From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu Fri Nov 25 09:30:59 1994
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To: renew-energy@twosocks.ces.ncsu.edu
Date: 22 Nov 1994 06:05:07 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3asj93$f20@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london
References: <5Q7X0hy.colorio@delphi.com>, <stephens.47.0028813D@rmii.com>
Subject: Re: batteries in cold climate
Status: RO
X-Status: 

David Stephens <stephens@rmii.com> wrote:
 
>I also have a cabin in Colorado at 9500 feet (world's highest known solar 
>answering machine?) which I use intermittently in the winter.  The batteries 
>are minimally insulated in their compartment inside the cabin.  It is my 
>understanding that a charged battery will not freeze, although the batteries 
>will not be as efficient.

Having just written a patent application on battery heating, I seem to
recall that a charged battery will have a lower freezing temp...

And batteries at low temperatures are difficult to charge, and have a
much lower available capacity (only 10% of the room temp capacity, at 32F?)
But this lost capacity will reappear when the batteries warm up.

Charging the battery does put some heat into it, since charging is
only about 90% efficient. You can calculate how much insulation you
have to add to a battery box, to keep it warm from the lost energy in
the charging process alone, which will heat the box from the inside.
Usually you need a little more heat than that to keep batteries warm, ie
a very small electric heater, unless you want to surround the battery box
with tons of foam, but if the batteries don't have to have full amp-hour
capacity before they warm up, eg to start an engine, that may not be
necessary. In fact, I think batteries hold their charge longer, and last
longer, in years, when they are kept cold.

Nick


From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu Fri Nov 25 09:33:07 1994
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To: renew-energy@twosocks.ces.ncsu.edu
Date: 22 Nov 1994 10:59:08 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3at4gc$hie@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london
Subject: Another drumwall water heater?
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Here is another possible design for a drumwall that might be used
as a solar water heater.

It would use 30 drums, stacked up horizontally in a square array, 20'long x 6'
tall, perhaps behind 120 square feet of single pane glass, with a reflective
insulating shutter that lifts up from the top edge of the drums at a 45 degree
angle, and a reflective floor, inside a shed with a south wall made of,
eg Dynaglas.

It might look like this, not to scale:

.........................................      ...     .
.                                       .                . .
.                                       . south    east  . .   .
.                                       .               d.   .    .
.                                       .               y.  day.     .
......................................... ..   10'      n.      H...... . ..
. D . D .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .               a.      n.    . .
.........................................        <--S   g.      i...... .
.   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   . 6'            l.      g.    . . 6'
.........................................               a.      h...... .
.   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .               s.      t.    . .
............................................................................
|                  20'                  |

The D's are drums, H is a horizontal hinge... Day and night shutter positions
are shown...

The numbers below again indicate drum water temperatures in degrees F, from
a small simulation using average Philadelphia weather conditions in January
(ambient temp, 32 degrees, 1200 Btu/day of sun on a south-facing wall,
T^4 heat loss) while extracting 100K Btu/day of domestic hot water from
the wall, using some food-grade, *lined* drums plumbed in series, on
the top row, pressurized with cold water on the way to the input of an
electric hot water in a house. It looks like 4 heat exhanger drums are enough.

Nick

10 'Todd Hall drumwall solar water heater?
20 'est. water temps for rectangular drumwall with 45 degree upward shutter
30 NH=10'number of horizontal drums
40 NV=3'number of vertical drums
50 ND=NH*NV'total number of drums
60 PI=4*ATN(1)'pi...
70 AD=(2*(23/2)^2*PI+23*PI*35)/144'drum area in ft^2
80 DIM T(NV, NH)'array of drum water temperatures
90 OPEN "drumout" FOR OUTPUT AS #1
100 'find steady-state temps
110 FOR R=1 TO NV'1 is top row, nv is bottom row...
120 FOR D=1 TO NH'1 is west drum in row...
130 T(R,D)=150'initialize drum temps
140 NEXT:NEXT
150 AREA=4*NH*NV'effective area of drumwall surface
160 SUNH=1.85*AREA*1000/ND/24'hourly sun energy/drum, inc. by shutter refl.
170 ES=15*5*3*8*55'energy for 15 5 min, 3 gpm, 110 degree showers/day
180 UH=ES/24'useful hourly heat output of drumwall
190 GLOSSF=1.74E-09*6*AREA/ND/24'factor for heat lost thru glazing per drum
200 AMRADF=(32+459)^4'factor for radiation from surroundings to drumwall
210 CP=55*8'thermal mass of a drum full of water
220 CLS
230 HMAX=192
240 PRINT #1,"Charging mode, with sun..."
250 PRINT "Charging mode, with sun..."
260 DT=.1'simulation time step
270 FOR H=0 TO HMAX+.01 STEP DT'hours of use
280 TECON=0'initialize total convection heat from below
290 LB=UH*DT/(T(1,NH)-55)'water moved thru system per time step
300 GOSUB 740
310 'adjust top drum row temperatures
320 FOR D=1 TO NH'drum number in top row
330 TD=T(NV,1)-T(1,D)'temp diff between top drum and lower drums
340 IF TD>0 THEN ECON=TD*AD ELSE ECON=0'convection heat from below
350 TECON=TECON+ECON'accumulate total hourly convection heat
360 HEATFLOW=(SUNH+ECON-((T(1,D)+459)^4-AMRADF)*GLOSSF)*DT
370 T(1,D)=T(1,D)+HEATFLOW/CP'adjust top row drum temp
380 IF T(1,D)>T(NV,1) THEN T(1,D)=T(NV,1)'limit upper drum temp
390 NEXT D
400 ECONA=TECON/(NH*(NV-1))'heatflow to top row from average drum
410 FOR R=2 TO NV'adjust bottom row temps
420 FOR D=1 TO NH
430 HEATFLOW=(SUNH-ECONA-((T(R,D)+459)^4-AMRADF)*GLOSSF)*DT
440 T(R,D)=T(R,D)+HEATFLOW/CP
450 NEXT D
460 NEXT R
470 IF INT(10*H+.05) MOD 480= 0 THEN GOSUB 800'print drum temp array
480 NEXT H
490 PRINT #1,
500 PRINT
510 PRINT #1,"Storage mode, with no sun..."
520 PRINT "Storage mode, with no sun..."
530 FOR H=DT TO 168+.01 STEP DT'hours of use
540 TECON=0'initialize total convection heat from below
550 'adjust top drum row temperatures
560 LB=UH*DT/(T(1,NH)-55)'water moved thru system per time step
570 GOSUB 740
580 FOR D=1 TO NH'drum number in top row
590 TD=T(NV,1)-T(1,D)'temp diff between top drum and lower drums
600 IF TD>0 THEN ECON=TD*AD ELSE ECON=0'convection heat from below
610 TECON=TECON+ECON'accumulate total convection heat
620 T(1,D)=T(1,D)+ECON*DT/CP
630 IF T(1,D)>T(NV,1) THEN T(1,D)=T(NV,1)'limit upper drum temp
640 NEXT D
650 IF INT(10*H+.05) MOD 240= 0 THEN GOSUB 800'print drum temp array
660 ECONA=TECON/(NH*(NV-1))'heatflow to top row from average drum
670 FOR R=2 TO NV'adjust bottom row temps
680 FOR D=1 TO NH
690 T(R,D)=T(R,D)-ECONA*DT/CP
700 NEXT D
710 NEXT R
720 NEXT H
730 END
740 T(1,1)=(LB*55+(CP-LB)*T(1,1))/CP'move 55 degree water into top left drum
750 IF T(1,1)<55 THEN T(1,1)=55'limit lower drum temp to 55
760 FOR D=2 TO NH'move water across top row
770 T(1,D)=(LB*T(1,D-1)+(CP-LB)*T(1,D))/CP'move water from top drum d-1-->d
780 NEXT D
790 RETURN
800 PRINT #1,
810 PRINT
820 PRINT #1,"Day:";INT(H/24+.01)
830 PRINT"Day:";INT(H/24+.01)
840 FOR RS=1 TO NV'display drum temperatures
850 FOR P=1 TO NH-1
860 PRINT #1,INT(T(RS,P)+.5);TAB(6*P);
870 PRINT INT(T(RS,P)+.5);TAB(6*P);
880 NEXT P
890 PRINT #1,INT(T(RS,NH)+.5)
900 PRINT INT(T(RS,NH)+.5)
910 NEXT RS
920 RETURN

Charging mode, with sun...
 
Day: 0 
 149  150   150   150   150   150   150   150   150   150 
 150  150   150   150   150   150   150   150   150   150 
 150  150   150   150   150   150   150   150   150   150 
 
Day: 2 
 95   120   136   146   152   156   156   156   156   156 
 156  156   156   156   156   156   156   156   156   156 
 156  156   156   156   156   156   156   156   156   156 
 
Day: 4 
 96   121   137   146   153   156   156   156   156   156 
 156  156   156   156   156   156   156   156   156   156 
 156  156   156   156   156   156   156   156   156   156 
 
Day: 6 
 96   122   137   147   153   157   157   157   157   157 
 157  157   157   157   157   157   157   157   157   157 
 157  157   157   157   157   157   157   157   157   157 
 
Day: 8 
 97   122   138   148   154   158   158   158   158   158 
 158  158   158   158   158   158   158   158   158   158 
 158  158   158   158   158   158   158   158   158   158 
 
Storage mode, with no sun...
 
Day: 1 
 89   112   128   138   145   149   149   149   149   149 
 149  149   149   149   149   149   149   149   149   149 
 149  149   149   149   149   149   149   149   149   149 
 
Day: 2 
 84   104   118   128   135   139   141   141   141   141 
 141  141   141   141   141   141   141   141   141   141 
 141  141   141   141   141   141   141   141   141   141 
 
Day: 3 
 80   97    110   119   125   129   132   132   132   132 
 132  132   132   132   132   132   132   132   132   132 
 132  132   132   132   132   132   132   132   132   132 
 
Day: 4 
 75   90    101   109   115   120   123   124   124   124 
 124  124   124   124   124   124   124   124   124   124 
 124  124   124   124   124   124   124   124   124   124 
 
Day: 5 
 71   83    93    100   106   110   113   115   115   115 
 115  115   115   115   115   115   115   115   115   115 
 115  115   115   115   115   115   115   115   115   115 
 
Day: 6 
 67   77    85    92    97    101   104   106   107   107 
 107  107   107   107   107   107   107   107   107   107 
 107  107   107   107   107   107   107   107   107   107 
 
Day: 7 
 64   72    78    84    88    91    94    97    99    99 <--hot water temp
 99   99    99    99    99    99    99    99    99    99    supplied to house
 99   99    99    99    99    99    99    99    99    99    after a week w/o
                                                            sun, in January


From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu Fri Nov 25 10:03:45 1994
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To: renew-energy@twosocks.ces.ncsu.edu
Date: 22 Nov 1994 16:24:01 GMT
From: cgood@magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu (Charles W Good)
Message-Id: <3at5v1$ml8@charm.magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu>
Organization: The Ohio State University
Sender: london
Subject: Wood Heat
Status: RO
X-Status: 

I have seen wood heat flamed (excuse the pun) a lot on this newsgroup, and I 
would be interested in a discussion of the pros and cons.  I have been heating 
with wood for 17 years.  The fuel accounts for about 90% of my home heating.  
Consider the following:

1- Although wood smoke is polluting, it probably isn't as polluting in some 
ways as fossil fuel smoke.  Wood contains almost no sulphur and very little 
nitrogen.  Thus wood smoke has no sulphur dioxide and very little in the way of
nitrous oxides.  This means no acid rain.

2- Trees and other forms of biomass naturally decay slowly, releasing all their
carbon hydrogen and oxygen to the environment as carbon dioxide and water.  
Burning biomass fuels just speeds up this process, but the end result is the 
same.  There is no difference in the amount of carbon dioxide released to the 
atmosphere whether biomass burns or decays.  Burning fossil fuels adds EXTRA 
carbon dioxide to the atmosphere which can affect global warming.  Burning 
biomass fuels does not add extra carbon dioxide over and above what is 
naturally cycled between the atmosphere and biomass via photosynthesis (removes
carbon dioxide) and respiration (adds carbon dioxide).

3-  I know that deforestation is a big problem in many parts of the world and 
has been for hundreds of years.  I have read, however, that  currently forest 
land east of the Mississippi in the USA has been gradually increasing.  This is
due to the abandonment of marginal farmland that is difficult to farm with big 
machines.  An example is in southeast Ohio in the area that includes Wayne 
State Forest near Athens Ohio.  This is in spite of the increased use of fuel 
wood.  East of the Mississippi in general (there are local exceptions) I don't 
think deforestation is a problem.  WOOD IS A RENEWABLE FUEL!

4-  Money spent purchasing wood fuel goes into the local economy, not over to 
Saudi Arabia to make some rich person there even richer.

5-  Wood fuel costs less (if you have to buy it) than almost any other form of 
domestic heating fuel.  The only fuel that has a comparably low cost is *yuck* 
coal.  This cost factor is one of the main reasons I heat with wood.   If I had
a new house I would design it from the beginning to take advantage of solar for
much of its heat.  However, I own a nice old victorian house built in 1895, so 
my solar options are limited.

Regards,
Charles W. Good
cgood@lima.ohio-state.edu

P.S.  I have a PV system that powers everything in my bedroom, even though I 
live right next to grid power lines.  I have the PV system not because it is 
cheap but because "its the right thing to do" for the environment.

From london Fri Nov 25 11:57 EST 1994
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Date: Fri, 25 Nov 1994 11:57:37 -0500
From: Larry London <london>
Message-Id: <9411251657.AA15575@sunsite.oit.unc.edu>
To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Announcing the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Network (fwd)
Newsgroups: alt.energy.renewable
In-Reply-To: <3at8of$c7e@nrel.nrel.gov>
Organization: SunSITE, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Cc: 
Content-Type: text
Content-Length: 1523
Status: RO
X-Status: 

------- start of forwarded message -------
Path: bigblue.oit.unc.edu!concert!news.duke.edu!convex!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!europa.eng.gtefsd.com!news.msfc.nasa.gov!news.larc.nasa.gov!lerc.nasa.gov!magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu!csn!nrel!usenet
From: Pam Lowe <pamela_lowe@nrel.gov>
Newsgroups: alt.energy.renewable
Subject: Announcing the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Network
Date: 22 Nov 1994 17:11:43 GMT
Organization: National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Lines: 16
Message-ID: <3at8of$c7e@nrel.nrel.gov>
NNTP-Posting-Host: plowe.nrel.gov

The Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is pleased to announce the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Network (EREN).  EREN is a WWW site that serves as a single point of access to qualitative information on energy 
efficiency and renewable energy technologies.  EREN is searchable by subject, an alphabetical listing of sites, type of service, and type of organization.

EREN's URL is http://www.eren.doe.gov.

EREN provides links to several discussion groups, including this list, as well as bulletin boards, databases, documents, FTP sites, gopher sites, and other WWW servers.

Suggestions, comments or questions about EREN can be directed to the following contacts:

General Contact:  Pam Lowe, lowep@tcplink.nrel.gov, (303) 275-4035.
Technical Contact:  Bob Baker, baker@dis.anl.gov, (708) 252-3608.


Pam Lowe
Staff Information Scientist
National Renewable Energy Laboratory

------- end of forwarded message -------


From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon Feb 20 12:20:52 1995
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Date: 18 Feb 1995 04:49:00 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3i4fqc$d43@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: On temperature control
content-length: 3705
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Here is a quote from Steve Baer's book, _Sunspots_:

  What is it like to live in houses where the temperature changes
  during the day? What is it like to do without a thermostat to
  control the temperature within a degree or two? It is only very
  recently that there have been thermostats for controlling the
  temperature in houses, and still today almost everyone alive in the
  USA has spent some time in buildings without automatic thermostats.

  I believe that it is perfectly satisfactory to have the temperature
  change during the course of each day, from a high in the afternoon
  to a low in the morning, and to have the temperature change from
  week to week according to how cloudy or sunny it is. The variations
  in temperature keep your blood circulating.

  What extremes of temperature within a house are comfortable? In a
  dry climate like Albuquerque, I believe yearly lows and highs of 55 F
  and 85 F are perfectly easy to live with inside a house--especially
  if you have warm spots such as fireplaces or stoves to stand next to
  when it is chilly. But what is the advantage of having temperature
  variation within the house? The advantage of _not_ going to great
  lengths--as most present day heating and colling systems do--to
  achieve something that you don't really need or enjoy that much. Now
  that all of us are plagued with the pollution resulting from the
  overabundance of devices we have purchased, perhaps government or
  church groups should sponsor a series of "you don't need it" commercials.
  Instead of the bright uniformed "service personnel" of the Ace Air-
  Conditioning Company briskly delivering and installing the latest gadgets,
  the commercials would show the expensive equipment misused: a bored
  housewife growing geraniums in her new dishwashing machine; a small child
  casually dismantling a TV-stereo combo with a claw hammer...

  Reptiles need mammal houses. The reptile is at a disadvantage because
  he cannot regulate his body temperature, but, instead, equilibrates
  near to the temperature of his surroundings. If it is cold he cannot
  move fast. The regulatory function of the mammal is a great advantage,
  since he can keep his body temperature constant.

  Does this apply to houses and temperature regulation? Is it the same
  kind of improvement when a thermostat and gas heating system are
  installed? If the temperature outside one's body--the temperature of
  the house--is regulated to within 1/2 degree F, of what use is the
  sophisticated temperature regulating metabolism of the mammal?
  Obsession with temperature control seems more like Reptile Technology
  than Mammal Technology. The reptile badly needs it--the mammal does not.

  This leads to the general question of what view one should take of
  equipment manufactured to do for you what your body is equipped and
  prepared to do for itself. Certainly we are all grateful for the
  discovery of fire, but the thermostat--I don't know. A person's body
  has already incorporated the muscles, organs, etc., to steer him
  through dangers and difficulties. Yet we cleverly make them
  unnecessary by an entirely new level of design and invention. What
  is the result of this? The now unnecessary organs are not removed
  from the body; instead they are simply unemployed--hanging around,
  so to speak, in one's body, talking to the brain, being fed by the
  heart and bloodstream.

  For the utmost in design I can imagine the equipment manufacturers'
  surgical teams removing now unnecessary organs with the installation
  of their automatic control systems. Perhaps the now outdated glands
  and organs could be sold to reptiles on another planet.

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon Feb 20 12:20:57 1995
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To: renew-energy@ces.ncsu.edu
Date: 18 Feb 1995 04:39:27 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3i4f8f$d2d@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Affordable Comfort Conference
content-length: 284
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Would anyone know when the Affordable Comfort Conference is in PA this year?
April? Howard Reichmuth will be speaking there on instrumentation for energy
conservation in houses. Howard is an engineer, and one of the designers of
the Ecotope concentrating greenhouse...

Thanks,

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon Feb 20 15:19:21 1995
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Date: 18 Feb 1995 07:52:53 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3i4qj5$dik@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Indirect-fired, electric-backup water heater?
content-length: 308
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Would anyone know who manufactures a nice, inexpensive, standard, reliable,
indirect-fired water heater (ie a 60 gallon insulated tank with a some
copper tubing in the bottom, to put boiler water through to heat the tank) 
that also has some built-in 220V electric heaters for backup heating?

Thanks,

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Feb 22 16:55:53 1995
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To: renew-energy@ces.ncsu.edu
Date: 21 Feb 1995 02:18:57 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3ic451$cpr@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <toponos-2002951856080001@slip858.rmii.com>
Subject: Re: STEVE BAUER
content-length: 2322
Status: RO
X-Status: 

John Nicholson <toponos@rmii.com> wrote:

>Many years ago I read about Steve in The Mother Earth News - Steve was the
>driving force behind a company called Zomeworks. Is Steve still out there
>- and is Zomeworks still in business?

Yes :-) Steve BAER still seems to be alive and well and very busy, and even
answers mail sometimes. Altho Zomeworks mostly makes PV-related stuff
these days, which Steve attributes to the fact that "energy is just too
cheap." Or perhaps it's that PV's are trendy or glamorous. (This is
fiddling while the middle-east burns, I think.) Steve's drumwall steel
drums wore out after 20 years, so he has now replaced them with plastic
ones, which he expects will last longer. 

