Self pumped solar energy collection system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cyclic method and single pipe system for collecting and transferring heat energy from a periodic heat source to a thermal storage reservoir and preventing the back flow of such heat energy. The system is responsive to the temperature of the thermal storage reservoir and the availability of the heat source without reliance upon other external energy inputs or controls such as valves, pumps, floats, sensors, or electronic circuitry. During the heat collection stroke of the cycle an evaporator containing a volatile liquid generates a flow of vapor to a remote heat exchanger where the vapor gives up its latent heat of vaporization to the thermal storage reservoir thereby condensing. Condensate flows from the heat exchanger to an insulated pressure sustaining sump that efficiently accepts pulsatile fluid delivery. During periods of heat source unavailability, heat loss from the evaporator to its surroundings condenses the vapor therein, reducing evaporator pressure and allowing vapor pressure in the sump to return the sump liquid through the heat exchanger to the evaporator, this return stroke completing the cycle. The sealed single pipe system employs no moving parts and is applicable to any periodic or intermittent source of heat such as solar insolation.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.