Structure optimization and performance simulation of a novel thin membrane heat pipe solar collector using a mathematical model

摘要

A novel thin membrane heat pipe solar collector was designed to be a compact, efficient and low cost heat generator capable of achieving temperatures up to 250 deg. C and suitable for generating electricity and hot water for domestic and industrial use. Two variations of this, "normal" and "thermosyphon", were indicated and their performance was investigated. The mathematical theory and simulation approach used for efficiency and solar irradiation calculation, geometry and size optimization as well as numerical analysis were summarized.