Classifications

• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
  • F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
  • F28F3/00—Plate-like or laminated elements; Assemblies of plate-like or laminated elements
  • F28F3/12—Elements constructed in the shape of a hollow panel, e.g. with channels
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
  • F24S10/00—Solar heat collectors using working fluids
  • F24S10/40—Solar heat collectors using working fluids in absorbing elements surrounded by transparent enclosures, e.g. evacuated solar collectors
  • F24S10/45—Solar heat collectors using working fluids in absorbing elements surrounded by transparent enclosures, e.g. evacuated solar collectors the enclosure being cylindrical
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
  • F24S10/00—Solar heat collectors using working fluids
  • F24S10/90—Solar heat collectors using working fluids using internal thermosiphonic circulation
  • F24S10/95—Solar heat collectors using working fluids using internal thermosiphonic circulation having evaporator sections and condenser sections, e.g. heat pipes
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
  • F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
  • F24S25/30—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules using elongate rigid mounting elements extending substantially along the supporting surface, e.g. for covering buildings with solar heat collectors
  • F24S25/33—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules using elongate rigid mounting elements extending substantially along the supporting surface, e.g. for covering buildings with solar heat collectors forming substantially planar assemblies, e.g. of coplanar or stacked profiles
  • F24S25/35—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules using elongate rigid mounting elements extending substantially along the supporting surface, e.g. for covering buildings with solar heat collectors forming substantially planar assemblies, e.g. of coplanar or stacked profiles by means of profiles with a cross-section defining separate supporting portions for adjacent modules
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
  • H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
  • H02S40/00—Components or accessories in combination with PV modules, not provided for in groups H02S10/00 - H02S30/00
  • H02S40/40—Thermal components
  • H02S40/44—Means to utilise heat energy, e.g. hybrid systems producing warm water and electricity at the same time
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
  • F24S20/00—Solar heat collectors specially adapted for particular uses or environments
  • F24S2020/10—Solar modules layout; Modular arrangements
  • F24S2020/17—Arrangements of solar thermal modules combined with solar PV modules
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
  • F24S23/00—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors
  • F24S23/70—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors
  • F24S23/80—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors having discontinuous faces
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
  • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
  • Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
  • Y02E10/44—Heat exchange systems
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
  • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
  • Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
  • Y02E10/47—Mountings or tracking
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
  • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
  • Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
  • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
  • Y02E10/60—Thermal-PV hybrids

Definitions

• the invention regards a panel for converting the energy irradiated by the sun in thermal energy, particularly as hot water, and in electric energy.
• Thermal solar panels also called thermal solar collectors, suitable for being exposed directly to the solar light for converting in thermal energy the energy received from the sun, have been known.
• the thermal solar panels are commonly used for heating water which can be sent to a boiler or more generally to one or more points of use.
• photovoltaic panels have been known, also said photovoltaic collectors, comprising a plurality of photovoltaic cells which convert the energy irradiated by the sun in electric energy taking benefit from the photovoltaic effect.
• the efficiency of the photovoltaic panels significantly decreases as the temperature of the photovoltaic cells which form them increases. Therefore it was provided to cool the photovoltaic cells using a suitable heat exchanger, placed under the same cells. The heat so removed from the photovoltaic cells can be used for heating water. In this way, have been obtained panels, called PVT collectors or hybrid solar panels, able to convert the solar energy both in electric energy and in thermal energy.
• the PVT collectors especially if they are of the non-glazed type, that is if they lack a glass screen which protects the photovoltaic cells, have the drawback of easily reaching a stagnation condition, particularly in winter time or in days of unfavourable meteorological conditions, when the ambient temperature is low and the solar radiation is scarce. In the stagnation condition, the photovoltaic cells do not get warm and producing hot water is not possible, so that the thermal efficiency of the PVT collector is practically of no value.
• the set shaped by the thermal solar panel and by the hybrid solar panel would have significant dimensions, which would not allow the installation thereof on roofs having a limited surface.
• the solution obtained placing side by side two distinct panels, or rather a thermal solar panel and a hybrid solar panel, could be aesthetically unpleasant. Disclosure
• the scope of the present invention is that of solving the cited drawbacks, devising a panel for converting solar energy which allows to obtain both thermal energy and electric energy in every period of the year, and in particular in winter time.
• Another scope is that of providing an apparatus able to convert solar energy both in thermal energy and in electric energy, which is simple to install and control.
