements 50 is accomplished by the plug-in coupling described above
in relation with FIG. 2, while the leak-tightness between the
longitudinal (longest) edges of the modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure element 50 is produced by the cover elements 35, which
also covers the mouths of the open profiles 32.
[0052] FIG. 11 shows another exemplary installation in which the
open profiles 32 are secured to a building structure 43 and modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure elements 60 in accordance with
the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 are arranged between these open
profiles 32, acting as a facade. The leak-tightness between the
transverse (longest) edges of the modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements 60 is accomplished by the plug-in coupling
described above in relation with FIG. 4, while the leak-tightness
between the longitudinal (shortest) edges of the modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 60 is produced by the cover
elements 35, which also covers the mouths of the open profiles
32.
[0053] FIG. 10 shows another exemplary installation applied to a
facade that does not use the open profiles 32. Here, a plurality of
modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements 50, in
accordance with the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, are applied to
a building structure 43 in an adjacent fashion, covering the main
extension of the enclosure. The leak-tightness between the
transverse (shortest) edges of the modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements 50 is accomplished by the plug-in coupling
described above in relation with FIG. 2, while the leak-tightness
between the longitudinal (longest) edges of the modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 50 is produced by means of the
cover elements 11 that are pressure fitted onto the respective fins
9 and 10, as shown in FIG. 9, although the same result could be
obtained by mutually seaming the fins 9 and 10.
[0054] Optionally, as shown in FIG. 10, a complementary enclosure
element in the form of a complementary modular plate 38 is located
between the transverse (shortest) edges and includes, next to its
downstream transverse edge, an accessible gap between the
downstream free portions 38a of outer and inner plates, said
accessible gap being able to receive plug-connected the upstream
free portion 1b of the outer plate 1 of an adjacent modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 50 located downstream. The
complementary modular plate 38 also includes, next to its upstream
transverse edges, an upstream free portion 38b of an outer plate
adapted to be plug-connected in the accessible gap 8 existing next
to the downstream transverse edge of the adjacent modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 50 located upstream. Next to
its longitudinal edges, the complementary modular plate 38 includes
fins 39, 40 adapted to be matched and attached to corresponding
fins 9, 10 of the modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element
50 located on the corresponding side, and/or with the fin 40, 39 of
the complementary modular plate 38 located on the corresponding
side. The utility of this complementary modular plate 38 is, for
example, that of covering piping 33, 34 installed on the structure
43. This piping can be part of, for example, a heat-carrying fluid
primary circuit, with which the heat-carrying fluid circuit of one
or more modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements 50
incorporated into the enclosure is communicated. By suitably
designing the lengths of the free portions 38a, 38b of the
complementary modular plates 38, these can be detachable to allow
access to or inspection of piping 33, 34. Alternatively, the
complementary modular plates 38 can be made from a single plate
with its downstream end merely overlapping the outer plate 1 of the
corresponding modular solar energy-collecting enclosure element 50,
without providing the mentioned accessible gap between the plates,
which would increase its detachable nature. Another use of the
complementary modular plates 38 is that of providing an opening 41
for, for example, a ventilation duct or other building construction
element. The opening 41 is possible because the complementary
modular plates 38 do not include a heat-carrying fluid circuit and
hence, are not solar energy collectors.
[0055] It should be pointed out that, although the exemplary
installation of FIG. 10 is shown employing modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure elements 50 in accordance with FIG. 1
as a facade, a similar installation would be possible using modular
solar energy-collecting enclosure elements 50 in accordance with
FIG. 1 as a roof or employing modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure element 60 in accordance with FIG. 2, either as a facade
or a roof, being able, in any case, to be combined with
complementary modular plates 38.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 12, when the modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure elements 50 or 60 are employed as a
roof (although not limited to this), the system comprises support
profiles 31 adapted to be secured to a building structure 43 and
provided with support surfaces that are intended to bear the
modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements 50 or 60 and
other complementary enclosure elements. The cited support profiles
31 have a U-shaped cross section that is significantly deep in
order to provide good flexion strength and they also possess
lateral fins that form the cited support surfaces. These lateral
fins include elongated holes 19 that allow the installation of
fastening elements 18 (symbolically represented by their axes) that
can be fixed to the modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
elements 50, 60 for joining the same to the support profiles 31.
