EP4363778A1 - Solar thermal device, solar thermal module, energy supply system and method for operating a solar thermal device - Google Patents

Abstract

In order to improve a solar thermal device (60) which comprises at least one solar thermal element (62) having an absorption element defining a longitudinal axis (64) and for absorbing solar radiation, such that it comprises a solar thermal module (14), an energy supply system (10) and a method for operating a solar thermal device (60), and such that, in particular, buildings (12) can be optimally supplied with solar thermal heat all year round. According to the invention, said solar thermal device comprises a shading device (112) for shading the absorption element (66). The invention also relates to an improved solar thermal module(14), an improved energy supply system (10) and an improved method for operating a solar thermal device (60).

Description

Solar thermal device, solar thermal module, energy supply system and method for operating a solar thermal

contraption

The present invention relates to a solar thermal device comprising at least one solar thermal element with an absorption element defining a longitudinal axis for absorbing solar radiation.

Furthermore, the present invention relates to a solar thermal module comprising at least one solar thermal device.

The present invention also relates to an energy supply system, in particular for a building, comprising at least one solar thermal module and a thermally conductively connected heat accumulator to the at least one solar thermal module for storing the solar heat absorbed by at least one solar thermal module.

Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for operating a solar thermal device.

Solar thermal devices and modules as well as energy supply systems and methods for operating a solar thermal device of the type described above are known in various embodiments. In particular, they serve the purpose of supplying buildings of all types with thermal energy. Solar radiation is absorbed with the absorption element of the solar thermal mixing device and can then be supplied to a heat accumulator, for example via a heat pipe system using a heat conduction medium, in order to temporarily store heat, especially for times when the solar thermal device is not being charged with solar radiation, in particular i.e. at night and under cloudy skies.

It is also known that most of the energy in the home is used for heating water, both for heating of service water and for heating a building. It is particularly important to take into account that the energy requirements of a building change over the course of a year. More thermal energy is required in winter, especially for heating, while the heat requirement is significantly reduced in summer.

Due to the lower heat requirement in the summer months, such thermal systems for buildings are usually dimensioned in such a way that they are just sufficient to cover the heat requirement in the summer months. On the other hand, oversizing of such systems in order to supply buildings with sufficient solar thermal heat even in the winter months leads to major problems when operating these systems in the summer months, since heat that is not required, which is provided by the solar thermal devices, is used to prevent overheating must be dissipated, but this is not readily possible.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve a solar thermal device, a solar thermal module, an energy supply system and a method for operating a solar thermal device of the type described above so that buildings in particular can be optimally supplied with solar thermal heat all year round.

This object is achieved according to the invention in a solar thermal device of the type described above in that it comprises a shading device for shading the absorption element.

The shading device makes it possible, in particular, to shade the at least one solar thermal element, and therefore to prevent solar thermal radiation from impinging on the absorption element. This makes it possible, in particular, to switch off or deactivate the solar thermal device by means of the shading device when the generation of heat with the solar thermal device by absorption solar radiation is not desired. As described, this case can occur in particular when there is a low demand for heat, for example in the summer months, but the solar thermal device is exposed to solar radiation with an intensity that exceeds the level required for operation of the same. The shading device thus makes it possible, for example, to equip roofs of buildings with a larger number of solar thermal devices than before, in order to be able to optimally use solar heat input, especially in the winter months. On days when there is little heat demand, the solar thermal devices can be fully or partially shaded with the shading device. Such a shading device also has the advantage, for example, that the solar thermal elements can be protected with it, in particular from dirt or extreme weather conditions such as hail. In other words, the shading device can be used to orient a solar thermal system for a building not to its minimum heat requirement over the course of the year, but to the maximum heat requirement of the building to be covered by solar radiation. In particular, the high degree of efficiency of solar thermal devices can also be used here, which is in the order of about 50% to 60% and thus far higher than with currently standard photovoltaic modules, which achieve an efficiency of about 14% for generating electricity. The shading device makes it possible, in particular, to generate so much heat with a solar thermal system on a roof or on a facade of a building that even buildings that are not optimally insulated can be adequately supplied with heat, on their own Based on renewable energies, i.e. without the additional use of fossil fuels.

It is favorable if the shading device comprises at least one movably arranged shading element which, from an irradiation position in which the absorption element is unshaded or uncovered, into a shading position, in which the absorption element is at least partially, in particular completely, shaded or covered against solar radiation impinging on the device, and vice versa. With the at least one shading element of the shading device, the at least one solar thermal element, in particular the absorption element of the same, can be completely or partially covered or covered in a desired manner in order to protect or shield it from solar radiation. For example, it is possible to retrofit solar thermal devices that are already installed on a building with a shading device in order to temporarily deactivate them if, as described, a heat requirement is lower than that required by the solar thermal device due to the solar radiation acting on it provided heat. The shading element can be designed, for example, in the form of a blind, a roller shutter, an awning or the like with one or more shading elements that can be moved relative to the absorption element. The shading elements can in particular be lamellar, or in the form of half or partial shells that can be rotated about the absorption elements, in order to shield the absorption elements in whole or in part in different shading positions.

The at least one shading element preferably comprises at least one photovoltaic element. This configuration makes it possible in particular to use the solar thermal device not only to generate heat, but also to generate electricity. It is particularly advantageous that the at least one shading element comprises a photovoltaic element, which can be used in particular to generate electricity when the at least one shading element is used to shade the absorption element of the solar thermal device. In other words, the solar thermal device can be selectively used to generate heat and/or electricity, depending on the needs of the user. In particular, in the summer months when there is little heat demand, the solar Radiation can be used to generate electricity. This can be used, for example, to operate electrical loads in a building. For example, in the summer months, when temperatures are increasing in Central Europe and there is a higher demand for electricity, in particular for the operation of air conditioning systems, there is the possibility for an operator to use the solar thermal device preferably to generate electricity if the need for this is particularly high is high. The electricity generated can, for example, be used directly. If necessary, excess electricity can also be fed into a power grid. Of course, each shading element can also include two or more photovoltaic elements. The shading element can in particular be designed in the form of a carrier for the at least one photovoltaic element. However, the at least one shading element can also be formed by the photovoltaic element itself.

An active surface of the photovoltaic element is favorably designed to be flat or curved in a convex manner pointing away from the longitudinal axis. In this way, solar radiation can always optimally hit the photovoltaic element, regardless of the position of the sun. A convex curvature of the photovoltaic element makes it possible, in particular, to embody it as a half-shell element which, for example, partially surrounds an elongated tubular absorption element.

A particularly simple and compact structure can be achieved if the absorption element is tubular.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the solar thermal element comprises a protective cover which extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis and defines an interior space, and that the absorption element is arranged in the interior space. The protective cover can in particular be stationary relative to the absorption element which can be arranged or designed to be movable relative to this. For example, the protective cover can be arranged or designed to be rotatable about the longitudinal axis relative to the absorption element.

In order to optimally protect the absorption element regardless of the position of the protective cover, it is advantageous if the protective cover is arranged or formed so as to surround the absorption element.

It is advantageous if the protective cover has a multi-part design and includes a carrier element extending parallel to the longitudinal axis, and if the at least one photovoltaic element is arranged or formed on the carrier element in such a way that an active surface of the photovoltaic element is arranged or formed pointing away from the longitudinal axis. On this design of the protective cover makes it possible in particular to serve as a carrier for the photo voltaic element. For example, in the case of a movably arranged protective cover, the photovoltaic element can be moved with the protective cover, for example relative to the absorption element, in order to optionally shade or cover it or release it entirely.

A particularly compact construction of the solar thermal device can be achieved in particular in that the at least one shading element comprises the carrier element and/or the at least one photovoltaic element. In particular, the photovoltaic element can be used to shade the absorption element. In such a shading position, however, it can be used at the same time to generate electricity when it is exposed to solar radiation. Thus, the solar thermal device can be used to generate solar heat and/or electricity. Ratios for the generation of heat and electricity can in principle be adjusted as desired. This can be achieved in particular by a shading portion, ie a portion of an active surface of the absorption element that is covered by the at least one shading element. This can, for example, be constant over time or the absorption element can be intermittent Shade or release, in a kind of pulse width modulation, in which the absorption element is completely covered or completely uncovered for a certain time.

It is favorable if the carrier element delimits the inner space by means of a carrier element circumference angle based on the longitudinal axis and if the carrier element circumference angle is in a range from approximately 30° to approximately 200°. This configuration makes it possible, in particular, to shade the solar thermal element in the desired manner with the carrier element. In particular, it can also be ensured in this way that, for example in the case of a carrier element arranged such that it can be rotated about the longitudinal axis, it is possible in one position to sufficiently expose the absorption element to solar radiation.

The at least one photovoltaic element preferably forms part of an outer surface of the protective cover pointing away from the longitudinal axis. This design makes it possible in particular to integrate at least one photovoltaic element into the protective cover. The at least one photovoltaic element can thus be used to generate electricity, to shade the absorption element and at the same time also to protect the absorption element.

It is advantageous if the at least one shading element is arranged on the protective cover or is designed in the form of a part of the protective cover. This configuration enables, for example, a particularly compact construction of the solar thermal device. In particular, it is possible to arrange the protective cover to be movable, for example rotatable about its longitudinal axis or the longitudinal axis of the solar thermal device, in order to either deliberately shade the absorption element or release it to be exposed to solar radiation.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the protective cover extends at least one parallel to the longitudinal axis comprises extending window element and that the at least one window element is designed to be permeable or essentially permeable to solar radiation. The at least one window element can thus serve in particular to protect the absorption element, although it does not or only minimally impede or impair exposure of the absorption element to solar radiation. Thus, for example, the protective cover can be brought into a position in which the at least one window element is aligned in such a way that solar radiation impinging on the solar thermal device can pass through the at least one window element and expose the absorption element of the at least one solar thermal element to solar radiation can. The at least one window element can in particular be flat or convexly curved pointing away from the longitudinal axis.

It is favorable if the at least one window element extends over a circumferential angle based on the longitudinal axis and if the circumferential angle is in a range from approximately 100° to approximately 210°. To provide such a catch angle for the at least one window element enables in particular different types of execution of the solar thermal device. For example, the protective cover can be arranged or designed to be stationary or movable relative to the absorption element. By specifying the circumferential angle, it is possible in particular to set the proportion of solar radiation that can be absorbed by the solar thermal device.

The protective cover can be formed in a particularly simple manner in that the at least one window element comprises at least one, in particular exclusively one, convexly curved window element area pointing away from the longitudinal axis. For example, it can only include a convexly curved window element area, so that the protective element is formed overall in the shape of a sleeve or in the form of a cylindrical half-shell. It is advantageous if the at least one window element comprises at least one flat window element area, in particular at least two flat, in particular four, window element areas. Furthermore, planar window element areas aligned in parallel in pairs can be provided in particular. The at least one flat window element area can, for example, specify an outer contour of the protective cover, which, for example in cooperation with an adjacently arranged solar thermal element, enables mutual cleaning of the same, for example with cleaning elements arranged or formed on the solar thermal element.

The solar thermal device can be formed in a simple manner if the at least one solar thermal element is formed with mirror symmetry or essentially with mirror symmetry in relation to a plane of symmetry containing the longitudinal axis.

It is advantageous if the solar thermal element comprises at least one heat sink and if the at least one heat sink is in thermal operative connection with the at least one photovoltaic element. With the at least one heat sink, heat can be dissipated from the at least one photovoltaic element in a simple manner in order to prevent the solar thermal device from overheating.

It is favorable if the at least one heat sink forms part of the outer surface of the protective cover. In this way, excess heat, in particular from the photovoltaic element, can be dissipated directly to an area around the solar thermal device via the at least one heat sink.

In order to enable optimal heat exchange between the solar thermal device and its surroundings, it is favorable if the at least one heat sink comprises at least one cooling channel and/or cooling slot extending parallel to the longitudinal axis. For example, Ambient air flow along the at least one heat sink or through the at least one cooling channel and/or cooling slot in order to absorb excess heat from the at least one heat sink and release it to the surroundings of the solar thermal device.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the interior is delimited by at least one reflection surface and that the at least one reflection surface is arranged or formed to reflect solar radiation entering the interior through the window element in the direction of the absorption element there. In this way, in particular, an effective cross section of the solar thermal device can be increased. In particular, the at least one reflection element can be arranged laterally or partially behind the absorption element in order to deflect solar radiation that does not impinge directly on the absorption element, but instead passes it into the interior, onto the absorption element.

It is advantageous if the absorption element is arranged spatially between the min least one reflection surface and the at least one window element. In this way, the absorption of solar radiation can be optimized with the absorption element since, in particular, in addition to the absorption element, solar radiation impinging on the at least one reflection surface can be deflected in this way onto the absorption element.