Speaking of which, yesterday I saw an ad in a free ad paper around
here that read "Plastic 55 gallon drums, $5 each. Used once to contain
aloe product." And a local meat packing plant called me, in response
to my "drums wanted" ad in the paper. They are now saving me some (free :-)
plastic-coated steel drums, which they use (~40 a month) for soap,
vegetable oil and glycol...

A couple of interesting phone numbers are: (215) 945-0444 for the $144
Cuppson "Lazer level," a low-power semiconductor laser attached to a
carpenter's level, that shoots a 1/8" red dot at least 60' (500' or so
indoors or at night), that can be used to adjust parabolic reflectors
for solar ovens, etc, made from 3M SA-85 film, and 3M's Solar Optical
Products number, (612) 733-1898, for the SA-85 reflective film itself
(when is Real Goods going to carry this stuff?) 3M's address is
3M Center/St. Paul, Minnesota 54144-1000. Their general phone number
seems to be (612) 733-1110.

To adjust your oven, etc. reflector, you might put it in a darkish room and
move the laser level along to make parallel rays, where you want the sun to
be, and look to see where the reflection spot ends up, and how big and how
bright the spot is (the brightness/reflectivity might be measured with a
digital lightmeter, I suppose, eg the $100 Grainger version.) I've noticed
that the 3M film makes a much smaller spot, than say, foil-covered foamboard,
alumimum foil or Thermo-Ply. Yesterday I managed to boil some water in
a pepsi bottle at the focus of a 3M reflector a foot away from my 10K
Btu/hour radiant kerosene solar simulator...

Nicholson Pine

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Feb 23 05:50:49 1995
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To: renew-energy@ces.ncsu.edu
Date: 21 Feb 1995 11:19:38 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3id3qq$fm6@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: Re: Ammonia Absorption Refrigeration
content-length: 352
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Andy Carter <acarter@primenet> wrote:
 
>>>The permafrost under the Alaska pipeline is kept cold by using above ground 
>>>radiator coils with what I believe is a passive ammonia system.

>>I think of that as a heat-pipe system, not a solar refrigerator...

>So they are refrigerating the ground....

Yes, but this works with cold air, not sun.
 
Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon Feb 27 17:07:57 1995
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To: renew-energy@ces.ncsu.edu
Date: 22 Feb 1995 06:23:29 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Subject: Re: Ammonia Absorption Refrigeration
content-length: 555
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Hi Andy,

This attempted email to you bounced, so I'll post it here...

To: acarter@primenet
In-Reply-To: <acarter.223.00174C15@primenet>
References: <6250.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Organization: Villanova University

>So what is your point?   I didn't say anything about solar now did I?

I thought you did, but maybe I was wrong. I've only been half-following this
thread, and I thought I heard someone say something about "marrying
concentrating collectors with absorption chillers."  Sorry. Let's not start
a flame war over this...:-)

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue Feb 28 09:42:31 1995
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To: renew-energy@ces.ncsu.edu
Date: 25 Feb 1995 18:10:32 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3iodd8$4ld@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Call for postings: alt.solar.thermal
content-length: 1913
Status: RO
X-Status: 

I've never created a newsgroup before, but as I understand it, from
our sysadmin here, you have to post to it in order to make it grow and
take hold. So let's go gang! Even the stupidist postings will be
welcome for the moment. ("I want to heat my gazebo by moonlight..." :-)

Quoting Nick Pine,
  
> I guess it'll take a while to propagate, or something?

The newgroup control message has propagated, but as I said before,
will be ignored at most places all over the world.  Even though
our upstream site, dsinc.myxa.com, via Syd, has created the group
on his system, his upstream sites may choose not to...

If a lot of people in a lot of places create the newsgroup, and
people there start using it, then those places without it may notice
the unwanted postings in their logs, and maybe they'll create it.
That's how I do it here... 

If I saw a line in this log file for a group with a lot of rejected
postings, say 20 or 50 over a week, then I would just create it
locally.  I think other admins do the same thing.

So... post, post, post, post, post, post, post, post, ... and
encourage others to do the same.  It's tough, I know.  If you
only post to alt.solar.thermal, then it might not get too far
upstream.  If you cross-post, it will propagate all over, but
miss the point of specifying the correct group.  In other words,
a message posted to both alt.newsgroup.that.we.get and
alt.newsgroup.that.we.dont.get, will be accepted, and show up
only in alt.newsgroup.that.we.get, with no error or log message
like those shown above for posting only to groups that we don't get.

Think of it like having a baby.  It may take 9 months before it
really appears, but then it will stick around to haunt you for
the rest of your life.  So just keep pushing.

...Rick			perry@ece.vill.edu

Dr. Rick Perry, ECE Department, Villanova University, Villanova, PA 19085
610-519-4969, fax: 610-519-4436, hm: 610-259-8734

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue Mar  7 06:44:34 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 3 Mar 1995 12:39:35 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3j7k8n$o57@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: Re: Nick's lecture
content-length: 2556
Status: RO
X-Status: 

I'm posting this bounced email to Bob from Melbourne, Florida...

Date: Fri, 3 Mar 95 12:10:29 EST
From: Mailer-Daemon@rayleigh.AFTAC.GOV (Mail Delivery Subsystem)
Subject: Returned mail: Service unavailable
To: <nick@nfs.ee.vill.edu>

   ----- Transcript of session follows -----
Connected to tt:
>>> HELO AFTAC.GOV
<<< 553 AFTAC.GOV host name configuration error
554 <bob@tt.AFTAC.GOV>... Service unavailable

   ----- Unsent message follows -----
Date: Fri, 3 Mar 95 12:13:48 EST
From: nick@nfs.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <9503031713.AA12147@nfs.ee.vill.edu>
To: bob@tt.AFTAC.GOV
Subject: Re:  Your Lecture

Hi boB :-)

>I would be interested in finding out more about your lecture and designs, 
>I don't suppose that you'll be in the Melbourne FL area at all?

I might get down that way some time. Would you like me to lecture there?
I've only been to Florida a couple of times, once for a business meeting
in a posh Naples hotel (nice sailing :-) and once to visit my aunt in
Homestead, who has since moved closer to Miami. If you paid me to come,
I'd be a lot more likely to show up :-)

>Would it be possible to get copies of your lecture and slides?

Maybe. Most of my lecture is comments on slides of local buildings,
with green film pen markings on the back of each slide to show how they
might be improved with solar and insulation retrofits, and comments
about the costs of materials and numerical estimates of the amount of
energy each retrofit would save. I hand out a few copies of postings,
and tape a few large architectural drawings of my designs on the wall,
and I bring along 3 empty 55 gallon drums, a K-mart radiant kerosene
heater used as an infra-red solar simulator and 3 linear parabolic
reflectors made of Thermo-Ply, foil-faced foam and 3M SA-85 solar
reflective film, to aim at the simulator to make a sort of infra-red
whispering gallery, boiling water in a coke bottle at the focus, a
high temp fan and speed control, a bimetallic-coil-spring-operated
automatic foundation vent and a hair dryer to make it work, after I
adjust it for a higher temp range, 200 ft^2 of shadecloth, 140 slides,
12 viewgraphs, 50 lbs of books, some 1 x 3s, large pieces of Thermo-Ply,
various kinds of thermometers and light meters, a laser level, some 12'
pieces of Dynaglas, etc., etc. So this is not a very portable show,
as I have done it so far. I'll be doing a small and different version
again in Dallas, TX next week, at the Monolithic Dome convention, 
and then at 3 or 4 local schools and universities soon after that...

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 10 07:20:06 1995
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Date: 8 Mar 1995 05:09:23 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Subject: Re: Alt Energy Discussion (How subscribe?)
content-length: 591
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Russell McGinnis <mack2@gate.net> wrote:

>Dear Gentle Eversowhomst:
>
>     How does one subscribe to the Alt Energy Discussion group/list?

One types g alt.solar.thermal in rn :-) If that does not work, one
writes one's gentle news admin to ask that the group be created
locally, so that its postings from dsinc and uunet, among other feeds,
are accepted rather than refused by one's site.

I seem to be almost the only one posting to alt.solar.thermal so far.
Let's go gang! Post, post, post to alt.solar.thermal! Or if that won't
work, crosspost to it and write your news admin...

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 10 07:20:10 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 8 Mar 1995 04:49:57 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3jjuk5$c07@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: Re: Nick's lecture
content-length: 1633
Status: RO
X-Status: 

DAN JOHNSON  <dan.johnson@contrail.com> wrote:
 
>I ... would appreciate any info you can forward [re Monolithic domes.]

The company is called Monolithic Constructors, Inc., of Italy, Texas,
which is about an hour from Dallas, I'm told. They make concrete/foam
domes, up to 400' in diameter and 200' tall, by blowing up a vinyl
balloon ("airform"), spraying an inch or so of polyurethane foam
inside that from the inside of the bubble, placing small metal plates
("skyhooks") with wires attached to them on the foam, spraying some
more foam on top of that, wiring up reinforcing rods to the skyhooks,
and then spraying 2-3" of concrete onto the rebar, all from the inside
of the bubble. They have plans for domes up to 800' in diameter.
Monolithic's phone number is (214) 483-7423.

They are having the First Annual Monolithic Domebuilder's Convention in
Dallas, TX from this Friday morning, 3/10, till Saturday afternoon, 3/11.
There should be at least 100 people there, including most of the Monolithic
staff and customers, along with some exhibitors, architects and engineers.
The convention costs $45, including a banquet and a bus ticket for a field
trip to Italy (TX :-) Saturday afternoon. Most of the conference will be at
the Dallas Holiday Inn Airport North ($65/night--(214) 929-8181.)

Monolithic is an exciting new little company with lots of spirit and a
willingness to try new things, from what I can tell. They also sell T-shirts,
slides, videos, jackets, "Nature's Perfect Shape" ball caps, and a $6/year
bi-monthly newsprint periodical called "Roundup." The number for
ordering this stuff is (800) 608-0001.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 10 07:20:08 1995
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Date: 8 Mar 1995 05:05:31 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3jjvhb$c2j@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
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Subject: Re: An insulated ceiling pond house -Reply
content-length: 1213
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Robert Sanders  <AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@cmsa.Berkeley.EDU> wrote:
 
>>So here's a more conventional house with an insulated pond in the ceiling...
 
>  There is a major problem with this in earthquake areas (most of the
>U.S.).  A ceiling and/or roof needs to be light weight and act as a
>membrane to hold the walls together.  Adding a pond overhead would
>make a dangerous situation as it would add to the forces trying to tear
>the walls apart and, if it fell, would crush those under it.

Thanks for the thought, Robert. I didn't think about that at all. There
is probably some solution, though, like putting the water under the floor,
thus sacrificing natural convection and heat trapping with overhead water,
or designing the building to take earthquakes, eg as a concrete/foam dome
with an integral ferro-cement lenticular diaphram tank above, or putting in
some sort of giant rip cord, like the ones in hot air balloons, that opened up
to let the water out quickly when an earthquake happened...

At the moment, I like the idea of hot water, sewage and rainwater under the
floor, in EPDM rubber/Thermo-Ply tank sandwiches, with a high-temp, low-power
fan to heat it by flowing 500 lfm air underneath... 

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 10 07:20:06 1995
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Date: 8 Mar 1995 05:09:23 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3jjvoj$c38@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: Re: Alt Energy Discussion (How subscribe?)
content-length: 591
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Russell McGinnis <mack2@gate.net> wrote:

>Dear Gentle Eversowhomst:
>
>     How does one subscribe to the Alt Energy Discussion group/list?

One types g alt.solar.thermal in rn :-) If that does not work, one
writes one's gentle news admin to ask that the group be created
locally, so that its postings from dsinc and uunet, among other feeds,
are accepted rather than refused by one's site.

I seem to be almost the only one posting to alt.solar.thermal so far.
Let's go gang! Post, post, post to alt.solar.thermal! Or if that won't
work, crosspost to it and write your news admin...

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 10 07:20:10 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 8 Mar 1995 04:49:57 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3jjuk5$c07@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <27970.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Subject: Re: Nick's lecture
content-length: 1633
Status: RO
X-Status: 

DAN JOHNSON  <dan.johnson@contrail.com> wrote:
 
>I ... would appreciate any info you can forward [re Monolithic domes.]

The company is called Monolithic Constructors, Inc., of Italy, Texas,
which is about an hour from Dallas, I'm told. They make concrete/foam
domes, up to 400' in diameter and 200' tall, by blowing up a vinyl
balloon ("airform"), spraying an inch or so of polyurethane foam
inside that from the inside of the bubble, placing small metal plates
("skyhooks") with wires attached to them on the foam, spraying some
more foam on top of that, wiring up reinforcing rods to the skyhooks,
and then spraying 2-3" of concrete onto the rebar, all from the inside
of the bubble. They have plans for domes up to 800' in diameter.
Monolithic's phone number is (214) 483-7423.

They are having the First Annual Monolithic Domebuilder's Convention in
Dallas, TX from this Friday morning, 3/10, till Saturday afternoon, 3/11.
There should be at least 100 people there, including most of the Monolithic
staff and customers, along with some exhibitors, architects and engineers.
The convention costs $45, including a banquet and a bus ticket for a field
trip to Italy (TX :-) Saturday afternoon. Most of the conference will be at
the Dallas Holiday Inn Airport North ($65/night--(214) 929-8181.)

Monolithic is an exciting new little company with lots of spirit and a
willingness to try new things, from what I can tell. They also sell T-shirts,
slides, videos, jackets, "Nature's Perfect Shape" ball caps, and a $6/year
bi-monthly newsprint periodical called "Roundup." The number for
ordering this stuff is (800) 608-0001.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 10 07:20:08 1995
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Subject: Re: An insulated ceiling pond house -Reply
content-length: 1213
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Robert Sanders  <AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@cmsa.Berkeley.EDU> wrote:
 
>>So here's a more conventional house with an insulated pond in the ceiling...
 
>  There is a major problem with this in earthquake areas (most of the
>U.S.).  A ceiling and/or roof needs to be light weight and act as a
>membrane to hold the walls together.  Adding a pond overhead would
>make a dangerous situation as it would add to the forces trying to tear
>the walls apart and, if it fell, would crush those under it.

Thanks for the thought, Robert. I didn't think about that at all. There
is probably some solution, though, like putting the water under the floor,
thus sacrificing natural convection and heat trapping with overhead water,
or designing the building to take earthquakes, eg as a concrete/foam dome
with an integral ferro-cement lenticular diaphram tank above, or putting in
some sort of giant rip cord, like the ones in hot air balloons, that opened up
to let the water out quickly when an earthquake happened...

At the moment, I like the idea of hot water, sewage and rainwater under the
floor, in EPDM rubber/Thermo-Ply tank sandwiches, with a high-temp, low-power
fan to heat it by flowing 500 lfm air underneath... 

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 10 07:20:11 1995
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Date: 8 Mar 1995 05:14:39 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Subject: Re: Oil crisis coming up according to Barrons
content-length: 2073
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Steen H Hviid <shviid@magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu> wrote:

>In the current issue of Barrons (March 6, 1995), their "Up & Down Wall Street"
>column (the most prominent column in the paper) deals with the coming oil 
>crises. The writers see an oil shortage coming up soon, with major prices
>increases to follow.

Amory Lovins said in his 12/94 Atlantic article that we probably would not
have invaded Iraq had they only grown broccoli. As I recall, for years, we
shamelessly funded both Iran and Iraq in their war with each other, supplying
weapons and money to both, in an attempt to create a "balance" that would
ensure cheap oil for our wasteful energy habits and make Exxon rich. Kuwait
was more or less created entirely by Standard Oil, setting up some sheiks
to sell us oil cheap in the 50s, no? WE are the international terrorists now,
not the arabs... We walk up to the arabs and point a gun at their heads
and say "You don't REALLY want to raise the price of your oil, do you?"

In private life this would be called extortion or robbery. Imagine going down
to the supermarket with a gun and telling the checkout clerk that the oranges
are too expensive. You would like to pay a bit less... Imagine walking into
the bursar's office with a gun, and saying you don't want to pay more than
$500 for the linear systems course, because the professor is so dull. Even
before George Bush, the five previous presidents, including gentle, Christian,
blessed, peacemaking Jimmy Carter, had publicly threatened war in the middle
east if they "cut off our vital supply of oil," and I believe that included
raising the price significantly... We are addicted to oil in this country,
as well as cocaine.

It's  their  oil, not ours, and they have a basic right to sell it for any
price that they want to sell it for. We have been bullying them into selling
it to us cheaply for years. And killing them, lately, en masse. This is not
a good thing. Killing people is bad, and it cannot go on. For one thing,
there is only a finite amount of oil in the world. It WILL run out...

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 10 07:20:09 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 8 Mar 1995 05:34:06 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3jk16u$c59@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
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Subject: Re: How much glass for solar gain?
content-length: 1269
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Ross M Donald  <AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@cmsa.Berkeley.EDU> wrote:

>     Guidelines for South facing glass:
>
>     Radical:  as much as possible

I agree. Well, enough to heat the house 100%, anyway, as a low-thermal-mass
sunspace, with a smaller glazed area inside in front of a high-thermal-mass
solar closet/sauna for cloudy days. And not just glass. Alternative sunspace
glazing include polycarbonate plastic (Dynaglas or Replex) or even good old
5 cent per square foot, 3-year greenhouse poly film...
 
>     Now, forget the guidelines.

Good idea...
 
>     Consider 5-20 gallons water in direct gain per
>square foot of glazing.  Too hot, too much temp flux -
>add more mass;  too cold - reduce mass, add movable
>insulation.  Get Mazria:  The Passive Solar Energy Book.

This works pretty well in the southwest, but I'm fairly convinced that
in places with a few cloudy days in a row, direct gain is bad, unless
there is movable insulation. Or at least it is much better to use passive
or low-power active air heaters on the south walls, with a good insulated
wall behind them, and a higher-than-living-space temperature heat battery,
inside the house, that can be well-insulated, vs a masonry floor behind
a big uninsulated picture window in the living room.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 10 17:50:25 1995
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Date: 8 Mar 1995 08:58:52 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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References: <2835.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>, <rdsck.12.000B5852@rmit.edu.au>, <ED.WCP.38.00128032@cphillips.pdial.interpath.net>
Subject: Fan power (was: Cube of the wind speed??)
content-length: 1740
Status: O
X-Status: 

>  The power required to operate a fan varies with the cube of the amount of 
>air moved (usually in CFM, cubic feet per minute). 

I think we might add, "for a given duct size." If we make the air ducts large,
and the airspeed low, we can make the dynamic air pressure and duct friction
and fan power as low as we want, practically-speaking. For instance, 100' of
a 2' x 2' duct with a cross sectional area of 4 ft^2, carrying 2,000 CFM and
500 linear feet per minute (lfm) of air, has a back pressure of only about
0.01" of water, according to my 1993 ASHRAE HOF.

This goes well with the performance of the 16" Grainger 4C861 1600 rpm (max),
high-temp (311 F), high-priced ($359), very reliable (3 year guarantee),
low-power (240 watts, max, with no speed control) fan, which is rated to
deliver 2765 CFM in free air, and 2190 CFM at 0.20 inches of water.

And this pressure and fan power is quite low compared to many hot air heating
systems using more powerful blowers with tiny cheap ducts. One way to make big
ducts is to blow air between multiple studs or joists or rafters... So if
we want to minimize fan power, and use fans instead of more energy-consuming
blowers, we should make the ducts big and the air velocities and rpm's low.
The last two things also minimize acoustical noise.

Norman Saunders recommends that new houses have a 2' x 2' airshaft from
top to bottom, so solar heat can be stored upstairs in the winter, and
easily transported downstairs, and cool air from the basement floor can
easily be transported upstairs in the summer. He says this allows easy
air movement of 1 m^3/sec, which transfers 1 kW/degree Kelvin, or was that
10 degrees Kelvin? Let's see. One Btu can heat 55 ft^3 of air 1 degree F...

Nick

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Date: 8 Mar 1995 08:58:52 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Subject: Fan power (was: Cube of the wind speed??)
content-length: 1740
Status: RO
X-Status: 

>  The power required to operate a fan varies with the cube of the amount of 
>air moved (usually in CFM, cubic feet per minute). 

I think we might add, "for a given duct size." If we make the air ducts large,
and the airspeed low, we can make the dynamic air pressure and duct friction
and fan power as low as we want, practically-speaking. For instance, 100' of
a 2' x 2' duct with a cross sectional area of 4 ft^2, carrying 2,000 CFM and
500 linear feet per minute (lfm) of air, has a back pressure of only about
0.01" of water, according to my 1993 ASHRAE HOF.

