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United States Patent [] Adcock [nj 4,129,177 [45] Dec. 12,1978 [54] SOLAR HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEM [76] Inventor: Thomas P. Adcock, 300 Meadowbrook Dr., Huntsville, Ala. 35803 [21] Appl. No.: 804,022 [22] Filed: Jim. 6,1977 [51] InL CL*.............................................F25B 29/00 [52] UA Q............................... . 165/48 S; 126/271; 237/1 A [58] Reid of Search..................... 165/48 S; 237/1 A; 62/2; 126/270, 271 [56] References Cited U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 1,074,219 3,022,781 3,450,192 3,513,828 3,918,430 4,012,920 4,079,726 9/1913 2/1962 6/1969 5/1970 11/1975 3/1977 3/1978 Skiff.................................. 126/270 Andrassy ............. ............. 126/271 Hay...................... Masters................ ............ 126/271 Stout et al............. ............. 126/271 Kirschbaum......... .................. 62/2 Voelker................ ............. 126/271 Primary Examiner--Charles J. Myhre Assistant Examiner--Margaret LaTulip Attorney, Agent, or Firm--William G. Gapcynski; Sherman D. Winters; Harold W. Hilton [57] ABSTRACT An integrated, completely automatic solar heating and cooling system for buildings is disclosed. The system includes a first and a second interconnectable cooling/heating subsystem each of which includes a group of solar heat collecting panels, a heat storage reservoir, and a piping network for transferring the heat exchange media, preferably water, therebetween. A third subsys tem transfers the media from one or both of the reser voirs to a heat exchanger which transfers heat to or from the building's heating and cooling distribution system. Cooling for the building is accomplished by using a fourth subsystem to chill the media in the first subsystem. In the cooling mode, the solar panels of the first subsystem are covered and used as a heat ex changer, and the second subsystem, isolated from the first heating subsystem, is used to heat the building's hot water system and to provide building heat if required. 12 Claims, 9 Drawing Figures U.S. Patent Dec. 12, 1978 Sheet 1 of 7 4,129,177 o CM U.S. Patent Dec. 12, 1978 Sheet 2 of 7 4,129,177 224 212 FIG. 4 U.S. Patent Dec. 12,1978 Sheet 3 of 7 4,129,177 U.S. Patent Dec. 12,1978 Sheet 4 of 7 4,129,177 204 208 224 FIG. 5 U.S. Patent Dec. 12,1978 Sheet 5 of 7 4,129,177 FIG. 7 FIG. 6 U.S. Patent Dec. 12, 1978 Sheet 6 of 7 4,129,177 226 264 230 FIG. 8 208 U.S. Patent Dec. 12, 1978 Sheet 7 of 7 4,129,177 TO VALVES 4 3 ,4 5 8 4 7 (OPTIONAL FOR ELECTRIC VALVES) 1 4,129,177 2 chief disadvantage of a water system is the potential SOLAR HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEM damage which could occur if the system should have a The invention described herein may be manufactured leak. and used by or for the Government gor governmental A typical, conventional solar heating system is com purposes without payment of any royalty thereon. 5 prised of a solar collector, one or more heat storage FIELD OF THE INVENTION areas which, for water, consist of large tanks and, for air, usually consist of a rock filled enclosure, a heat The present invention relates to a solar heating and exchanger which replaces the conventional furnace, cooling system for controlling the temperature within a and a piping system for distributing a primary coolant building and for providing hot water for the building. 10 between the solar collectors, the heat storage area, and More particularly, the invention relates to the novel the heat exchanger. arrangement or the components to provide two inde Most of the conventional solar heating systems use a pendent, but interconnectable systems, one being used primary coolant of water or air. The components are for heating and one for cooling or both for heating. In frequently fabricated from metal and this requires spe a more specific embodiment of the invention, the solar 15 cial paints and coatings. To prevent freezing and scale heating and cooling system includes a novel solar col lector and storage tank that are particularly well suited deposits in the water systems, the conventional systems require the use of antifreeze and chemical additives. for use in the system. When a conventional solar heating system is combined BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 20 with a conventional cooling system, the cost of this Solar heating systems of various types are well system becomes prohibitively expensive and special known, but as a result of the fossil fuel crisis, such sys skills and tools are required for installation because of tems have recently attracted greater interest component complexity, and the interconnecting piping Usable solar energy, like usable wind energy and tide systems. Furthermore, many of the conventional sys energy, is only obtainable intermittently. However, the 25 tems cannot be retrofitted into existing structures be success of any energy source can be measured by the cause of the weight and size requirements of the solar regularity and reliability with which it can supply the collectors and the storage tanks. needs of the user. In a building heating and cooling There are many conventional solar heaters or collec system, this measure of success can be translated into tors disclosed in the prior art. The following U.S. pa the capability of supplyingor removing thermal energy 30 tents disclose typical conventional units: Masters U.S. from the living space without the use, or with a mini Pat. No. 3,513,828; Hay U.S. Pat. No. 3,563,305; Hay mum use, of auxiliary and back up systems. Regularity U.S. Pat. No. 3,450,192; Andrassy U.S. Pat No. and reliability in the intermittant solar energy source is, 3,022,781; Skiff U.S. Pat. No. 1,074,219; Gough et al of course, obtained through the use of a thermal energy U.S. Pat No. 3,076,450; Schoenfelder U.S. Pat. No. storage system. The success of any solar energy system, 35 3,951,128; Danner U.S. Pat. No. 1,473,018; Duncan U.S. therefore, is largely dependent upon the energy storage Pat No. 3,089,480; Andrassy U.S. Pat No. 3,039,453; capacity of the system. Abbot U.S. Pat No. 1,801,710; Severy U.S. Pat. No. Selection of an optimum thermal energy storage sys 937,013; Stout et al U.S. Pat. No. 3,918,430; and Craw tem for a building involves considerations of climate, ford U.S. Pat. No. 3,859,980. location, insulation, size, material