The solar thermal element preferably comprises an optical imaging device for imaging and/or deflecting solar radiation impinging on the protective cover onto the absorption element. The optical imaging device thus makes it possible, in particular, to deflect the solar radiation that impinges on the protective cover in such a way that it does not impinge on the side of the absorption element, but rather on the absorption element. In this way, in particular, the efficiency of the solar thermal device can be improved. The optical imaging device can be designed in a simple manner if it comprises at least one lens and/or the at least one reflection surface. In particular, the at least one reflection surface can also be designed as an optical element or as part of it, for example in the form of a focusing mirror, in the focal point of which the absorption element is arranged or designed.

In order to be able to have a particularly compact design of the solar thermal device, it is favorable if the at least one lens is in the form of a Fresnel lens.

A compact construction of the solar thermal device can be achieved in particular in that the at least one window element comprises at least one lens. In other words, the at least one lens can be integrated directly into the window element. So the protective cover can be formed directly with a window element with an integrated lens, for example an integrated Fresnel lens.

It is advantageous if the at least one reflection surface extends over a reflection surface circumference angle in relation to the longitudinal axis and if the reflection surface circumference angle of all reflection surfaces is in a range from approximately 30° to approximately 150°. Such an embodiment enables in particular a compact construction of the solar thermal device and nevertheless an optimal effective cross section. In particular, taking into account a dimension of the solar thermal device, in particular a maximum diameter of the protective cover, the entire solar radiation striking the solar thermal element can be captured and deflected onto the absorption element.

It is favorable if the at least one reflection surface is designed in the form of a coating that is highly reflective for solar radiation. In particular, thermal losses can be minimized and the efficiency of the solar thermal element can be optimized. The solar thermal device can be produced in a simple manner if the at least one reflection surface is arranged or formed on a reflection element. For example, the reflection element can comprise a carrier which is coated with the at least one reflection surface, for example by vapor deposition or by gluing a highly reflective coating.

The at least one reflection element is favorably designed in the form of a mirror. The mirror can in particular be flat or concavely curved pointing in the direction of the longitudinal axis or also have a shape that comprises a plurality of surface areas which are connected to one another and which are flat or also curved.

The solar thermal device can be produced in a simple manner if the solar thermal element comprises only a single reflection element. This simplifies the assembly of the solar thermal device.

It is advantageous if the at least one heat sink defines or encompasses the at least one reflection surface. For example, the at least one heat sink can have a surface that serves as a reflective surface or can serve as a reflective surface with a reflective coating to form one or more reflection surfaces. In particular, this also has the advantage that solar radiation impinging on such a reflection surface does not heat up the heat sink itself, or heats it up only insignificantly, but can be essentially completely deflected onto the absorption element.

The at least one reflection surface is expediently flat or concavely curved pointing in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The solar thermal device can thus be designed overall in such a way that solar radiation incident on the solar thermal element is not lost past the absorption element, but instead is deflected onto the absorption element and can thus be used for heating the same. According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the shading element and the absorption element are immovably connected to one another. In particular, they can be connected to one another in a rotationally fixed manner relative to the longitudinal axis. Such a design makes it possible in particular to rotate the solar thermal element as a whole, ie as a structural unit, about its longitudinal axis. In this case, the absorption element and the shading element are, for example, rotated together about the longitudinal axis in order to completely or partially cover the absorption element with the shading element in a defined manner.

The solar thermal element is preferably arranged or designed such that it can be rotated about the longitudinal axis. In this way, it can be optimally aligned with the sun in the desired manner, that is, for example, it can be carried along with the course of the sun depending on the position of the sun. This orientation is advantageous both in the case of heat generation with the absorption element and in the generation of electricity with the at least one photovoltaic element. A tracking allows in particular to maximize the effective cross section of the solar thermal element, depending on the position of the sun, and this for electricity and heat generation. In addition, the absorption element can be completely or partially shaded by a shading element which is arranged or formed on the solar thermal element.

It is advantageous if the at least one absorption element is designed in the form of a solar thermal tube collector. For example, the solar thermal device can be formed from conventional standard components. In particular, it is favorable if the solar thermal tube collector comprises at least one flow channel and at least one return channel for a heat exchanger fluid to flow through. A heat exchanger fluid can thus flow through the tube collector and dissipate heat absorbed by the absorption element, for example to a heat storage rather. The solar thermal tube collector can in particular also include at least one self-contained heat pipe. In this embodiment, the tube collector does not have a heat exchange fluid flowing through it, but instead comprises a so-called “heat pipe”, i.e. a thermally conductive core, which derives the solar heat absorbed by the absorption element from the tube collector, for example to one end of the same. A heat exchanger device can be provided there, for example, in order to dissipate the heat supplied with the heat pipe, in particular via a shear fluid heat exchanger, for example to a heat accumulator.

In order to be able to track the course of the sun over the course of the day with the solar thermal element in the desired manner, for example, it is advantageous if the solar thermal device comprises a drive device for rotating the at least one solar thermal element about the longitudinal axis.

The at least one drive device preferably comprises at least one motor drive. An alignment of the at least one solar thermal element can thus be controlled or regulated in a simple manner.

It is favorable if the motor drive is designed in the form of a mechanical and/or electrical drive. For example, the at least one solar thermal element can be moved manually or fully automatically into a desired alignment position. For example, it can be aligned in such a way that primarily solar radiation can be directly absorbed as heat with the absorption element and/or can be used with a photovoltaic element to generate electricity.

It is advantageous if the mechanical drive is in the form of a hydraulic and/or pneumatic drive. In this way, the at least one solar thermal element can be easily and safely moved into a desired position. The electric drive is preferably designed in the form of an electric motor. In particular, low-maintenance solar thermal devices can be formed in this way. Conveniently, the electric motor is in the form of a stepping motor or a servomotor. These make it possible, in particular, to be able to specify movement positions of the at least one solar thermal element, in particular rotational positions in relation to the longitudinal axis, in a defined manner and with great accuracy.

It is favorable if the drive device comprises at least one first drive element driven by at least one motor, if the at least one solar thermal element comprises at least one second drive element and if the at least one first drive element and the at least one second drive element are arranged or designed to work together for Transmitting a driving force of the motor to the min least one solar thermal element for rotating the same around the longitudinal axis. For example, interacting drive elements can be formed in the form of a drive chain and a drive wheel, for example a toothed wheel. Alternatively, instead of a chain, a belt can also be provided, with or without teeth, to drive a drive wheel, which is coupled to the solar thermal element, to move the solar thermal element, in particular to rotate about its longitudinal axis.

The solar thermal device can be designed in a simple and compact manner if the at least one first drive element is in the form of a drive spindle and if the at least one second drive element is in the form of a gear wheel corresponding to the drive spindle. For example, the drive spindle can define a longitudinal axis which is oriented transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to a longitudinal axis of the gearwheel defined by the corresponding gearwheel. In particular, it is possible to dispense with complex angle gears for deflecting a driving force. It is advantageous if the at least one first drive element defines a first longitudinal axis of the drive element, if the at least one second drive element defines a second longitudinal axis of the drive element and if the first longitudinal axis of the drive element runs transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to a plane containing the second longitudinal axis of the drive element. In this way, the solar thermal devices can be made particularly compact. For example, the drive device with the drive elements can be arranged or formed at the end of the solar thermal elements. For example, the first drive element longitudinal axis can be defined by a drive spindle that runs perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the solar thermal elements. In particular, such a configuration of the drive device makes it possible to leave enough installation space for heat exchangers to dissipate heat absorbed by the solar thermal element via a heat exchanger fluid.

The solar thermal device can be designed in a particularly simple and compact manner if the longitudinal axis defines the second longitudinal axis of the drive element. For example, the second drive element can be arranged in the form of a gear directly at one end of the solar thermal element, for example non-rotatably with this.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the solar thermal device comprises a cleaning device for cleaning the at least one solar thermal element. The cleaning device is designed in particular to remove dirt from the at least one solar thermal element. Pollution in this sense is in particular also snow or any other form of natural precipitation, which can cover at least one solar thermal element in whole or in part, as a result of which solar radiation can no longer or only to a limited extent impinge on the absorption element. In particular, the efficiency of the solar thermal Mix device to be improved in operation, since so Verpollution conditions of all kinds can be eliminated from at least one solar thermal element in a desired and defined manner.

It is favorable if the cleaning device comprises at least one cleaning element driven, in particular rotating, by the drive device. For example, the cleaning element can be designed in the form of a round brush. In particular, the cleaning element can be arranged between two adjacent solar thermal elements and can extend parallel to their longitudinal axis. The cleaning brushes can in particular be rotated with a drive device which is designed analogously to the drive device for the solar thermal elements. For example, the same drive can be used both for the cleaning elements and for the solar thermal elements. Different rotation speeds can be achieved. The cleaning elements can include, in particular, limp cloth strips such as those used in car washes. Contact with the solar thermal elements then occurs at a correspondingly high speed due to the centrifugal force. This configuration has the particular advantage that only one such rotating cleaning element is required to clean two adjacent solar thermal elements. As a result, the number of cleaning elements can be reduced by half compared to fixed wiper lips.

It is advantageous if the cleaning device comprises at least one cleaning element, if the at least one cleaning element is assigned to at least one solar thermal element and if the at least one cleaning element and the at least one solar thermal element assigned to it are arranged so that they can move relative to one another. This configuration makes it possible in particular to move the at least one cleaning element and the at least one solar thermal element relative to one another, whereby the solar thermal element can be cleaned in cooperation with them, i.e. in particular dirt or precipitation of all kinds can be completely or partially freed. At least one assignment of a cleaning element to a solar thermal element can be achieved in particular if the cleaning element is fixed, for example relative to a building, and a relative movement is reached by moving the at least one solar thermal element relative to the cleaning element. However, it is also conceivable for the at least one cleaning element to be arranged on the solar thermal element itself, so that the at least one cleaning element can be used in cooperation with neighboring solar thermal elements to clean them. If the at least one solar thermal element is twisted, the cleaning element can be used to clean an adjacent solar thermal element on one side and another solar thermal element on the other side of the solar thermal element, which carries the at least one cleaning element, due to a relative movement.

The at least one cleaning element preferably extends parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. This configuration makes it possible, in particular, to use the at least one cleaning element to clean an assigned solar thermal element over its entire length, for example by the at least one cleaning element sliding along an outer surface of the solar thermal element, for example an outer surface of a protective cover of the solar thermal element.

The solar thermal device can be formed easily and inexpensively if the at least one cleaning element is formed in the form of a wiping brush or in the form of a wiping lip. In particular, combinations of wiping brushes and wiping lips are conceivable, for example to remove rain or snow or other dirt from an outer surface of a solar thermal element. The mopping brush can in particular be arranged or designed to be stationary or rotating.

It is favorable if the at least one cleaning element is arranged or formed on the at least one solar thermal element. Such Arrangement makes it possible in particular to clean the adjacent solar thermal elements with the at least one cleaning element in cooperation with adjacently arranged solar thermal elements. For example, the at least one cleaning element can be used to clean two solar thermal elements that are adjacent to the solar thermal element that carries the at least one cleaning element.

In order to be able to achieve an optimal cleaning performance, it is advantageous if two cleaning elements are arranged or formed on at least one solar thermal element. In this way, two adjacent solar thermal elements can be cleaned at the same time, each with one of the two cleaning elements due to a relative movement.

A particularly compact and simple construction of the solar thermal device can be achieved in particular if at least the cleaning element is arranged or formed on the carrier element. In particular, it can be arranged in such a way that the absorption of solar radiation by the solar thermal element is not or only slightly impaired.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that each solar thermal element is assigned at least one wind turbine. The at least one wind wheel, also referred to as a wind generator, can be designed in particular to generate electricity. It can therefore be used to generate electricity. For example, an air flow rising along or above the solar thermal element can be used to generate additional electricity.

The wind turbine is preferably arranged in the region of a first end of the solar thermal element. It is preferably arranged in the region of that end of the solar thermal element which is positioned higher in relation to the direction of gravity. In this way, rising warm air can be optimally used to drive the wind turbine. It is advantageous if each wind turbine is arranged or designed to drive a power generator to generate electricity. In particular, wind energy can also be used to supply a building with electricity, for example. In particular, a thermal air flow that is generated by the solar thermal device due to heat given off to the environment can be further used to generate electricity. The wind generator can in particular also include the power generator.