This goes well with the performance of the 16" Grainger 4C861 1600 rpm (max),
high-temp (311 F), high-priced ($359), very reliable (3 year guarantee),
low-power (240 watts, max, with no speed control) fan, which is rated to
deliver 2765 CFM in free air, and 2190 CFM at 0.20 inches of water.

And this pressure and fan power is quite low compared to many hot air heating
systems using more powerful blowers with tiny cheap ducts. One way to make big
ducts is to blow air between multiple studs or joists or rafters... So if
we want to minimize fan power, and use fans instead of more energy-consuming
blowers, we should make the ducts big and the air velocities and rpm's low.
The last two things also minimize acoustical noise.

Norman Saunders recommends that new houses have a 2' x 2' airshaft from
top to bottom, so solar heat can be stored upstairs in the winter, and
easily transported downstairs, and cool air from the basement floor can
easily be transported upstairs in the summer. He says this allows easy
air movement of 1 m^3/sec, which transfers 1 kW/degree Kelvin, or was that
10 degrees Kelvin? Let's see. One Btu can heat 55 ft^3 of air 1 degree F...

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Mar 15 19:21:55 1995
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Date: 14 Mar 1995 08:37:48 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Subject: Re: Flat Panel Efficiency?
content-length: 1436
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Jim Bulmer <jbulmer@ccinet.ab.ca> wrote:

>What efficiency can I expect from flat-panel solar collectors?

That depends on a lot of things, like the collection and ambient
temparatures and the number and type of glazings and collection surfaces,
whether selective or not.

>If I assume 1000 W/m^2 incident light, how
>many watts' worth of hot water will come out of the panel? 

500? There are lots of efficiency curves around page 315 of Duffie and
Beckman's book, _Solar Engineering of Thermal Processes," 2nd edition.
Water heaters are more efficient than air heaters, usually, from 60-80%
vs 40-60, altho the new unglazed Conserval air heater has an efficiency
of 80%, they say, heating cold air from the outside. The Conserval people
say that when you add glazing, efficiency goes down by at least 80%.

People sometimes lose sight of the fact that if a collector is cheap, or
replaces something with 0 efficiency that costs about the same or more, and
that has to be there anyway, eg vinyl siding, low efficiency can be fine.

As temperatures go up, efficiency goes down. Steve Baer talks about this,
saying that when people start experimenting, they are impressed with
high temperatures, which is an indication of INefficiency...

>How would the efficiency of a flat-panel collector
>compare with that of a parabolic trough of the same size?

Probably not so good, at low temperatures. Perhaps better at high temperatures.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Mar 15 21:52:09 1995
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Date: 14 Mar 1995 08:43:24 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Subject: Re: Flat Panel Efficiency?
content-length: 188
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Nick Pine <nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu> wrote:

>The Conserval people say that when you add glazing, efficiency goes down
>by at least 80%.

Oops. I meant it goes down by at least 20%.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Mar 16 18:22:04 1995
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Date: 16 Mar 1995 10:39:53 -0500
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Subject: 12V fan source?
content-length: 375
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Would anyone know of a place to buy a nice, reliable, low-speed, inexpensive
12 VDC fan, 12-16" in diameter, rated for about 1000 cfm? Something like a
12 V window fan...

Auto radiator fans come to mind, but it seems to me that they are high
speed and not too efficient. Norman saunders says that the efficiency
of a fan is about the same as its diameter in inches...

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Mar 16 18:52:05 1995
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Date: Wed, 15 Mar 1995 12:53:52 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
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Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <AE@SJSUVM1.SJSU.EDU>
Subject: Orchid School
content-length: 3070
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Orchid  School

Is a place in which individuals, students,  artists, grass roots
neighborhood groups and teachers can come together and find solutions to
environmental and social problems by striving to create beauty in the
world.

We will co-create a healthy sustainable local neighborhood economy
producing beautiful utilitarian objects of art and at the same time,
conduct a multi-cultural ritual celebration of life through art. It will be
a place where people will take great pride in what they do, be responsible
for who and what they are and be accountable to each other for the peace
and welfare of the whole.

We will provide a stimulating and inspiring  environment in which young
artists can develop their full potentialand demonstrate the philosophy that
"small is beautiful", "less is more" and that "individuality and variety
create the spice of life". We will strive to express these values through
our building designs, our social relationships and our art.

The school will provide a participatory design service, facilitated by
expereinced trained professionals, in which individuals can meet, freely
communicate, share cultures, stories, prioritize their own values,
objectives, define their own needs and ultimately focus to organize their
own resources and create solutions to their own social and environmental
problems.

The school will produce it's own energy using benign, earth friendly,
non-polluting, autonomous resource free passive technologies and will be
free of the existing power complex. It will grow 50% of it's own
food,including of fish, shrimp, herbs, fruits, vegetables and flowers in
airponic and hydroponic greenhouses and slat houses integrated within the
building complex. It will utilize the patented principles of Ekotecture =A9.

Orchid School will be located at Georgia and N Street, West Palm Beach,
=46lorida. The site overlooks Howard Park with it's Art Armory and the
Kravits Performing Arts Center.  It is conveniently located in the heart of
a revitalizing historic art's neighborhood in downtown West Palm beach. It
is only a short 10 minute walk to the Intercostal, the island of Palm Beach
and the Atlantic Ocean.

In the future, Orchid School expects to receive government grants, private
foundation gifts, tax deductible donations from individual patrons and
royalties from patents and copyrights.

At the present time, we derive our income as a percentage of the sale of
fine art and objects of art which are created by  interior designers,
artists and crafts people. These objects and services are marketed through
Jill's, Customized Objets de' Art at 323  Worth Avenue, Palm Beach, Florida
and through top end decoraters, retailers and mail order catalogs
internationally.

It is our intention to  become a model community & educational development
center for sustainable global development.

 March 14, 1995

Lee Porter Butler
Jill Karlin Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Orchid School

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Mar 16 18:52:07 1995
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Date: Wed, 15 Mar 1995 12:52:43 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
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Subject: Response to Podnar
content-length: 8470
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Dear Gregg Podnar,

Although your hostile reaction to my writing indicates a closed mind, the
fact that you are willing to communicate indicates otherwise. With that
assumption, I will try and respond to your questions.

=46irst with regard to technical information. I am a practicing architect,
general contractor and real estate developer. Over the past thirty years of
practice, I have accumulated thousands of pages of architectural
construction drawings, details and specifications which describe hundreds
of commissions all over the  world. All of these documents contain
technical information which could, in some way, possibly be beneficial to
you and others like you who seem to be dabbling in this field.

What I know is that architects are usually 55 years old before they are
ever giving a chance to design a great building. With surgeons, computer
programmers, attorneys, engineers and sports heros, expertise, authority
and perceived fame usually comes at around thirty. For architects and city
planners it is around fifty five. I believe it is because we are dealing
with something infinitely more complicated than the other professions and
it takes that long to know what you are doing.

I am suggesting that you and other amateur designers are innocently
overlooking the enormous complexity of the issues involved in designing our
life support system, infrastructure, architecture and ecology. I do not
believe that you have the slightest appreciation for how much there is to
know in producing the "good life" you are all after.

Nothing worthwhile is free. The internet does not eliminate effort of the
necessity to think. Computers do not create designers. We all exist by
selling or providing a product or a service. Mine is the thirty years of
knowledge,  experience and skill which I have accumulated from over one
billion dollars of construction world wide.

You are lucky that a person in my position would take the time to explain
all of this after the way in which you have addressed me.

The essential teaching of all great religions suggests that each individual
relate directly with a single, monolithic source of all knowledge, usually
referred to as God. If each individual would take their direction directly
from this source instead of other men, they would not need a leader.
Leaders are for puppets, monkeys and robots. Human beings can think for
themselves. All human beings are programmed to think the way they do by
their genes and their culture. By paying homage to money and only money,
you become a monk, dedicated to the one, the monoythic authority system
which has brought you the past two world wars, the atomic bomb, shopping
malls, fast food, more disease and suffering, destruction, religious myths
which keep people enslaved in fear and oppressed by violent bullies. Always
bring the money into every equation, eliminates the other values and
considerations. Let us break this addiction and illusion to false wealth
and oblivion, to what we call money.

I do not advocate eliminating the manufacturing infrastructure, simply that
the product itself ( our homes and workplaces ) satisfy our basic comfort,
health security needs without the consumption of resources.

=46ornication is not a sin. It is how we are all created. Pleasure is not a
sin or it would never have been given to us by the creator. Men make paper
laws and issue personal subjective judgments to punish and retard other men
using violence, hardware and machines do help them. The creator has created
people like me to expose them. Their hatred of life and suffering delivered
to others will not stand on this earth. It is inhuman behavior and will
eventually be bred out of us. We do not need leaders or hero's. The very
concept of is is degrading and as ridiculous as early hollywood comedies.

=46ornication is not a sin. Getting high is not a sin. Having a good time is
not a sin. The concept of sin itself has crippled human kind since the
beginning of myth. The belief in the concept of being born flawed, in
sentence of  suffering and torture is the sickest possible lie you could
tell you children, if you wanted the to suffer and then die, unfulfilled,
unrewarded and unhappy.

All truth comes from the mouths of  human channels who use concepts like
truth and words to convey them. There is no single source of truth. The
Jews have not been chosen by God nor has the father of Jesus. Let us stop
repeating these unprovable theories and stories and talk about what we do
know.

Socrates said, " Let those who know lead and let others follow".

The Orchid School will produce leaders. We have always been leaders and we
will teach what we know to others. We are not trying to start a cult, we
are starting a school and a intentional community, where people will be
free to think and act as they please so long as they respect the feelings
and rights of others. Please read the following description and let me know
what you think.

Please do not get me wrong. I do not in any way want to limit or restrict
what you are free to believe. I simply refuse to allow you to dominate or
suppress others with your own  limitations and beliefs. This is America and
many people died for these rights. many people are willing to die again, so
why do we not stop slinging the slime and hurling the epitafts and truly
communicate? It is your delusion which prevents you from even discussing
the issues. Please see the previous postings on Ekotecture.

Orchid  School

Is a place in which individuals, students,  artists, grass roots
neighborhood groups
and teachers can come together and find solutions to environmental and
social problems by striving to create beauty in the world.

We will co-create a healthy sustainable local neighborhood economy
producing beautiful utilitarian objects of art and at the same time,
conduct a multi-cultural ritual celebration of life through art. It will be
a place where people will take great pride in what they do, be responsible
for who and what they are and be accountable to each other for the peace
and welfare of the whole.

We will provide a stimulating and inspiring  environment in which young
artists can develop their full potential and demonstrate the philosophy
that "small is beautiful", "less is more" and that "individuality and
variety create the spice of life". We will strive to express these values
through our building designs, our social relationships and our art.

The school will provide a participatory design service, facilitated by
experienced trained professionals, in which individuals can meet, freely
communicate, share cultures, stories, prioritize their own values,
objectives, define their own needs and ultimately focus to organize their
own resources and create solutions to their own social and environmental
problems.

The school will produce it's own energy using benign, earth friendly,
non-polluting, autonomous resource free passive technologies and will be
free of the existing power complex. It will grow 50% of it's own
food,including of fish, shrimp, herbs, fruits, vegetables and flowers in
airponic and hydroponic greenhouses and slat houses integrated within the
building complex. It will utilize the patented principles of Ekotecture =A9.

Orchid School will be located at Georgia and N Street, West Palm Beach,
=46lorida. The site overlooks Howard Park with it's Art Armory and the
Kravits Performing Arts Center.  It is conveniently located in the heart of
a revitalizing historic art's neighborhood in downtown West Palm beach. It
is only a short 10 minute walk to the Intercostal, the island of Palm Beach
and the Atlantic Ocean.

In the future, Orchid School expects to receive government grants, private
foundation gifts, tax deductible donations from individual patrons and
royalties from patents and copyrights.

At the present time, we derive our income as a percentage of the sale of
fine art and objects of art which are created by  interior designers,
artists and crafts people. These objects and services are marketed through
Jill's, Customized Objects de' Art at 323  Worth Avenue, Palm Beach,
=46lorida  and through top end decorators, retailers and mail order catalogs
internationally.

It is our intention to  become a model community & educational development
center for sustainable global development.
Where do we go from here.

 March 14, 1995

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Response to Podnar

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Mar 16 18:52:05 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Wed, 15 Mar 1995 12:53:52 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
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Subject: Orchid School
content-length: 3070
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Orchid  School

Is a place in which individuals, students,  artists, grass roots
neighborhood groups and teachers can come together and find solutions to
environmental and social problems by striving to create beauty in the
world.

We will co-create a healthy sustainable local neighborhood economy
producing beautiful utilitarian objects of art and at the same time,
conduct a multi-cultural ritual celebration of life through art. It will be
a place where people will take great pride in what they do, be responsible
for who and what they are and be accountable to each other for the peace
and welfare of the whole.

We will provide a stimulating and inspiring  environment in which young
artists can develop their full potentialand demonstrate the philosophy that
"small is beautiful", "less is more" and that "individuality and variety
create the spice of life". We will strive to express these values through
our building designs, our social relationships and our art.

The school will provide a participatory design service, facilitated by
expereinced trained professionals, in which individuals can meet, freely
communicate, share cultures, stories, prioritize their own values,
objectives, define their own needs and ultimately focus to organize their
own resources and create solutions to their own social and environmental
problems.

The school will produce it's own energy using benign, earth friendly,
non-polluting, autonomous resource free passive technologies and will be
free of the existing power complex. It will grow 50% of it's own
food,including of fish, shrimp, herbs, fruits, vegetables and flowers in
airponic and hydroponic greenhouses and slat houses integrated within the
building complex. It will utilize the patented principles of Ekotecture =A9.

Orchid School will be located at Georgia and N Street, West Palm Beach,
=46lorida. The site overlooks Howard Park with it's Art Armory and the
Kravits Performing Arts Center.  It is conveniently located in the heart of
a revitalizing historic art's neighborhood in downtown West Palm beach. It
is only a short 10 minute walk to the Intercostal, the island of Palm Beach
and the Atlantic Ocean.

In the future, Orchid School expects to receive government grants, private
foundation gifts, tax deductible donations from individual patrons and
royalties from patents and copyrights.

At the present time, we derive our income as a percentage of the sale of
fine art and objects of art which are created by  interior designers,
artists and crafts people. These objects and services are marketed through
Jill's, Customized Objets de' Art at 323  Worth Avenue, Palm Beach, Florida
and through top end decoraters, retailers and mail order catalogs
internationally.

It is our intention to  become a model community & educational development
center for sustainable global development.

 March 14, 1995

Lee Porter Butler
Jill Karlin Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Orchid School

From homestead-approval@world.std.com  Thu Mar 16 13:12:50 1995
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To: homestead@world.std.com
From: kowens@teleport.com (Jeff Owens)
Subject: Solar Cookers
Date: Thu, 16 Mar 1995 10:41:07 -0500
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Here is a message recently posted about solar cooking which
might interest homesteaders.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Tom Sponheim <tsponheim@ACCESSONE.COM>
Subject: Solar Cooking Archive 

Readers of the listserve might be interested in the Solar Cooking Archive
which we have recently set up on WWW.  If you have web access you can check
it out directly at http://www.xmission.com/~seer/sbcn/index.htm
 
Otherwise, email me and I'll send you some files containing background
information on the growing movement to build fully functioning solar ovens
from simple materials such as cardboard boxes, baskets, etc.  We also have
some in-depth articles on solar water pasteurization.  The archive contains
complete construction plans for many types of ovens as well as two recent
issues of Solar Box Journal and a photo gallery.
 
We look forward to hearing from any interested parties,
 
Tom Sponheim
Solar Cookers International
Solar Box Cookers Northwest
Seattle, Washington USA
Tom Sponheim
 
Solar Box Cookers Northwest
7036 18th Ave. NE
Seattle, WA 98115 USA
 
The Solar Cooking Archive --> http://www.xmission.com/~seer/sbcn/index.htm


From london@sunsite.unc.edu  Thu Mar 16 22:52:10 1995
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Date: Thu, 16 Mar 1995 22:49:27 -0500 (EST)
From: "Lawrence F. London, Jr." <london@calypso-2.oit.unc.edu>
To: renew-energy@ces.ncsu.edu
Subject: Solar Cookers (fwd)
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---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Thu, 16 Mar 1995 10:41:07 -0500
>From: Jeff Owens <kowens@teleport.com>
To: homestead@world.std.com
Subject: Solar Cookers

Here is a message recently posted about solar cooking which
might interest homesteaders.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
>From: Tom Sponheim <tsponheim@ACCESSONE.COM>
Subject: Solar Cooking Archive 

Readers of the listserve might be interested in the Solar Cooking Archive
which we have recently set up on WWW.  If you have web access you can check
it out directly at http://www.xmission.com/~seer/sbcn/index.htm
 
Otherwise, email me and I'll send you some files containing background
information on the growing movement to build fully functioning solar ovens
from simple materials such as cardboard boxes, baskets, etc.  We also have
some in-depth articles on solar water pasteurization.  The archive contains
complete construction plans for many types of ovens as well as two recent
issues of Solar Box Journal and a photo gallery.
 
We look forward to hearing from any interested parties,
 
Tom Sponheim
Solar Cookers International
Solar Box Cookers Northwest
Seattle, Washington USA
Tom Sponheim
 
Solar Box Cookers Northwest
7036 18th Ave. NE
Seattle, WA 98115 USA
 
The Solar Cooking Archive --> http://www.xmission.com/~seer/sbcn/index.htm


From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Mar 18 14:33:57 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 17 Mar 1995 10:26:16 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3kc9mo$3cu@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: Re: 12V fan source?
content-length: 258
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David Stockton  <AE@SJSUVM1.SJSU.EDU> wrote:
>
>    Oh dear!  What happens if I build a 200 inch fan (with 200%
>efficiency?) and use it to blow a wind generator powering the fan ?

Good idea, David :-) Just don't talk about this in alt.solar.thermal.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun Mar 19 00:04:06 1995
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Date: Thu, 16 Mar 1995 21:09:04 GMT
From: Marge Wood <mwood@ACUVAX.ACU.EDU>
Message-Id: <13636.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Subject: solar cookers
content-length: 385
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You were wondering how long it would take for me to talk about that, huh?
Here is a good new source from Solar Box Cookers International:

http://www.xmission.com/~seer/sbcn/index.htm

Thanks to Kerry Miller and Sanjay Sharma for sharing it.
And right now I'm waiting for the first sunny, not-windy day to take my
renovated box cooker outside.
Marge
mwood@acuvax.acu.edu
solar cookers

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 24 02:05:04 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 21 Mar 1995 15:31:53 GMT
From: jbulmer@ccinet.ab.ca (Jim Bulmer)
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Subject: Re: catalogue for solar energy
content-length: 180
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X-Status: 

Try the following sources:

Norwester Energy, Calgary  (403)249-4399
Photron Canada			(403)675-2634
Moonlight Solar, Virginia	(703)381-4971

There are a lot more. Good luck. 

Jim

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 24 14:35:12 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Thu, 23 Mar 1995 10:49:47 GMT
From: BOB KELLAND <RKELLAND@FAC.CABOT.NF.CA>
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Subject: Re: Flat plate solar heat collector panels
content-length: 195
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Randy,

Try the following for solar collectors:

AAA Solar Service and Supply
1-800-245-0311

Solar Components Corporation
1-603-668-8186


Bob Kelland
RE: Flat plate solar heat collector panels

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Mar 31 05:38:23 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 29 Mar 1995 09:06:29 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3lbph5$oqo@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: A high-performance, cost-effective, solar-heated greenhouse
content-length: 21096
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Commercial greenhouses that operate in the winter are usually made of two
layers of polyethylene film, statically-inflated with a small blower, after
the film is stretched over curved steel pipes on 4-6' centers. The steel pipes
typically form a quonset hut or gothic arched structure, about 13' tall at the
ridgeline, for a 30' wide house. These greenhouses are fairly inexpensive:
A 30' x 96' greenhouse costs less than $3,000, including the poly film cover
and ground stakes that serve as the foundation. Three people can put one up
in less than one day.