costs, heating and 40 Briefly considering some of the most relevant of the cooling requirements, etc. The most widely used ther foregoing patents, the Masters patent discloses a solar mal energy storage systems for domestic heating and water heater utilizing a plastic bag having an upper cooling are water and rocks. Water has the highest heat compartment filled with air and a plurality of lower capacity per weight, volume and dollar value of any compartments through which the water flows. The conventional, commonly available material. Water can 45 Andrassy U.S. Pat. No. 3,022,781 dicloses a solar water be easily stored and transmitted throughout the system heater having a water compartment comprised of a for the solar collectors, to the storage areas and to the flexible plastic top and bottom with a plurality of fluid heat exchangers. On the other hand, thermal storage in conduits interconnecting an upper and lower header, rocks is only about 30% to 40% as efficient per unit the plastic top being transparent and the plastic bottom volume as thermal storage in water because of the dif ference in the specific heat or rocks. Consequently, thermal storage in rocks requires a larger storage area. Rock thermal storage systems require a closed-air circu lation loop between the solar collectors and the rock 50 being black, and a woooden frame for supporting the water compartment The Stout et al. patent discloses a solar heating panel having a rectangular frame made from rigid, foam plastic material, an upper plastic cover, bins and an additional closed-loop system between the 55 a water compartment comprised of a reflective bottom rock bins and the living space. Studies comparing sys and a flexible top joined together so as to form a plural tem cost and thermal storage capacity shown that the ity of spaced apart, parallel water channels. The Skiff minimum coverage operating costs in a water system patent discloses a solar heater having a channel shaped are achieved when about 10 to 15 pounds (or more) of upper glass lens forming a top cover of the heater for water storage per square foot of collector area is used. 60 focusing the solar rays. The aforementioned Hay pa In a rock storage system, 1 cubic foot of rock is required tents also disclose a solar heating system utilizing a per square foot of collector area (about 3 times more plurality of flexible water storage containers located in volume than water). the ceiling, floors and walls of a structure. Analysis of both water and rock thermal storage In general, conventional solar heating and cooling systems coupled with other system component costs, 65 systems, and their associated conventional components, efficiencies, space-limiting factors, etc., indicate that fail to provide an integrated, relatively inexpensive, water is the simplest and least expensive means for the easy to assemble, efficient system which can be con collection, storage and transfer of solar energy. The structed from inexpensive and lightweight components. k 34 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION a primary low pressure piping system for containing and pumping a primary media. The piping system in In accordance with the present invention, a total cludes a first and second piping network and a first and solar energy heating and cooling system is provided second pump therefor, and valve means for selectively which overcomes the foregoing and other disadvan 5 interconnectiong the first and second piping networks. tages and shortcomings of the prior art. The solar en The system further comprises a primary heat exchanger ergy heating and cooling system of the invention uti in a heat exchange relationship with the building air lizes conventional materials and constitutes a simple, distribution system and the primary media transmitted inexpensive, highly efficient system that can furnish up respectively through the first and second piping net to 80% or more of the total energy requirements for 10 works. First and second low pressure media storage heating, cooling, and domestic hot water for an average reservoirs are connected to the first and second piping residential or commercial building. The component networks, respectively. Similarly, first and second solar parts can be mass produced in a kit form for easy assem heat collector means are thermally coupled, in heat bly and installation on site by an average handyman in exchange relationship, to the first and second piping either new structures or in presently existing structures 15 networks, respectively. Cooling of the primary media in without the need for special skills or tools. the first piping and storage system is achieved through The present system utilizes a closed loop flow of a a cooling subsystem that chills a secondary media. The primary heat exchange media, (water being used in a cooling subsystem in a preferred embodiment includes a preferred embodiment) thereby preventing the entry of rotary vane compressor unit for cooling the secondary contaminants into the media. The total system is main 20 coolant media (air), a high pressure piping system con tained at low pressure throughout and employs a mini mum number of heat exchangers. A large media storage capacity can be obtained by utilizing unused areas such as under floors and under raised sundecks. Duplication of unnecessary components is eliminated on the one hand, while on the other hand, isolation of components, for example for repair, is possible, without interferring with the operation of remaining portions of the system. 