It is advantageous if the cleaning device comprises at least one wind wheel and if the wind wheel is designed to be drivable. In particular, the wind wheel can be designed to be driven with electric power to generate a cleaning air flow. The cleaning air flow can be used in particular for blowing off snow and dirt from at least one solar thermal element. In addition or as an alternative to wiping lips or wiping brushes, dirt that can be easily blown off, for example leaves or the like, can be removed from the solar thermal device using the wind turbines.

It is advantageous if the solar thermal element comprises at least one air guiding element for guiding an air flow. The at least one air guide element therefore serves the purpose in particular of guiding an air flow along the solar thermal element or between two adjacent solar thermal elements, for example towards a wind turbine, in order to further improve the efficiency of the solar thermal device, namely by using the wind turbine to power generation is used.

It is advantageous if the at least one air guiding element is designed in the form of a projection extending parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and/or is encompassed by the protective cover, for example by the carrier element. The at least one air guide element can, for example, in the case of a rotatably arranged solar thermal element can also be brought into a specific position in a simple manner in order to optimally direct an air flow to a wind turbine. In particular, when no solar radiation hits the solar thermal device, ie especially at night or when it is very cloudy, the solar thermal elements with the air guiding elements can be optimally aligned in order to generate electricity with one or more wind turbines optimize.

The object stated at the outset is also achieved according to the invention in a solar thermal module of the type described at the outset in that the solar thermal device is designed in the form of one of the solar thermal devices described above.

Developing a solar thermal module in the manner described has the advantages already described above in connection with preferred embodiments of solar thermal devices.

Preferably, the solar thermal module includes a plurality of solar thermal devices mix. For example, solar thermal modules can be provided with an identical or different number of solar thermal Vorrich lines to be arranged on buildings, such as facades or roofs of the same, or on fences of land to gain heat and electricity from solar and wind energy. For example, five, 10, 15 or any other number of solar thermal devices can be built into a solar thermal module. Each solar thermal module can optionally include a corresponding number of wind turbines. Such a modular design has the particular advantage that it simplifies the installation of solar thermal devices on a building, since only the solar thermal module has to be attached to the building and not each solar thermal device individually.

In order to be able to form solar thermal modules with high efficiency, it is advantageous if the absorption elements of the solar thermal devices are arranged parallel to each other. In particular, it is possible to optimally equip an area specified by the solar thermal module with solar thermal elements.

For the handling of the solar thermal module it is advantageous if it comprises a holding frame and if the at least one cleaning element is arranged or formed stationary on the holding frame and with a free end in the direction of the assigned solar thermal device. Thus, one or more cleaning elements can be arranged and positioned in a simple manner with holding frames, in order then to effect cleaning of the same as a result of a movement of the solar thermal element relative to the at least one cleaning element.

Preferably, adjacent solar thermal elements define a flow channel between them. For example, air can be guided through the flow channel in a defined manner, for example to a wind turbine that is arranged or formed at one end of the flow channel.

The at least one wind turbine is preferably arranged at a first end of the flow channel that is elevated against the direction of gravity. A thermally induced air flow or an air flow caused by the wind can thus be guided through the flow channel and passed to the wind turbine, in particular to generate electricity.

It is advantageous if each wind turbine is assigned an air guiding element and if the air guiding element is arranged or formed at the first end of the flow channel. Such an air guiding element can be used in particular to direct flowing air to the wind turbine in a defined manner. For example, the air guiding element can have a larger effective cross-section than the wind turbine, so that more air can be guided to the wind turbine than would get to the wind turbine without such an air guiding element. For example, the air guiding element can be funnel-shaped or essentially funnel-shaped. It is advantageous if the at least one solar thermal element is assigned a heat transfer element for transferring heat absorbed by the absorption element to a heat exchanger fluid flowing through the heat transfer element. The heat transfer element can in particular be arranged or formed in a fixed manner on the solar thermal module and be in thermal contact with the solar thermal element or a component thereof.

The heat transfer element is preferably arranged or formed at the first end of the solar thermal element. Thus, heat can be guided from the solar thermal element to one end of the same and then transferred there to the heat transfer element and from there to a heat exchange fluid in order to conduct the heat absorbed by the absorption element of the solar thermal element, for example, to a heat accumulator.

It is favorable if the absorption element comprises a heat-conducting element and if the heat-transfer element is thermally operatively connected to the heat-conducting element. In this way, heat that has been absorbed by the absorption element by absorbing solar radiation can be transferred to the heat transfer element via the heat-conducting element.

In order to allow any alignment of the solar thermal element relative to the solar thermal module, in particular for tracking the sun's movement or for selectively activating a photovoltaic element or the absorption element, it is advantageous if the absorption element and the heat transfer element are arranged or designed such that they can be rotated relative to one another about the longitudinal axis are. As already explained above, this makes it possible to track the solar thermal element to the course of the sun to generate heat. Both "photovoltaic tracking" and "solar thermal tracking" are therefore possible. Furthermore, it is favorable if the solar thermal module comprises at least one measuring device for measuring a light intensity incident on the module, an outside temperature and/or an ambient humidity. The at least one measuring device, also referred to as a measuring unit, can thus be used to measure environmental parameters, which can then be processed, for example, in a central control device or in a control device assigned to the solar thermal module, for example in order to align solar thermal elements of the solar thermal module in the desired way .

The at least one measuring device preferably comprises at least one light sensor, at least one rain sensor and/or at least one temperature sensor. In this way, a light intensity occurring on the solar thermal module, precipitation and an ambient temperature can be determined in a defined manner. In particular, the measured values can be further processed in order to specifically control solar thermal devices of the solar thermal module, for example to move them into a position adapted to the environmental parameters.

It is advantageous if the drive device is designed for synchronous rotation of all solar thermal elements. In particular, this can be designed to synchronously rotate all the solar thermal elements of a solar thermal module together. In this way, a simple and compact construction of the solar thermal module can be achieved. Such a configuration is particularly advantageous if cleaning elements of a cleaning device are arranged in a fixed manner on the solar thermal module and are each assigned to only a single solar thermal element.

Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the drive device is designed for the synchronous rotation of two solar thermal elements that are arranged adjacent to both sides of a solar thermal element. Such an embodiment makes it possible in particular to move adjacent solar thermal elements not only synchronously but also asynchronously. This can be used in particular to mutually clean adjacent solar thermal ele ments, especially when cleaning elements are arranged or formed on the solar thermal ele ments. By means of an appropriate control, external surfaces of the adjacent solar thermal elements can be cleaned, for example freed from dirt or precipitation, by appropriately predetermined movements of the adjacent solar thermal elements.

It is favorable if the drive device is designed to move adjacent solar thermal elements independently of one another. Not only can they be synchronously tracked by the course of the sun, but they can also be individually aligned to generate either heat or electricity by aligning either an absorption element or a photovoltaic element in the opposite direction to the solar radiation.

It is advantageous if the solar thermal module includes a control device for controlling the drive device as a function of physical environmental parameters of the solar thermal module. As already explained, the solar thermal elements can be aligned with the sun and track the course of the sun.

The at least one measuring device and the control device are advantageously connected to one another in a control-effective manner. This makes it possible in particular to use the control device to move the solar thermal elements in the desired manner, for example into a protective position, if heavy precipitation is detected by the at least one measuring device. For example, at temperatures below freezing point and detected precipitation, a regular movement of the solar thermal elements can be specified by the control device, for example to shake snow off the solar thermal elements or to shovel it off by means of a corresponding shovel-like shape, for example the carrier element or the protective cover and prevent them from freezing . Preferably, the solar thermal module includes a collection container. The collection container can be used in particular to catch precipitation that hits the solar thermal module and to discharge it in a defined manner.

It is favorable if the collection container is arranged or formed in the area of a lower end of the solar thermal module in relation to the direction of gravity. In this way, precipitation can be collected easily and safely.

It is advantageous if the collecting container is designed in the form of a trough and if the at least one solar thermal device is arranged or configured in the collecting container. This configuration makes it possible in particular to arrange the solar thermal device partially protected in the collection container. In this way, in particular, a wind load acting on the solar thermal device can be minimized.

It is favorable if the solar thermal module includes a heating device for heating the collection container. Such a configuration makes it possible, in particular, to free the solar thermal module from ice and snow, in particular in the collection container, in winter, in that frozen precipitation is heated by means of the heating device and discharged as melt water.

The heating device is advantageously arranged or formed in the region of a lower end of the collecting container in relation to the direction of gravity. It can act in particular where precipitation collects and solidifies at temperatures below freezing and can completely or partially block the solar thermal module.

The object at the outset is also achieved according to the invention in a power supply system of the type described above in that the at least one solar thermal module is designed in the form of one of the solar thermal modules described above.

Developing an energy supply system of the type described at the outset in this way has the advantages already described above in connection with preferred embodiments of solar thermal modules. In particular, it is possible with such an energy supply system to supply a building with heat and/or electricity in a defined manner and depending on the respective needs, for example.

The at least one solar thermal module is preferably arranged or held on a roof or on a facade of a building or on a holding device. The holding device can be arranged or designed in particular in the form of a railing, for example on a balcony, on a fence or as an independent unit on a property.

It is advantageous if one of the solar thermal modules is inclined in relation to the direction of gravity. For example, it may be oriented parallel or substantially parallel to the roof of a building. In particular, the solar thermal module can be integrated into the roof of a building over a large area.

The energy supply system preferably comprises at least one electrical energy store for storing electricity generated with the at least one photovoltaic element and/or the at least one wind turbine of the solar thermal module. Alternatively, electrical power generated with the solar thermal module can also be used directly in a building, i.e. without intermediate storage.

Furthermore, it is favorable if the energy supply system includes a central control device for controlling and/or regulating, in particular electrical, components of the same as a function of physical parameters. parameters in the building and/or in an area surrounding it. As already explained, the at least one solar thermal module can be controlled depending on ambient conditions and a heat requirement or a need for electrical energy of a building in such a way that either more heat or more electricity can be generated in order to optimally cover the respective requirement. In particular, pools and/or rainwater cisterns can also be optionally heated. As a result, excess energy can be used not only by feeding it into electromobility, but also by heating pool systems. However, by heating pools that are covered and filled in winter and/or insulated rainwater cisterns, these water tanks can also be used as additional heat accumulators. The use of such liquid reservoirs, which are already available in many households, helps to store excess energy, especially in colder seasons with longer periods of sunshine. In particular, even longer solar energy-paused periods, for example longer foggy periods, can be bridged, especially with regard to heating. For example, a pool or a cistern with 30 m ³ of water when heated by 15 degrees offers an energy storage volume of around 450 kWh. This roughly corresponds to the heating energy requirement of an average household - depending on the construction - for around 4 to 8 days.

The object set at the beginning is also achieved according to the invention in a method for operating a solar thermal device in that, when there is a maximum heat demand, the at least one solar thermal element is aligned in a basic position with the absorption element opposite or essentially opposite to the effective direction of the solar radiation field. In this way, heat can be obtained exclusively or predominantly from the solar radiation field with the solar thermal device, for example for supplying a building with heat.

It is advantageous if, in the case of a heat requirement that decreases or is lower than the maximum heat requirement, the at least one solar thermal element is at least partially, in particular completely, shaded or is covered. In particular, this can prevent solar thermal devices from overheating and absorbing excessive heat that cannot be dissipated.

It is favorable if the at least one solar thermal element follows a direction of action of the solar radiation field that changes as a function of time. In particular, it can be advantageous if the solar thermal element is tracked to the solar radiation field either with the respective absorption element or with at least one photovoltaic element. For example, such a tracking can take place continuously. In this way, the efficiency of the solar thermal device can be optimized, in particular by reflecting surfaces always aligned at the optimized angle of incidence to the sun for deflecting solar radiation onto the absorption elements and/or in designs with flat absorption elements. This optimization can either be used to generate heat or electricity, depending on whether an absorption element or a photovoltaic element is used to track the direction of the radiation field, which changes over time.

It is also advantageous if the at least one photovoltaic element is aligned opposite or essentially opposite to the effective direction of the solar radiation field as the electrical energy demand increases. In this way, in particular, the efficiency of the solar thermal device for generating electrical power can be optimized. An increasing electrical energy requirement can also occur in particular when there is little or no heat requirement, for example when a heat store is already loaded with maximum heat, for example a buffer store with water. In this case, it is then advantageous, even if, as initially described, photovoltaic elements have a lower degree of efficiency than the absorption elements, instead of generating heat, electricity is generated and then either consumed directly or stored temporarily, for example in a rechargeable battery. Furthermore, it is advantageous if the majority of solar thermal elements are aligned individually or in groups depending on a heat requirement either with the respective absorption element or with the photovoltaic element against the effective direction of the solar radiation field. For example, heat can always be obtained initially insofar as it is also required. With lower or decreasing heat consumption, the solar thermal elements can then be used individually to generate electrical current, for example by rotating them about their longitudinal axis in order to direct one or more photovoltaic elements of the same to the solar radiation instead of the absorption element.