But, they also use a lot of energy in the wintertime. Roger Williams mentions
that a standard commercial greenhouse like his 30' x 208' tomato greenhouse
in New Bruswick, Canada, would typically require about 12,000 gallons of oil
to heat, in that 9,000 degree-day climate. He was able to reduce the oil
consumption of his greenhouse to less than 4,000 gallons a year, by various
means, including the use of better insulation and solar heat :-)

What can be done to make commercial greenhouses more solar-heated?

Here is a drawing of a typical $3,000 commercial greenhouse...

                    Greenhouse  96' long x 30' wide
           _________________________________________________ 
          :                                                 :
          :                                                 :
        < D  BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB : 
        < A                                                 : 
        < M  BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB F <
        < P                                                 A <
        < E  BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB N <
        < R                                                 : 
          :  BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB : 
          :                                                 :
          :_________________________________________________:

The house usually has a large fan at one end, about 23,000 cfm, mounted
chest-high on one endwall, and a large motorized damper at the other end. 
There is usually a large gas or oil heater hanging from the ridge pipe.
When the greenhouse begins to heat up from the sun in the wintertime,
the fan turns on and the motorized damper opens, to cool the house.
When the sun goes down, the heater comes on...

The greenhouse may have 4 benches, as shown, each one being about 4' wide,
with 2' aisles between the benches. The benches are typically supported on
a 2 x 4, cement block or steel framework, at a height of about 33". Since
the greenhouse walls are curved, the area near the walls has low headroom,
typically about 4' 5" a foot away from the wall, 5' 5" 2' away, and 6' 7"
3' away from the wall. This headroom can be increased 1-2' by using longer
ground posts.

The first thing that one might do to help this picture, energy-wise, might be
to put some dark-colored 55 gallon drums full of water under the south bench,
to support it. 55 gallon drums are free for the hauling in many places, and
the benches need some sort of support anyway. This would make the benches a
little taller, since 55 gallon drums are about 23" in diameter and 35" tall.
So along with this, one might pile up 2" of gravel or dirt in the walkways.

                    Greenhouse  96' long x 30' wide
           _________________________________________________ 
          :                                                 :
          :                                                 :
        < D  BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB : 
        < A                                                 : 
        < M  BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB F <
        < P                                                 A <
        < E  BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB N <
        < R                                                 : 
          :  DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD : 
          :               white poly film                   :
          :_________________________________________________:

                                south

The drums would be standing on end, and dark colored, so the low-angle
winter sun would shine on the sides of the drums. If the south bench
were close to the south wall of the greenhouse, with no usable aisle
on the south side of the bench, because the curved greenhouse wall has
low headroom close to the wall, one might as well put some white poly
film on the ground to the south of the south bench, to reflect about
50% more sun onto the drums. There might be a double row of drums under
the 4' bench, about 96 drums altogether... It would make sense to use
an 8' width of white poly, extending it under the drums to keep them
from rusting, if they are steel drums in contact with the ground.

Ordinary steel drums last about 20 years, when filled with water, when
kept dry on the outside, I think. Adding a quart of oil to each drum,
along with the 450 pounds of water, increases the lifetime, I've read.
Food-grade drums, that contain things like molasses, usually have a plastic
coating on the inside of the steel, which should further increase the drum
lifetime, when the drum is filled with water. An empty drum weighs about
15 or 20 pounds. Plastic drums should last a long time, but they are harder
to come by than steel drums. One might have to pay $5 for a plastic drum...

An average day in the month of January, in the Philadelphia area, has
an outdoor temperature of about 30 degrees F, and on an average January day,
about 1000 Btu/ft^2 of solar energy falls on a south-facing vertical surface.
Each pair of drums under the south bench has a south-facing area of about
2' wide x 3' tall, ie 6 ft^2, so, ignoring the sun that is absorbed by the
plastic glazing, each pair of drums receives a daily solar input of about

Ein = 6 ft^2 x 1000 Btu = 6000 Btu.

Each drum has a surface area of about 25 ft^2, so if the average
day/night greenhouse temperature is, say 60F, each pair of drums
that contains water at a temperature of Td, higher than 60F, loses
energy to the greenhouse over 24 hours, as the water cools off. The
energy lost over 24 hours would be about

Eout = 24 hours x (Td - 60) x 50 ft^2/R1 = 1200 (Td - 60).

If Ein = Eout, over 24 hours,

Td = 60 + 6000/1200 = 65F. Not very warm...

But suppose we put a 12' poly film skirt around the drums, over the top
of the drums (and under the bench itself) and down the sides to the ground.
This would increase the R-value and decrease the surface area of the "solar
closet" under the bench...

In that case, the amount of heat that would leave the drums over a day
would be about

Eout = 24 (Td - 60) x (2 x 3 + 2 x 4 + 2 x 3) ft^2/R2 = 480 (Td-60),

so if Ein = Eout, again, Td = 60 + 6000/480 = 72.5F. Better...

Suppose we put some insulation on top of the drums, under the poly film.
This will help keep the plant roots from cooking, as they sit in peat
moss or pots on top of the benches, and make the drum water warmer. If
the tops of the drums are covered with 2" of beadboard, or the benches
are filled with mostly dry vermiculite or peat moss, most of the heat
loss of the drums will be through the poly film side walls of the area
under the bench, so Eout will be approximately

Eout = 24 (Td - 60) x (2 x 3 + 0 + 2 x 3) ft^2/R2 = 288 (Td - 60), 

so if Ein = Eout, again, Td = 60 + 6000/288 = 80.8F. Better...

We are trying to increase the drumwater temperature here, in order to
better provide overnight heat, at least, and ideally, enough heat for
a few cloudy days in a row.

According to Roger's estimate, a 30 x 96' greenhouse, with a double poly
inflated cover, would need about 3600 Btu/hour/degree F to stay warm
inside in the winter, with no sun, or about 86.4K Btu/degree day. So
in the Philadelphia area, a 96' x 30' greenhouse would need a daily
heat input of about

Eday = 86.4K x (50F - 30F) = 1.72 million Btu/day

to stay at 50F inside on an average day, with no sun. Call it 2 million
Btu/day, for a round number. This is the heat equivalent of about 20 gallons
of oil, as burned in an old oil burner... If the 80.8 degree water in
the 55 gallon drums above could be cooled quickly enough to heat the
greenhouse to 50 degrees F for a while, the useful stored heat in the
drum water might be about  

Estored = (80.8F - 60F) x 96 x 450 lb/drum = 900K Btu, 

which is enough heat to keep the greenhouse warm for about a half-day
without sun, eg overnight...

By the way, in some cases, commercial greenhouses use very efficient,
internally-vented gas heaters, called CO2 generators, as well as externally
vented heaters, to raise the CO2 level inside the greenhouse, which plants
like a lot :-) Here is some text from the Stuppy Greenhouse catalog:

   Plants must absorb carbon dioxide in combination with water, soil
   nutrients and sunlight, to produce the sugars vital for growth. A
   shortage of any of these requirements will retard the growing process.
   Normally there are approximately 300 parts per million of CO2 in the
   atmosphere; when this level is increased to over 1,000 ppm, it results
   in higher production and better plant quality. The Johnson Generator 
   [18" diameter x 20" high, 25 pounds, 20-60K Btu/hr, 8 lb CO2/hr, $465]
   provides up to 1,500 ppm per unit in an average 24' x 200' greenhouse or
   an equivalent 50,000 cu. ft. volume, **based on one air change per hour**.
   [Emphasis mine.]

   Nighttime levels in a greenhouse range generally from 400 to 500 ppm 
   due to plant respiration. Shortly after sunrise this level will drop
   to normal atmosphere (300 ppm) due to the plant using the early light
   to start photosynthesis. After 3-4 hours of early morning sunlight,
   the CO2 level can drop to around 100-150 ppm. Then growth is practically
   stopped. Supplemental CO2 added during this period can substantially
   increase your plant and flower production. By adding CO2, especially
   during the winter months when greenhouse ventilators are closed and
   when low CO2 concentration becomes a limiting factor in growth, users
   are obtaining yield and bloom quality comparable to that which is normally
   associated with spring and summer conditions...

Reducing the use of ventilation to the outside to cool the greenhouse
on sunny winter days also helps increase the retention of CO2, if a
CO2 generator is used, as noted above. (I think a CO2 generator would
make a fine backup heater in a solar greenhouse.) Reducing sunny-day
winter ventilation also helps in maintaining a high humidity level in
the greenhouse. It takes about 1000 Btu to evaporate a pound of water,
so the less we vent humidity to the outside, in the winter, the less
water and energy are needed to keep the greenhouse humidity level high.

Preheating water is also sometimes a good thing, in a greenhouse.
Plants don't like being watered with very cold water. Roger's tomato
greenhouse consumed about 400 gallons of water a day, and he preheated
this water by running it through a long 1/2" poly pipe along one wall.
A poly pipe for water heating might also run under the south bench... 

What's next? Well, we could put 55 gallon drums full of water under
all the benches, since 55 gallon drums are free, and the benches need
some support anyway. This would help keep the greenhouse from freezing,
at least, but it seems like just doing this would not add a lot to the
useful stored heat, because the new drums would have a drumwater temperature
of 60F (or less, since they would be near the floor), so they wouldn't
do much to help the greenhouse stay warm at 50F, which is not much
cooler than 60F. With a 10F difference between the water temp in the new
drums and the greenhouse temp, there will not be much heatflow from the
drums to the greenhouse air, at night. Still, the idea of that much free
thermal mass is appealing: 300 more drums, each containing about 500 pounds
of water, with a temperature fluctuation of 10 degrees F, will store about
10F x 300 x 500 = 1,500,000 Btu of heat, about 15 gallons of oil's worth,
almost one cloudy day's worth for the greenhouse...

About now, we might ask, if this is so easy to do, why don't more commercial
growers do it? I think the answer is that they haven't thought much about it.
They are more interested in plants and beautiful flowers than Btus. A lot of
them don't even have engineering degrees :-) Some of them come from families
who have grown plants in greenhouses for five generations, and they know what
works, and they are not too inclined to experiment with anything new, which
might cost them an entire crop of dead plants, or poinsettias that are
practically worthless, because they bloom the week AFTER Christmas...

So they just fire up the old heaters and pass on the costs to their customers,
making their lives simpler, and we pay high prices if we want to eat fresh,
red tomatoes or oranges in December. (One of the reasons that Roger Williams
got interested in building a tomato greenhouse, in northern Canada, was that a
couple of children in the small town where he lived got scurvy in wintertime.)

So, where were we? Oh yes, now we have lots of thermal mass, but it's
not very warm yet, and the heat transfer rate is too low. Considering only
the drums under the south bench, with 600 ft^2 of drum closet surface area,
losing heat at 1 Btu/hr/F, if the drums were heating the greenhouse entirely,
at 60F inside and 30F outside, the greenhouse will need 108K Btu/hr, so the
drums would have to be 108K/600/R2 = 360 degrees warmer than the greenhouse.

Hmmm. Something is wrong here... The heat transfer rate is too low.

If there were a motorized damper in the closet, to let some air flow past
the drum surfaces, the heat transfer area would increase to 2400 ft^2,
with an R-value of about 1, so the drums would need to be about

108K/2400 = 45 degrees

warmer than the greenhouse. This is the right direction, but it is still
too large a temperature difference... If the air were moving at 10 mph, the
R-value of the air film at the drum surface would decrease to about

1/(1+ 10/2) = 1/6,

so the temperature drop would decrease to about 7 degrees, which is OK.
I guess the bench needs a fan underneath, now, at one end, with a gravity
damper at the other end now, not a motorized one. In this case, one might
stagger the drums a bit, to allow air to flow more freely between them,
down under the length of the bench. This might reduce the number of drums
in a row from 96 to 90... That's OK.

How big a fan? 108K Btu/hr at, say, another 10F drop makes the fan want to be
about 10K cfm. 10 mph is 880 fpm, so the effective cross sectional area
for airflow, under the bench, wants to be about 10K/880 = 10 ft^2.

This could be done by placing the drums about 3' apart, but that would
make the bench 7' wide, so it is probably better to stagger the drums,
and make them about 6" apart, at their closest points, with a 3" air gap
between the outside walls of the drums and the poly sidewalls. A small
horizontal air gap, or some air leaks along the base of the poly skirt,
near the ground, would also make air flow more easily. In this case, the
airspeed might be about 3000 fpm at 10,000 cfm, but the air would actually
flow more slowly at a lower cfm, which would depend on the characteristics
of the fan. 

E. C. Geiger at (800) 4GEIGER or (215) 256-6511 sells a 1/3 HP, 431 rpm,
36" diameter, two-speed, $700 fan, rated at 10,300 cfm free air delivery, 
and 8800 cfm at 0.10" of water. The stock number is DC36F, on page 118
of their 1995 catalog. 

At this point, one wonders if the fan should be near the top of the house,
to push warm air from the peak down a diagonal poly duct along one endwall,
thru the length of the "solar closet" under the bed...

The sun that comes into the greenhouse in January, at a low angle,
comes thru "the south wall," an effective area of the length of the
greenhouse x the height. In the Philadelphia area, I would figure this as

1000 Btu/day x 96' x 13' = 1.25 M Btu/day,

for a 30' Geiger "Northerner" greenhouse, with a peak height of about 13',
on an average January day. At 86.4K Btu/dd, the greenhouse would lose about

(60-30)x86.4K = 2.6 M Btu/day, on an average Jan day...

So if the greenhouse were entirely solar heated, the average (day and night)
indoor temp would only be about 30 +1.25/2.92x30 = 44F. But if there were
snow or a white piece of poly or perhaps a shallow reflecting pool on the
ground, in front of the south wall, outside the greenhouse, that would roughly
double the solar input, making it close to 100% solar-heated in January...

Here is one possible "final" version of a commercial solar greenhouse:

                    Greenhouse  96' long x 30' wide
           _________________________________________________ 
          :                                                 :
          :                                                 :
        < D  DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD : 
        < A                                                 : 
        < M  DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDFDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD F <
        < P                       A                         A <
        < E  BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBNBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB N <
        < R                                                 : 
          :  DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD : 
          :               white poly film                   :
          :_________________________________________________:

                          reflecting pool

                              south

Looking at this from the south side, not to scale:

           _________________________________________________ 
          :                                                 :
        < DAMPER Poly film ductP<==FAN                    FAN <
          :  P                 P                          P :
          :  up               down                       up : 
          :  DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD : 
          :  DDDDDDDDDDDDDDD (poly film) DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD :
          :_________________________________________________:

The central fan would be the main one used on a sunny winter day. The east
fan would be used for extra cooling capacity in the summer, if needed.

The central fan would push warm air from the peak of the greenhouse into
a 30" poly film duct near the ridge that went to a motorized damper at the
west end of the greenhouse. In external cooling mode, this air would pass
through the poly duct and out the motorized damper, which would be open.

Another duct would run north and south from the central fan, to connect to
4 down ducts that went into the tops of the benches at the center of the
greenhouse. This air would emerge from the ends of the benches into up-ducts,
which would return the air to the peak of the greenhouse, allowing the
peak of the greenhouse to be warmer than the air in the bench area. One
of the down ducts might contain a CO2 generator...

The space under the benches would look like this, from the east:

     |     4'     |
   _ :___bench____:
        polyfilm            In winter, the drums would be kept at, say,
       pfoamboardp          130F, weatehr permitting. This would store
   3'  odrum drumo          about 200K lbs x (130F-80F) = 10 million BTU,
       ldrum druml          or 5 cloudy day's worth of useful heat.
       ydrum drumy
white poly film...---------

And the space under the bench might look like this, from the top:

     :           :          In the summer, the central fan could run up to 
     : drum      :          24 hours a day, partially storing summer heat
     :           :          in the drums during the day, and cooling the
     :      drum :          400 drums and the greenhouse at night. In the
     :           :          Philadelphia area, with 50% shadecloth, the 
     : drum      :          summer sun input in June would be about 1000 BTU
                            per square foot per day, or 
          ...
			    3000 Btu x 1000 Btu/ft^2 = 3 million Btu/day.

If all of this daily summer sun's heat (100%, with NO external ventilation
during the day) were stored in the 200K pounds of drumwater, this would raise
the water temperature by 15 degrees F.

If the drumwater were at 130F in the winter, and the house were at 60F,
the plant roots, in peat moss, would be at a temperature Tr, where
Tr is about 60 + (130-60)/R11 = 66F. Water evaporating from the plants
would actually keep the roots a bit cooler than this...

Roger Williams suggests that in a new greenhouse, solar heating can be done
by storing energy in the earth below, eg by burying 10" plastic pipes, one
on each side of each bench, and blowing air through them, without using all
of these drums. The success of this technique for heating and cooling a
greenhouse would depend on the height of the water table and the nature of
water flow underground...

I've heard that solar greenhouses are used extensively in Japan, where
energy is more expensive. Does anyone know anything more about this?

Nick

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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Fri, 31 Mar 1995 12:37:16 -0500
From: "Lawrence F. London, Jr." <london@calypso-2.oit.unc.edu>
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Organization: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Subject: Energy resources at sunSITE.unc.edu
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X-Status: 



Accessing Selected Resources At sunSITE.unc.edu
-----------------------------------------------
WAIS (available via telnet, follow login instructions)
World Wide Web (lynx available via telnet for vt100 users)
  URL for sustainable agriculture is:
  gopher://sunsite.unc.edu/11/.pub/academic/agriculture/sustainable_agriculture/
  URL for rural skills is:
  gopher://sunsite.unc.edu/11/.pub/academic/agriculture/rural-skills
  URL for energy resources is:
  gopher://sunsite.unc.edu/11/.pub/academic/environment/alternative-energy/energy-resources
  URL for alternative healthcare is:
  gopher://sunsite.unc.edu/11/.pub/academic/medicine/alternative-healthcare
  URL for pesticide education is:
  gopher://sunsite.unc.edu/11/.pub/academic/environment/pesticide-education

Ftpmail (Send e-mail to ftpmail@sunsite.unc.edu for help file on ftpmail usage) 

Anonymous ftp:
  ftp sunSITE.unc.edu
  Login: anonymous
  Password: (enter your Internet E-Mail ID)
  cd pub/academic
    cd agriculture/sustainable_agriculture
      cd gardening/gardening-faqs
  cd pub/academic/agriculture/rural-skills
  cd pub/academic/medicine/alternative-healthcare
  cd pub/academic/environment/alternative-energy/energy-resources
  cd pub/academic/environment/pesticide-education

Gopher: (gopher sunSITE.unc.edu)
The Worlds of sunSITE
  Sustainable Agriculture Information
  links to:
    Rural Skills: etc.
    Alternative Energy
    Alternative Healthcare
    Pesticide Education
    - other Gopher sites with ag/gardening information

The Worlds of SunSITE
  browse sunSITE archives
    academic
      agriculture
        sustainable_agriculture
          gardening
            gardening-faqs
        rural-skills

The Worlds of sunSITE
  browse sunSITE archives
    academic
      environment
        alternative energy
          energy-resources
        pesticide-education        

The Worlds of sunSITE
  browse sunSITE archives
    academic
      medicine
        alternative healthcare


Information contained in the Archives:
--------------------------------------

Newsgroup, mailing-list, newsletter archives/documents/FAQs on 
sustainable agriculture, permaculture, IPM, landscaping, gardening, 
farming, rural skills, horticulture, metalworking, woodworking, weather, 
housebuilding, food, cooking, nutrition, ecology, environment, pesticide 
education, health and safety, survivalism, beekeeping, food preservation,
alternative: healthcare, energy, architecture, housing, communities 
and many other related topics.