25 nected to the compressor unit, a heat exchanger con nected to the high pressure piping network and a low pressure piping section connected to the compressor low pressure output. The cooling subsystem also in cludes a means for causing the secondary low pressure coolant media to flow through the low pressure piping system from the cooling unit to, and through, the solar Complete automation of the system is possible and most collectors used as the heat exchanger. of the operation of the system can be controlled from a 30 Other features and advantages of the present inven single control panel. Further, troubleshooting and re tion will be discussed in, or apparent from, the descrip pairing of the system is easy. The system is expandable, tion of the preferred embodiment of the invention found and can be installed in stages with attendant reduction hereinbelow. of initial cost BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS As stated in certain preferred embodiments of the 35 present invention, water is used as a primary heat ex FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing of a heating and cool change media and the storage tanks and solar collectors ing system in accordance with the present invention; are principally comprised of flexible, thermoplastic FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a water storage bag sheets. Weight reduction, corrosion prevention and usable as a thermal energy reservoir in the dislcosed scale prevention can be obtained by using conventional 40 heating and cooling system; plastic plumbing. The expansion problems caused by FIG. 3 is an enlarged schematic flow diagram show hot water are eliminated through the use of expandable ing the use of a solar collector as a cooling heat ex storage tanks and solar collectors. In a preferred em changer to produce chilled water; bodiment of the invention, a group of solar collectors is FIG. 4 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a solar also used as heat exchangers for cooling the circulating 45 collector and reflective insulating cover used in the media, thereby eliminating the need for an additional cooling mode in accordance with the present invention; heat exchanger. FIG. 5 is a plan view of the solar collector shown in A solar collector panel according to a preferred em FIG. 4, with the reflective insulating cover removed; bodiment of the present invention is constructed en FIG. 6 is a top view of the solar collector absorber tirely out of thermoplastic materials and requires no 50 cell shown in FIGS. 4,5 and 8 and particularly showing special heat absorbing paints or coatings. Presently the heat exchange media channels and manifolds; available manufacturing techniques can be utilized for FIG. 7 is a top view of the solar collector inflatable mass production of the panels from low cost materials cover shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 and particularly showing resulting in a very inexpensive component. Thermo the stir channels and manifolds; plastic materials have a long life and the present design 55 FIG. 8 is a perspective view, with parts removed, of permits easy repair or replacement of any individual a comer of the solar collector; and component parts. The collector panel is resistant to FIG. 9 is an electrical schematic diagram of the con scale buildup, freezing of the media (without the addi trol circuitry for the heating and cooling system. tion of antifreeze for water) and damage from sunlight, heat, hail and wind, and other impacting forces. The 60 solar panel has a self-draining feature and can be DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT mounted either flat, sloping in a vertical direction, or With reference to the figures, wherein like numerals sloping in a horizontal direction. Because of its design indicate like elements throughout the several views, a and the use of thermoplastic materials, the present solar heating and cooling system, and its components parts, collector panel is very light weight, yet is rigid enough 65 are illustrated in detail. As noted previously, the pres to withstand substantial punishment. ently preferred embodiment of the invention uses water According to a preferred embodiment of the present as the primary media to transfer heat between the vari invention, the solar heating and cooling system includes ous components of the system. 4,129,177 56 With reference to FIG. 1, the solar heating and cool through an inlet pipe 66 and a normally open, manually ing system in the present invention comprises a first operated isolation valve 68 to the discharge side of group of solar collectors 20 connected to a first piping check valve 60, which prevents the direct addition of network 22 and a second group of solar collectors 24 cold water into hot water tank 62. The bidding's cold connected to a second piping network 26. First piping S water pressure provides sufficient pressure in the build network 22 interconnects the first group of solar collec ing's hot water system. During periods of non-use, the tors 20 with a first thermal energy storage reservoir 28. temperature is maintained in the hot water tank by the Similarly, second piping network 26 interconnects the aforedescribed circulation through second heat ex second group of solar collectors 24 with a second ther changer 34. Electric auxiliary heaters 70 can be installed mal energy storage energy reservoir 32. A cooling sub- 10 in the top of hot water tank 62 to add, if necessary, system 40 provides chilling of the water media and additional heat which will maintain the hot water at the includes, in the preferred embodiment, a secondary desired temperature. An auxiliary pump can be located piping system 38 for transporting air as a secondary between the outlet of hot water tank 62 and check valve coolant between a cooling unit 40 and the first.group of 60, but should not be needed because of the thermal solar collectors 20 which can be used as a heat ex- IS driving head and siphon effect in the hot water system. changer. Three interconnecting pipes, 42, 44, and 46, Both first piping network 22 and second piping net together with corresponding, manually or electrically operated valves, 43, 45, 47, permit the interconnection work 26 are designed to use commercially available, high temperature plastic piping and valves (CPVC) or isolation of first piping network 22 and second piping which are easily installed without the need for special network 26 between the solar collector supply, the solar 20 tools. Numerous manually operated cut-off valves are collector discharge, and the thermal energy storage strategically located throughout the system to provide tanks 28 and 32, respectively. The first piping network 22 together with first group of solar collectors 20, first reservoir 28, and first heat exchanger 30, provide the principal means for heating and cooling the building air conditioning system in which the present invention is installed. As used in this application, air conditioning means maintain the build 25 isolation of various parts. Each of the water storage bags making up the storage reservoirs have isolation valves 72 and, similarly, each of the solar panels making up the solar collectors 20 and 24 have individual