In order in particular to keep solar thermal elements operational in winter, especially to gain heat, it is favorable if at least one solar thermal element is cleaned as a result of soiling or wetting with water or being covered with snow. Such cleaning can take place, in particular, at regular intervals. In this way it can be ensured that solar thermal elements can remain operational in the desired manner even in winter.

The at least one solar thermal element is preferably moved into the basic position when the light intensity of the solar radiation field falls below a predetermined level. The basic position can in particular be a protective position in which the absorption element or the solar thermal element are protected from the effects of the weather. For example, this can be a position in which the photovoltaic element is directed in the opposite direction to the solar radiation field.

In a further embodiment, the at least one solar thermal element can also be designed to be rotatable into an optimized wind deflection position. This option can be called up by the controller, for example, by measuring the wind power present at the wind turbines or wind generators. If there is wind, this control program can be used when there is no solar energy, for example at night or in fog, be called. It can be advantageous if the solar thermal elements, which can have an optimized wind-conducting shape, are turned until the maximum power of the wind generators can be measured.

It is favorable if, in a hail protection operating mode, the at least one solar thermal element is aligned in a hail protection position in such a way that the protective cover is directed against falling precipitation in such a way that the at least one photovoltaic element points with its active surface in the direction of precipitation. In this way, the photovoltaic element can be optimally protected against damage, in particular from hail.

In the manner described, the photovoltaic element is turned away from precipitation and protected by the protective cover of at least one solar thermal element.

It is advantageous if the at least one solar thermal element is moved at regular time intervals in a snow-clearing operating mode. In particular, it can be rotated about the longitudinal axis. In particular, it can be moved back and forth by a twisting angle in a range from about 90° to 270°. Snow removal operating mode makes it possible in particular to free the at least one solar thermal element from snow—or even leaves or the like. The snow can be compressed and thrown off as a result of the twisting, in particular a pendulum movement back and forth, and it can also be collected under the at least one solar thermal element. In particular, freezing of the at least one solar thermal element can also be prevented in this way.

According to a further preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one solar thermal element is moved back and forth at regular time intervals in an anti-icing operating mode. In particular, it can be rotated back and forth about the longitudinal axis by an angle of rotation in a range from about 90° to 270°. Next, in particular, the anti-icing operating mode can only be activated when the incident on the solar thermal device solar radiation falls below a predetermined lower radiation limit. Falling below the lower radiation limit can occur in particular at night or in fog. For this purpose, the radiation intensity can be measured with a radiation sensor, for example.

The at least one solar thermal element can favorably be aligned in an overheating protection operating mode in a heat protection position in such a way that the shading device shades the absorption element. In particular, the at least one photovoltaic element can be aligned in the opposite direction to the solar radiation field in the heat protection position. For example, the overheating protection operating mode can cause the at least one solar thermal element to be aligned in the manner described, for example by activation via a control device if, for example, a temperature sensor measures a temperature that is higher than a predefined temperature. Shading the at least one solar thermal element can prevent overheating, in particular of the heat exchanger fluid flowing through the absorption element. At the same time, electricity can also be generated if the photovoltaic element is present.

Advantageously, the overheat protection mode of operation may be activated automatically when a temperature of the heat exchange fluid exceeds a predetermined temperature limit. The temperature can be measured in particular with a temperature sensor. For example, in the event of a failed pump for conveying the heat exchanger fluid, also referred to as heat transfer fluid, overheating of the heat exchanger fluid can be prevented.

It is favorable if the at least one solar thermal element is aligned in a wind deflection operating mode in a wind deflection position in such a way that a current generated with the at least one associated wind wheel has a maximum exhibits malvalue. In particular, the wind deflection operating mode can be activated if, for example, no radiation intensity or a radiation intensity that falls below a specified limit value is measured with a radiation sensor. In particular, the generation of electricity with the respective wind turbine can be optimized, especially at night or in fog.

It is advantageous if the current generator assigned to the at least one wind wheel is set in rotation in a wind wheel activation operating mode by applying a current for a predetermined start-up time. In particular, the power generator can be rotated at regular intervals in the manner described. This approach makes it possible, in particular, to overcome an electromagnetic initial resistance of the wind turbine or of the associated power generator. In this way, the wind turbine is practically actively set in rotation and the initial resistance is thereby overcome or reduced. In particular, it is possible in this way to trigger the current generators and thus the respective associated wind wheel by direct activation at regular time intervals when there is little wind. This makes it possible to check whether there is any wind at all. Electricity can still be generated at low wind speeds that would not be sufficient to overcome the initial resistance.

According to a further preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the drive device is deactivated in an anti-jamming operating mode when a predetermined drive limit force is reached. In particular, after a predetermined waiting time has elapsed, the at least one solar thermal element can be rotated back and forth about the longitudinal axis by an angle of rotation in a range from approximately 90° to 270°. A position or orientation of the at least one solar thermal element can be determined in particular via a number of steps of a drive device in the form of a stepping motor or continuously with an electronic measuring device. If a high load is measured, i.e. when a high driving force is required to at least one solar thermal element move, or is a rotation of at least one solar thermal element is no longer possible, so the solar thermal module or the energy supply system as a whole in a safety or Lastschutzzu stand can be transferred. This can occur, for example, as a result of a branch being trapped, a firework rocket being trapped or a part of the body being trapped during maintenance work. After a predetermined waiting time has elapsed after the safety or load protection state has occurred, the at least one solar thermal element can be rotated in the opposite direction, for example, or can perform a pendulum movement, ie a back-and-forth rotation. Such a shaking movement can in particular increase the probability that the foreign bodies described will be turned away or thrown off. For example, they can be collected in the collection container under the at least one solar thermal element. If the clamping resistance persists even after a predefined number of pendulum or shaking attempts, the solar thermal module or the energy supply system can be switched to an error state. The fault determined in this way can be displayed in particular on a display device of the control device.

The embodiments described above make it possible in particular to use an optimum of available energy in the form of wind and solar energy either simultaneously and also in an optimized manner.

The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention is used in conjunction with the drawings for more detailed explanation. Show it:

Figure 1: a schematic representation of an embodiment of a

building with an energy supply system;

FIG. 2: a schematic representation of a first exemplary embodiment of a solar thermal module of an energy supply system, wherein; FIG. 3 shows a further schematic representation of the exemplary embodiment from FIG. 2, with solar thermal devices of the solar thermal module being aligned for generating electricity;

FIG. 4: an enlarged partial view of the arrangement from FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 shows a schematic perspective view of the arrangement from FIG. 2 from an underside;

FIG. 6: an enlarged view of a first end of the exemplary embodiment of solar thermal devices from FIG. 2 with coupled heat exchanger devices;

FIG. 7: a further schematic perspective view of the first end of the solar thermal devices with associated wind wheels;

FIG. 8: a schematic, partially exploded illustration of the arrangement from FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 shows a schematic representation of the first end of the solar thermal devices with drive device and heat exchanger device;

FIG. 10: a schematic, partially exploded illustration of the arrangement from FIG. 9;

FIG. 11: a plan view of the arrangement in FIG. 9 in the direction of the longitudinal axis;

Figure 12 is a sectional view taken along line 12-12 of Figure 11; FIG. 13: a schematic exploded view of the exemplary embodiment of a solar thermal device from FIG. 2;

Figure 14 is a sectional view taken along line 14-14 of Figure 16;

Figure 15 is a sectional view taken along line 15-15 of Figure 14 through a first end portion of the embodiment of a solar thermal device;

Figure 16 is an enlarged partial longitudinal sectional view taken along line 15-15 of Figure 14;

FIG. 17: a further schematic perspective view of an arrangement similar to FIG. 9;

FIG. 18: a schematic, partially broken view of an exemplary embodiment of a solar thermal module with solar thermal devices designed for heat recovery;

FIG. 19: a view similar to FIG. 18 when cleaning the solar thermal devices;

FIG. 20: a view similar to FIG. 19 when cleaning a protective cover of the solar thermal device;

FIG. 21: a view similar to FIG. 20 when cleaning a photovoltaic element of the solar thermal device;

FIG. 22: a sectional view of a further embodiment of such a thermal element; FIG. 23: a sectional view of a further embodiment of such a thermal element;

FIG. 24: a sectional view of a further embodiment of such a thermal element;

FIG. 25: a perspective schematic overall view of a further exemplary embodiment of a solar thermal module;

FIG. 26: a schematic representation of the arrangement from FIG. 25 with differently aligned solar thermal elements;

FIG. 27 shows a partially exploded view of the exemplary embodiment of a solar thermal device from FIG. 25;

FIG. 28: an enlarged view of two adjacent solar thermal devices from FIG. 25;

Figure 29 is a partially sectioned view taken along line 29-29 of Figure 28;

FIG. 30: a schematic view of a first end of the solar thermal module from FIG. 25;

FIG. 31: a schematic representation of a further exemplary embodiment of a drive device for a solar thermal module;

FIG. 32: a plan view of the arrangement from FIG. 31;

FIG. 33: a side view of a first end of the solar thermal module from FIG. 24;

FIG. 34: a partial view of a first end area of the exemplary embodiment of a solar thermal module from FIG. 25; Figures 35 a) to t): schematic representations of different relative positions of adjacent solar thermal devices of the exemplary embodiment of a solar thermal module from Figure 24.

A first exemplary embodiment of an energy supply system 10 is shown schematically in FIG. As shown schematically in FIG. 1, the energy supply system 10 serves to supply a building 12 with heat and electrical energy.

The first exemplary embodiment of the energy supply system 10 comprises a total of six solar thermal modules 14. These are connected to a heat accumulator 18 via a connecting line shown schematically in FIG. The heat accumulator 18 is designed to store the solar heat absorbed by the solar thermal module 14 .

In the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 1, the solar thermal modules 14 are arranged on a roof 20 of the building 12 .

In alternative, not shown embodiments, one or more solar thermal modules 14 are arranged on a facade 22, a fence, a garage or a separate holding device.

The solar thermal modules 14 are arranged inclined in relation to the direction of gravity, which is symbolized schematically by the arrow 24 in Figure 1, namely parallel or essentially parallel to the roof 20.

In the exemplary embodiment shown schematically in Figure 1, the energy supply system 10 comprises an electrical energy store 26 in the form of a rechargeable battery 28. The electrical energy store 26 is conductively connected to the solar thermal modules 14 via a connecting line 30 shown schematically.

The electrical energy store 26 is connected in a control-effective manner to a control device 34 via a further connecting line 32 . The control device 34 is connected in a control-effective manner to the solar thermal modules 14 via a control line 36 . Another control line 38 is shown schematically in Figure 1 to symbolize a control-effective connection of the heat accumulator 18 and the control device 34.

The electrical energy store 26 is designed to store electrical current which is generated with the solar thermal modules 14 .

This is explained in more detail below.

The heat accumulator 18 is designed to store solar heat absorbed by the solar thermal modules 14 . The storage medium used in the energy supply system 10 is water, which is transferred to the storage medium via an optional heat exchanger 40, which is connected to the solar thermal modules 14 in a thermally conductive manner via the connecting line 16. The solar thermal module 14 and the connecting line 16 contain a heat exchanger fluid 188 which remains in the liquid state even at temperatures below freezing.

In Figure 1, a water fitting 42 is shown schematically symbolically for a heat consumer. It symbolizes removal points for water, via which, in particular, heated water can be discharged from the heat accumulator 18 .

Furthermore, a heating element 44 is shown symbolically in FIG. The heating element 44 is designed as a radiator or as a line element to form underfloor or wall heating. to release heat stored in the heat accumulator 18 to the interior of the building 12 .

In the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 1, the control device 34 is designed in the form of a central control device 34 for controlling and/or regulating components of the same as a function of physical parameters in the building 12 or in an environment 48 of the same. The components can in particular be the heating elements 44 , the heat accumulator 18 and the electrical energy accumulator 26 .

Furthermore, an electrical consumer 50 is shown schematically and by way of example in FIG. 1, which is supplied and can be operated directly with electrical power generated by the solar thermal module 14 . Each electrical consumer 50 of the building 12 can optionally also be controlled via the central control device 34 in order to optionally use electricity which is generated by the solar thermal modules 14 or is provided in the electrical energy store 26 or from an electrical energy supply network make possible.