Documents on these subjects (partial list):
-------------------------------------------
historic food
food preserving
survivalism, health, safety, first-aid
sourdough bread-yoghurt-kraut-fermented foods
vegetarian cooking
alternative architecture
alternative/co-housing, sustainable/intentional communities - co-operatives 
alternative healthcare
health and safety faqs 
sustainable agriculture
gardening-farming-rural life
gardening faqs
landscaping-landscape architecture
permaculture
integrated pest management
hydrology
meteorology
beekeeping
hydroponics
biological pest control
mycology
botany
vermiculture
wildlife
hydroponics
aquaponics
bioremediation
aquaculture
guides to Internet agriculture/healthcare/environment/biology resources 
homeopathy
ayurveda
nutrition
meditation

FAQs for these newsgroups (partial list):
-----------------------------------------
rec.gardens (/agriculture/sustainable_agriculture/gardening/gardening-faqs)
misc.rural (/agriculture/rural-skills/faqs)
rec.food.sourdough (/agriculture/rural-skills/food/sourdough/faqs)
rec.food.veg (/medicine/alternative-healthcare/faqs)
rec.crafts.metalworking (/agriculture/rural-skills/metalworking/faqs)
rec.woodworking (/agriculture/rural-skills/woodworking/faqs)
alternative energy (/environment/alternative-energy/miscellaneous)
sci.energy.hydrogen (/environment/alternative-energy/miscellaneous)
alt.meditation (/medicine/alternative-healthcare/faqs)
alt.co-ops (/environment/energy-resources/faqs
alt.housing.nontrad (/environment/energy-resources/faqs
alt.folklore.herbs (/medicine/alternative-healthcare/herbs/faqs)
sci.life-extension (/medicine/alternative-healthcare/faqs)
vegetarian (/medicine/alternative-healthcare/faqs)
sci.agriculture.beekeeping (/agriculture/sustainable_agriculture/beekeeping/faqs
misc.survivalism (/agriculture/rural-skills/survivalism/faqs)
rec.food.preserving (/agriculture/rural-skills/food/food-preserving/faqs)
alt.backrubs (/medicine/alternative-healthcare/faqs)
alt.med.allergy (/medicine/alternative-healthcare/faqs)
alt.support.asthma (medicine/alternative-healthcare/faqs)

Mailing lists of interest:
--------------------------
List name: sustag-public (sustainable agriculture)
  Server: almanac@ces.ncsu.edu
  Post articles to: sustag-public@ces.ncsu.edu
List name: sanet-mg (Sustainable Agriculture Network mail group)
  Server: almanac@ces.ncsu.edu
  Post articles to: sanet-mg@ces.ncsu.edu 
List name: forage-mg (forage crops)
  Server: almanac@oes.orst.edu
  Post articles to: forage-mg@oes.orst.edu
List name: forage-quality-mg (forage crop quality)
  Server: almanac@oes.orst.edu
  Post articles to: forage-quality-mg@oes.orst.edu
List name: ipm-mg (integrated pest management)
  Server: almanac@ces.ncsu.edu
  Post articles to: ipm-mg@ces.ncsu.edu
List name: permaculture-mg (permaculture)
  Server: almanac@ces.ncsu.edu
  Post articles to: permaculture-mg@ces.ncsu.edu
List name: agmetnet (meteorology)
  Server: almanac@awis.auburn.edu
  Post articles to: agmetnet@awis.auburn.edu

Also available from almanac@ces.ncsu.edu:
-----------------------------------------
renew-energy (Renewable Energy), renew-energy@ces.ncsu.edu
nc-solar (North Carolina Solar Energy Resources), 
          nc-solar@ces.ncsu.edu 

Additional mailing lists of interest:
-------------------------------------
[/net-resources will contain more information on many of these lists]
wetnet  soils-l  agmodels-l  agric-l  envst-l  grasses  bee-l  dairy-l
hydro-l  devel-l  indknow-l  aqua-l  maxlife  marine-l  gardens-l  
cohousing-l  pot-mod-l  trickle-l  mgarden-l lakes-l sustag-l

Newsletters (partial list):
---------------------------
American Garden Newsletter  ipmnet-news  aanews  aosa.news  ben  panups
safefood-news  susag-news  vita-news  altag-news  apis  attranews-digest
cgiar-news  csas-news  food-safety-week  handsnet-news  leopold-center-news
wsaa-news ....and many others

Archives of articles in these Usenet newsgroups:
------------------------------------------------
sci.agriculture
sci.agriculture.beekeeping
alt.sustainable.agriculture
alt.agriculture.misc
alt.agriculture.fruit
rec.ponds
sci.bio.entomology.lepidoptera
alt.landscape.architecture
rec.gardens
misc.rural
rec.food.preservation
misc.survivalism
sci.bio
sci.bio.ecology
sci.geo.geology
sci.geo.meteorology
sci.geo.hydrology
sci.aquaria
rec.aquaria
bionet plants
bionet mycology
bionet.biology.grasses
bionet photosynthesis
bionet cellbiology
bionet general 
bionet.agroforestry
bionet.n2-fixation
bionet.biology.tropical

alt.architecture.alternative
alt.housing.nontrad
sci.energy
sci.energy.hydrogen
alt.energy.renewable
alt.solar.thermal
sci.engr.lighting

misc.health.alternative
alt.aromatherapy
sci.life-extension
alt.health.ayurveda
alt.folklore.gemstones
alt.folklore.herbs
alt.co-evolution
alt.meditation
alt.consciousness.mysticism
rec.food.veg
rec.food.veg.cooking
sci.med.nutrition
alt.food.fat-free
alt.support.asthma
alt.med.allergy


For more information contact:

Lawrence F. London, Jr.      
london@sunSITE.unc.edu 









________________________________________________
Lawrence F. London, Jr. - london@sunSITE.unc.edu 
------------------------------------------------

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr  1 19:08:45 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Fri, 31 Mar 1995 14:33:55 GMT
From: Barro Michele <mbarro@MICRONET.IT>
Message-Id: <1923.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: magazines on AE
content-length: 354
Status: O
X-Status: 

I am following this list since a while and I am interested in viewing
magazines on the matters discussed on this list.
Which could be the most interesting for a non scientist public (I am an
Industrial Designer)
No matter for the language, if a magazine is really more interesting then
others, I can get artichles translated.
Thank You


magazines on AE

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr  1 12:38:53 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Thu, 30 Mar 1995 15:31:55 GMT
From: Marge Wood <mwood@ACUVAX.ACU.EDU>
Message-Id: <15164.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: reminder of environmental showcase home seminar Apr. 17
content-length: 3259
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X-Status: 

Hope y'all can come for this. That entire week will have activities of
various kinds.  Register ahead of time for the seminar and save money.  If
you are coming and happen to have a solar powered laptop with modem that
you would be willing to bring, please let me know. Thanks. Marge Wood,
mwood@acuvax.acu.edu

>Subj:  ENVIRONMENTAL HOUSING SEMINAR APRIL 17-18, 1995
>
>To Environmentally interested persons
>From Kitty Wasemiller and Abilene Christian University (and Marge,of course)
>Re: Environmental Housing Presentation
>When Monday evening April 17, 1995 7:00 pm, reception following
>Where: Abilene Christian University Campus, College of Biblical and Family
>       Studies, Hart Auditorium, Room 100
>
>Abilene Christian University, along with other interested parties and
>individuals, will be hosting a special presentation on the evening of
>April 17, 1995.  The speakers for the evening will be architects Tom Hahn
>and Eddie Jones of Phoenix, Arizona.  Their recently completed project, the
>Arizona Public Service Environmental Showcase Home will be highlighted.  The
>home incorporates environmental planning philosophies into mainstream
>architectural and building standards and practices.  By demonstrating how
>these ideas work, the architects will assist contractors and home buyers in
>making decisions which will improve and influence the energy efficiency and
>environmental responsibility of new homes.  the home was designed by Hahn
>and Jones without preconceived ideas.  By relying on fundamental principles
>of site selection, home orientation, passive solar, daylighting, energy,
>water and materials efficiency, this home will be about 60 percent more
>energy efficient and use 60 percent less water while greatly reducing
>pollution.  The home is a 2,640 sq. ft. design with four bedrooms, three
>bathrooms, and other features and amenities similar to homes in the
>$125,000-$175,000 range.
>
>Among the home's features: Passive solar design; high efficiency triple
>function heat pump; stand-alone heat pump and solar water heating;
>photovoltaic panels turning sunlight into energy; highly insulative
>glazing in the windows; unique energy efficient walls; energy efficient
>lighting and landscaping with sub-surface irrigation system; building
>materials with recycled content; indoor paint and finishes selected to
>reduce indoor air pollution; environmentally sensitive furnishings and
>accessories; environmentally responsible swimming pool.
>
>(There will also be a similar lecture on Tuesday morning, April 18,
>primarily geared toward students, but it is open to anyone who cares to
>attend.)
>
>Early bird registration is $7, if registered by April 10.
>At the door, the cost is $10 for one session.
>Group registration,  5-10    $50
>Groups over 10, $100
>Any students with valid picture ID admitted free
>
>Underwriters admitted free of charge
>
>Pay with checks, or cash at the door.
>
>For more information, contact Kitty Wasemiller 674-2087 or
>       Box 8155, Abilene Christian University, Abilene TX 79699
>       or via email, Marge Wood, mwood@acuvax.acu.edu
Marge Wood
A-V Supervisor,
Brown Library
Abilene Christian University
mwood@acuvax.acu.edu
reminder of environmental showcase home seminar Apr. 17

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun Apr  2 01:38:50 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Fri, 31 Mar 1995 15:22:58 GMT
From: Marge Wood <mwood@ACUVAX.ACU.EDU>
Message-Id: <4168.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
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Subject: Re: AE Digest - 29 Mar 1995 to 30 Mar 1995
content-length: 2208
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I think yesterday's digest was about the best one in a long time.
First, the greenhouse on Martha's Vineyard is owned and operated by
Anna Edey. The business is called Solviva. I have her address and phone
number if you want it. She sells books about it.

The new Smithsonian has an interesting short article about renewable
energy in it's new issue with the big 25 on the front. It referred back to
the year 1971 in which people expected renewable energy to have largely
replaced fossil fuels by this time (1995). I would be interested for the
ones of you with a Smithsonian sitting on your coffee table or in your
library to read the little article and respond to it.

Oh no. I see I put an apostrophe in "it's".  That's what constant emailing
does to one's writing skills.....

Back to the Smithsonian.  I'd even like to propose that several of us
send them replies to that article--preferably the more knowledgeable ones,
like Toms Gray and Stanton, and Mick Sagrillo, and a few others.

re: words like "liberal" and "conservative"--a truly conservative person
is concerned with conserving things of importance.  A true liberal cares about
the rights of other people.  I don't see that they are mutually exclusive.
When we left New York 15 years ago, I was the resident conservative in our
group of friends.  On arrival in Texas 4 days later, I became the resident
liberal--all by virtue of having moved 2000 miles.  Think about it.

Looking back over the last year or two, I am amazed at the things I've learned
and the people I've met who have helped me learn.  Thank you all.  Here's
to another good year with a lot of careful listening and sharing of helpful
information.  Y'all have a good weekend.  Mine will likely be spent working
in the library and making yet another solar cooker.

Oh, and I think Nick should send SMITHSONIAN something about passive solar--
the "cost" of energy should also reflect what it costs us in other ways,
like international relations, health, and degradation of our environment.
Even though I'm a church-going person, I believe protecting our earth is as
important as protecting cathedrals and museums and libraries.

Marge
RE: AE Digest - 29 Mar 1995 to 30 Mar 1995

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon Apr  3 20:39:09 1995
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Date: 31 Mar 1995 04:14:24 GMT
From: rbahm@Rt66.com (Ray Bahm)
Message-Id: <3lfvj0$j10@mack.rt66.com>
Organization: Engineering International, Inc.
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References: <3le88q$grs@shore.shore.net>
Subject: Re: Solar Desalinization
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In article <3le88q$grs@shore.shore.net>, wbw@shore.net (William B. Warren) says:
>
>Has anyone here experimented w/ Solar Desalinization of sea water? I 
Lots of folks have.  There should be a fair amount of literature available.
I remember one in Pureto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico about 30 years ago
that was operated by the University of Arizona.  I seem to remember that
there was a major one on Malta, or some other island in the Medeterranian
which has no supply of fresh water.  Mobil has installed one which is PV
powered on the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia.  The foregoing is all from 
memory - may not be too acccurate, but you get the idea.

I once built a small solar still out of a box lined with styrofoam and black 
plastic with a fibreglass cover -  about 2 by 3 feet.  It produced about 
1/2 gallon per day  not very exciting, but the concept worked.

I think the reall problem with solar stills is the maintenance.  They need
it, and also take up a lot of area.  The stills I've seen condense the water
vapor on the bottom side of the window, and then it runs down that side
until it is caught in a trough.  In mine lots of water never made it to the 
trough, but instead dripped back into the original pool, losing efficiency.

Ray Bahm

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon Apr  3 20:39:14 1995
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Date: 2 Apr 1995 03:18:37 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3llj4d$542@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: gravity
content-length: 1945
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>Newtonian physics allows us to compute the mutual force between two objects
>due to their gravitational attraction,

True.

>but one can also correctly speak of the energy
>associated with an object due to its presence in a gravitational field.

One can, if it has somewhere lower to go... I'd call that "gravitational
energy," like "solar energy." But it is INcorrect to simply say "gravity 
is energy." To most English speakers, especially those who are science-
literate, gravity is a force, not an energy. Even to the science-illiterate,
gravity is what makes you fall down, not something you can cook dinner with.
This loose talk is confusing, as is "I hope to collect 3 kilowatts per day
from my PV cells," or "Can anyone tell me where to buy a 14 volt fuse?"

>We're comfortable speaking of electric & magnetic fields: this is probably
>the best way to discuss gravitation as well.

Gravitational fields are useful to talk about, but neither electrical nor
magnetic nor atomic nor gravitational fields are "energy." Energy has a very
specific and mathematical meaning, in physics, the same as "work." Poets
may say "energy is eternal delight." Mark Twain said "work is whatever
a body is obliged to do," but alternate energists might usefully be more
careful in their language. This is a technical subject, (as well as an art
form and a peculiar expression of personal independence, in this country.)
Such loose talk invites confusion and technical failure, and bespeaks of
scientific ignorance.

Other things I would happily call "energy" are mv^2 (not just v), eg
400-slug 60-mph cars, or mgh or horsepower-hours or ergs or microwatt-weeks
or temperature differences times heat capacities or dyne-lightyears or cubic
feet of standard atmosphere (considering the work it takes to expand such
a volume near the earth's surface) or roomfulls of relative humidity or
1-pound water balloons on top of the Statue of Liberty (WBSLs :-)

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue Apr  4 18:09:37 1995
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Date: 1 Apr 1995 02:24:49 -0500
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3liv41$no8@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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References: <3lhq5g$a1e@charm.magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu>
Subject: Re: EcoTips - Lawn Mowers
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Steen H Hviid <shviid@magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu> wrote:
 
>Time to replace your lawn mower? How about considering some alternatives

I used to have a lawn mower, but it died. I used to get a farmer to mow my
lawn once a year, with a bush hog, when it got up to about chest-high, but
that seemed expensive and wasteful. My father used to talk about covering the
ground with green concrete. (He was an engineer.) I've considered sheep or
goats or ostriches, but they seem like a lot of trouble, and they require
some sort of building, water, and perhaps an electric fence (or an invisible
fence, with a radial transmitter, or 2 90 degree horns at the property
corners?), or even a real fence.

So lately I'm thinking it's time to just let it all go back to nature,
altho I'm letting my neighbor grow 3 acres of corn on it this year, which
he will probably try to feed to his llamas.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue Apr  4 19:09:32 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Sat, 1 Apr 1995 09:13:53 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
Message-Id: <1566.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Subject: Re: Solar Desalinization
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>Has anyone here experimented w/ Solar Desalinization of sea water? I
>would like to do  some food production
>(aquaculture/mariculture/hydroponics)  experiments on my "Biobarge" this
>summer and would like to be able to meet my freshwater needs through
>this method of desalinization.  Any input would be greatly appreciated...
>
>Thanks in advance,
>William
>
>
>Solar Desalinization

Passive solar glass houses can be designed to desalinize water at the same
time they provide an environment in which the water can be used to grow
plants, fish, shrimp.etc. I have prototype designs, based on Israeli work
in this field.
Essentially, we are talking about an evapotative condensor. Not too
complicated I presume. Hope this is helpful to you. Your floating
hydroponic plant producing "barge" which gets it's water from local
availible indigeneous sources sounds suspiciously similiar to my Ekotecture
designs. You could refer to my floating Ekotecture houses as barges.I like
your idea.

Lee Porter Butler

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Re: Solar Desalinization

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue Apr  4 19:09:35 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Sat, 1 Apr 1995 09:03:23 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
Message-Id: <1062.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Subject: Re: Alpha Lee's Latest...
content-length: 5203
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>Lee Butler  <AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@cmsa.Berkeley.EDU> wrote:
>
>>It continues to profoundly amusing to me, that my wrap is so intimidating
>>to the members of this board that they refuse to even discuss the 16 points
>>presented in the patent claims for Ekotecture.
>
>Nonono. _You_ are the one who has refused to discuss these, Lee...
>
>Nick
>
>
>Re: Alpha Lee's Latest...
Even though you refuse to discuss the broader issues, you continue to
respond to my postings. This is some kind of progress.

Let us take one specific form of energy which you are ignoring. There is
one form of perpetual, universal, useable energy and it is is quietly, and
elegantly availible to do all kinds of future practical"work" which we are
now doing with non-renewable polluting energies ( fossil or nuclear )
energy.It has been used by great architects down through the last five
thousand years. I am speaking of gravity. Gravity convection. Hot air rises
does it not? Actually, hot air rises is an oxymoron. Cold air is pulled
toward the earth by gravity. Hydro power is actually gravity power. The
distance of the "fall" or height determines a linear relationship with the
rate of movement, along with diferential temperature.

Let us take another specific. Decentralization. Only someone with conflicts
of interest can argue against generating power only where it is needed.

Let us take up the issue of who pays and how much, for the fact that our
structures can not stand the most elementary natural occurences such as
tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes and even fires.  I am amazed by people
who continue to advocate building buildings out of flamable materials.

Why can't more of you bright engineers react rationally to common sense
intuition and logic. How long can you successfully go on brainwashing
yourselves into pretending that I am some kind of illiterate, irrational
crank.

My track record makes liers our of you and since you have no comments which
are worth hearing, you ignore me because tht is safe. If you discussed the
broader issues logically and intelligently, you would open yourself up to
the stupid juvenile rantings that have only been directed at me.

What about switching from heavy, conductive, steel reinforced concrete to
an ultra light, insulating, silicon or plant fiber reinforced composite
earth based "concrete" material which make builderings stronger, safer,
more energy conserving and it floats.

Is this really "that" complex or controversial? Am I a crank who should be
allowed to die or a visionary who should be leading the critical
discussions which can veentually resolve many of our most pressing
problems.

I am confident, based on the increasing number of positive letters I am
receiving, that you will not continue to ignore these vital concerns for
too much longer. The "system" is about to collapse under the weight of it's
own paper work.

You see, successful wall street business men have been creating paper (
stock certificates ) for years. They exchange these " created" pieces of
paper for " real" currency which represents actually physical "work". A
paper swap. The government has been doing the same thing. printing paper
money and using it the same way that people who earn it use it. When they
run out one form of paper, the print another ( savings bonds, Treasury
bills) and exchange them just like " real money" Then even smarter wall
street attorneys create other pieces of paper called futures, derivatives,
options, etc., etc, on and on endlessly.

These con artists and captians of industry have " chaeted the common man"
or small investor out of billions trillions of dollars since the Vietnam
war. Add to this the billions wasted on over kill and obscene weaponry
research and pretty soon you are taking about " real money".

Our entire economy is based on unecessary BS. Our actual quality of life is
actually far less than many European countries. Teh hell of it is that
apparently most of you do not even understand this sophisticated con and
you go on pumping the illusion in the hope that you will get yours.

The good news is that information, even over the internet, is not free. You
are inundated with mountains of information and what do you know?
How many of you are genuinly happy with your profession, business or the "
system"

You are all acting like a bunch of scared female cats.
Doesn't any one have an opinion they care to risk?

Listen boys, I have been around, stirring up the soup and smashing icons
since the early sixties. I am not going to go away. Me and people like me
are just going to become more numerous, tenatious and well informed and
successful at doing something to stop the technical overkill and neurotic
worship of high science and machismo rhetoric. The dinasaurs were unable to
change with the times. Humanity seems to be having similiar problems.
Certain gene pools are destined to die out. Evolution will win. Ignorance
and stupity and ignorance will be wiped out in this next century and we
will not have to spend so much of our time engaged  in this pointless
psychobabble.

Lee Porter Butler

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Re: Alpha Lee's Latest...