inlet and outlet isolation valves 74. In addition, both first and second piping networks 22 and 26 have a corresponding ing space at the desired temperature. Thus, the present electrically driven, centrifugal hot water pump, 76 and invention provides heat for the building's air handling 30 78 respectively, for circulating the water media through system during cold weather and provides cooling for the respective group of solar collectors at low-flow the building's air handling system in hot weather. Heat rates of from 1 to 5 gallons per minute per collector exchanger 30 is located in the building's air handling panel, the flow being adjusted by throttle valves 80 and system which is disclosed as a forced central-air han 82 respectively and the pressure being measured by dling and distribution system. Heat exchanger 30 com- 35 pressure gauges 84 and 86 respectively located down prises a finned coil of piping 48 located on the suction stream of throttle valves 80 and 82. The suction and side of the building's main air conditioning fan 50. Elec discharge of a third pump 88 can be selectively con trical auxiliary heaters 52 can be located in the dis trolled to be on either the first reservoir side, or the charge of air conditioning fan 50 to supplement, if nec second reservoir side, of interconnecting valves 43 and essary, the heat added to the air conditioning system by 40 47, respectively, by solenoid-operated, suction and dis the solar heating and cooling system or the present charge, three-way valves 94 and 96. Naturally, if inter invention. The building air conditioning system also connecting valves 43 and 47 are open, pump 88 will take includes air supply ducting 54 and air conditioning suction from, and discharge to, both storage reservoirs return ducting 56. 28 and 32. The secondary piping network 26 together with sec- 45 Make-up water for reservoirs 28 and 32 is obtained ond group of solar collectors 24, second reservoir 32, from a water make-up line 98 from the cold water inlet and second heat exchanger 34 are principally used to pipe 66 at a location upstream of isolation valve 68. provide the building's hot water and, when intercon Make-up line 98 has a manually operated isolation valve nected to the first piping network in a special mode 100 and a solenoid-operated isolation valve 102 which described hereinbelow, provide space heating for the 50 permits automatic supply of make-up water to the sec building when the first piping network is lined up in the ond piping networks 26 and to the first piping network cooling mode of operation. Heat exchanger 34 com 22 when valve 43 is open. Make-up water is first sent prises, essentially, copper piping 58 configured in a through the solar collectors before being added to the serpentine pattern and mounted against the side of sec reservoirs to limit unnecessary temperature variations ond reservoir 32. The low side of piping 58 is connected 55 of the stored water media. Should the pressure in the to the bottom end connection of the hot water tank operating solar collectors approach dangerous levels, through a check valve 60. The other end of copper for example by the water overheating in the solar col piping 58 is connected to the normal cold water inlet of lectors, a low pressure relief valve 106 will automati a standard hot water tank 62. Water will flow as a result cally be opened, thereby preventing damage to the solar of a thermal driving head from the bottom of hot water 60 collectors or to the reservoirs. Relief valve 106 is con tank 62 where the water is the coldest and densest, to nected to the second solar collector outlet side of inter the low side of copper piping 58. Water will then flow connecting valve 45 because, as explained below, sec upwardly through the copper piping, pick up heat from ond solar collectors 24 are always lined up to produce reservoir 32 and become less dense, and, finally, flow heat. Pressure reliefofall solar collectors and reservoirs into the top of hot water tank 62. Hot water is drawn off 65 is accomplished during winter months since valve 45 is the top of hot water tank 62 through an outlet 64 to open and all collectors are lined up to produce heat. A supply the building's hot water needs. Make-up water pressure gauge 108 can be used to monitor the pressure from the building's cold water supply is provided just upstream of relief valve 106. , 4.129.177 78 The thermal energy storage reservoirs 28 and 32 are embodiment, the first group of solar collectors 20 is each comprised of a plurality of individual water stor used as the secondary heat exchanger during summer age bags 120 as shown in FIG. 2. Each storage bag 120 months and when so used, the sun is blocked out with a is comprised of flexible, high temperature thermoplastic reflective insulated cover 152, installed over each of the sheets 122, each sheet preferably having a minimum 5 individual collector panels. In a presently preferred thickness of IS mils. The seams of sheets 122 can be embodiment of the invention, cooling subsystems 40 either heat bonded or welded together using conven chills and circulates chilled air between the inflatable tional heat welding techniques or can be bonded to top cover 204 and the individual solar absorbers 206 of gether with a solvent. In any event, storage bag 120 solar collector 20, while water is pumped through the when filled with water must be able to withstand static 10 solar absorber 206 by pump 76. water pressure and residual steam pressure at an operat In the presently preferred embodiment of the inven ing temperature of 180 F. during normal use and up to tion, cooling unit 40 is comprised of a rotary vaned air 212 F. for intermittent short periods. Since storage compressor 154, a cooling fan 156, and a conventional bags 120 are completely flexible without a rigid frame, heat exchanger 158. Air compressor 154 can be the they can be installed in existing installations without the IS newly developed "ROVAC" Unit reported in the Au removal of structural walls and floors. Storage bags 120 gust 1973 Popular Science Magazine at page 60 and in are normally sized so that when filled and expanded the December 1970 Popular Science Magazine. The with water the bag will conveniently fit within the word "ROVAC" is an acronym which stands for Ro building framing spaces. The flexibility of storage bags tary Vane Air Cycle. The ROVAC compressor is basi- 