Abstract

Thermal energy conversion apparatus for converting heat energy. The thermal energy apparatus comprises a closed-circuit cyclic engine in the form of a ß Stirling engine. A heater head comprising a working fluid. A ceramic cylinder is connected to the heater head, the cylinder having a cylindrical wall defining a chamber, the chamber being in fluid communication with the working fluid heatable by the heater head. A displacer is mounted in the chamber for reciprocating movement by the working fluid, the displacer dividing the chamber into a relatively hotter portion and a relatively cooler portion. A thermal regenerator is provided, with the heater head in fluid communication with each of the thermal regenerator and the cylinder chamber.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02G 1/057 - Regenerators
• F02G 1/055 - Heaters or coolers

Abstract

A solar collector 1 for the temporary storage of heat from solar radiation comprising a radiation conductor 8, 9 for conducting the solar radiation, and lens means 7 for concentrating solar radiation onto a first extremity of the radiation conductor. A thermally- insulated core 2 is provided on an opposite second extremity of the radiation conductor 8, 9 in order to be heated by the solar radiation released from the radiation conductor and temporarily storing the heat. For this purpose, the core is provided with an insulated casing 4, virtually completely enveloping the core, which insulated casing 4 comprises a layer of porous ceramic material.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24S 60/00 - Arrangements for storing heat collected by solar heat collectors
• F24S 21/00 - Solar heat collectors not provided for in groups
• F24S 80/65 - Thermal insulation characterised by the material