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue Apr  4 21:09:30 1995
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Date: 1 Apr 1995 18:16:18 -0400
From: pferraro@bud.peinet.pe.ca (Inst. for Bioreg. Studies)
Message-Id: <3lkjbi$7o7@bud.peinet.pe.ca>
Organization: PEINet, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
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Subject: permaculture/bioregional studies
content-length: 1714
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  It is the objective of IBS to train participants to become 
effective catalysts in the regeneration of  the planet. The 
"Bioregional" perspective means that our focus is  on the 
design and evolution of healthy, interdependent and self-reliant 
communities. 
  Today we can not just, "Think  Globally and  Act Locally" We 
also need to, "Think Long Term and Act Now". Therefore, IBS was 
founded to demonstrate the recent, ecologically oriented, scientific,   
social   and   technological   achievements   that   are relevant  
to  achieving  the   goal   of   an   ecological  society.

The Institute for Bioregional Studies 1995 Summer Programs 
catalogue is now available on-line or by requesting a hard copy.
Our programs will be hosted at the spectacular Ovens Natural Park 
in Riverport, Nova Scotia. Seminars will feature:

~Permaculture Design Course~
~Straw Bale Construction~
~Ecological Planning~

Guest Lecturers include:
Kirkpatrick Sale, Schumacher Society;
Michael Pilarski, Friends of the Trees;
Judith Plant, New Catalyst Education Society;
Maureen Cureton, Rocky Mountain. Institute;
Ray Cote, Director, School of Environmental Planning,Dal. U;
William Rees, Dean, School of Community Planning, UBC;
Carla Conrod, Regional Atlantic Trading Note Association

and others

For more information send $2.00 to:
IBS, 449 University Avenue, Suite 126,
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island C1A 8K3
Phone: (902) 892-9578
or
for an electronic copy e-mail: pferraro@peinet.pe.ca
-- 
Phil Ferraro, Director
Institute for Bioregional Studies
449 University Avenue Suite 126            "Developing Local Solutions to 
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island	    Global Problems"
Canada   C1A 8K3
(902) 892-9578

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr  5 03:09:29 1995
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Date: 2 Apr 1995 16:57:15 GMT
From: nellison@lonestar.jpl.utsa.edu (Newton T. Ellison)
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Newsgroups: g,news.announce.newusers
Subject: response to Nick Pine
Summary: alt.energy.renewable
Followup-To:alt.energy.renewable 
Distribution: world.alt.energy.renewable
Organization: University of Texas at San Antonio
Keywords:alt.energy.renewable 
With respect, I vote *no* to Nick Pine's call to break up the old
alt.energy.renewable gang, to enable a forum about photovoltaics 
only. I am new to the internet process, but an old hand at advocating 
renewables, especially solar heat to drive hot water, space heating 
and absorption a/c, using natural gas, propane, whatever, as a backup.
   I believe we need a forum as wide as this. There are many ways 
that a sustainable human, etc, civilization on this nice little planet
can happen. The many technologies that will be in the new "mix" are 
already known, but mostly political factors keep the some of them from 
being implemented.
   I expect to be "flamed," so here's my final solution, after we 
replace most of our electricity-guzzling a/c compressors, a.k.a. "heat 
pumps" with solar assisted absorption refrigeration.
   We need to downsize human individuals, starting with offering large 
size people incentives *not* to reproduce so much. It would take 
thousands of years, but a human race with individuals, say, six inches
tall, and individual fauna, flora and automobiles in proportion would 
be nice, and there could be a lot more of us.
   Comments?         nellison@lonestar.utsa.edu  
  













From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr  5 10:39:38 1995
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From: Forward Thinking <0007354216@mcimail.com>
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Subject: Free Catalog Offer "AD"
content-length: 649
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X-Status: 

Greetings

I would like to recommend the following free catalog offer to you.
Its from ADVENTURES UNLIMITED PRESS

Its 50+ pages and filled with illustrations of some of the most
unusual books and videos available.

If you are interested in Anti-Gravity, Free Energy,
Tesla Technology, and the secrets of Ancient Science.
And much much more.
Then I feel you will really enjoy this catalog.

Just reply with your name and postal address to
forwardthinking@mcimail.com

I am affiliated with this company.
But I still feel that you still should have this catalog.

Harry G. Osoff


I apologize to anyone who this post offends.

Free Catalog Offer "AD"

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr  5 13:09:45 1995
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Date: Sun, 2 Apr 1995 18:33:48 -0600 (MDT)
From: "Frank J. Pecsy" <fpecsy@freenet.calgary.ab.ca>
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The notion of timed latency or decay rate is one that I made a bit of an 
analysis of myself.  Based on the notion of a one or 2 percent 
opportunity of falling outside of the target range of internal 
temperatures I calculated that the realistic possibility of falling 1 
percent below that range was one chance every 12 years.  The solution I 
used was to keep heat storage in the center of the living spaces , 
specifically water stored inside a masonary mass, that mass being a wood 
burning fieldstone fireplace.  Essentially hollowed out with facility for 
grey water heat exchange, it works perfectly, and if things should 
overheat then opening the flue fixes the problem.  
However I cna't resist tinkering, and had thought of changing to either a 
glyco or silicon system. Comments would be welcome!

Frank 

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr  5 16:39:39 1995
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Date: 3 Apr 1995 02:11:16 GMT
From: ah892@detroit.freenet.org (Michael A. Ketterman)
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Status: O
X-Status: 


Try 'Home Power' magazine. Published 6 times per year $15/year
subscription. P.O Box 520, Ashland, OR 97520. $20/year
international.  It is a hands on magazine with real applications
on small scale alternate energy systems and electric vehicles.

Hope this helps you out.
Mike.

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr  5 20:10:00 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Tue, 4 Apr 1995 14:54:16 GMT
From: "James W. Swonger" <jws@mlb.semi.harris.com>
Message-Id: <19393.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Solar thermal panels / heat pumps
content-length: 1084
Status: RO
X-Status: 

 The reason to use a heat pump in conjunction with solar thermal collectors
is to produce a higher temperature from the low grade heat obtained.
A solar panel producing 150F air in large volume could be the "cold side"
for a heat pump, that heat pump could "charge" a heat battery at 300F or
higher. Such temperatures could only be obtained by using concentrator
collector systems with attendant inefficiencies of their own.

  By storing heat at a higher temperature you would gain compactness,
the potential to use a phase change medium, and the potential to use
the heat battery for things requring high grade heat energy like steam
production/distillation or absorbtion cycle refrigeration. A heat pump
being the thermal equivalent of a transformer, you are accepting some
inefficiency in order to gain a more locally useful heat/temperature
combination.

  If the panel is a forced air ducted collector, then the long plumbing
will be relatively cheap and leak-insensitive, and the heat pump can be a
remote, physically compact and robust unit.
Solar thermal panels / heat pumps

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr  5 20:10:08 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Tue, 4 Apr 1995 15:00:40 GMT
From: Tom Gray <tgray@IGC.APC.ORG>
Message-Id: <19720.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Jeffords-Wellstone Amendment
content-length: 2491
Status: RO
X-Status: 

JEFFORDS AND WELLSTONE WILL OFFER AMENDMENT
TO SHIFT FUNDS FROM NUCLEAR FISSION TO RENEWABLES

The U.S. Senate is currently debating a "rescission" (pronounced like
"recision") bill, which would cut current year spending (that is, funds
previously approved by Congress) for a number of government programs.

The bill proposes to cut renewable energy research and development (R&D)
funding by $35 million, while making smaller cuts in fossil and nuclear
fusion R&D and no reductions at all in nuclear fission R&D.

We expect an amendment to be offered by Senators Jeffords (R-VT) and
Wellstone (D-MN) that would shift $14 million from nuclear fission R&D
to renewable energy programs.  This would result in the final Senate
rescissions package containing the following funding levels (all numbers
in millions) for the current year, which is called Fiscal Year 1995 or
FY '95 in government lingo):

                             Proposed
                    FY'95   Rescission   Amendment     %Cut
                                                    (If Amended)
Renewable Energy    $417.8    -$35        +$14         5.0%
Energy Efficiency   $770.8    -$49                     6.4%
Fossil Energy       $441.8    -$21                     4.8%
Nuclear Fusion      $368.4    -$15                     4.1%
Nuclear Fission     $811.4    -$0         -$14         1.7%

The Jeffords-Wellstone amendment has attracted a number of cosponsors,
including Senators Campbell (R-CO), Chafee (R-RI), Daschle (D-SD),
Harkin (D-IA), Kerry (D-MA), Kohl (D-WI), Leahy (D-VT) and Roth (R-DE).
If your Senator is among this list, please call and thank them for
cosponsoring the amendment.

Please call your Senators as soon as possible at (202) 224-3121 and urge
them to vote YES on the Jeffords-Wellstone Renewable Energy Amendment to
shift $14 million from nuclear fission to renewable energy.

Possible talking points:

- The renewable energy industries are new and very small.  Government
funding for research is more justifiable than for the nuclear industry,
which is large and mature.

- If government spending has to be reduced, the renewable energy
industries are willing to take their share of cuts along with everyone
else.  As the table above shows, even if the Jeffords-Wellstone
amendment is passed, renewables will be suffer a larger percentage
reduction than nuclear.

For more information, contact Jared Barlage at (202) 383-2507 or Michael
Marvin at (202) 383-2506.

Jeffords-Wellstone Amendment

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Apr  6 14:10:12 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Wed, 5 Apr 1995 09:52:12 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
Message-Id: <19121.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Re: reply to Nick Pine
content-length: 2412
Status: O
X-Status: 

>Dear Harry C......
>     Thanks for response. Maybe somebody did figure out an
>"optimum" human size. I picked 6" arbitrarily. Perhaps we
>need an interim target.  Say, four ft. David Robinson
>notwithstanding, we don't really need too many more seven
>footers, do we?
>
>   What do you think about flatplate collectors, large
>undergroundtank water storage, absorption a/c assisted by natural
>or other gas, hydronic loop space heat & water out of the same
>storage as needed. PVs for lights and small elec. Ethanol for cars.
>More mass transit. Vegetarianism. Acoustic guitars. Bicycles.
>Proportional representation.
>Newton Trey Ellison       210.227.9769
>
Excellent suggestions, however, a much more seriou problem is the mass
denial by most white male people. Consider.....Alvin Toffler explains what
is ahhpening better than I can, however,

There is a crisis of confidence in hard science in the world today.
President Clinton just announced today that the present administration
leadership is planning to cut fifty five thousand jobs (55,000) from the
space program. Good. We should not be spending money to get into space when
there is so much to do here on the ground. We are also wittnessing the end
of another respected icon of our civilization, MIT, the brain trust, which
along with Harvard, has dominated the scientific and business decisions
since the founding of America.

I think it is time to point out that this group of leaders dropped the
atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasakki near the end of world war two. We
know they will use the bomb to destory helpless citizens, in order to bring
their political leaders to their knees. We have seen them destory Kuait and
Nicaraga. They are behind the conflict in Israel, northern Ireland, Tibet,
Bosnia, and the killing which is going on in our own country.

These intellectuals, who can condemn mass populations to death, simply
because of the remarks of one man, their unfortunate leader, who has had
thecourage to speak his own mind about right and wrong in the world and
disagree with the Harvard-MIT brain trust.

 It is a known fact that all killing is wrong. Especially institutionalized
killing and yet our country continues to operate a secret covert operation,
all over the world to dominate and control everything.

alpha lee

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Re: reply to Nick Pine

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Apr  6 16:10:14 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 6 Apr 1995 09:41:06 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3m0r1i$jdt@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <6133.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>, <3lvhbe$1m6i@usenetp1.news.prodigy.com>
Subject: Re: Proposing the creation of alt.solar.photovoltaic
content-length: 2047
Status: O
X-Status: 

Stephen Bosbach <MWVW57A@prodigy.com> wrote:

>go for it.  I'm all for a photovoltaic newsgroup.  There is so much to 
>this field it would help to have a newsgroup to share data and plans.  

Will someone **puhleeze** create this newsfroup, by placing their name
in the *** field below? I just saw a post about PVs and lizards in
alt.solar.thermal, and I'm pissed...

Nick

Newsgroups: alt.config,alt.solar.photovoltaic,alt.solar.photovoltaic.ctl,control
Subject: cmsg newgroup alt.solar.photovoltaic
Summary: newgroup for technical discussions of solar photovoltaic energy
Followup-To: alt.solar.photovoltaic
Control: newgroup alt.solar.photovoltic
Approved: ***
Distribution: world
Keywords: solar photovoltaic energy

The creation of the group alt.solar.photovoltaic was proposed in alt.config
on March 20, about two weeks ago. So far, the proposer has received only a few
positive responses to its creation by email, and mostly positive postings,
so the  group is being created with this message. alt.solar.photovoltaic is
intended to be a newsgroup for discussions of photovoltaic energy collection
and use, ie making and using electricity from the sun. This is often discussed
in alt.energy.renewable, and reading about it there tends to waste the time of
people who are interested in other forms of renewable energy, and photovoltaic
people who read that group may not wish to wade through the other discussions
that go on there. At this point, it seems useful to specialize...

alt.solar.photovoltaic is NOT intended to be a place to discuss solar
thermal energy collection and use, except as combined with photovoltaic
systems, politics, aesthetics, solar space mirrors, envelope houses,
Stirling engines, solar refrigerators or air conditioning, cool tubes,
heat pipes, wind energy, wood energy, water energy, methane generation,
sewage treatment, perpetual motion, Nikola Tesla, unseen forces,
electromagnetic pollution, capturing free energy from power lines or radio
stations, nuclear waste, decomposing dead bodies or 600 mpg cars.

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Apr  6 16:40:14 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Wed, 5 Apr 1995 09:43:38 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
Message-Id: <18991.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Re: PM_Square ! Permanent Magnet Powered Motor !
content-length: 3407
Status: O
X-Status: 

>> Well, I have worked together with the inventor and another "magnet freak"
>> during this weekend on the design and we found the solution how to power a
>> motor just via using Permanent Magnets !
>
>(And more description, with an exclamation point at the end of every
>single paragraph.)
>
>You're a fool too.
>
>--Z
>
>"And Aholibamah bare Jeush, and Jaalam, and Korah: these were the borogoves..."
>
>Re: PM_Square ! Permanent Magnet Powered Motor !
Egotistical male artists farts
flashing all their machismo parts
keeping women in their place
spinning illusions in your face
taking liberties with our fate

when we they act responsibly
when will they use their position to point the way
when will they ever learn
Why don't the museums hang women artists or artists of color
art, fart, male, principle
abstract shit only a few can do
give us a break
let the women through
let the people of color
express another opinion

The female point of view is open, lovely, sweet
soft, compassionate, forgiving, non-violent, reasonable
understanding, loving, caring, preserving, soft

Our present culture is brutal, violent, judgemental,
destructive, negative death defying, dominating, tyranical police nonesense,
that is what our machismo, Republican, Newt Gingrich KKK American money
monkey culture is all about

When will they ever learn?When is enough enough?
How  high is high enough? How far is far enough?
Where are we running to? What do we expect to find when we get there?
How many more attorneys, police, jails, judgement do we need?

When the male machismo artsy fartsy artists and psuedo intellectuals stop
beating women and ignoring wormen in their art, and ignoring female values
with their government and science, when these aristocrats become conscious
and aware, they find themselves happy and at peace with themselves and the
burning will stop.

Run Baby Run

See dreams forming, clouds drifting above
Hear drums pounding on distant shores
never look behind,  surrender all regrets,
the setting sun always dips below the horizon in the west

waters cover up what use to be
fears blinds to what might have been
every blade of grass has a memory
every drop of rain lives to rise again
every beam of light is a message to something
gravity attracts light
gravity attracts anything
everything attracts everything
love is gravity, matter is made up of light
light is what we use to see
see is what we long to see
run baby run
run from the setting sun
stay in the light
stay in the love
stay in the know
those who know
are not afraid
those who fear do not know
love is light, light is information
light is used by each sentient conscious entity
transformed from pure chaos into pure form through desire, love, gravity,
the weak force, the magnetic force, atraction

Elementary logic flows from the intention to communicate
Elementary harmony flows from communication
sinlight tells the plant gene to build a hydrocarbon structure, capable of
pumping water, energy and material through it self to constantly renew and
extend itself. what does sunlight tell you?

Run baby run
run from the setting sun
run for your life
run for the light
run till you drop
run till you stop
run till you see the point.

Thought you might like a break from the techno jargon.
alpha Lee

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Re: PM_Square ! Permanent Magnet Powered Motor !

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Apr  6 16:40:18 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Wed, 5 Apr 1995 09:37:10 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
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Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: universal energies/forces
content-length: 5461
Status: O
X-Status: 

I love the discussion to determine if gravity is an energy of a force. Come
on boys, back to basics. What is the effective difference when it comes to
moving mass or doing work. Gravity creates the wind. Wind creates torque.
Torque can be converted to heat.
In gravity convection, we speak of loops. If you change the temperature of
a liquid or a gas, you change the denisty. In a loop, if you add or
subtract heat to one side, you will create differential density ( between
the two columns of liquid or gas) causing the colder side of the loop to
fall.

Not that you would want to do it, but you could build a solar chimney in
which you put hudge air foil blades which turned whenever the air rises. I
am simply saying that this system is superior to one which uses a crystal
to generate electricity, then uses the electricity to move air or create
torque. Building the crystal is harder than building the solar chimney.
Storage for the solar chimney system could be in the form of heat, stored
in earth mass, water or whatever. Storage for the electrical power would be
far more complicated and harder to maintain.

All of this assumes you are dealing with a client who wants something
quiet, safe, trouble free and simple to fix should anything every go wrong
with the system.

Solar electricity makes sense for providing lighting and certain electronic
applications which demand electrical power. Even up to 85 % of all lighting
could be done through well designed daylighting and ionically activated
phosphorescence surface coatings.

The other energy this board is ignoring is the thermal capacity of the
earth to influence and dominate the interior temperatures of our buildings.
The earth stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, than the
temperatures at which we design our buildings. This is true virtually
anywhere in the world, meaning, we are ignoring the energy of thermal
inertia, represented by the mass of earth directly beneath our feet. Again,
this is energy which is everywhere, doesn't cost anything once a design is
created to utilize it, is quiet, pollution free. Any more questions.

Food. Food is energy. there is mounting evidence that we eat too much and
more specifically, we eat things which are known to cause deadly diseases.
In other words, we are getting our energy from corrupted and dishonest
sources which do not care if we individually, the consumers of their
products, live or die. How we cook our food and what kind of foods we
combine is very important. Without this knowledge, we suffer from many
forms of disease and die.

Without art or creative forms of self expression, the individual becomes
depressed and neurotic. The present emphasis on money and only money is
creating a society of boring lonely people. Everyone is afraid to talk
about it, however, the time is coming soon, when the pain of isolation will
become too great. People will recognize and accept theri need for artistic
expression through poetry, painting, sculpture, writing, theater,
gardening, and architecture. Our century is coming to a close with a
country overun by attorneys, bureaucrats, accountants, bean counters and
technocrats at the local, state and national levels. None of these people
make anything. All they do is sell it, account for it and print paper
subsittutes for real wealth. The unfortunate thing is, they control the
country.

The third wave describes what is happening now perfectly, just that no one
wants to accept how far it is going to go. Mindless machismo politico
police tactics are dead. Long live the revolution.

Alpha lee Rainbow Light

The Tall White men with ties

meet in their office tower board rooms
and tell each other lies
about the sizes of their portfolios
while paid cheap white trash female suckers drain their plumbing
belore the big sucker kill
waiting in the next room
 full of invited suckers listening to their lies

The tall white men with ties
Planning now  to industrialize
the next unsuspecting third world culture
sentencing the people to daily slavery
polluting the beautiful earth
felling all of the tall trees
exhausting every square inch of earth
paving over more of it with asphalt and concrete
for obscene profit and more discretionary income

the tall white men with ties
blowing up old buildings
destroying resources, buildings and effort while
allowing there brothers to go homeless and without love
sending off powerful rockets to the moon
looking for more territory to desecrate and destroy
blowing up each other in war

The tall white men with ties
telling all their lies
killing all of their wives and their children
the king white aristocrats of hate
this KKK of late
The Tall white men with ties of Wall Street
making up the wrap
legalizing con games and crap shoots
the hypnotic tunes of Madison Avenue
seducing the poor working schmuck
into beating his wife
into ignoring their children
into mortaging their life's work
for the latest consumer electronics
and cheap weekend thrills in a trendy spa resort
and a fantasy life in a country club golf course real estate development
Where will it end up?
When will it ever end?
who is responsible for the soul of man?
Who is responsible for the earth?
Who is accountable to our future generations?
Who is accountable to the cosmos?
When is enough enough
enough is enough
small is beautiful
less is more


Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


universal energies/forces

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Apr  6 21:10:07 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 5 Apr 1995 13:28:49 +0200
From: organic@aztec.co.za (SA Organic Fertilizer)
Message-Id: <3ltuth$m7e@aztec.co.za>
Organization: Aztec Public Access Internet
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Green groups wanted
content-length: 589
Status: O
X-Status: 

My company is currently developing a world-wide database of environmental
and "green" organisations. We would like to cover a wide spectrum of
interest groups and angles. Anyone wishing to have themselves or their
organisations / groups listed, can contact me at the address listed in my
signature. If faxing would be more convenient, my fax number is :

+27 21 880 1140. 

