Smart, passive sun facing surfaces
AssigneeMartin Marietta Energy Systems, Inc.
InventorLee M. Hively
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An article adapted for selectively utilizing solar radiation comprises an absorptive surface and a reflective surface, the absorptive surface and the reflective surface oriented to absorb solar radiation when the sun is in a relatively low position, and to reflect solar radiation when the sun is in a relatively high position.
Claims8
An article adapted for selectively utilizing solar radiation in correspondence with a seasonal cycle comprising an essentially planar, overhanging, absorptive surface having a lower edge, said absorptive surface adapted for absorbing solar radiation at large angles of incidence, and an essentially planar reflective surface having an inner edge adjoining said lower edge of said absorptive surface at an adjoining angle in the range of from about 83.degree. to about 97.degree. from the perspective of the source of solar radiation, said reflective surface oriented to reflect solar radiation toward said absorptive surface during a winter season, and to reflect solar radiation away from said absorptive surface during a summer season.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.