120 also eliminates problems encountered from the ex 20 cally a vaned hub rotating within an eliptical housing. pansion of the water as it is heated. A flexible plastic Air, taken in at ambient temperature and pressure, is pipe 124 is permanently attached at one end of storage compressed to about 30 psi, thereby being heated to bag 120 by heat bonding or solvent bonding and is con approximately 250 F., and is discharged to a heat ex nected to an internal extension 126 which extends to the changer which can be a basic "Modine" finned tube oppostie end of storage bag 120. Pipe 124 preferably has 25 heat exchanger with a blower fan. The compressed air a three quarter inch minimum inner diameter and ex is cooled to near ambient temperature in the heat ex tends at least one foot out of storage bag 120. Extension changer and is returned to the opposite side of the com tube 126 is preferably a J-inch diameter CPVC pipe that pressor where it is expanded, thereby returning a large has been inserted through inlet pipe 124 during the portion of the energy of compression to the compressor installation of storage bag 120. A flexible plastic pipe 30 and resulting in cooling the air to 4 F. to 10 F. The 128, which is similar to pipe 124, is located at the same result is a combination of air and ice crystals exiting end as pipe 124 but terminates close to the upper end of from the output port of the compressor. storage bag 120, thereby preventing short circuiting of The chilled air exits from air compressor 154 with the water flow path between the inlet and outlet pipes. sufficient pressure to flow through secondary piping Both inlet and outlet pipes 124 and 128 are preferably 35 systems 38 to the first group of collectors 20. The located at least 2 inches from either the top or bottom of chilled air flows across the clear top 250 of the absorber storage bag 120 and 6 inches from the respective edges as the primary heat exchange media flows through thereof. Located at approximately the center of the top channels 258 of the absorber thereby chilling the water. of storage bag 120 and extending outwardly approxi The air then exits through slotted vent holes in the mately one foot therefrom is a flexible plastic pipe 130. 40 collector frame at the opposite end of the individual Pipe 130 provides for the return of water from the col solar panels. lector panels and pressure venting. Connections to the A solar panel 20 in accordance with the present in system plumbing from pipe 124, pipe 128 and pipe 130 vention is depicted in FIGS. 4 through 8, and is shown can be made using simple plastic or metal hose clamps. in FIG. 4 with cover 152 in place. Cover 152 comprises By combining a number of water storage bags 120, 45 a group of flexible, rigid plastic lock-down brackets 160 the necessary volume of water storage can be obtained, that can extend the entire width of solar panel 20, a the volume of water storage being calculated in a con sheet of thick aluminum film 162, and a block of rigid ventional manner as mentioned above. In one particular foam insulation 164 that is preferably at least 1 inch system, first thermal energy storage reservoir 28 was thick. comprised of six water storage bags 120 and the second 50 Solar panel 20 comprises a frame 230 preferably thermal energy storage reservoir 32 was comprised of molded from a rigid, thermo-plastic foam, an inflatable, two water storage bags 120. In a typical situation, indi channeled top 204 mounted to the frame 230, a multi- vidual water storage bags 120 can be designed to fit channeled absorber cell 206 mounted to frame 230 specific space requirements or fabricated in standard spaced below top 204, upper and lower rigid insulation production sizes. Normally, the water storage bags 120 55 blocks 208 and 210 mounted inside frame 230 below comprising a particular reservoir will be connected absorber cell 206, and a plastic film bottom cover 212 through three manifolds, a solar collector supply mani mounted to the bottom of frame 230 for preventing fold, a solar collector return manifold, and a heat ex entry of moisture into the interior of the assembled changer feed supply and return manifold. Naturally, collector. A thick sheet of aluminum foil 214 covers the should the actual location of any individual water stor 60 upper surface of upper insulation block 208 to reflect age bag 120 be at a distance from the manifolds, further heat back into the water absorber. isolation valves at the location of the storage bag 120 With particular reference to FIGS. 4, 5 and 8, frame can be used. 230 is preferably injection or extrusion molded into With reference to FIG. 3, secondary cooling subsys standard lengths which can then be cut with 45 corners tem 40 is shown in greater detail. Cooling subsystem 40 65 into the desired length and fastened together with cor comprises a cooling unit for chilling a secondary media ner brackets (not shown) to form a hollow rectangular that is to be used to cool the primary media from reser frame. Each frame 230 has a plurality of five longitudi voir 28 in a further heat exchanger. In the preferred nal grooves 218, 220, 222, 224, and 226 extending along 9 4,129,177 10 the length thereof. Each groove is substantially similar In the cooling mode the inflatable top cover 204 can and has a circular cross section, as best seen in FIG. 5. be replaced by a rigid plastic, reflective, insulating Grooves 218, 220, and 222 are located in the upper cover to block out the sun when the solar collector 20 portion on the inside surface of frame 230. Grooves 222, is used as a heat exchanger during the summer months. 