A measuring unit 52 is optionally assigned to each solar thermal module 14 or to all modules 14 in common for the detection of physical parameters, in particular of the environment 48 . Each measuring unit 52, also referred to as a measuring device, includes one or more light sensors 54, one or more rain sensors 56 and one or more temperature sensors 58. This makes it possible to use the measuring unit to determine the intensity of the solar radiation field impinging on the solar thermal module and an ambient to measure temperature. It can also be determined whether it is raining or not.

The solar thermal modules 14 include a plurality of solar thermal devices 60 which are identical or essentially identical in design. In the embodiment of Figure 1, each solar thermal module 14 includes identical solar thermal devices 60. The solar thermal modules 14 have a modular design, so that they can also be designed with a smaller or larger number of solar thermal devices 60 .

Each solar thermal device 60 includes a solar thermal element 62 which includes an absorption element 66 defining a longitudinal axis 64 for absorbing solar radiation.

The absorption element 66 is tubular. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 19, the absorption element 35 is designed in the form of a solar thermal tube collector 68 and includes a self-contained heat pipe 70 which is arranged coaxially with the longitudinal axis 64 .

The heat pipe 70 is held on an absorption bracket 72 . The absorption clamp 72 is elongate like the heat pipe 70 and comprises a first half-shell 74 which bears against the heat pipe 70 and has a first free end 76. The first half-shell 74 is adjoined by a first connecting section which extends essentially in the radial direction away from the longitudinal axis 78 on. The first connecting section 78 is in turn followed by a first absorption section 80 which is concentric to the longitudinal axis 64 and extends over approximately 180°. This is connected via a second connecting section 82 to a second half-shell 84 which rests on the heat pipe 70 opposite the first half-shell 74 . A second connection section 86 extends from the second half-shell 84 parallel to the first connection section 78 to a second absorption section 88 which is arranged diametrically opposite the first absorption section 80 . A second free end 90 points to the transition area between the first absorption section 80 and the second connection section 82.

The heat pipe 70 is clamped between the half-shells 74 and 84. The absorption clamp 72 is made of a metal that absorbs solar radiation, so that the radiation absorbed by the absorption sections 80 and 88 absorbed heat is conducted via the connecting portions 78, 82 and 86 to the half-shells 74 and 84 and is transferred thereto by thermal contact with the heat pipe 70 in order to heat the fluid contained in the interior space 92 of the heat pipe.

The absorption element 66 comprises a first casing tube 94 and a second casing tube 96. The first casing tube 94 surrounds the absorption clip 72. The second casing tube 96 surrounds the first casing tube 94, so that between the casing tubes 94 and 96 a gap 98 remains which is evacuated. The cladding tubes 94 and 96 are designed to be transparent to radiation, specifically made of glass.

The solar thermal element 62 also includes a protective cover 100 which extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis 64 and defines an interior space 102 in which the absorption element 66 is arranged. The protective cover 100 thus surrounds the absorption element 66. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figures 2 to 21, it is designed in several parts and comprises a carrier element 104 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis 64.

The protective cover 100 also includes a window element 106 which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis 64 and which is designed to be permeable or essentially permeable to solar radiation.

The window element 106 is formed from glass in one embodiment and from a plastic in a further embodiment.

The window element 106 extends over a circumferential angle 108 with respect to the longitudinal axis 64, which is in a range from approximately 100° to approximately 210°. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 21, the circumferential angle of the window element 106 is approximately 180°. The window element 106 is designed in the form of an elongated semi-cylindrical shell and forms a window element area 110 that is convexly curved and points away from the longitudinal axis 64. The solar thermal device 60 also includes a shading device 112 for shading the absorption element 66. The shading device 112 includes a movably arranged shading element 114, which can be moved from an irradiation position in which the absorption element 66 is unshaded or covered, as shown, for example, schematically in FIGS 4 is movable into a shading position and vice versa. In the shading position, the absorption element 66 is at least partially shaded or covered from solar radiation impinging on the solar thermal device 60, as shown schematically in FIGS.

In the shading position, the shading element 114 can also completely cover the absorption element 66, as is shown by way of example in FIG.

The shading element 114 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 64 net angeord. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 2 to 21, the shading element 114 and the absorption element 66 are immovably connected to one another, namely in a rotationally fixed manner with respect to the longitudinal axis 64. This makes it possible to rotate the solar thermal element 62 overall about the longitudinal axis 64.

In the exemplary embodiment of Figures 2 to 21, the shading element 114 comprises the carrier element 104. The carrier element 104 delimits the interior 102 via a carrier element circumferential angle 116 in relation to the longitudinal axis 64. The carrier element circumferential angle 116 is in a range from approximately 30° to approximately 200° . In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 2 to 1219, the carrier element circumferential angle 116 is in a range from approximately 30° to approximately 200°. It is about 190°.

The carrier element 104 is impermeable to solar radiation. Furthermore, the shading element 114 includes one or more photovoltaic elements 118 for generating electric power by absorbing solar radiation. Photovoltaic element 118 has an active surface 120 that is flat and arranged pointing away from longitudinal axis 64 . The photovoltaic element 118 is arranged in a recess 122 of the carrier element 104 which is open and points away from the longitudinal axis 64 . The shading element 114 thus also encompasses the photovoltaic element 118.

Furthermore, the photovoltaic element 118 forms part of an outer surface 124 of the protective cover 100 pointing away from the longitudinal axis 64. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 2 to 21, the shading element 114 forms part of the protective cover 100. Together, the window element 106 and the carrier element 104 surround the absorption element 66 over the entire circumference in relation to the longitudinal axis 64.

The solar thermal element 62 is mirror-symmetrical or essentially mirror-symmetrical in relation to a plane of symmetry 126 containing the longitudinal axis 64 .

The solar thermal element 62 also includes a heat sink 128 which is thermally operatively connected to the photovoltaic element 118 . In the exemplary embodiment of Figures 2 to 21, the carrier element 104 includes the heat sink 128. Consequently, the carrier element 104 is formed monolithically and also assumes the function of the heat sink 128.

The heat sink 128 forms part of the outer surface 124 of the protective cover 100, specifically in an area which extends between the photovoltaic element 118 and the window element 106.

The heat sink 128 also includes a plurality of cooling channels 130 in the form of cooling slots 132, which extend parallel to the longitudinal axis 64. The plurality of cooling slots 132 are mirror-symmetrical to the plane of symmetry 126. formed carrier element 104 parallel to the longitudinal axis 64 and parallel to the recess 122 and thus also parallel to the photovoltaic element 118 duri fend formed. The cooling slots 132 end in the area of the outer surface 124.

An outer contour of the carrier element 104 and thus also of the heat sink 128 together with the window element 106 forms a cylindrical outer surface area 134 which extends over an outer surface area angle 136 . Another outer surface area 138 is defined by the photovoltaic element 118 . This extends over a further outer surface area angle 140.

The outer surface area angles 136 and 140 add up to the circumferential angle by 360°. In the embodiment of Figures 2-21, the outer surface area angle 140 is approximately 90° and corresponding outer surface area angle 136 is approximately 270°.

The interior 102 is delimited by a reflection surface 142 . It is arranged or designed in such a way that solar radiation entering the interior 102 through the window element 106 is reflected in the direction of the absorption element 66 , that is to say it is deflected.

The absorption element 66 is spatially arranged between the reflection surface 142 and the window element 106 .

The solar thermal element 62 includes an optical imaging device 144 for imaging and/or deflecting the solar radiation impinging on the protective cover 100 onto the absorption element 66. The optical imaging device 144 includes the reflection surface 142.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 2 to 19, two reflection surfaces 142 are provided, which extend over a reflection surface circumferential angle 146 in relation to the longitudinal axis 64 . The reflective surface circumference angle 146 of the two reflective surfaces 142 are each approximately 60°, so that the reflective surface perimeter angle of all reflective surfaces 142 as a whole is in a range from about 30° to about 150°.

In the exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIGS. 2 to 21, the reflection surfaces 142 are in the form of coatings 148 that are highly reflective for solar radiation, specifically on a reflection element 150, which thus forms a mirror 152.

The reflection surface 412 is defined by a heat sink side surface 154 of the heat sink 128 pointing into the interior space 102 . Reflective surface 142 covers or forms heat sink side surface 154 of heat sink 128. Heat sink side surface 154 has two flat heat sink side surface areas 158 and 160 inclined at an angle 156 relative to one another, with heat sink side surface area 160 extending up to window element 106 in the direction of the Photovoltaic element 118. The heat sink side surface area 158 adjoins the heat sink side surface area 160 and points with a free edge essentially in the direction of a free edge of the heat sink side surface area 160 of the other reflection element 150.

The positioning of reflection elements 150, as described and shown schematically in Figure 14 in particular, ensures that the solar radiation entering interior 102 through window element 106, which would not impinge directly on absorption element 66, is reflected through reflection surface 142 on heat sink side surface area 160 and is deflected at the side surface area 158 of the heat sink, so that this radiation also impinges on the absorption element 66 . Thus, the radiation can be absorbed by the absorption bracket 72 and passed to the heat pipe 70 .

The solar thermal device 60 also includes a drive device 162, which is designed to rotate the solar thermal element 62 about the longitudinal axis 64. Due to the non-rotatable arrangement of the carrier element 104 and thus also the photovoltaic element 118 and the absorption element 66 the shading element 114 can thus also be rotated about the longitudinal axis 64 with the drive device 162 .

The drive device 162 includes a motor drive 164, which is designed in the embodiment of Figures 2 to 21 in the form of an electric drive. The electric drive in turn is designed in the form of an electric motor 166, either as a stepping motor or as a servo motor.

The drive device 162 comprises a first drive element 168 driven by the motor drive 164. The solar thermal element 62 comprises a second drive element 170. The drive elements 168 and 170 are arranged or configured to cooperate in order to transmit a driving force of the motor drive 164 to the solar thermal element 62 , in order to rotate it about the longitudinal axis 64.

The first drive element 168 is in the form of a drive spindle 172 or drive worm. The second drive element 170 is in the form of a gear wheel 174 corresponding to the drive worm. The gear wheel 174 is arranged at a first end 176 of the solar thermal element 62 in such a way that the teeth of the gear wheel 174 protrude in the radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis 64 .

The first drive element 168 defines a first drive element longitudinal axis 178. The second drive element 170 defines a second drive element longitudinal axis 180. The two drive element longitudinal axes 178 and 180 run transversely, namely perpendicularly, as can be seen particularly well in Figure 17, to one another, with the first drive element longitudinal axis 178 perpendicular to a plane containing the second drive element longitudinal axis 180 . In the embodiment of Figures 2 to 21, the longitudinal axis 64 defines the second drive element longitudinal axis 180. The drive device 162 is also designed in such a way that all the solar thermal elements 62 of the solar thermal module 14 are moved synchronously with the drive 164 , that is to say they can each be rotated about their longitudinal axis 64 . For this purpose, the first drive element 168 is formed with a number of drive spindles 172 corresponding to the number of solar thermal elements 62, each of which meshes with the gear wheel 174 that is non-rotatably coupled to the solar thermal element 62.

The drive device 182 is connected to the control device 34 in a control-effective manner, so that an alignment of the solar thermal elements 62 in any rotational position relative to the respective longitudinal axis 64 can be specified.

The absorption element 66 includes a heat-conducting element 182 which protrudes from the first end of the solar thermal element 62 coaxially to the longitudinal axis 64 . It is in the form of a cylindrical head 184 which is approximately 2.5 times larger in diameter than the heat pipe 70 which extends between the half shells 74 and 84 .

A heat transfer element 186 is assigned to the solar thermal element 62 for transferring heat absorbed by the absorption element 66 to a heat exchanger fluid 188 flowing through the heat transfer element 186. The heat transfer element 186 is arranged or formed at the first end 176 of the solar thermal element 62. The heat conducting element 182 is thermally operatively connected to the heat transfer element 186 . This is achieved by a thermal coupler 190 which has a receptacle 192 for the head 184. The socket 192 is sized such that an outer surface 194 of the head 184 is in thermal contact with an inner wall surface 196 of the socket 192 . The receptacle 192 is in the form of a blind hole, which is defined by a sleeve 198 that is closed on one side. On an outer side of the sleeve 198, heat conducting plates 200 project in the radial direction. The thermal coupler 190 is accommodated in a connection element 202 . The connection element 202 is designed in the form of a sleeve closed on one side with a half hollow sphere. At this two openings 204 and 206 are offset in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The opening 204 forms an inlet for the heat exchange fluid 188, and the opening 206 forms an outlet. If the heat exchange fluid 188 flows through the opening 204 into the interior of the connection element 202, it flows forcibly guided through the heat baffles 200 parallel to the longitudinal axis 64 in the direction of the first end 176 of the solar thermal element 62. It is then directed into opening 206 from this end. This configuration enables a very good heat exchange between the heat coupler 190 heat exchanger fluid 188 in order to transmit the solar heat to the heat exchanger fluid 188.