• a further scope is that of providing an apparatus able to convert solar energy both in thermal energy and in electric energy, which has limited dimensions.
• Still another object is that of providing an apparatus able to convert solar energy both in thermal energy and in electric energy, which is aesthetically pleasant.
• the panel for converting solar energy comprises a photovoltaic conversion device for converting solar energy in electric energy and a thermal conversion device for converting solar energy in thermal energy, said thermal conversion device comprising at least one evacuated tube collector.
• the panel fu rther com prises su pport means for su pporting the photovoltaic conversion device and the thermal conversion device so that the photovoltaic conversion device and the thermal conversion device can be irradiated simultaneously by the solar light.
• a control unit is provided in order to control both the photovoltaic conversion device and the thermal conversion device. This renders the panel according to the invention particularly simple to manage.
• the thermal conversion device comprises a thermal solar collector.
• the photovoltaic conversion device comprises a PVT collector or hybrid solar panel. This allows to increase the efficiency of the conversion of solar energy in electric energy.
• the PVT collector or hybrid solar panel can comprise a heat exchanger for cooling a plurality of photovoltaic cells included in the PVT or hybrid collector.
• the heat exchanger is in fluid communication with a hydraulic circuit associated with the thermal conversion device, in such a way that a fluid preheated in the heat exchanger can be further heated by the thermal conversion device.
• a fluid preheated in the heat exchanger can be further heated by the thermal conversion device.
• the thermal conversion device can comprise a first thermal conversion element positioned at one side of the photovoltaic conversion device and a second thermal conversion device positioned at another side of the photovoltaic conversion device. This allows to obtain a panel having a particularly compact structure.
• the photovoltaic conversion device can have a quadrangular plan shape, for example sq uare or rectangu lar, the side near which is arranged the first thermal conversion element being opposite the other side near which is arranged the second thermal conversion element.
• a shape of this type makes the panel particularly adapted for being mounted also on roofs of reduced dimensions. It is further possible, if the dimensions of the roof allow it, to place more panels according to the invention beside each other, so as to increase the quantity of electric energy and of thermal energy obtained.
• the support means further to supporting the photovoltaic conversion device and the thermal conversion device, allow to fix the panel to a roof or to another support structure.
• the support means can further house one or more mirrors su itable for concentrating the solar light towards the thermal conversion device. So the support means allow to perform numerous functions with a reduced number of components, which makes the panel according to the invention particularly simple.
• figure 1 is a perspective and schematic view showing a panel for converting solar energy in thermal and electric energy
• figure 2 is a perspective and schematic view showing a support element of the panel of figure 1 ;
• figure 3 is a perspective, schematic and increased view of a detail of the panel of figure 1 , taken in the position indicated by the arrow A of figure 1 ;
• figure 4 is a perspective, schematic and increased view of a detail of the panel of figure 1 , taken in the position indicated by the arrow B of figure 1 ;
• figure 5 is an increased perspective view, showing a thermal exchange element of the panel of figure 1 ;
• figure 6 is a lateral view showing a thermal exchange element like the one of figure 5, according to an alternative version
• figure 7 is a top view of the thermal exchange element of figure 6;
• figure 8 is a perspective, schematic and increased view, showing a detail of the panel of figure 1 ;
• figure 9 is an exploded view showing an heat exchanger of the panel of figure 1 ;
• figure 10 is a diagram which shows the flow of a fluid in the panel of figure 1 ;
• figure 1 1 is a diagram which shows various embodiments of the flow of the fluid in the panel
• figure 12 is a perspective view of a different embodiment of the panel for converting solar energy according to the present invention.
• figure 13 is a section view of means for supporting a thermal exchange element of the panel of figure 12;
• FIG. 14 figures 14, 15 and 16 are respectively a perspective view of components of the panel of figure 12.
• Figure 1 shows a panel 1 for converting solar energy in other forms of energy.
• the panel 1 comprises a photovoltaic conversion device 2 suitable for converting the solar energy in electric energy.
• the photovoltaic conversion device 2 comprises a plurality of photovoltaic cells 200 of the known type, which take benefit of the photovoltaic effect for converting the energy irradiated by the sun in electric energy.
• the photovoltaic cells can be placed beside each other such as to define a plate 3, for example having a flat shape.
• the panel 1 further comprises a thermal conversion device for converting the solar energy in thermal energy, which can be used for example for heating water that can be successively sent to one or more points of use.
