PHOTOVOLTAIC AND DIRECT THERMAL APPARATUS AND METHODS

摘要

Apparatus and methods related to solar energy are provided. A metallic entity has a photovoltaic material in contact therewith. The metallic entity at least partially defines a fluid conduit. An electrode pattern is in contact with the photovoltaic material. Electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic material is coupled to an electrical load by way of the metallic entity and the electrode pattern. Thermal energy is conducted through the metallic entity and is transferred to a fluid coolant flowing through the fluid conduit. Various hybrid photovoltaic and direct thermal energy apparatuses are therefore contemplated.

主权项

1. An apparatus, comprising:
a metallic entity being electrically conductive and thermally conductive, the metallic entity at least partially defining a fluid conduit; a photovoltaic coating in electrically conductive contact with the metallic entity; and an electrode pattern in electrically conductive contact with the photovoltaic coating.