The heat transfer elements 186 of the solar thermal elements 62 of the solar thermal module 14 are arranged downstream of one another, so that the heat exchange fluid 188 always flows from the opening 206 to the opening 204 of the adjacently arranged heat transfer element 186 . The heat exchanger fluid 188 thus flows successively through all heat transfer elements 186 of the solar thermal module 14. The heat exchanger fluid 188 is then passed through a return line 208 to the heat accumulator 18, in particular via the connecting line 16, which is coupled to the return line 208.

As described, the solar thermal element 62 and the heat transfer element 186 are rotatable relative to each other about the longitudinal axis 64 is arranged or formed. In particular, the head 184 is rotatable within the receptacle 192 of the thermal coupler 190 .

The solar thermal element 62 is provided with a closure element 210 in the area of the first end 176 , which closes the interior space 102 transversely to the longitudinal axis 64 . The closure element 210 further includes a Sleeve portion 212 which extends toward the first end 176 and wel cher the gear 174 carries. The sleeve section 212 is closed in the region of the first end 176 with a cover 214 through which the heat pipe 70 with the head 184 is led out.

The solar thermal module 14 also includes several wind turbines 216, also referred to as wind generators. One or two wind turbines 216 are assigned to each solar thermal element 62 . Each wind turbine 216 defines a wind wheel longitudinal axis 218 which runs parallel to the longitudinal axes 64 of the solar thermal elements 62 .

An air duct housing 220 is assigned to each wind turbine 216 . It is designed in the form of a hood with an inlet opening 222 open towards the solar thermal elements 62 . The hood 224 is connected to a cover 226 which serves to cover the drive device 162 .

The in the region of the first end 176 of the solar thermal element 62 is arranged wind turbines 216 are designed to drive an integrated power generator to generate electricity. For this purpose, the wind wheel 216 can be used as part of an electric fan, which uses the motor of the fan 228 as a power generator for Stromer generation when flowing through a fan wheel opening 230 in which a fan wheel 232 is held rotating bar.

As can be seen particularly well in FIGS. 20 and 21, the wind turbines 216 are each positioned between two solar thermal elements 62, although the wind turbine longitudinal axes 218 define a plane which is parallel to a plane defined by the longitudinal axes 64 of the solar thermal elements 62 runs, namely above the same. If the solar thermal module 14 is mounted on a sloping roof 20 of a building 12, as shown schematically in Figure 1, air flowing over the solar thermal module 14 can be directed between two adjacent solar thermal elements 62 to an air duct element 234, which is guided through the air duct housing 220 is formed. In particular, a thermal air flow that forms when the solar thermal module 14 is heated and flows against the direction of gravity in the direction of the first end 176 of the solar thermal elements 62 can be used to generate electricity, regardless of whether the solar thermal elements 62 are aligned in a shading or irradiation position.

As described, adjacent solar thermal elements 62 define a flow channel 236 between them. The wind turbines 216 are each arranged at an end of the flow channel 236 that is raised against the direction of gravity. Correspondingly, an air guide element 234 is also arranged or formed at this end of the flow channel 236.

The absorption elements 66 and thus also the solar thermal elements 62 of the solar thermal device 60 are aligned parallel to one another.

The solar thermal element 62 also includes an air guiding element 238 for guiding an air flow as described. In the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 2 to 21, the air guiding element 238 is formed by the protective cover 100 or is surrounded by it.

For easy assembly of the solar thermal module 14, it includes a holding frame 240. In the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. The collection container 242 is designed in the form of a trough and is used, for example, to collect snow or other precipitation. gene in solid form. Furthermore, the solar thermal device 60 in the collection container 242 is arranged. The collection container 242 also serves to protect the components of the solar thermal module 14 at the same time.

In one exemplary embodiment, the solar thermal module 14 includes a heating device 244 for heating the collecting container 242. The heating device 244 is then arranged or formed in the region of a lower end of the collecting container 242 in relation to the direction of gravity. Snow and ice can be melted by appropriate heating and drained off as water.

In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the collection container is arranged or formed in the region of a lower end of the solar thermal module 14 in relation to the direction of gravity.

The solar thermal device 60 also includes a cleaning device 246 for cleaning the solar thermal element 62. The cleaning device 246 includes one or more cleaning elements 248. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. Furthermore, the cleaning element 248 and the solar thermal element 62 assigned to it are designed to be movable relative to one another. The mobility results in particular from the rotatable arrangement of the solar thermal element 62 and from the deformability or mobility of the cleaning element 248.

As can be seen clearly in FIGS. 18 to 21, the cleaning element 248 is designed in the form of a wiper lip 250 in the exemplary embodiment shown. The cleaning element 248, i.e. in the specific case the wiper lip 250, thus extends parallel to the longitudinal axis 64. The wiper lip 250 is positioned in such a way that, in a basic position, as shown schematically in FIG. 18, it defines a plane containing the longitudinal axis 64 of the solar thermal element 62 . As shown schematically, the cleaning element 242 is arranged on the holding frame 240 or formed.

In an alternative embodiment, not shown, the cleaning element 248 is designed in the form of a wiping brush. Their function corresponds to the function of the wiper lips 250 shown in Figures 18 to 21.

In a further alternative exemplary embodiment, the cleaning element 248 is designed in the form of a rotating wiper brush, the longitudinal axis of which runs parallel to the longitudinal axis 64 .

In the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 2 to 21, the solar thermal element 62 is cleaned by rotating it relative to the fixed cleaning element 248. During such a rotation, the wiper lip 250 brushes against the outer surface 124 of the protective cover 100 and thus removes precipitation and dirt.

In particular, snow that has been scraped off can be caught in the collecting container 242 and melted by means of the heating device 244 and thus removed from the solar thermal module 14 in a defined manner.

In the exemplary embodiment shown and described, the cleaning device 246 also includes one or all of the wind turbines 216. These can be driven with electricity in order to generate a cleaning air flow. In particular, dirt such as leaves or non-adhering dust and also dry snow can be blown off the solar thermal element 62 in this way.

As already explained, the measuring unit 252 forms a measuring device with which a light intensity impinging on the solar thermal module 14 is measured Outside temperature and / or ambient humidity can be measured. For this purpose, the measuring device includes a light sensor 54, one or more rain sensors 56 or one or more temperature sensors 58 or temperature sensors.

In the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 2 to 21, the drive device 162 is designed for the synchronous rotation of all solar thermal elements 62.

As already explained, the control device 34 is also designed to control the drive device 162 as a function of physical parameters surrounding the solar thermal module. For this purpose, the measuring unit 52 and the control device 162 are connected to one another in a control-effective manner.

The solar thermal device 60 described, and consequently all solar thermal devices 60 that are included in a solar thermal module 14, can be operated in particular in different ways.

In order to cover a maximum heat requirement of the building 12, the solar thermal elements 62 are aligned in a basic position with the absorption element 66 opposite or substantially opposite to the effective direction of the solar radiation field. This basic position is shown schematically in FIG. 2, for example. In this case, the shading elements 114 do not cover the absorption elements 66 so that incident solar radiation can heat up the absorption elements 66 . As described, the heat absorbed can then be transferred to the heat exchange fluid 188 and fed to the heat accumulator 18 .

If the heat requirement of the building 12 decreases or is less than the amount of heat that can be provided by the solar thermal element 62, then the solar thermal element 62 can be partially or completely shaded or covered, starting from the alignment shown in FIG. A complete concealed position is shown in FIG. 3, for example. Here the solar thermal elements 62 are rotated by 180° about the longitudinal axis 64 compared to the position shown in FIG. Partially covered shading positions are shown schematically in FIGS. 19 and 20.

Taking into account environmental parameters, in particular a position of the sun, the solar thermal elements 62 of each solar thermal module 14 can track a time-dependent changing direction of action of the solar radiation field. Such tracking can in particular take place continuously.

If the heat accumulator 18 is maximally charged with heat, the solar thermal elements 62 can be rotated about the longitudinal axis 64 in such a way that the support elements 104 with the photovoltaic element 118 are aligned in the opposite direction to the solar radiation field. Thus, instead of absorbing solar heat, the solar radiation field can be used to generate electrical power by means of the photovoltaic elements 118 .

A stepless alignment of the solar thermal elements 62 allows any conditions in the generation of electricity and heat with the solar thermal device 60 of the solar thermal module 14.

In particular, the control device 34 also enables operation in such a way that the solar thermal elements 62 are cleaned as a result of contamination or wetting with water or covering with snow. Such cleaning can be done at regular intervals. For example, in winter, when it rains every 15 minutes, the solar thermal elements 62 can be rotated to shake off snow. Furthermore, depending on a light intensity, each solar thermal element 62 can be moved into a predefined basic position, for example into the position in which the shading element 114 covers the absorption element 66 or completely releases it. In the figures 22 to 24 three further exemplary embodiments of solar thermal shear elements 62 of solar thermal devices 60 are shown schematically. They differ in their structure only in the configuration of the respective carrier elements 104. Thus, for the structure of the solar thermal elements 62, reference can be made to the above description. In the drawings, therefore, the same reference symbols are used for identical or similar components as in FIG. 14 in particular.

The carrier element 104 has an outer contour which corresponds to an outer contour of the carrier element 104, as is shown schematically in FIG. In this exemplary embodiment, only enclosed cooling channels 130 are provided, no cooling slots. Here, too, the cooling channels 130 run parallel to the longitudinal axis 64 , so that heat absorbed by the photovoltaic element 118 can be dissipated via the heat sink 118 , specifically in that air flows through the cooling channels 130 . The cooling channels 130 have different sizes and cross-sectional shapes and penetrate the essentially half-shell heat sink 128.

In the exemplary embodiment shown schematically in FIG. 23, the heat sink 128 comprises a total of only six cooling channels. Its shape is similar to a cooling area defined by the plurality of cooling channels 130 in the exemplary embodiment in FIG. However, a total cross section of the cooling channels 130 is significantly larger in the exemplary embodiment in Figure 23 than in the exemplary embodiment in Figure 22. Starting from the exemplary embodiment in Figure 23, the heat sink 128 of the exemplary embodiment in Figure 22 is obtained by dividing the cooling channels 130 into smaller ones with a plurality of separating webs 252 Cooling channels 130 are divided.

In the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 24, no cooling channels adjoin the side surface area 160 of the heat sink, as is the case in the exemplary embodiments in FIGS. Rather, a large incision 254 is provided here, which is delimited on one side by a projection 256 . A groove 258 is formed on the projection 256 . The symmetrical design of the solar thermal element 62 thus enables the photovoltaic element 118 to be inserted into the two grooves 258, which are open towards one another, of the two projections 256 pointing in opposite directions.

The projections 256 can be used in conjunction with the incisions 254 in particular to remove snow on the solar thermal module 14 when the solar thermal element 62 rotates about the longitudinal axis 64 . In this case, the carrier element 104 serves as a kind of snow shovel. Optimum snow removal is possible in particular by rotating the solar thermal element 62 in different directions, so that both recesses and projections 154, 256 can be used to clear snow.

Another embodiment of a solar thermal module 14 is shown schematically in Figures 25 to 35. In terms of its structure, it largely corresponds to the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 2 to 21, so that identical or functionally similar components are identified by the same reference symbols.

A significant difference in the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 25 to 35 is the configuration of the protective cover 100 and the carrier element 104. The protective cover 100 includes a window element 106, as is shown schematically in FIGS. 27 and 28 in particular. It comprises a window element region 110 which points away from the longitudinal axis 64 and is opposite the carrier element 104 and which is convexly curved. The window element 106 is mirror-symmetrical to the plane of symmetry 126 .

Extending from the window element area 110 on both sides are two flat window element areas 260 running parallel to one another, which transition into two further flat window element areas 262 angled thereto, which point away from one another in opposite directions. Free ends 264 merge into a flat heat sink side surface area 158, respectively connect with the respective window element areas 262 at an angle of approximately 45°.

Similar to the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 2 to 21 and as shown in FIG. 14, two heat sink side surface areas 158 adjoin the heat sink side surface areas 160. These are connected to one another via a convexly curved, sleeve-shaped heat sink side surface area section 266 pointing away from the longitudinal axis. An interior space 102 is thus defined, in which the absorption element 66 is arranged.

The heat sink side surface areas 158 and 160 are provided with a reflective coating 148 and in this way form reflection elements 150 in the form of mirrors 152.