• the thermal conversion device comprises a first thermal conversion element 4 and a second thermal conversion element 5, but it is also possible to provide a number of thermal conversion elements different from two, for example a single thermal conversion element or three or more thermal conversion elements.
• the first thermal conversion element 4 and the second thermal conversion element 5 are arranged along two opposite sides of the photovoltaic conversion device 2.
• the photovoltaic device 2 is interposed between the first thermal conversion element 4 and the second thermal conversion element 5.
• the thermal conversion device is preferably of the evacuated tube type, as it will be better described later on.
• Each thermal conversion element 4, 5 can have a lengthened shape and can in particular be shaped as a tube.
• the panel 1 further comprises support means suitable for supporting simultaneously the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and the thermal devices 4, 5.
• the support means can comprise a first support element 6 suitable for supporting the first thermal conversion element 4 and a peripheral region of the photovoltaic conversion device 2.
• the support means can further comprise a second support element 7 suitable for supporting the second thermal conversion element 5 and a further peripheral region of the photovoltaic conversion device 2.
• the support means 6, 7 is realized in such a way that the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and the thermal conversion device 4, 5 can be simultaneously irradiated by the solar light, that is, both of them can be simultaneously exposed to the sun. In this way, the panel 1 can provide simultaneously electric energy and thermal energy.
• the support means 6, 7 therefore allows to integrate in a single panel 1 both the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and the thermal conversion device 4 , 5.
• the first support element 6 and the second support element 7 can each comprise a section bar 8, for example made of aluminium.
• the section bar 8 can comprise a base 9 from which depart two lateral walls 10.
• the lateral walls 10 extend transversally, in particular perpendicularly, with respect to the base 9.
• the lateral walls 10 can be parallel to each other.
• a seat 1 1 shaped as a kind of groove, suitable for receiving a thermal conversion element.
• an appendage 12 suitable for supporting the photovoltaic conversion device 2.
• the appendage 12 can be shaped as a shelf whereon a portion of the photovoltaic conversion device 2 can be supported.
• the appendage 12 can be perpendicular to the lateral wall 10 from which it projects.
• two section bars 8 can be positioned in a way as to receive supporting two opposite peripheral regions of the photovoltaic conversion device 2.
• Each of the above said peripheral regions can be supported at an appendage 12 and possibly fixed thereto through suitable fixing means.
• two section bars 8 can receive supporting two parallel sides of the photovoltaic conversion device 2.
• the thermal conversion devices can instead be housed each in one seat 1 1 of a section bar 8. In this way it is possible to obtain the configuration shown in figure 1 , wherein the photovoltaic conversion device 2 is interposed between both thermal conversion elements 4, 5.
• the section bars 8 it is also possible to fix the panel 1 to the roof or more in general to the support structure designed to support the panel 1. This can be provided by means of screws, rivets, or other suitable fixing elements.
• the photovoltaic conversion device 2 can comprise a PVT collector or hybrid solar panel, that is a collector able to convert the solar energy both in electric energy and in thermal energy. I n this case, in proximity of the plate 3 defined by the photovoltaic cells, is provided a heat exchanger 13 suitable for cooling the photovoltaic cells when, because of the solar radiation, their temperature become excessive.
• the heat exchanger 13 circulates a fluid, for example at the liquid state, which can be heated thanks to the heat removed from the photovoltaic cells.
• the fluid circulating in the heat exchanger 13 can be water which, after being heated, is directly sent to the points of use, or can be an auxiliary fluid suitable for heating successively the water in a further heat exchanger.
• the heat exchanger 13 can be arranged underneath the plate 3 defined by the photovoltaic cells.
• the heat exchanger 13 can be directly supported on the section bar 8, particularly on the appendage 12.
• the heat exchanger 13 can comprise a peripheral sheet 14 and a further peripheral sheet 15, between which is interposed a central sheet 16.
• a central sheet 16 On the central sheet 16 is obtained a plurality of passages 17, passing through the thickness of the central sheet 16.
• the passages 17 can be obtained on the central sheet 1 for example through laser cut.
• the passages 17 are communicating to one another and act as precursors of a thermal exchange conduit, defining a path for the fluid suitable to circulate in the heat exchanger 13.
• the central sheet 1 6 is made integral to the peripheral sheet 14 and to the further peripheral sheet 15, for example through an adhesive substance such as epoxydic resin, thus defining a sheet-shape body 20 of the heat exchanger 13.