-- 
 ============================================================
          S.A. Organic Fertilizer Holdings (Pty) Ltd
                   organic@aztec.co.za 
        P.O.Box 1513, Stellenbosch, 7599, South Africa 

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Apr  6 23:40:22 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Wed, 5 Apr 1995 14:25:41 GMT
From: Marge Wood <mwood@ACUVAX.ACU.EDU>
Message-Id: <4494.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Re: AE Digest - 3 Apr 1995 to 4 Apr 1995
content-length: 897
Status: RO
X-Status: 

I think these discussions are helpful, even if a certain amount is "drivel"
to quote Bob Sanders.  The long, thoughtful message about the concern of
scientists helped me realize that surveys which ask people if they believe
people descended from apes point out the distressing fact that almost half
the people in the survey don't believe that.  It really seems irrelevant,
and questions like that shut people off from more certifiable data, such as
the importance of trees and clean air and water.  It's find to exchange
our opinions, but we need to realize that lots of things can't be proved, and
don't have to be. Yes, we must find ways to help people be willing to accept
provable facts and move in a direction of cooperating with other people.
Have the senators voted yet on the amendment which would make moneey available
for renewable energy?
Marge
RE: AE Digest - 3 Apr 1995 to 4 Apr 1995

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Apr  7 10:10:16 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Fri, 7 Apr 1995 13:30:48 GMT
From: mcfaddp@westminster.ac.uk (Pamm McFadden)
Message-Id: <D6o2vD.DvJ@westminster.ac.uk>
Organization: University of Westminster
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <3m11sg$7nt@fdcap2.ap.dg.com>, <3m02rp$av5@ixnews3.ix.netcom.com>, <D6M1B4.Cs9@yc.estec.esa.nl>
Subject: National Solar Energy Conference
content-length: 1343
Status: O
X-Status: 

Hello everyone,

I though you might be interested in this announcement.

SOLAR '95   The National Solar Energy Conference

sponsored by the American Solar Energy Society


Solar '95 will celebrate the rich history of American Solar Energy Society Conferences.  This is the 20th anniversary of the first passive solar conference.
We also mark the 40th anniversary of the first solar society conference.
Solar '95 will focus on 10,000 Solutions: Paths to a Renewable Future.  In
Minnesota, the midwestern climate presents unique challenges to realizing a 
renewable energy future.  As we work toward this goal, experts from the 
midwest and around the world will share their experience in the Plenary
and Symposia Sessions.

The technical sessions include over 140 technical presentations chosen in
a rigorous review process by two program committees.  Thetechnical program will also include forums for audience participation, and hands-on demonstrations
of recently developed assessment technology.

There will also be tours and workshops.

For more information, contact:
	The American Solar  Energy Society
	2400 Cnetral, Unit G1
	(opps, I can't go back and edit - 2400 Central)
	Boulder, CO 80301
	(303) 443 3130    phone
	(303) 443 3212    fax
	ases@igc.apc.org  email

Pamm

P.S. and let them know where you found out about the conference!

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun Apr  9 11:10:39 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Sat, 8 Apr 1995 07:58:26 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
Message-Id: <15446.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Re: universal energies/forces
content-length: 3365
Status: O
X-Status: 

>>Lee Porter Butler writes
>
>>I love the discussion to determine if gravity is an energy of a force. Come
>>on boys, back to basics. What is the effective difference when it comes to
>>moving mass or doing work. Gravity creates the wind. Wind creates torque.
>>Torque can be converted to heat.
>>In gravity convection, we speak of loops. If you change the temperature of
>>a liquid or a gas, you change the denisty. In a loop, if you add or
>>subtract heat to one side, you will create differential density ( between
>>the two columns of liquid or gas) causing the colder side of the loop to
>>fall.
>
>Wrong. Gravity does not create the wind. The energy input is solar energy
>which alters air density. Gravity is a force which is exerted on the fluid.

Solar creates the differential density. Gravity creates the movement of
air. The movement of air transfers heat and can be used to create torque.
>
>There is no energy input from Gravity. As air rises the solar energy input
>is stored as gravitational potential energy. When it falls the stored
>gravitational potential energy is exchanged for kinetic energy. The storage
>of energy exactly equals the return. This is what is meant by saying the
>gravitational field is conservative.
>
>You can store energy by moving mass to higher altitudes in a conservative
>field. You cannot generate energy from it.
>
>Dr. Peter J. Wolfs                      [=---=]
>Electrical Engineering                    \o/
>Central Queensland University              X
>Rockhampton M.C. 4702                     / \
>Australia
>Tel +61 79 30 9599
>Fax +61 79 30 9382
>
>
>Re: universal energies/forces

So in all the old buildings which were built before fans of forced
mechanical air movement systems, to what force or energy does one attribute
the movement of air. What does the term "gravity convection" mean?

If one builds a solar chimney and the moving air turns a wind ( rising air)
turbine, I say the air would not move were it not for the solar heat (
added to the system) and the air would not move without the " force" of
gravity applied to the system.

What good is one without the other? The air will not move without the
existence of either "force or energy". Why does changing the height of a
"solar chimney" change the effective work which can be accomplished with a
fixed amount of applied solar heat?

What "force is at work when,in the middle of the night or during long
cloudy periods, heat and air is pumped up from deep in the ground below the
envelope houses?

What force moves a pendulum? Gravity plus the rotational movements of the earth.

Some day, when physicists overcome their lack of understanding of gravity,
we will use it to pull of space ships through hyperspace at speeds far in
excess of the speed of light. Physicists are dumfounded with limits. There
are no real limits, to our ability to imagine somthing.

I realize that we are all wasting time. I believe that all funds now being
used to destroy matter ( high energy physics ) fission research, big bang
theory, etc. should be terminated untill all human binegs have at least a
primary education and enough to eat. This is what I call common sense
priorities. What we have going on now is what I call nonesense.

Alpha Lee

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Re: universal energies/forces

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun Apr  9 20:10:41 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 5 Apr 1995 14:18:14 GMT
From: Steve Troy <75442.1622@CompuServe.COM>
Message-Id: <3lu8r6$e6g$1@mhadg.production.compuserve.com>
Organization: Jade Mountain Inc.
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Subject: Re: DC to AC Inverters
content-length: 264
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Lee,

We have 240V pure sine wave inverters available - up to 4000 watt at
60 Hz and up to 3000 watts at 50 Hz.

If you would like more specs, send a fax number or mailing address.

-- 
Best regards,
Steve Troy, Jade Mountain Inc.
email: 75442.1622@compuserve.com

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon Apr 10 22:41:07 1995
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Date: 6 Apr 1995 09:19:04 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3m0po8$j72@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Solar closet economics
content-length: 5673
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This is a rough estimate of the payback period for three houses, counting
only materials costs and annual energy costs, ignoring labor costs and the
time value of money...

House (a) is a conventional 2000 ft^2 two-story frame house, about 32' on
a side, with R30 insulation, 20% R4 window area on each wall, and 0.5 air
changes per hour, in the Philadelphia area. It has a sum of R-values divided
by surface areas of approximately

SAR = (32x16x4+1024 ft^2)/R30 +0.2x32x16x4 ft^2/R4 = 100 +100 = 200,

and an air infiltration rate of about 0.5 x 16,000 ft^3 = 8000 ft^3/hr,

so the average annual space heating requirement is about

5500 degree days x 24 hr/day x (200 + 8000 ft^3/hr/55 ft^3/Btu-F)

    = 5500 x 24 x (200 + 150 ) = 46 x 10^6 Btu/year,

or about the same as the heat contained in 450 gallons of oil, burned in an
old, 70%-efficient oil burner.

In addition, this house needs the heat equivalent of about 400 gallons of oil
per year for domestic water heating, which would cost about $1200/yr, with an
electric water heater, using electricity at 10 cents/kWh. This house uses the
heat equivalent of about 850 gallons of oil per year, altogether. Its oil
burner has an infinite payback period, for comparison with the next two houses.

House (b) is the same house, as redesigned by an architect, as a typical
"passive solar house." It might use 30% less oil than house (a) for space
heating, with 50%, vs. 20% south wall window area, and a masonry floor
in front of the south windows, or a double layer of drywall for additional
thermal mass in the house, at an additional cost of about $10/ft^2 for the
additional windows and thermal mass. The savings here is about 150 gallons
of oil/year, vs. house (a), and the additional cost of the house is about

30% x 512 ft^2 x $10/ft^2  = $1500 for the windows, plus 
50% x 1024 ft^2 x $10/ft^2 = $2500 for the floor.

Ignoring the time value of money, the payback would be about

$4000/(150 gal/yr x $ 0.7/gal) = 40 years,

or perhaps less if the floor is concrete, vs. tile, granite or marble,
which is good, compared to case (a).

House (c) is the same house as redesigned by a residential passive solar
HVAC engineer, with a 4' wide x 16' long x 8' tall solar closet, behind some
clear polycarbonate solar siding, an air heater measuring 24' wide x 16' tall.
Both the closet and air heater would have plastic film dampers to prevent
reverse thermocirculation at night. House (c) might use 90% less energy than
house (a) for space and water heating, at an approximate additional cost of

64 ft^2 x $10/ft^2 = $640 for the solar closet, plus
                     $200 for a small pump and water-water heat exchanger.

The polycarbonate siding might replace vinyl siding _and sheathing_, and the
greenhouse shadecloth and 3 1/2" insulation in the  south wall might replace
5 1/2" of fiberglass insulation. The solar closet would have 3 1/2" of
insulation all around it, and it would contain 32 55 gallon drums full
of hot water, as a sort of stagnant, inefficient solar collector, BUT most
of the lost heat from the closet would go into heating the house. The air
heater wall would provide heat for the house on an average day, in January,
with some sun, and the solar closet would operate in "standby mode," until
its stored heat were needed to heat the house during a string of cloudy days.
Depending on the geometry, the solar closet might have a small, high
temperature fan to help with natural convection, and a horizontal reflective 
surface in front of it, eg a white-painted surface or shallow reflecting pond.

The solar closet would also provide hot water for the house, using a couple
of plastic drums on top of the 4 high x 8 wide drum stack as air-water heat 
exchangers. These bunghole drums would be plumbed together in series, and
low-pressure, high-temperature solar water would be circulated with a pump
through a loop with a water-water heat exchanger located below a conventional
electric water heater. If the electric water heater were located in or above 
the solar closet, the pump might not be necessary. In any case, electric water
heating would seldom be necessary.

The solar closet would be inexpensive floorspace, about 3% of the house area.
It might have a dirt floor, with the drums sitting on a piece of polyethylene
film on the dirt, with each drum supporting the one above it. The rectangular
array of drums might be lightly supported by the closet endwalls, to keep it
from tilting. The inside walls  of the closet might be the foil face of the
fiberglass insulation. The outside walls of the closet, inside the house,
might be drywall. The closet might have a small electrical air damper with a
thermostat to control it, to let warm air heat the house on cloudy days. The
closet could be extended a bit on one end to make a sauna or "warm room,"
for clothes drying or food drying. 

So here we seem to have an additional cost of materials, over case (a)
of about $840, (if the air heater replaces part of the normal south wall,
at the same or lower cost.) The payback period would be approximately

$840/(90% x 450 gal (space) + 400 gal (water)) x $ 0.70/gal)
 
    = $840/$535 = 1.5 years, or less, if water were heated electrically.

Now you might also ask, "Will this work, as described?" I think so, but
I haven't tried it, yet. That's an enginering question that can be answered
by experiments and caclulations involving heatflow. The new Conserval wall is
a thin, unglazed sheet of aluminum, painted black, with about 2% of its area
as 1/32" holes, with air flowing through the holes. It has a measured solar
collection efficiency of 80%, which seems encouraging.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue Apr 11 18:11:08 1995
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Date: 4 Apr 1995 16:00:56 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3ls8ho$euj@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: High-Performance, Cost-Effective, Passive Solar Workshop
content-length: 3474
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Earth Day, April 22, 8:30 AM-8:30 PM  Connelly Center  Villanova University

There will be an all-day workshop on passive solar heating in the Bryn Mawr
Room of the Connelly Center at Villanova University on Earth Day, Saturday,
April 22, beginning at 10 AM. The workshop will consist of a morning session,
with a basic tutorial on the fundamentals and simple mathematics of passive
solar heating, and a practical afternoon session, with open discussions and
designs for individual participants. The Bryn Mawr room and the cafeteria
in the Connelly Center will be open until 10 PM on Saturday, which will allow
the workshop to continue into the evening, if necessary. 
 
Local engineer Nick Pine and math teacher Clarissa Coffey will describe a
new, simple, passive solar heating technique for houses, offices, schools,
greenhouses and other structures. The technique may be used for new houses
as well as for retrofits to existing houses: a low-thermal-mass sunspace
heats the house in average solar weather, and a higher-temperature,
high-thermal-mass "solar closet"/sauna inside the sunspace heats the house
during cloudy weather. Nick believes that this inexpensive technique can
provide close to 100% of the year-round space heating and water heating
requirements of a house in Pennsylvania.

The workshop will include a voluminous paper handout, a tutorial on the simple
mathematics of heatflow, and some examples of useful solar materials and tools,
including computer simulations. There will be a slide show with pictures of
many local buildings, with some specific suggestions for solar improvements
for each, including estimated costs of materials and numerical benefits. There
will also be some specific suggestions for further practical solar research.
 
The workshop fee is $50 for families, $35 for non-students, and $25 for
students. Reservations must be made by April 15. A reduction in fee of $5
will be made for payments received by April 15, and scholarships are
available. Email reservations are preferred, to nick@ece.vill.edu. Nick may
also be reached by phone at (610) 489-0545, by fax at (610) 489-7057 or by
mail at 821 Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA, 19426. Participants may find
it useful to bring pictures or drawings of their houses to the workshop, with
approximate measurements, and an indication of compass direction. 
 
This workshop is sponsored by the Villanova Environmental Group, as well as
the Villanova department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
 
Tentative workshop agenda:

    8:30-9:00   Registration 
    9:00-10:00  "Ohm's Law for Heatflow"
   10:00-11:00  Thermal storage
   11:00-12:00  Sunspaces and solar closets
   12:00-1:00   Lunch break
    1:00-2:00   Slide presentation
    2:00-3:00   Materials and tools
    3:00-5:00   Open discussions and individual designs
    5:00-6:00   Dinner break
    6:00-8:30   Continue discussions, designs, etc.
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please register me for the High-Performance, Cost-Effective, Passive
                           Solar House Heating Workshop on April 22.
 
Name: _________________________________________________
 
Address: ______________________________________________
 
Phone number: _________________________________________
 
Email address, if any: ________________________________
 
Present heating system: _______________________________

South-facing wall area: _______________________________

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr 12 01:41:46 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Mon, 10 Apr 1995 14:11:31 GMT
From: Robin van Spaandonk <rvanspaa@OZEMAIL.COM.AU>
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Subject: Re: Seaweed
content-length: 806
Status: RO
X-Status: 

>From:    William Bill Kovarik <wkovarik@RUACAD.AC.RUNET.EDU>
>Subject: Re: Seaweed

>agar, a medium for petri dish experiments. It grows in cultivation at
>very rapid rates, something like a ton per square meter per year, (Ill
>check exact figures if anyone likes).
>
>In an old scientific american I once came across an article about the
>Pasteur Institute using acid hydrolysis to get 10 gallons of alcohol
>for fuel per ton of seaweed.
>
>Using these figures, one could imagine a 100 square kilometer area producing
>one million gallons of alcohol for fuel per year, or an area the size of

Thats one _billion_  gallons, per 100 square kilometers per year.

>Argentina producing enough to replace the entire US supply of gasoline.

Regards,

Robin van Spaandonk <rvanspaa@ozemail.com.au>

Re:  Seaweed

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri Apr 14 14:42:36 1995
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Date: 13 Apr 1995 03:48:35 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3mil0j$ksd@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
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Subject: synchronous inverters
content-length: 3463
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X-Status: 

From this morning's email...

>I'm sure the principle is simple.

I think so... It's sort of a backwards lamp dimmer... If these things are
more expensive today than a normal inverter, there is something out of whack.
I think these are regularly used with PVs in Germany...

Here's a simple circuit:

      ------------------------
      |          |           |    Tp and Tm are 4 triacs in a full wave
      |  +       |           |    bridge. There is a current-limiting
     DC  Vdc     Tp +    -   Tm   coil in series with the 120V connection,
   source        |--120VAC---|    not shown...
      |  -       Tm          Tp
      |          |           |    The DC source could be 12 Volts, but the
      ------------------------    circuit is cheaper and more efficient if
                                  the DC source is or is converted to a
				  higher voltage, eg 120VDC. This allows 
        - -                       using lower current, cheaper triacs, or
     / Toff  \                    higher power from the same triacs. A suitable
Vdc/---------- \                  triac might be the 40 Amp 2N5445 made by 
 /Xp             \                Motorola, which costs about $5.
..............................................
                    \Xm            /
-Vdc    --------------\----------/
                        \ Toff /
                           - - 

When the 120VAC sine wave is less than the DC source voltage, in the
positive half-cycle of the sine wave, triacs Tp are both triggered on,
by a control circuit, not shown above, during time Xp. The earlier in
the cycle that they are turned on, the more power is drawn from the DC source.
When the AC voltage rises above the DC voltage, the triacs turn off.

On the negative half cycle of the sine wave, triacs Tm turn on during
time Xm, when the AC voltage is less negative than the DC voltage, and triacs
Tm turn off during the part of the cycle marked Toff, when the AC voltage
becomes more negative than the DC voltage.

So there you have it, $20 worth of triacs to feed about 40 Amps x 120VDC
to the AC line, about half the time, ie the above circuit sends about 2 kW
of power back to the power company, making the meter run backwards.

(It would send 4 kW at 220VAC.) You might make the coil by winding some
heavy copper wire around a loop made of iron pipe, with an air gap. The
coil/choke needs to be large enough to protect the triacs from overcurrent
and limit the harmonic distortion at the AC interface to less than 5%.

This circuit needs some fuses and other safety features, to keep from
energizing the power line when the power line is off, and some control/load
matching features, perhaps including a microprocessor, for PV panel or
windmill power point tracking, and some lightning protection and radio
interference protection, but it is really a lot simpler and cheaper in
principle than a normal inverter, and you don't need any batteries at all...

It does require some fussing to make it work, but a very talented
electronic person could build one in his/her basement, altho someone who
designs lamp dimmers or motor speed controls or switching power supplies
or inverters every day would have a much easier time of making it work. 

I'm increasingly drawn to the heretical idea that what you choose to do
with the power line, once it comes into your house, is your business, which
is pretty much how things work with the phone line now, vs. 20 years ago...

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr 15 08:12:50 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 10 Apr 1995 23:28:25 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3mct0p$2n8@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: Re: Proposing the creation of...
content-length: 2041
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Frank Lewon:Off <AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@cmsa.Berkeley.EDU> wrote:

>Hope you get thr pv alt. off the ground. Good luck.

I have little interest in photovoltaics, except to not see them in this group.
Perhaps you would like to create a.s.p., by posting the message below, with
your email address in the *** field. Then you might follow up by contacting
upstream sites to ask them to carry it...