A lens 268 of the optical imaging device 144 is arranged on the window element area 110, specifically in the form of a Fresnel lens 270. Solar radiation impinging on the window element area 110 is directed onto the absorption element 66 by means of this lens 268. Radiation entering through the window element areas 262 and 260 either strikes the absorption element 66 directly or is deflected by the reflection elements 150 onto the absorption element 66 .

The carrier element 104 has a contour on its side facing the protective cover 110 which is adapted to the contour which is defined by the side surface regions 158 , 160 and the side surface section 266 of the heat sink. A recess for the photovoltaic element 118 is formed on the carrier element 104 on a side facing away from the interior 102 . Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, too, the carrier element 104 in conjunction with the photovoltaic element 118 forms part of the shading device 112 in order to completely or partially cover the absorption element 66 . Also formed on the carrier element 104 are two receiving grooves 272 which are open and point away from one another essentially in the diametrical direction and which enclose an opening angle between them which is somewhat smaller than 180°. Cleaning elements 248 in the form of wiper lips 250 are inserted into the receiving grooves 272 and project laterally beyond the carrier element 104 .

Three cooling slots 132 running parallel to one another are formed between the receiving grooves 272 and a section of the carrier element 104 that rests on the heat sink side surface area 160 . These also run approximately parallel to the respective adjacent heat sink side surface areas 160.

A further difference in this exemplary embodiment is the design of the drive device 162. It comprises two drives 164 in the form of electric motors 166. Each drive 164 drives a first drive element 168 in each case.

The two first drive elements 168 each include a drive spindle 172, which are a second drive element 170 arranged in the form of a gear 174 to. In this exemplary embodiment, the drive device 162 is designed for the synchronous rotation of two solar thermal elements 62, between which another solar thermal element 62 is arranged. In other words, each first drive element 168 does not directly drive adjacent solar thermal elements 62, but only every second one. In this way it is possible to use the drive device to move adjacent solar thermal elements 62 independently of one another. This is explained in more detail below, particularly in connection with Figure 35.

The second drive elements 170 are each arranged on the closure element 210 . The two first drive elements 168 run parallel to each other and in turn in a plane which runs perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 64 of the module 14 that is thermal. The first drive elements 168 are equipped with the drive spindles 172 in such a way that only every second toothed wheel 174 can interact with the drive spindles 172 of the respective first drive element 168 . As can be seen clearly in Fig. 32, this results in two drive trains, which on the one hand drive the gears 174 that are arranged closer to the heat transfer elements 186 and on the other hand the gears 174 that are further away from the heat transfer elements 186.

The design of the heat transfer elements 186 and the function of heat transfer from the absorption element 66 to the heat exchanger fluid 188 corresponds to the structure described above in connection with the exemplary embodiment of FIGS.

The design and arrangement of the wind turbines 216 for generating electricity through air rising along the solar thermal elements 62 also corresponds to the structure described above.

Due to the different design of the protective cover 100, further optimized flow channels 236 are formed in this embodiment, on the one hand when the window element areas 110 are aligned in a basic position, as shown schematically in Figure 25, between the window element areas 260 of adjacent solar thermal elements 62, which point toward one another, with a such a flow channel 236 is additionally delimited by the window element areas 262 of the adjacent solar thermal elements 62 and is open pointing against the direction of gravity. Further flow channels 236 are formed between the heat sink side surfaces areas 160 of adjacent solar thermal elements 62 and the respective support elements 104 in the area of the cooling slots 132 up to the cleaning elements 248 out. In the described exemplary embodiments of solar thermal devices 60, the wind turbines 216 can also be actively operated. In other words, the fans 228 can be supplied with current, for example to blow off loose dirt such as dust and leaves, but also precipitation in the form of snow and rain from the solar thermal elements 62.

The cleaning device 246 with the cleaning elements 248 arranged on the support elements 104 enables mutual cleaning of adjacent solar thermal elements by correspondingly coordinated movements of adjacent solar thermal elements 62 relative to one another. FIG. 35 schematically shows in the illustrations a) to t) sequences of relative movements which show the wiping of surface areas of the adjacent solar thermal elements 62.

In position a), the free ends of the wiper lips 250 are in contact with an adjacent carrier element and wipe the notch 254 starting from the groove 258 . In position b), the movement is indicated by dashed arrows, so that the wiper lips 250 touch the transition area between the heat sink side surface area 160 and the window element area 262 at the end of this movement.

The schematic representations c) and d) correspond to the positions according to a) and b) for the adjacent solar thermal elements 62 in reverse manner.

The positions shown in e) and f) correspond to the relative movement arrangement according to a) and b).

The movement positions g) and h) correspond to the movement positions c) and d) of adjacent solar thermal elements 62 relative to one another.

To clean the window element area 110, adjacent solar thermal elements 62 are aligned in such a way that the cleaning element 248 contacts the window element area 110 in the transition to the window element area 260. The solar thermal element 62 whose wiper lip 250 is used to clean from remains in this position and the adjacent solar thermal element 62 is rotated about its longitudinal axis 64 past the wiper lip 250 . This movement is shown schematically in j).

The illustrations k) and I) show the cleaning of the window element area 110 on the solar thermal element 62, which remains in a defined aligned position in the sequence according to i) and j) and whose wiper lip 250 is used for cleaning.

The special shape of the protective cover 100 and the carrier element 104 also enables the photovoltaic element 118 to be wiped off with a wiper lip 250 of the adjacent solar thermal element 62. During this wiping process, however, both solar thermal elements 62 are moved simultaneously so that the wiper lip 250 is in contact to wipe off the photovoltaic element 118 can stay with this. Here both solar thermal elements 62 are rotated in the same direction. This process is shown schematically in the motion sketches m) to p).

In the movement sketches q) to t), a cleaning of the photovoltaic elements 118 of adjacent solar thermal elements 62 is shown schematically in a manner analogous to that according to m) to p).

As explained, the exemplary embodiments of energy supply systems 10 described make it possible to use solar radiation in order to generate heat and/or electricity. The solar thermal elements 62 of the solar thermal modules 14 can be aligned accordingly depending on the respective heat or electricity requirement. Furthermore, the exemplary embodiments described for solar thermal modules 14 make it possible to automatically clean them using the cleaning devices 246 provided, specifically by appropriate activation of the drives 164 by the control device 34.

The solar thermal modules 14 described can be used in any number and size, ie in particular comprising a different number of solar thermal elements 62 .

For a defined alignment of the solar thermal elements 62, in an exemplary embodiment, a potentiometer is assigned to the first drive elements 168, so that a position of the solar thermal elements 62 can be determined at any time by measuring the respective resistance. This has the advantage that the position or orientation of the solar thermal elements 62 can also be determined in a simple manner in the event of a power failure or a restart of the system. In one embodiment, a translation between the drives 164 and the associated potentiometers corresponds to a translation between the first drive elements 168 and the second drive elements 170. Translations in a range from 1:40 to 1:80, in particular 1:65, are advantageous .

As described above, the solar thermal elements 62 can be moved into a basic position in which the absorption elements 66 are uncovered by the shading elements 114 . In what is known as a "photovoltaic position", the solar thermal elements 62 are rotated by 180° in relation to the basic position. The photovoltaic elements 118 essentially point in the opposite direction to the direction of gravity.

As explained, mixed positions of the solar thermal elements 62 of a solar thermal module 14 are also possible, particularly in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. Figure 26 shows schematically the alternating alignment of solar thermal elements with the photovoltaic element 118 opposite gene in the direction of gravity and with the window element area 110 gene opposite to the direction of gravity. In this way, one half of the solar thermal elements 62 can be used to generate electricity and the other half to generate heat. The relationship between heat and electricity generation can ultimately be adjusted continuously by the adjacent solar thermal elements's 62 are twisted in different positions relative to each other. The most varied positions in this sense are shown in FIG. 35 in the schematic sketches a) to t).

Furthermore, it is possible to track the solar thermal elements 62 according to the course of the sun by appropriate rotation about the respective longitudinal axis 64, controlled by the control device 34.

The cleaning of the solar thermal elements 62 can, as described, be carried out at regular intervals or also depending on dirt or rain. Measured values, for example from the rain sensor 56, can be used for this purpose.

When there is no solar radiation, for example at night, the energy supply system 10 is ideally moved into an inactive position in which the photovoltaic element 118 faces the roof 20 or the facade 22 . The protective cover 100 can be made weather-resistant here. In this inactive position, cleaning can take place in particular when the solar thermal elements 62 are exposed to precipitation and an outside temperature is lower than a limit value, for example 2° C., in order to free the solar thermal elements 62 from snow. This can be done, for example, every 15 minutes. With this procedure, it is then not necessary to clean the photovoltaic elements 118 or to remove snow.

With the described exemplary embodiments of energy supply systems 10, it is possible to supply a building 12 practically completely with thermal energy and electricity. In particular, the solar thermal allow Module 14, compared to conventional solar thermal modules, in which nen the solar thermal elements 62 can not be shaded to use more space for heat generation when it is needed, so in particular special in autumn and winter. In the summer, when there is less heat demand, the proposed solar thermal elements 62 with their photovoltaic elements 118 can then be used to generate electricity to the extent that no heat is required in the building 12 . In other words, the solar thermal modules 14 can be optimized for the heat requirement in winter. This is a major difference to the solar thermal systems currently in use, which are designed in such a way that there is no overheating in summer. The reason for this lies in the lack of the shading option. As a result, heat requirements in winter can only be partially covered with conventional systems, if at all.

Reference List

power supply system

Building solar thermal module

connection line

heat accumulator

roof

facade

Arrow electrical energy storage battery

connection line

connection line

control device

control line

control line

heat exchanger

water fitting

heating element

connection line

Vicinity

consumer

unit of measure

light sensor

rain sensor

Temperature sensor solar thermal device solar thermal element

longitudinal axis

absorption element

tube collector heat pipe

Absorption clip first half-shell first free end first connection section first absorption section second connection section second half-shell third connection section second absorption section second free end

Interior first cladding tube second cladding tube

gap

protective cover

inner space

carrier element

window element

circumferential angle

widget pane

shading device

Support member perimeter angle

Photovoltaic element active surface

recess

outer surface

plane of symmetry

heatsink

cooling channel

cooling slot

outdoor area

outer surface area angle outdoor area

outer surface area angle

Reflective surface optical imaging device

reflecting surface perimeter angle

coating

reflection element

mirror

heatsink side surface

angle

heatsink side surface area

heatsink side surface area

drive device

drive

Electric motor first drive element second drive element

drive spindle

Gear first end first longitudinal drive axis second longitudinal drive axis heat conducting element head