• the passages 17 obtained in the central sheet 16 are laterally closed by the peripheral sheet 14 and by the further peripheral sheet 15 and define the thermal exchange conduit.
• the fluid can enter the thermal exchange conduit through an inlet hole 18, obtained for example in the peripheral sheet 14, and exit from the thermal exchange conduit through an outlet hole 19. Also the outlet hole 19 can be obtained in the peripheral sheet 14.
• the sheets 14, 1 5, 1 6 can be made of metallic material, for example aluminium.
• the sheet-shape body 20 can be united to the plate 3 defined by the photovoltaic cells through heat-conducting adhesive means, such as for example bi-adhesive aluminium. In this way it is possible to optimize the heat passage from the photovoltaic cells to the fluid circulating in the heat exchanger 13.
• the thermal conversion device is preferably of the evacuated tube type.
• the evacuated tube thermal conversion elements 4, 5 can each comprise an internal tube and an external tube coaxial and sealed to each other, both made of a material substantially transparent to the solar light, as an example glass. Between the internal tube and the external tube is defined a gap wherein vacuum is created inside the gap.
• the internal tube can be covered with a selective paint able to absorb the solar light.
• a heating tube of the type for example known as "heat pipe", or that is a closed tube, made for example of copper, which contains a work fluid.
• the heating tube is thermally insulated from the external environment thanks to the gap defined between the glass tubes wherein vacuum has been created.
• the heating tube be constituted by a U-shaped copper tube.
• the heating tu be can be directly connected to the heat exchanger.
• the evacuated tube thermal conversion elements 4, 5 can provide a single glass tube axially crossed by the heating tube.
• the glass tube is closed at its ends and vacuum is made inside it.
• the heating tube can be of the so- called "heat pipe” type or of a different type, for example a U-shaped copper tube.
• an end 21 of the heating tube exits from the external tube and is used to remove heat from the work fluid circulating in the heating tube.
• the end 21 is also said bulb of the heating tube or "heat pipe”.
• a further end of the heating tube is instead contained inside the external tube.
• the end 21 is inserted inside a thermal exchange element 23, which has been removed from Figure 1 for clarity of representation, but it is shown increased in Figure 5.
• the thermal exchange element 23 has the function of setting the heating tube in thermal communication with a fluid that the thermal conversion device allows to heat. Such a fluid circulates inside a hydraulic circuit associated with the thermal conversion device.
• the hydraulic circuit comprises a conduit 26, shown in Figure 8.
• the fluid circulating in the hydraulic circuit can be directly the water to be sent to the point of use, or an auxiliary fluid which will successively transfer heat to the water to be sent to the point of use.
• the thermal exchange element 23 is made of a material having a good thermal conductivity, for example copper.
• the thermal exchange element 23 has the shape of a hollow body and is provided with a hole 24 wherein the end 21 can be received.
• the hole 24 can have an internal diameter equal to the external diameter of the end 21 , so that the end 21 is placed in contact with the material constituting the thermal exchange element 23, which aids the passage of heat from the end 21 to the thermal exchange element 23.
• the hole 24 can be arranged axially.
• the thermal exchange element 23 is further provided with a further hole or opening 25 inside which a conduit 26 can be received, as shown in Figure 8.
• the opening 25 can be arranged transversely with respect to the hole 24. I n the represented example, the opening 25 is shaped as a hole obtained in radial position on the body of the thermal exchange element 23.
• the opening 25 does not intersect the hole 24.
• the conduit 26 which can be realized with a heat conducting material, particularly copper.
• the conduit 26 can be delimited by a wall having a relatively low thickness, so that the conduit 26 results flexible and can be folded according to a desired geometry.
• the conduit 26 has been folded so as to assume a "U"-like shape. Thanks to its flexible configuration, the conduit 26 can be folded in a way as to be contained inside the bulk of the panel 1 , that is inside the profile defined by the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and by the support elements 6, 7 which support the thermal conversion element 4, 5. This confers to the panel 1 a particularly compact structure which is very useful in the case that one desires to mount more panels 1 beside one another.
• each thermal conversion element 4, 5 is preferably positioned so that the end 21 is oriented upwards.
• the energy irradiated by the sun heats the work fluid contained inside the heating tube, which passes at least partly at the vapour state.