224, and 226 are respectively used to mount the edges of 5 Absorber cell 206, similar to top 204, is comprised of absorber cell 206, bottom cover 212, and top 204 with conventional serrated or splined tubular plastic lock-in strips 228. Typical diameters of lock-in strips 228 are a top sheet 250 and a bottom sheet 252 that are heat welded together along the peripheries thereofand along a plurality of parallel seams 254, thereby resulting in a from } inch to 3/16 inch. Grooves 218 and 220 can be fluid tight border 256 and a plurality of parallel fluid used to mount rigid plastic or glass covers in lieu of 1 channels 258. Seams 254 terminate at a point spaced cover 206. from border 256 at each end of absorber cell 206, The periphery of collector panel frame 230 is shaped thereby resulting in an inlet manifold 260 and an outlet to provide a large outer, centrally located notch or manifold 262. Top sheet 250 is clear thermoplastic mate cutout portion and a large inner, lower notch or cutout rial preferably comprised of a polyether base polyure portion, both notches extending the entire length and 15 thane elastomer and has a preferred thickness of at least width of panel 230. Notches 267 provide an upper sur 6 mils. Bottom sheet 252 is similar to top sheet 250, face to permit attachment of panel cover lock down except that it is colored black. Borders 256 at each end strips 160 (as shown in FIG. 4) and a lower surface to of absorber cell 206 are tapered toward opposite sides permit engagement of a roof mounting, hold-down thereby providing a tapered manifold for automatic bracket 234 (also shown in FIG. 4). Inner notch 268 is 20 drainage of water cell 206 when the water pumps are used to hold insulation blocks 208 and 210 in place. not operating. A flexible, thermoplastic hollow inlet A particular preferred embodiment of frame 230 uti lizes a structural, theremo-plastic polyester foam such as "CELANEX" 3300 or 3310 encased by a solid skin having a typical thickness of 0.03 to 0.08 inches. A typical frame panel has a height of 3$ inches and overall width of j inch. Such a panel has a high tensile strength, 2J tube 264 and a flexible thermoplastic hollow outlet tube 266 are mounted in a water tight seal between top and bottom sheets 250 and 252 at the tapered ends of border 256 in fluid communication with inlet and outlet mani folds 260 and 262, respectively. When the suns rays strike absorber cell 206, the clear top sheet 250 permits the rays, which are infrared, to a weather resistance of from 10 to 20 years, an ultravio penetrate through the media contained therein and let resistance of from 10 to 20 years, a useful tempera- 3Q strike the black surface ofbottom sheet 253 where maxi Hire range for continuous use of from --40 F. to +285 mum heat absorption takes place. Reflected radiation F. (with short-term temperature excursions from --65' from bottom sheet 252, in the form of long wave radia F. up to 420 F.) a low moisture absorption, and excel tion, passes back through the media and is trapped by lent dimensional stability, abrasion resistance, and sol top sheet 250 which maximizes collection of the suns vent resistance. Although the frame can have any par- 35 heat energy. In addition, the cylindrical top and bottom ticular color, for outdoor continuous exposure it is ad part ofchannels 258 has a focusing effect on the infrared vantageous is frame 230 is colored black. The top cover 204 of solar panel 20 is shown in FIGS. and reflected radiation which further increases the overall efficiency-of absorber cell 206. 4, 5, and 7 and is comprised of upper and lower clear As mentioned above, located beneath absorber cell plastic sheets indicated at 236 and 238 of FIG. 5, which 40 206 are insulation blocks 208 and 210 covered by alumi are heat-welded together so as to form a plurality of num foil 214. Insulation blocks 208 and 210 are prefera spaced apart, parallel, hollow channels 240 in the inte bly comprised on 1 inch thick rigid foam insulation rior portion thereof and a wide circumferential border material and 1 inch thick firm fiberglass material which 242 for mounting to frame 230 to provide an airtight meet local fire rating regulations. Aluminum foil 214 seal. The seams between channels 240 preferably do not 45 can be either rested on top of upper insulation block 208 extend completely to border 242 so that upper and or bonded thereto, and further increases the efficiency lower manifolds 244 and 246 are provided. A hollow of solar panel 20 by reflecting rear side heat loses back plastic tube 248, FIG. 7, is heat welded between upper to absorber cell 206. The rigid insulation blocks not and lower sheets 236 and 238 in fluid communication only provide adequate insulation for solar panel 20, but with lower manifold 246 and provides a means for in- 50 further increase the rigidity of frame 230. flating top 204. The air channels 240 should preferably have a minimum width of 1 inch and be separated by an Because of the unique design, solar panel 20 can be manufactured and shipped in individual components eighth of an inch seam. As mentioned above, top 204 is and easily assembled by the installer. After the individ mounted to frame 230 in groove 226 along the edges ual frame panels 230 are cut to the desired length, they thereof at border 242. 55 are bonded together with conventional solvent glue to After top 204 is installed on assembled collector form the frame assembly. Comer braces can then be frame 230 and is substantially inflated, channels 240 installed if desired. After upper and lower insulation expand and create a tension between top 204 and frame blocks 208 and 210 are cut to size and installed inside the 230, thereby providing rigidity and strength for solar frame assembly, absorber cell 206 is installed by wrap panel 20. When inflated, channels 240 have the affect of 60 ping border 256 around a lock-in strip 228 and inserting a double cover and the rounded surfaces not only re the combination into channel 222. Top 204 is installed duce the incident angle between solar panel 20 and the by similarly wrapping border 242 around a lock in strip sun from sunrise to sunset, but also focus the suns rays 228 and inserting the combination into channel 226. as a result of the lens shape, which thus further increases Once collector panel 20 is set up, its operation is the overall efficiency of panel 20. In addition, the air 65 completely automatic. The sun heats up the media flow inside channels 240 acts as an insulation barrier and ing through absorber cell 206 as follows. Short wave permits a build up of great temperatures inside solar length radiation (0.3 to 3 micron wavelength) passes panel 20. through both clear plastic layers of top 204, which tend < 4,129,177 11 12 to focus the light onto absorber cell 206. Short-wave makeup water until the high water level limit switch is raidation then passes through the clear plastic layer of opened. Feed pump 88 provides either hot or chilled top sheet 250 of absorber cell 206 and is partially ab water to the first heat exchanger 30 based on demand by sorbed (as heat) by the media during the initial travel of the building thermostat when switch S-5 is in the