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University of Central Florida

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Solar energy

Publication Year

Articles 1 - 5 of 5

Full-Text Articles in Engineering

Simulation Of A Solar-Driven Thermoelectric Generator, Iraj Andampour Oct 1982

Simulation Of A Solar-Driven Thermoelectric Generator, Iraj Andampour

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

With improvements of thermoelectric materials leading to higher figures of merit, interest has been developed in a broad spectrum of applications. In this study, the thermal performance of a solar-driven thermoelectric (TE) generator was examined by computer simulation and analytical formulations. The hot junction of the disk-shaped TE module is heated by a conical-shaped solar concentrator reflecting rays onto a cylindrical inner electrode. Controllable cooling water flow cools the outer P ΓÇô N junctions to establish the necessary thermal potential for electric generation. Desired power output can be obtained from a number of TE modules in series and parallel. The …


A Solar Cooling System Model Formulation Using Trnsys, David E. Daniel Jan 1977

A Solar Cooling System Model Formulation Using Trnsys, David E. Daniel

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

An absorption principal cooling system, currently proposed for installation and evaluation at the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC), is described as a system and modeled through use of "A Transient Simulation Program (TRNSYS)" developed by the University of Wisconsin. The system model included the FSEC building with its heat gains and losses due to insolation and conduction. System element and cooling load parameters are estimated and the basis of estimation is included to help identify adjustments required to fit the model to the final system installation as new or more complete data becomes available. Deficiencies noted in the current TRNSYS …


Application Of Solar Energy To The Solvent Reclamation Industry, Arthur H. Litka Jan 1976

Application Of Solar Energy To The Solvent Reclamation Industry, Arthur H. Litka

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

An analysis of an operational industrial acetone reclamation system is performed to ascertain the possibility of its adaptation of solar thermal energy augmentation using fixed orientation, flat plate solar collectors. Currently, the system utilizes and oil fired heater for the thermal input. The water is heated to 185°F (85°C) and circulated through a heat exchanger which is immersed within the contaminated acetone solution. The solvent is thereby vaporized, condensed, and drawn off for reuse. Analytical models of two possible configurations utilizing a series of commercially available, flat plate solar collectors, a hot water storage tank, and an oil fired auxiliary …


A Status Report On Solar Energy Utilization In The State Of Florida, Henry Michael Armstrong Jan 1975

A Status Report On Solar Energy Utilization In The State Of Florida, Henry Michael Armstrong

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The current energy crisis has pointed out the need for alternative, non-depletable sources of power. Solar energy would appear to be a likely source of such power for the state of Florida where the average home receives enough of this energy to supply all of its heating and cooling needs during the course of the year. Energy consumption profiles for Florida reveal that almost one-quarter of all energy is consumed within the residential-commercial section for basic heating and cooling. Additionally, the state is, essentially, totally dependent on petroleum and natural gas for its energy supply. Solar energy has been used …


Feasibility Study Of The Utilization Of Solar Energy For Large Scale Power Production In The State Of Florida, Michael Propen Jan 1975

Feasibility Study Of The Utilization Of Solar Energy For Large Scale Power Production In The State Of Florida, Michael Propen

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The objective of this paper is to investigate the feasibility of large scale electric power generation in the state of Florida by means of solar conversion. Such systems convert solar radiation directly to electricity or to thermal energy and subsequently to electricity. With the latter method, solar energy is initially collected and converted to heat at high temperature through a working fluid. The heat is then used to power conventional heat engine generator systems. Several methods have been proposed for converting sunlight to useful work. The most promising of these will be examined from a technological and economic viewpoint.