• the so generated vapour tends to displace upwards, or rather towards the end 21 , inside the heating tube, as it is lighter than the fraction of work fluid that is still at the liquid state.
• the vapour transfers heat to the fluid circulating in the conduit 26 and cools down , returning again to the liquid state. Because of its relatively high density, the liquid goes back towards the lower portion of the heating tube. So it is established , inside the heating tube, a circulation of the work fluid which allows to transport the heat coming from all the areas of the heating tube towards the end 21 .
• FIGS. 6 and 7 show a thermal exchange element 123 according to an alternative version.
• the thermal exchange element 123 is made of two parts and comprises a first part 27, having for example a cylindrical shape, wherein it is practiced a hole 124 designed to receive the end 21 .
• a recess 29 shaped in a way as to couple, in a shape coupling, with a portion of the conduit 26. If the conduit 26 has a cylindrical shape, the recess 29 can be delimited by a semi-cylinder surface.
• the thermal exchange element 123 further comprises a second part 28 provided with a further recess 30 suitable to face the recess 29 for receiving a further portion of the conduit 26.
• the further recess 30 can be delimited by a surface having a semi-cylinder like shape.
• the first part 27 and the second part 28 are further provided with fixing holes 31 , which can be seen in Figure 7 and schematized with broken lines in Figure 6, suitable for receiving corresponding fixing elements, for example screws, which allow to fix the second part 28 to the first part 27.
• the end 21 is inserted inside the hole 124 practiced in the first part 27.
• the conduit 26 is supported on the recess 29 of the first part 27.
• the second part 28 is brought in contact with the first part 27.
• the recess 29 and the further recess 30 define an opening through which the conduit 26 can be received.
• the second part 28 is fixed to the first part 27 by means of the fixing elements, in such a way that the conduit 26 results locked between the first part 27 and the second part 28.
• the thermal exchange element 123 sh own i n Figu res 6 a nd 7 , bei ng a ble to be decomposed in two parts, enables an easier mounting of the conduit 26 with respect to the version of the thermal exchange element 23 made of a single component shown in Figure 5.
• Figure 4 shows how the end 21 of the heating tube is supported by the corresponding support element 6, 7.
• the end 21 is inserted in a casing 32 suitable for engaging in shape cou pl ing inside the seat 1 1 obtained i n the section bar 8.
• the casing 32 can be dimensioned in a way as to be locked with interference in the seat 1 1 .
• Inside the casing 32 are also received the components associated with the end 21 , that is the thermal exchange element 23 or 123 and a portion of the conduit 26.
• the casing 32 is filled with a thermally insulating substance which minimizes the heat dispersions in the zone wherein the work fluid contained inside the heating tube transfers heat to the fluid circulating in the conduit 26.
• each thermal conversion element 4, 5 can be arranged a mirror 22 having the function of reflecting the solar light and concentrating it towards the thermal conversion element 4, 5.
• each mirror 22 is profiled according to a suitable geometry, for example with a double concavity.
• Each mirror 22 can be received in the seat 1 1 of the section bar 8 which supports the corresponding thermal conversion element 4, 5.
• Figure 3 further shows how an end region of each thermal conversion element 4, 5 opposite the end 21 can be supported by the section bar 8.
• the end region of the thermal conversion element 4, 5 is received inside a cup-shaped element 33 from which departs a stem 34 which can be fixed to the section bar 8, particularly to the relative base 9.
• the heat exchanger 13 can be connected to the hydraulic circuit associated with the thermal conversion device so that the fluid which has been heated removing heat from the photovoltaic cells can be further heated by the thermal conversion elements 4, 5.
• the heat exchanger 13 act as a preheater of the fluid which will be further heated in the following by the conversion elements 4, 5.
• the conduit 26 can be connected, directly or through one or more connection conduits, to the thermal exchange conduit practiced inside the heat exchanger 13.
• I t is further provided a control unit not represented arranged for controlling both the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and the thermal conversion device.
• the control unit can coordinate the functioning of the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and of the thermal conversion device as it will be described in the following with reference to Figure 10.
• the fluid suitable for being heated by the solar radiation can enter the panel 1 through a main inlet. Downstream of the main inlet, the fluid divides in a first flow F1 and in a second flow F2.
• the first flow F1 is directed towards the photovoltaic conversion device 2, while the second flow F2 is directed towards the thermal conversion device.