the radiation through the media to the black bottom 5 AUTO position. Fuses can be provided to protect the sheet 252 of absorber cell 206. The black surface col control circuits. lects the heat of the short waves and retransmits heat Switch S-6 selects the mode of operation and is pref energy as long waves back through the media where erably a three-pole, double-throw switch. During the more of the heat is absorbed. These long waves strike SUMMER mode of opeation, pumps 76 and 78 are the clear top sheet 250 and are reflected back through 10 electrically isolated from one another. This switch also the media to the black bottom sheet 252. This reflecting supplies power to normally open (NO) set of contacts action continues (commonly referred to as the green on heat relay. The other side of the contacts of relay house effect, which in this case, is created by multiple Ry-7 is connected to the solenoids of suction and dis passes of the short and long waves within the transfer charge three way valves 94 and 96. Thus, hot water can media) until the maximum heat is absorbed by the me 15 be drawn from second reservoir 32 during cold nights dia. As can be seen from the above, the maximum when heat is required, while switch S-6 is in the SUM amount of heat is thereby transferred to the media dur MER position. ing its travel from the inlet tube 264 to the outlet tube The AUTO-READY relay Ry-6 is controlled by an 266, which increases overall collector efficiency. external differential temperature sensor control unit The heat energy absorbed by the black bottom sheet 20 which monitors the temperature difference between the 252 from the short waves is also transferred to the heat solar collectors and the hot water stored in the reser exchange media by conduction. Radiant heat emitted voirs. When the temperature of the water in the collec from the backside of bottom sheet 252 is deterred from tors rises above the temperature of the water stored in entering the insulation material by aluminum foil 214. the reservoirs by a predetermined amount (normally Since aluminum has a low absorption and a high reflec 25 from 10 to 15 F. ), relay Ry-6 is energized and applies tance at all wavelengths, most of this heat energy is power through the selected (by switch S-7) high tem reflected back to the absorber. Thus, aluminum foil 214 perature limit switch to switch S-6. This permits pump helps to increase overall collector efficiency. 78 to be energized, provided switch S-l is in the AUTO Insulation blocks 208 and 210 further reduce heat position. Pump 76 will also be energized if switch S-2 is losses from the back of the solar panel. Edge losses are 30 in the AUTO position and switch S-6 is in the WIN minimized by the foam core construction of frame 230 TER mode. When the collector temperature drops to and the plastic-to-plastic construction design techniques within a predetermined differential temperature (ap used throughout the solar panel 20. proximately 5 F. ) of the temperature of the water in Outgassing exhibited by insulation (due to elevated the thermal energy storage reservoirs, relay Ry-6 is temperatures) is virtually eliminated from entering the 35 deenergized and the pumps are deenergized. area between top 204 and the absorber cell 206 by the Although the present invention has been described aforedescribed mounting methods used between frame hereinabove in a presently preferred embodiment, mod 230 and absorber cell 206. ifications within the scope and spirit of the invention FIG. 9 is illustrated in the electrical control circuits will be evident to one of ordinary skill in the art. Thus, for the system described hereinabove. A photo cell 40 for example, although absorber cell 206 has been de switch PC-1 is mounted in group 1 collectors 20 to picted as having two headers and a plurality of parallel ensure that pump 76 will not be operated in the cooling channels, it is apparent that a single serpentine channel mode during daylight hours if the cover 152 is not in can be used, if a smaller volume of hotter media is de stalled. When switch S-l is placed in the AUTO posi sired. It is also apparent that water or air can be used as tion, operation of second pump 78 is possible only when 45 the primary media or that water and a conventional auto-ready relay RY-6 is energized and the stored water chill water system can be used as the secondary coolant temperature is below the selected setting by switch S-7. and cooling unit. The frame design allows use of rigid Alternatively, manual operation of second pump 78 can covers (glass or plastic) 269 to be used in lieu of top be accomplished by placing switch S-l in the manual cover 204 or absorbers such as flat plate metal or roll position to operate the pump or in the OFF position to 50 bond aluminum can be used in lieu of absorber 206. manually turn off the pump. Control of first pump 76 is I claim: identical to that of second pump 78 when SUMMER/- 1. A solar heating and cooling system comprising: WINTER SELECTOR switch S-6 is in the WINTER a. a primary piping system for containing and pump position. When switch S-6 is in the SUMMER position, ing a primary heat exchange media, the system the operation of pump 76 when selector switch S-2 is in 55 including a first piping network and a first pump the AUTO position is determined by the satisfaction of therefor, a second piping network and a second the following conditions. A thermostat T-l determines pump therefor, and first valve means for selectively that there is a requirement for water chilling, photo cell interconnecting said first and second piping net PC-1 indicates that it is either night or that cover 152 is works; in place, and the building thermostat calls for cooling or 60 b. a first primary heat exchanger in heat exchange the auto-ready relay RY-6 is de-energized. When media relationship with the primary media transmitted chilling is required, pump 76 is energized and compres through said first piping network; sor 154 is energized if switch S-4 is in the AUTO posi c. a second primary heat exchanger in heat exchange tion. The cooling operation will continue until thermo relationship with the primary media transmitted stat T-l is satisfied. 65 through said second piping network; Improper conditions can also be indicated on a con d. a first media storage reservoir connected to said trol panel such as a low water media level which will first piping network and isolatable from said sec energize solenoid operated isolation valve 102 to supply ond piping network; 4,129,17? 