Tile with solar energy collection capability

Abstract

A surfacing tile, having a convex and concave surface and two spaced apart sides, is made of a material that allows at least a portion of the solar energy impinging upon the tile to be transmitted through the tile and be absorbed by a supporting surface thereunder. Once absorbed by the surface, most of the energy is prevented from escaping by the glazing effect of the tile. The tile, together with the underlying surface, forms an airspace therebetween such that a plurality of interfitting tiles installed upon the surface will form ducts that can conduct a fluid, such as air, heated by the absorbed solar energy to a location at which it can be used or dissipated. Tiles installed in such a fashion thus form a solar energy collection system directly with the surface upon which they are installed. One contemplated variation in the design of the tile is to provide interlocking features to allow installed tiles to interlock with adjacent installed tiles, thus effecting a stronger, more air and water tight surface covering. Other contemplated variations in tile design include different shapes or repeating shapes, different colors to vary the aesthetics of the surface, and providing integral insulating features within the body of the tile.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.