heat transfer element

heat exchange fluid

thermal coupler

Recording

outer surface

wall surface

sleeve

heatsink

connection element opening

opening

return

closure element

sleeve section

lid

windmill

longitudinal axis of the wind turbine

air guide housing

intake port

Hood

cover

Fan

fan opening

fan wheel

air guide element

flow channel

air deflector

holding frame

collection container

heating device

cleaning device

cleaning element

wiper lip

separation jetty

incision

head Start

groove

widget pane

widget pane

End

heatsink side surface section

lens 270 Fresnel lens

272 receiving groove

Claims

patent claims 1. Solar thermal device (60) comprising at least one solar thermal element (62) with an absorption element (66) defining a longitudinal axis (64) for absorbing solar radiation, characterized in that the solar thermal device (60) has a shading device (12 ) includes for shading the absorption element (66). 2. Solar thermal device according to claim 1, characterized in that the shading device (112) comprises at least one movably arranged shading element (114) which can be moved from a radiation position in which the absorption element (66) is unshaded or uncovered to a shading position in which the absorption element (66) is at least partially, in particular completely, shaded or covered against solar radiation impinging on the device (60), is movable and vice versa. 3. Solar thermal device according to claim 2, characterized in that the at least one shading element (114) comprises at least one photovoltaic element (118), in particular an active surface (120) of the photovoltaic element (118) being flat or pointing away from the longitudinal axis (64). convex ge is curved. 4. Solar thermal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the absorption element (66) is formed rohrenför mig. 5. Solar thermal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the solar thermal element (62) comprises a protective cover (100) which extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis (64) extends and defines an interior space (102), and that the absorption element (66) is arranged in the interior space (102), wherein in particular the protective cover (100) is arranged or formed surrounding the absorption element (66). 6. Solar thermal device according to claim 5, characterized in that the protective cover (100) is designed in several parts and comprises a carrier element (104) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (64) and that the at least one photovoltaic element (118) on the carrier element (114 ) is arranged or formed in such a way that an active surface (120) of the photovoltaic element (118) is arranged or formed pointing away from the longitudinal axis (64), wherein in particular a) the at least one shading element (114) the carrier element (104) and/or the at least one photovoltaic element (118) comprises and/or b) the carrier element (104) delimits the interior (102) via a carrier element circumferential angle (116) in relation to the longitudinal axis (64) and wherein the carrier element circumferential angle (116) is in a range from about 30° to about 200°. 7. Solar thermal device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that a) the at least one photovoltaic element (118) forms part of an outer surface (124) of the protective cover (100) pointing away from the longitudinal axis (64) and/or b) the at least one shading element (114) is arranged on the protective cover (100) or in the form of a part of the protective cover (100). 8. Solar thermal device according to one of Claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the protective cover (100) comprises at least one window element (106) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (64) and in that the at least one window element (106) is transparent to solar radiation or is designed to be essentially permeable, with in particular a) the at least one window element (106) extending over a circumferential angle (108) in relation to the longitudinal axis (64) and the circumferential angle (108) in a range from approximately 100° to approximately 210° and/or b) the at least one window element (106) comprises at least one, in particular exclusively one, convexly curved window element region (110) pointing away from the longitudinal axis (64) and/or c) the at least one window element (106) comprises at least one flat window element area (260, 262), in particular at least two flat, in particular four, window element areas (260, 262), more particularly in pairs e parallel aligned planar window element areas (260, 262). 9. Solar thermal device according to one of claims 3 to 8, characterized in that the solar thermal element (62) comprises at least one heat sink (128) and that the at least one heat sink (128) with the at least one photovoltaic element (118) in thermal shear There is an operative connection, with the at least one heat sink (128) in particular a) forming part of the outer surface (124) of the protective cover (100) and/or b) at least one cooling channel (130) and/or cooling slot extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (64). (132). 10. Solar thermal device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the interior (102) is delimited by at least one reflection surface (142) and that the at least one reflection surface (142) is arranged or designed to reflect light through the window element ( 106) solar radiation entering the interior (102) in the direction of the absorption element (66), in particular a) the absorption element (66) spatially between the at least one reflection surface (142) and the at least one window element (106) and/or b) the at least one reflection surface (142) extends over a reflection surface circumference angle (146) in relation to the longitudinal axis (64) and the reflection surface circumference angle (146) of all reflection surfaces (142) as a whole in a range of approximately 30° up to about 150°. 11. Solar thermal device according to one of Claims 5 to 10, characterized in that the solar thermal element (62) comprises an optical imaging device (144) for imaging and/or redirecting solar radiation impinging on the protective cover (100) onto the Absorption element (66), wherein in particular the optical imaging device (144) comprises at least one lens (268) and/or the at least one reflection surface (142), wherein in particular a) the at least one lens (268) in the form of a Fresnel lens (270) is formed and / or b) the at least one window element (106) comprises the at least one lens (268). 12. Solar thermal device according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the at least one reflection surface (142) is formed in the form of a highly reflective coating (148) for solar radiation. 13. Solar thermal device according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the at least one reflection surface (142) is arranged or formed on a reflection element (150), in particular a) the at least one reflection element (150) in the form of a game Gels (152) is formed and / or b) the solar thermal element (62) comprises only a single reflection element (150). 14. Solar thermal device according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that a) the at least one cooling body (128) defines or comprises the at least one reflection surface (142) and/or b) the at least one reflection surface (142) at least forms or covers a heat sink side surface (154) of at least one heat sink (128) pointing into the interior (102) and/or c) the at least one reflection surface (142) is flat or concavely curved pointing in the direction of the longitudinal axis (64). is. 15. Solar thermal device according to one of claims 2 to 14, characterized in that a) the shading element (114) and the absorption element (66) are immovably connected to one another, in particular non-rotatably with respect to the longitudinal axis (64) and/or b) the solar thermal element (62) is arranged or designed to rotate about the longitudinal axis (64). 16. Solar thermal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one absorption element (66) is designed in the form of a solar thermal tube collector (68), with the solar thermal tube collector (68) in particular having a) at least one flow channel and at least one return channel to the Flowing through comprises a heat exchanger fluid or b) comprises at least one self-contained heat pipe (70). 17. Solar thermal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the solar thermal device (60) comprises a drive device (162) for rotating the at least one solar thermal element (62) about the longitudinal axis (64). 18. Solar thermal device according to claim 17, characterized in that the at least one drive device (162) comprises at least one motor drive (164), wherein in particular the motor drive (164) is designed in the form of a mechanical and/or electrical drive, wherein more particularly a) the mechanical drive is in the form of a hydraulic and/or pneumatic drive and/or b) the electrical drive is in the form of an electric motor (166), in particular in the form of a stepper motor or a servomotor. 19. Solar thermal device according to Claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the drive device (162) comprises at least one first drive element (168) driven by the at least one motor drive (164), that the at least one solar thermal element (62) comprises at least one second drive element (170) and that the at least one first drive element (168) and the at least one second drive element (170) are arranged or designed to work together to transmit a drive force of the at least one motor drive (164) to the at least one solar thermal Element (62) for rotating the same about the longitudinal axis (64), wherein in particular the at least one first drive element (168) a) is designed in the form of a drive spindle (172) and the at least one second drive element (170) in the form of a gear (174) corresponding to the drive spindle (172) and/or b) a first longitudinal axis of the drive element (178) defines that the at least one second drive element (170) defines a second drive element longitudinal axis (180) and the first drive element longitudinal axis (178) runs transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to a plane containing the second drive element longitudinal axis (180), with in particular the longitudinal axis (64) defines the second longitudinal axis of the drive element (180). 20. Solar thermal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the solar thermal device (60) comprises a cleaning device (146) for cleaning the at least one solar thermal element (62), in particular the cleaning device (246) having at least one cleaning element ( 248), wherein the at least one cleaning element (248) is assigned to at least one solar thermal element (62) and wherein the at least one cleaning element (248) and the at least one solar thermal element (62) assigned to it are arranged so as to be movable relative to one another, with further in particular a) the at least one cleaning element (248) parallel or essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis (64) and/or b) the at least one cleaning element (248) is in the form of a wiping brush or in the form of a wiping lip (250) and/or c) the at least one cleaning element (242) is arranged or formed on at least one solar thermal element (62), in particular two cleaning elements being arranged or formed on at least one solar thermal element (62), and/or d) the at least one cleaning element (242) on the carrier element (104 ) is arranged or formed. 21. Solar thermal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each solar thermal element (62) is assigned at least one wind turbine (216), in particular for Stromer generation. 22. Solar thermal device according to claim 21, characterized in that a) the wind wheel (216) is arranged in the region of a first end (176) of the solar thermal element (62) and/or b) each wind wheel (216) is arranged and configured for driving a power generator for generating electric power and/or c) the cleaning device (246) comprises at least one wind wheel (216) and the wind wheel (216) is designed to be drivable, in particular with electricity, to generate a cleaning air flow, in particular to blow off snow and dirt from the at least one solar thermal element ( 62). 23. Solar thermal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the solar thermal element (62) comprises at least one air guide element (238) for guiding an air flow, in particular the at least one air guide element (238) in the form of a parallel or substantially is formed parallel to the longitudinal axis extending projection (256) and / or is surrounded by the protective cover (100), in particular by the carrier element (104). 24. Solar thermal module (14) comprising at least one solar thermal cal device (60), characterized in that the solar thermal cal device (60) is designed in the form of a solar thermal device (60) according to any one of the preceding claims. 25. Solar thermal module according to claim 24, characterized in that a) the solar thermal module (44) comprises a plurality of solar thermal devices (60) and/or b) the absorption elements (66) of the solar thermal devices (60) are arranged parallel to one another and/or c) the solar thermal module (14) comprises a holding frame (214) and that the at least one cleaning element (248) is fixed to the holding frame (214) and arranged with a free end in the direction of the assigned solar thermal device (60) or is trained and/or d) adjacent solar thermal elements (62) define a flow channel (236) between them. 26. Solar thermal module according to claim 24 or 25, characterized in that the at least one wind wheel (216) is arranged on a first end of the flow channel (236) which is raised against the direction of gravity, with each wind wheel (216) in particular having an air guide element ( 234) is assigned and the air guiding element (234) is arranged or formed at the first end of the flow channel (236). 27. Solar thermal module according to one of claims 24 to 26, characterized in that the at least one solar thermal element (62) is assigned a heat transfer element (186) for transferring heat absorbed by the absorption element (66) to the heat transfer element (186) heat exchanger fluid (188) flowing through, in particular a) the heat transfer element (186) being arranged or formed at the first end (176) of the solar thermal element (62) and/or b) the absorption element (66) comprising a heat conducting element (182) and the The heat transfer element (186) is thermally operatively connected to the heat conducting element (182) and/or c) the absorption element (66) and the heat transfer element (186) are arranged or designed to be rotatable relative to one another about the longitudinal axis (64). 28. Solar thermal module according to one of claims 24 to 27, characterized in that the solar thermal module (14) has at least one Measuring device (52) for measuring a light intensity incident on the module (14), an outside temperature and/or ambient humidity, in particular the at least one measuring device (52) comprising at least one light sensor (54), at least one rain sensor (56) and/or at least one temperature sensor (58). 29. Solar thermal module according to one of claims 24 to 28, characterized in that the drive device (162) is designed a) for synchronous rotation of all solar thermal elements (62) or for synchronous rotation of two solar thermal elements (62) adjacent to both Sides of a solar thermal element (62) are arranged and/or b) for moving adjacent solar thermal elements (62) independently of one another. 30. Solar thermal module according to one of claims 24 to 29, characterized in that the solar thermal module (14) comprises a control device (34) for controlling the drive device (162) as a function of physical environmental parameters of the solar thermal module (14), wherein in particular the at least one measuring device (52) and the control device (162) are connected to one another in a control-effective manner. 31. Solar thermal module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the solar thermal module (14) comprises a collecting container (242). 32. Solar thermal module according to claim 31, characterized in that the collecting container (242) a) is arranged or formed in the area of a lower end of the solar thermal module (14) in relation to the direction of gravity and/or b) is trough-shaped and that the at least one solar thermal device (60) is arranged or formed in the collection container (242). . 33. Solar thermal module according to claim 31 or 32, characterized in that the solar thermal module (14) comprises a heating device (244) for heating the collection container (242), with the heating device (244) being in particular in relation to the direction of gravity in the area of a is arranged or formed at the lower end of the collecting container (242). 34. Energy supply system (10), in particular for a building (12), comprising at least one solar thermal module (14), in particular a plurality of modules (14), and a heat accumulator (18) connected to the at least one solar thermal module (14) for heat conduction Storing the solar heat absorbed by at least one solar thermal module (14), characterized in that the at least one solar thermal module (14) is designed in the form of a solar thermal module (14) according to one of Claims 24 to 33. 35. Energy supply system according to Claim 34, characterized in that the at least one solar thermal module (14) is arranged or held on a roof (20) or on a facade (22) of a building (12) or on a holding device, with the at least one solar thermal module (14) relative to the direction of gravity (24) is inclined, in particular parallel or essentially parallel to the roof (20). 36. Energy supply system according to 34 or 35, characterized in that the energy supply system (10) a) comprises at least one electrical energy store (26) for storing solar thermal energy with the at least one photovoltaic element (18) and/or the at least one wind turbine (216). Electrical power generated by the module (14) and/or b) a central control device (34) for controlling and/or regulating, in particular electrical, components of the same depending on physical parameters in the building (12) and/or in an environment (48) of the same. 37. A method for operating a solar thermal device (60), in particular a solar thermal device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that when there is a maximum heat requirement, the at least one solar thermal element (62) is in a basic position with the absorption element (66) is directed counter to or essentially counter to the effective direction of the solar radiation field. 38. The method according to claim 37, characterized in that when the heat requirement decreases or is lower than the maximum heat requirement, the at least one solar thermal element (62) is at least partially, in particular completely, shaded or covered. 39. The method according to claim 37 or 38, characterized in that the at least one solar thermal element (62) follows a time-dependent changing effective direction of the solar radiation field, in particular continuously. 40. The method according to any one of claims 37 to 39, characterized in that with increasing electrical energy demand, the at least one Photovoltaic element (118) is aligned opposite or substantially opposite to the effective direction of the solar radiation field. 41. The method according to any one of claims 37 to 40, characterized in that the plurality of solar thermal elements (62) individually or in groups depending on a heat requirement either with the respective absorption element (66) or with the photovoltaic element (118) against the direction of action of the solar radiation field are aligned. 42. The method according to any one of claims 37 to 41, characterized in that the at least one solar thermal element (62) a) is cleaned as a result of soiling or wetting with water or being covered with snow, in particular at regular time intervals, and/or b) is moved to the basic position when the light intensity of the solar radiation field falls below a predetermined level.