• the first flow F1 enters the heat exchanger 13 of the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and allows to cool the photovoltaic cells, absorbing heat from these latter. Therefore from the heat exchanger 13 exits a fluid flow F1 ' having a temperature hotter than the temperature that the first flow F1 had when it entered the photovoltaic conversion device 2.
• the fluid flow F1 ' exiting from the heat exchanger 13 is sent towards the hydraulic circuit associated with the thermal conversion device for being further heated by this latter device.
• the fluid flow F1 ' can be united to the second flow F2 which comes from the main inlet and is directed towards the thermal conversion device.
• the second flow F2 possibly after having received the preheated fluid flow F1 ', divides in a first part F3 that enters the first thermal conversion element 4 and in a second part F4 which enters the second thermal conversion element 5. After the fluid has been heated in the thermal conversion element 4, 5 the first part F3 and the second part F4 reunite to provide thermal energy at the point of use.
• the sun irradiates both the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and the thermal conversion device.
• the photovoltaic conversion device 2 produces electric energy that is sent to an electric network through known means.
• the thermal conversion device transfers heat to the fluid circulating in the hydraulic circuit so as to obtain hot water.
• the control unit is able to monitor the temperature of the photovoltaic cells. If the temperature of the photovoltaic cells increases excessively, the control unit activates the heat exchanger 13 which cools the photovoltaic cells.
• the control unit through a suitable valve system, further allows the fluid preheated in the heat exchanger 1 3 to enter the hydraulic circuit associated with the thermal conversion device to be further heated.
• the control unit detects that the temperature of the photovoltaic cells is below a predetermined limit value, the heat exchanger 13 is deactivated. In this condition, the efficiency of the photovoltaic is any way good since they are relatively cold. Furthermore, because of their low temperature, the photovoltaic cells could not transfer heat in a significant manner to the fluid circulating in the heat exchanger 13. So the heat exchanger 13 is insulated from the thermal conversion device, which keeps producing thermal energy independently thanks to the evacuated tube system. The production of thermal energy is therefore warranted also in winter time or in days of unfavourable meteorological conditions.
• figure 1 1 is schematically illustrated a different functioning modality of the panel for converting solar energy according to the present invention.
• the fluid coming from the main inlet divides in a first part F1 which goes to the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and a second part F2 which goes to the thermal conversion device 4, 5.
• the fluid F1 ' exiting from the photovoltaic conversion device 2 can be used for preheating the thermal conversion elements 4, 5; alternatively the fluid F1 " exiting from the photovoltaic conversion device 2 can be directly sent to the point of use.
• the thermal devices 4, 5 can be linked to each other in series or in parallel. If the thermal devices 4, 5 are linked in series, the fluid F3 enters the first thermal exchange element and passes successively in the second thermal exchange element, as indicated with F4'. Exiting from the second thermal exchange element, the fluid F5 goes to the point of use.
• the fluid divides in a first part F3 which goes to the first thermal exchange element and a second part F4 which goes to the second thermal exchange element.
• the flows F5, F5' exiting from the thermal devices 4, 5 reunite again inside the panel before reaching the point of use.
• the control unit can comprise a programmable controller suitable for monitoring, with a frequency that can be freely selected, the main parameters of the panel 1 .
• a programmable controller suitable for monitoring, with a frequency that can be freely selected, the main parameters of the panel 1 .
• the parameters monitored by the control unit for example can be mentioned the parameters listed in the following:
• the control unit is able to calculate in real time the electric power provided by the panel 1 thanks to the conversion of solar energy in electric energy which takes place in the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and the thermal power provided by the panel 1 thanks to the heat exchanger 13 and to the thermal conversion device.
• the control unit is further able to calculate the increase of efficiency which takes place thanks to the presence of the heat exchanger 13.
• the control unit can therefore control the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and the thermal conversion device so as to maximize the yield of the panel 1.
• control unit is programmed so as to adjust the functioning of the panel 1 according to the particular functioning configuration in force at the considered time.
• the control unit can set a plurality of regular functioning configurations, as for example day, night, summer and winter functioning.
• the control unit is further able to set configurations of exceptional intervention, such as for exam ple defrosting, snow melting, extremely low or extremely h igh temperatures configuration.
• the defrosting configuration is selected in determined periods of the day in case of absence of production of electric energy and presence of solar radiation.
• a heating circuit is activated which works until the complete melting of the layer of ice deposited on the panel 1.
