There is a growing need for efficient solar energy systems that provide strong economic returns and reliable storage solutions. The present invention addresses this with an integrated apparatus for collecting and storing solar energy. The solar collection system utilises evacuated glass tubes as heat-capturing elements positioned between a heat reflection structure and a heat loss reduction structure to maximise thermal capture and minimise losses. This collected thermal energy is then transferred to a storage apparatus comprising a chamber filled with organic or inorganic materials as the storage medium. The system also comprises facilities for effectively utilizing or extracting the stored energy.
Figure (1) Solar steam generator with integrated thermal storage for ironing in a garment factory; (2) Solar steam generator with integrated thermal storage for indoor cooking (Cooking rice and dal twice a day for 25 to 30 people is possible with two SSG).
Most commercial solar systems are inefficient and fail to deliver strong economic returns. Additionally, storing solar energy economically remains a major technical and financial challenge for industrial use.
- Integrated Heat Reflection and Loss Reduction Structures: The system is designed with a heat reflection structure on one side and a heat loss reduction structure on the other. This configuration ensures optimal concentration of solar thermal energy while minimising heat dissipation to the surroundings.
- Efficient Energy Utilisation Mechanism: The storage apparatus is equipped with mechanisms to directly utilise or tap into the stored thermal energy. This enables on-demand energy usage. The apparatus supports both direct heat transfer (fluid heated directly by solar energy) and indirect transfer (via heat exchangers).
- Adaptable to Various Storage Media: The system supports different thermal storage media, both sensible and latent heat type media.
- Provision for Auxiliary Heating and Automation: The apparatus has provisions for auxiliary heating sources and control mechanisms for automated operation. This ensures uninterrupted thermal energy supply and simplifies system management in varying environmental conditions.
The prototype consists of a solar energy collection apparatus featuring evacuated glass tubes as heat-capturing elements. These tubes are placed between a heat reflection structure and a heat loss reduction structure to optimize thermal absorption. The system is connected to a thermal energy storage apparatus that includes a storage chamber filled with a storage medium, which may be organic or inorganic material. The prototype includes facilities for thermal energy extraction, such as heat pipes or heat exchange. The system components are designed for fixed integration, allowing continuous collection and storage of solar thermal energy.
This technology has been deployed for ironing clothes in a garment factory since 2016 and has also been used for indoor cooking. It can be effectively deployed for indoor cooking in high-altitude regions. The modular seasonally tracked system can be used for various industrial and commercial applications where low-temperature steam solar can be used for heating. Paint shops can benefit from these solar collectors for heating multi-tank cleaning lines.
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This invention promotes the use of clean, renewable solar energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions. Its efficient energy collection and storage system can provide affordable heating solutions in rural and urban areas alike.
- Power generation
- Indoor cooking
- Food processing
- Chemical manufacturing
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Textile industry
Geography of IP
Type of IP
500/MUM/2014
375978