Preferably, the fastening elements 18 are screws adapted to be
screwed to the wooden reinforcing members 17 of the modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure elements 50, 60. The elongated holes 19
provide sufficient free play to allow for any movements cause by
roof expansion. Alternatively, the system includes clamps (not
shown) adapted to secure the modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements 50, 60 to the support elements 31 to allow for
any movements cause by roof expansion.
[0057] Exemplary installations of modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements 50 employed as a roof, in association with
various complementary roof elements, are described below in
relation to FIGS. 13, 14 and 15. Although similar installations may
be executed with modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements
60 in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3, for roof
applications modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements 50
in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 are
preferred, because of the longitudinal orientation of their
conformations.
[0058] FIG. 13 shows several modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements 50 located at an upstream end of a roof that is
terminated by complementary enclosure elements that define ridge
parts 28. Each ridge part 28 includes at least one accessible gap
between downstream free portions 28a of outer and inner plates of
the same. The upstream free portions 1b of the outer plates 1 of
the modular solar energy-collecting enclosure elements 50 are
plug-connected in said accessible gaps of the ridge part elements
in a similar manner to that described above in relation to FIG. 2.
Some conformations 45 of the ridge parts 28 cover the fins 9, 10
that are matched to the adjacent modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements 50. Cuts 46 existing in said conformations 45
allow the folding of the ridge part 28 in order to produce the
desired angle between the two slopes. Covers 47 that are
pressure-fitted over the conformations 45 are employed to make the
mentioned cuts 46 waterproof.
[0059] FIG. 14 partially shows a modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure element 50 located at the side end of a roof that is
terminated with complementary enclosure elements that define some
lateral enclosure parts 37. Each of these enclosure parts 37
includes at least one fin 48 adapted to be matched and attached to
one of the fins 9, 10 of the corresponding modular solar
energy-collecting enclosure element 50 or the associated fin on a
complementary enclosure element located on the corresponding side.
These lateral enclosure parts 37 are also applicable to a
facade.
[0060] FIG. 15 shows several modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements 50 located at a downstream end of a roof that is
terminated with a gutter 44. The system incorporates complementary
enclosure elements that define lower termination parts 29 that
cooperate with said gutter 44. Each of said lower termination parts
29 is made of, for example, an outer plate that includes a
downstream flap 49 that is partially inserted into the gutter 44
and an upstream free portion 29b adapted to be plug-connected into
one or more accessible gaps 8 existing next to the downstream
transverse edges of the modular solar energy-collecting enclosure
elements 50, or of other adjacent complementary enclosure elements
located upstream. Alternatively, the complementary enclosure
element could be made of a single piece of plate incorporating both
the gutter 44 and the free portion 29b upstream.
[0061] The system of this invention also comprises the mentioned
heat-carrying fluid primary circuit to which one more of the
heat-carrying fluid circuits of the modular solar energy-collecting
enclosure elements 50, 60 that form part of the enclosure are
communicated. The primary circuit is connected to an impulsion pump
for circulating the heat-carrying fluid and to an expansion vessel
that maintains said primary circuit at a null or negative relative
pressure of approximately 0 to -10 millibars. In this way, the
effect of any possible leak that could be produced in any part of
the circuit would be minimised because it would tend to cause the
entry of air from the outside into the circuit instead of the fluid
leaking from inside the circuit to the outside.
[0062] One skilled in the art would be able to introduce variations
and modifications into the shown and described exemplary
embodiments without leaving the scope of the present invention as
defined in the attached claims.
* * * * *