• the heating circuit remains active until the complete melting of the layer of snow, signalled by the sensor, after what the panel 1 can begin again a normal functioning.
• the panel 1 can function in emergency configurations, corresponding to situations of high temperatures and/or pressures, wherein the control unit searches to maximize the heat extraction in order to reset the normal functioning. If this is not possible, the control unit activates an emergency cooling system which cools the panel 1 and empties the hydraulic circuits. The functioning of the panel 1 will have to be successively reset by an authorized technician.
• the control unit tries to reset the normal functioning of the panel 1. If the anomaly lasts for a predetermined period of time, the control unit inserts the panel 1 in a safety configuration, which is signalled to the operator in a way that a technician can intervene.
• An emergency configuration is further provided for particularly serious anomalies.
• the emergency configuration is signalled to the operator not only by the graphical interface associated with the control unit, but also by an acoustic signalling device, such a siren.
• the control unit is expandable so as to be able to control more panels according to the type of installation of panels 1 pre-chosen by a user.
• the control unit can be able to function at low voltage, and can be interfaced to possible devices of the panel 1 that function at high voltage through remote control switches controlled at low voltage.
• One or more interfaces are provided , for example of the graphical type, which allow a user or a technician to interact with the control unit through computers and/or remote and/or local devices.
• the control unit can be provided with a buffer battery which enables it to put the panel 1 in a safety configuration if the power supply is lacking.
• the panel for converting solar energy according to the present invention attains the scope of obtaining both thermal energy and electric energy in every period of the year, and in particular in winter time.
• FIG. 12 In Figure 12 is illustrated a different embodiment of the panel wherein the means 6, 7 for supporting the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and the thermal devices 4, 5 provide a section bar 80 presenting a bottom 81 having a substantially semicircular section, as can be seen in Figure 13; the bottom 81 is delimited by two lateral walls 82, parallel to each other.
• the section bar 80 is obtained for example from a cut aluminium extrusion.
• the section bar 80 defines longitudinally the housing seat of a respective evacuated tube heat collector.
• a heat collector comprises a thermal conduit, of the type known as "heat pipe”, inserted inside a tube under vacuum. Nevertheless it is possible to provide that the heat collector provides, inserted inside the evacuated tube, a U shaped copper tube.
• the section bar 80 further presents, on an external side, a longitudinal groove 83, suitable for receiving suitable members for fixing to the support structure of the panel; at the opposite external side extend a plurality of longitudinal shelves 84, suitable for defining a first room and a second room wherein the cited peripheral regions of the photovoltaic conversion device 2 and of the heat exchanger are inserted.
• the heat collector is constrained to the section bar 80 by means of a lower lid 133 and of an upper lid 132, made for example through moulding of plastic material. Suitably the lids fit perfectly in the section bar 80.
• the lower lid 133 provides a kind of cup 35 which extends from a base 36. I n the cup 35 can be inserted the lower end of the thermal collector.
• the cup 35 is surrounded by an external wall 37 partly shaped according to a semicircular profile, having a shape substantially complementary to the bottom 81 of the section bar 80 to which it is designed to adhere.
• the upper lid 132 is suitably realized by a couple of half covers 38, 39 suitable for being coupled to each other (see Figures 15 and 16).
• the lower half cover 38 presents a base 40 wherein a circular hole 41 is made for the passage of the heat collector; from the base 40 extend a front wall 42 and a couple of lateral walls 43 opposite each other.
• the upper half cover 39 presents on its turn a covering plate 44, having a substantially rectangular shape, at the opposite sides of which extend respective fins 45 designed to result facing, in mounting position, to the lateral walls 43 of the lower half cover 38; the fins 45 respectively have an opening 46 designed to be click-engaged by corresponding tangs 47 profiled on the lateral walls 43 of the lower half cover 38.
• the upper lid 132 defines a substantially prismatic shaped wrapping, inside which the end of the heating tube or "heat pipe” couples with a suitable thermal exchange element, as previously described.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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• Thermal Sciences (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
• Sustainable Development (AREA)
• Sustainable Energy (AREA)
• Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
• Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
• Photovoltaic Devices (AREA)

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Citations (8)

• 2011
  • 2011-05-03 IT IT000097A patent/ITMO20110097A1/it unknown
• 2012
  • 2012-05-02 WO PCT/EP2012/058051 patent/WO2012150271A1/en active Application Filing

Patent Citations (8)

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