13 14 e. a second media storage reservoir connected to said first and second reservoirs each comprise a plurality of second piping network and isolatable from said flexible liquid tight bags installable in the floors, ceil first piping network; ings, walls and the like, of the building in liquid commu f. a first solar heat collector means thermally coupled nication with each other. in heat exchange relationship to said first piping: 5 8. A solar heating and cooling system as claimed in network such that heat from the sum can be trans claim 4 wherein said building hot water system com ferred to the primary media therein; prises a hot water tank, and wherein said second pri g. a cooling subsystem for chilling a secondary media, mary heat exchanger comprises a serpentine pipe in said cooling subsystem including a cooling unit for conductive heat exchange relationship with said second cooling the secondary media, a secondary piping 10 reservoir, and piping means connecting the top of said system connected to said cooling unit, a secondary serpentine pipe to the top of said hot water tank and heat exchanger haying a primary section connect connecting the bottom of said serpentine pipe to the able to said first piping network and a secondary bottom of said hot water tank and including a one way section in heat exchange relationship to. said sec valve preventing water flowing into the bottom of said ondary piping system, and means for causing the 15 hot water tank. secondary coolant to flow through said second 9. A solar heating and cooling system as claimed in piping system from said cooling unit to and claim 4 wherein said first and second solar heat collec through said secondary section of said heat ex tor means each comprises a plurality of interconnected changer; and solar panels, each solar panel comprising: h. a second solar heat collector means thermally cou 20 a frame; pled in heat exchange relationship to said second b. a lenticulated top transparent to solar radiation piping network such that heat from the sun can be sealingly mounted above the absorber cell in said transferred to the primary media therein. frame; 2. A solar heat and cooling system as claimed in claim c. an absorber cell mounted to said frame spaced I and further including a space heating and cooling 25 below said top and comprised of an upper sheet system for heating and cooling a building and having a transparent to solar radiation and a lower sheet circulating fluid distributable through the building; and having a black color for absorbing solar radiation, a hot water system for supplying the building with hot said upper and lower sheets sealingly bounded water; said tint primary heat exchanger acting to selec together along the peripheries thereof and along a tively heat and cool said building Circulating fluid and 30 plurality of inner seams so as to produce an least said second primary heat exchanger acting to heat the one flow channel therethrough, and further com water in said hot water system. prising an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe in fluid 3. A solar heating and cooling system as claimed in communication with the interior of said absorber claim 2 and further including means for selectively cell and with the exterior of said solar panel; preventing the heating of the media in said first solar 35 d. a reflective member mounted in said frame and heat collector means. 4. A solar heating and cooling system as claimed in spaced below said absorber cell; e. a rigid insulation material mounted in said frame claim 3, wherein the heat preventing means comprises below said reflective member spaced below said an opaque, removable cover for covering and occluding absorber cell; and said first solar heat collector means from irradiation by 40 f. a bottom cover sealingly mounted to cover the the sun, and wherein said secondary cooling system bottom of said frame. comprises said first solar heat collector means, the pri 10. A solar heating and cooling system as claimed in mary media being cooled by the secondary media flow claim 9 wherein said top comprises an upper sheet and ing through said first solar heat collector means. a lower sheet sealingly bound together along the pe 5. A solar heating and cooling system as claimed in 45 ripheries thereof and along a plurality of parallel inner claim 4 wherein said primary piping system further seams so as to produce at least one end header and a includes a third piping network connected to said first plurality ofparallel channels, and comprises a means for thermal energy storage reservoir and a third pump inflating said top, said top when inflated, producing a therefor, and second valve means for selectively con plurality of spaced apart lenticular channels. necting said third piping network to said first or second 50 11. A solar heating and cooling system as claimed in piping networks so that said third pump can selectively claim 9 wherein said absorber cell is mounted to said pump primary media from said first or second reservoir; frame only along the peripheries of the absorber thereof and wherein said first valve means can interconnect said and said solar panel further includes rigid insulation first and second piping networks such that said third means mounted in said frame between said reflective pump can pump primary medial from and to both first 55 member and said bottom cover. and second reservoirs. 12. A solar heating and cooling system as claimed in 6. A solar heating and cooling system as claimed in claim 9 wherein said frame is comprised of rigid, light claim 4 wherein the primary media is a liquid and the weight plastic material; and said top, and absorber cell secondary media is air which is taken from the environ and bottom cover are comprised of sheets of flexible, ment at ambient conditions, is cooled, and is discharged 60 thermo-plastic material; wherein said solar panel further through the solar collector back to the environment comprises at least one rigid insulation block engaging from said first solar heat collector means. said frame along the inner sides thereof and located 7. A solar heating and cooling system as claimed in claim 4 wherein the primary media is a liquid and said between said reflecti*ve m* em* be*r and said bottom cover. 65