Nick

Newsgroups: alt.config,alt.solar.photovoltaic,alt.solar.photovoltaic.ctl,control
Subject: cmsg newgroup alt.solar.photovoltaic
Summary: newgroup for technical discussions of solar photovoltaic energy
Followup-To: alt.solar.photovoltaic
Control: newgroup alt.solar.photovoltic
Approved: ***
Distribution: world
Keywords: solar photovoltaic energy

The creation of the group alt.solar.photovoltaic was proposed in alt.config
on March 20, about two weeks ago. So far, the proposer has received only
a few positive responses to its creation by email, so it is being created
with this message.

alt.solar.photovoltaic is intended to be a newsgroup for discussions of
practical photovoltaic energy collection and use, ie making and using
electricity from the sun. This is often discussed in alt.energy.renewable,
and reading about it there tends to waste the time of people who are
interested in other forms of renewable energy, and photovoltaic people
who read that group may not wish to wade through the other discussions
that go on there. At this point, it seems useful to specialize...

alt.solar.photovoltaic is NOT intended to be a place to discuss solar
thermal energy collection and use, except as combined with photovoltaic
systems, politics, aesthetics, solar space mirrors, envelope houses,
Stirling engines, solar refrigerators or air conditioning, cool tubes,
heat pipes, wind energy, wood energy, water energy, methane generation,
sewage treatment, perpetual motion, Nikola Tesla, unseen forces,
electromagnetic pollution, capturing free energy from power lines or radio
stations, nuclear waste, decomposing dead bodies or 600 mpg cars.

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr 15 13:42:53 1995
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Date: 14 Apr 1995 04:01:47 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3mla5b$7qn@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: Re: Fireplace creosote deposition - Interior fireplace
content-length: 1168
Status: O
X-Status: 

will1000@ix.netcom.com (Will Stewart) writes:
 
>   I plan to use an interior fireplace to avoid having a cold masonry flue  
>   exposure. The top of the chimney will be insulated to reduce heat loss.  
>   Are there any formulas or rules of thumbs for these conditions?
>
>   At what temperature (or delta T) does deposition take place?  

Perhaps you could use two concentric fluepipes, or three for leak-safety
(Norman Saunder's suggestion), with the flue gas going up thru the center one
(made from 316 stainless steel?) and outside air coming down from the roof
between the outer ones, to make a counterflow air-air heat exchanger that
would work even when there is no fire. Unlike typical triple-walled fluepipe,
there would be no insulation in this assembly, or perhaps some thermal shunts,
eg bolts, thru the insulation. If the joints nest downwards, w/o horizontal
sections, the creosote, condensation, etc. in the flue gas should end up back
in the fireplace, regardless of the (ideally low) exit temperature.

The fireplace might be enclosed and airtight, to be more efficient.
Part of the air that comes down from the roof might be combustion air. 

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr 15 15:13:05 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Wed, 12 Apr 1995 10:11:47 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
Message-Id: <5934.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Re: universal energies/forces
content-length: 469
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Gobblegook. Egg heads, nerds, impractical imperilists, extinct.

Neither is capillary action, evaporative cooling, osmosis or physical
expansion due to changes in temperature an energy, but they can be utilized
to serve human beings and they do not cost anything.
When will you boys stop using raw horsepower And atomic energy to cut hot
butter?Alpha Lee

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Re: universal energies/forces

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr 15 15:13:25 1995
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Date: Wed, 12 Apr 1995 10:05:23 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
Message-Id: <5881.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Re: World Peace Society Project
content-length: 2902
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X-Status: 

>        The idea behind the World Peace Society Project is peace.
>As the founder of the Project, I ask this question:  Is humanity
>behaving in a way that, as a whole, serves the best interest of
>humanity?
>        As the founder of the World Peace Society Project, my job
>is to merely coordinate the Project in its early stage.  In the
>early stage, I plan to merely share the idea of the World Peace
>Society Project.
>        In your opinion, is humanity presently working for peace,
>as a whole, or working against it?  For right now, I'm looking for
>people interested in helping me share the idea of he World Peace
>Society Project.
>        To hear more form me about the World Peace Society Project,
>send email to Geoff Coe,  c/o  mnoon@cc.gettysburg.edu.  The "snail
>mail" address of the World Peace Society Project is:
>        WPSP
>        PO BOX 167
>        Chambersburg, PA  17201
>
>
>
>World Peace Society Project

Dear Geoff Coe,

I wish more people were this easy to respond to. Yes I am interested in
peace and I am interested in participating in your project.My wife Jill and
I are also looking for people who are into peace, commitment and being
responsible for the damage each of us is causing, due to the very way in
which we light out lamps and obtain our daily bread. We are looking for
people who are not afraid to share a dream, that true community is
possible, that it begins by telling the truth about how you really feel. I
think putting you posting on this board is the best place in the world to
start the peace process. From this "enlightened group" I have been
personally threatened or wished to die. These people are so caught up in
hard science, aggresive mechanical approaches to really very simple
problems.

We have started a local school of environmental consciousness and art,
called the Orchid School.It is located at the Ann Norton Sculpture Garden,
on Lake Worth, overlooking the island of Palm Beach. Palm beach has 3000
homes with an average value of over a million dollars. Many go for 20
million or more. Donald Trump has kust formed the most exclusive and
important club in the world at Mar Large. He already entertains the power
and the players, who also incidently, comeinto our art gallery on Worth
Avenue.

We believe that if you do not start by teaching the very richest people in
the world, a better way, you might as well not bother with everyone else.
These people own and run the world. This is the real world here. Everywhere
else just pretends things are real. Here you are dealing with the only
people who count.
Please keep me posted on your progress. What are your visions of world at
peace? What would everyone be doing? Good luck and may you achieve your
dreams in our own lifetime.

Alpha Lee Rainbow Light Cloud

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Re: World Peace Society Project

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr 15 15:42:49 1995
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Date: Wed, 12 Apr 1995 10:24:00 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
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Subject: Re: universal energies/forces
content-length: 910
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It is this kind of pedantic, reductionistic thinking which has brought the
world into the amazing wonders of modern technology. Personally I can not
disprove anything you are saying.I simply stand by my houses as the most
comfortable, open, light airy, easy to maintain, beautiful of any in the
world. All the arguments, pro and con about why they work and how they work
are scientific bs.

I will continue to utilize gravity, evaporative cooling, and dozens of
other " energies" to power my natural living organic systems. You can
continue building and getting your power the old way. Eventually, you will
run out of bs and the fuel you are consuming.

It is combustion and friction which are the enemy, along with
centralization and closed scientific minds who practive architecture.
Alpha Lee

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Re: universal energies/forces

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr 15 15:42:51 1995
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Date: Wed, 12 Apr 1995 10:26:27 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
Message-Id: <6584.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Subject: Re: universal energies/forces
content-length: 1342
Status: O
X-Status: 

>>In article <18738.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu> Lee Butler
>> <lbutler@GATE.NET> writes:
>>
>><snip>
>>
>>> Gravity creates the wind.
>                No gravity no rising or falling of the air mass because of
>differential densities.
>                Least that 's how i sees it..
>
>
>>
>>
>>Hmmm... I thought that solar heating of the atmosphere combined with the
>>Earth's rotation creates the wind.  Darn.  So the best place for wind farms
>>would be at the base of really tall mountains?  ;^)
>>
>                Any chopper pilot will tell you that you HAVE to be real
>careful during mountain operations.. seem to be tremendous up and down
>drafts.. probably in part due to the THERMALS from Rising and Falling air
>because air gets hot, less dense,and rises on the sunnysie of the mountain..
>Then on the cooler darker side of the mountain it sinks...but it wouldnt
>sink OR rise in a gravityless environment.. ( warm air wouldn't be lighter
>than cool air )
>                I would think that a properly selected mountain site that
>took into account direction of prevailing wind and existing thermals would
>have tremedous potential as a wind mill site
>
>Re: universal energies/forces

Thank you. Alpha Lee

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Re: universal energies/forces

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr 15 15:42:53 1995
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Date: Wed, 12 Apr 1995 10:30:20 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
Message-Id: <6636.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Re: universal energies/forces
content-length: 7547
Status: O
X-Status: 

>In article <18738.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu> Lee Butler
> <lbutler@GATE.NET> writes:
>
><snip>
>
>> Gravity creates the wind.
>
>
>Hmmm... I thought that solar heating of the atmosphere combined with the
>Earth's rotation creates the wind.  Darn.  So the best place for wind farms
>would be at the base of really tall mountains?  ;^)
>
>>The Tall White men with ties
>
><snipping of much drivel>
>
>Gee Lee, I'm kinda tall, I'm of the male gender, and even wear a tie
>occasionally; but, I work in and for renewable energy.  Did I miss something?
>
>But seriously, please watch the generalizations, particularly when combined
>with that kind of invective.  If we're going to get out of the mess we've
>created, everyone, including a whole bunch of tall white guys, have to work
>together with mutual respect.
>
>later
>Kevin
>
>- All opinions expressed are solely those of the author -
>
>Re: universal energies/forces

If the poem fits, wear it. If you can still act and think independently in
a tie environment, more power to you. I simply find the arrogant, up tight
Hravard-MIT attitude or business approach so monodimensional and boring. I
did not mean to imply that everyone who wore a tie was brain dead, just 95%
of them.

By the same token, if you go casual, it does not mean that you think for
yourself. Consider thisThe Palm Beaches
by Lee Porter Butler

West Palm Beach, or "Waste Palm Beach", as it is know by the midnight
underground alternative youth culture,( i.e The Flow and Rage, Red Heron )
is a microcosm or mini version of what is happening in the whole wide
world. It is easy to criticize, so that is what I am going to do here. I am
also going to offer a solution.

We have attempted to introduce some progressive, positive ideas, actions
and solutions to the problems of the revitalization of the down town area.
These ideas have been directed at the youth, who presently have no where to
go and nothing to do.

 The problem is we live in a money culture. If you have no money,you can
not be a part of the culture. Of course we have nature and that is free,
but if you are poor stay out of our downtown, it is for upwardly mobile,
well heeled,  material consumers.There is no place for art or alternative
economies.

The leaders of this community ignore the poor people, the children, the
defenseless, gays, Negros, Hispanics and individual artists who choose not
be a part of the system. I honestly believe that it would be correct to say
the the downtown developers, authorities and political leaders do not
understand art of life at all. All they know is concrete, accounting,
conceptual principles of mass production, laws and banking. In failing to
understand art and life, the aging fathers and young politically correct
clones are feeding the causes of crime, juvenile delinquency and begging
for another violent revolution.Their high rates of alcoholism & divorce are
just a symptoms of their deeper inner miseries.

Why should our young people respect what these old buzzards are doing or
who they are, when they do not allow alternative points of view to even be
heard. Our local politicians and city leaders all act petty, egotistical
and can not delegate responsibility or get anything done. i.e. therefore
instead of leaving our beautiful 10 year old streetscape and thirty foot
tall shade trees along Clematis be, they blew them up to replace them with
newer trees and sidewalks. 2.9 mil Just like the Pennsylvania Hotel 2.0 mil
The Holiday Inn 2.0 mil the Police Station 5.0 mil and the entrance to the
main downtown library, another mil or two.Pretty soon you are talking "real
money". Why? What for? Why is there no day care for working mothers? Why
are there not more books in our library or the latest computerized internet
connections which could free our local poor from ignorance and poverty. Why
did they close the downtown swimming pool? Where are our priorities? Have
we lost our minds?

We can now gaze at a (expensive to operate) computerized fountain, that
wastes precious water supplies  through high rates of evaporation. Why? So
we can attract more tourists. Do we really want downtown West Palm Beach to
be like South Beach? Most locals I know  say no. Then why do we have these
machismo juveniles running and ruining our beautiful city? Why did they cut
the 80' tall Olive shade tree which my wife and I tried to save at the Art
Armory? To cover more earth with concrete and build a wider sidewalk.
Idiotic Why did they just cut another tree? To cover more earth with
concrete.Idiotic. Progress, no. For profit, Yes. No. You decide. Power to
an old crowd of destructors and dominators. We have concrete at the Art
Armory while artists starve and languish for lack of basic support. We call
this the concretization of the earth. Our community will eventually end up
looking and feeling like New York or  Miami, a concrete jungle, a
nightmare, out of control. It starts small.

We are calling for a silent revolution. A Peaceful revolution. A expedient
and efficient revolution. Let the people who know speak. Let the others
remain silent. Let the leaders lead. Let the other follow. If it sounds
like I am running for something but I am not. I just want responsible
leaders who will communicate with their people. I am calling for an end to
the disparity of wealth here in Palm Beach county, to the end of millions
of square feet aging empty impotent warehouses and commercial buildings
which are presently legally inaccessible to the people who could actually
use them for self supporting and productive purposes.

I don't care what we have to call it. I don"t care who gets paid or how
much. I want to know why we have all these starving artists, needing studio
and living space, with no visible means of support cannot communicate with
the rich property owners, clinging to their wealth, self righteously
preaching to the artists to get a job. That is anti art and I call it anti
life.

In the past, 1776, 1860, and 1917, and throughout this century in China,
large masses of law abiding citizens, driven past their ability to
understand their dominators, stormed the bastions of power and took the
space and resources from the emperors, Tsars and Kings. In America, twice
the people have demanded local rule. In 1776 freedom won. In 1860 the
empiralists or federalists won. It is a situation something like the
ancient Egyptian civilization, instead of a pharaoh, we have a president. I
believe it is time for the people to reject this antiquated concept. I
hereby declare my primary allegiance to the earth and not to any political
nation or power which has temporarily established itself here on earth. The
time has come to end corruption. If everyone would simply tell the truth (
their own feelings) , evil would disappear.

We propose that the new growth business of Downtown West Palm  Beach be
environmental education and entertainment. A kind of ecotourism resort,
where the latest in benign ecologically sustainable life styles and
technologies would be visible and being demonstrated for profit and fun.
Health oriented, we have the perfect climate in which to develop something
like this. We have the two  most important ingredients, sunshine and water.
All it takes is  vision & leadership, scholarship and acts of distinction
on the part of each and every person who lives here. Help us convince the
powers that be to start this multiversity now.



Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Re: universal energies/forces

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr 15 17:42:59 1995
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Date: Fri, 14 Apr 1995 10:53:08 GMT
From: willem hamel <aomgt@INFI.NET>
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Subject: Fwd) AoM 13th Annual International Conference
content-length: 15357
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X-Status: 

ATTENTION AE SUBSCRIBERS:

Please take a moment to look at the Global Health and Ecology (GH&E)
Group listed below in this forwarded "call for papers".  The Track
relative to Alternate Energy may be of interest to you.  I recommend
this conference for all persons interested and active in renewable
resources and alternative energy research and development worldwide.

Will Hamel, Ph.D.


------- Forwarded Message Follows -------


                           THE ASSOCIATION  OF MANAGEMENT (AoM)
                                       13th Annual International Conference
                                                    August 2-5, 1995
                         Waterfront Hotel, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
                                                             _______
______________________________  _AoM_  ____________________________
________Academicians_____________  _ _  ___________Practitioners________
_________________________________  _  ______________________________


                                                     CALL FOR PAPERS
                   SUBMISSION DEADLINE DATE POSTMARKED MAY 15, 1995

Announcing the Association of Management's Thirteenth Annual International
Conference, Waterfront Centre Hotel (Hotels et Villegiatures Canadian
Pacifique), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, August 2-5, 1995

CALL FOR PAPERS,
Research in Progress, Symposia, Panels, Workshops, Case Studies, Proposals

CONFERENCE
This year's conference will present 300 sessions in ten (10) parallel AoM
'95 Groups consisting of 114 topical area tracks.  Together they will offer
an outstanding selection of papers, research in progress, symposia, panels,
workshops, case studies and proposals.  Awards will be made for the best
papers selected from each of the 10 AoM '95 Groups listed in this announcement.

AoM '95 THEME
"Bridging the Global Gap between Research and Practice into the 21st
Century"

DRAFT SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
You are invited to submit three copies of a completed paper, symposium,
case study, research in progress paper, panel discussion, or other activity.
Papers should be original, unpublished elsewhere, in the style of the
American Psychological Association (APA), fourth edition, and no longer
than 5000 words (approximately 25 front and back typewritten double
spaced pages on American sized, if possible, 8.5" x 11" 20# white
bond paper). Include an abstract with the body of the full paper.

Symposia, panels, workshops and other proposals should include the names
and affiliations of the individuals who have agreed to participate and a
1-2 page summary of the topic, including a description of how the session
will be structured.

Research in progress submissions should be no longer than 2000 words in
length and include a one-page abstract.

All submissions should include a separate title page with each author's
full name, affiliation, complete address, telephone, and if available, fax
number and e-mail address.  Where possible, correspondence with presenting
authors will be done by e-mail.  Also identify the name of the AoM GROUP
with its corresponding GROUP TRACK CODE (e.g., ESR-06) ON THE TITLE PAGE.
In addition, include an address where you can be reached during the summer
months of 1995.  MAIL YOUR ENTRIES BEFORE THE SUBMISSION POSTMARKED
DEADLINE OF MAY 15, 1995 directly to the conference program co-chairperson
noted at the end of this call.

All submissions should be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped postcard
(with paper title written on reverse) to acknowledge receipt, and a
self-addressed, legal size envelope to be used in returning Referee Committe
decisions. Submissions outside the continental limits of the United States
of America must be accompanied by INTERNATIONALLY-STAMPED, self-addressed
postcards and legal size envelopes.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR WITH THESE IMPORTANT DATES:

Submission Receipt Deadline:  Monday, May 15, 1995
Acceptance Notice:  Monday, June 05, 1995
Final Entry Version & Registration Fee Due: Monday, June 19, 1995
Conference Dates:  Wednesday thru Saturday, August 2-5, 1995

PUBLICATIONS
The AoM publishes one (1) Best Papers Proceedings (consisting of the most
distinguished refereed submissions from each of the AoM Groups), and 10
separate Group Related Proceedings containing all of the refereed sub-
missions accepted for conference presentation. See list of Groups below.

Accepted papers are published in one of the group's refereed AoM conference
proceedings to which submitted (see groups below) in both soft cover
traditional, and contemporary electronic formats.  Full papers will be
published in their entirety.  Extented abstracts will be published for
symposia, panel discussions, research-in-progress papers workshops and
other accepted proposal formats.

Further, all accepted papers within the Educational Studies and
Research Group (ESR) will be considered for insertion in a special
section of _On the Horizon's_  WWW site.  Modified versions of these
will also be considered for publication in _On the Horizon: The
Environmental Scanning Newsletter for Educational Leaders_.  Contact
the editor, James L. Morrison for details: Morrison@unc.edu or
919-962-2517.

In addition, papers judged by the review process to be the best candidates
for AoM journal publication will, with the approval of the authors, be
forwarded to the Journal of Management Systems (JMS), the Journal of
Information Technology Management (JITM), and/or the Global Information
Systems Journal (GISJ) journal senior editors.

Qualified presenting authors will be notified of acceptance before June 5, 1995.
Presenting authors of accepted submissions will have the opportunity to
make revisions of their accepted entries prior to submitting the final
version by June 19, 1995.  At that time, a disk done in MSWord or WordPerfect
version of the final paper or extended abstract should be submitted, along
with 2 camera ready laser printed originals.  Submitting an electronic
document as a backup to a camera ready version is contingent upon the paper
being accepted for presentation and publication, BUT IS NOT required for
submitting papers for the initial review.  The conference chairperson will
provide assistance for those presenting authors of accepted submissions who
are new to submitting electronic documents.  Accepted papers will be
officially indexed and prepared for electronic publication by Maximilian
Press in addition to the their publishing and distributing the standard
bound publication at conference.

REMEMBER, THE EXTENDED  SUBMISSION POSTMARKED DEADLINE DATE IS:
Monday, May 15, 1995

SUBMISSIONS MAY BE TENDERED TO ANY ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING GROUPS:


AoM '95 GROUPS (divisions), GROUP TRACKS AND TOPICAL CODES

MANAGEMENT FUNCTIONS AND APPLICATIONS GROUP (MF&A)
Tracks: MF&A-01 Accounting; MF&A-02 Auditing; MF&A-03 Law and Taxation;
MF&A-04 Finance and Investments; MF&A-05 Healthcare Accounting and Financial
Management; MF&A-06 Economics; MF&A-07 Marketing and Consumer Behavior;
MF&A-08 Production, Operations and Service Management; MF&A-09 Materials
Management and Logistics; MF&A-10 Quality Management; MF&A-11 Management
Science; MF&A-12 Business Technology; MF&A-13 Policy and Strategy;
MF&A-14 Mergers, Acquisitions and Downsizing; MF&A-15 Planning and
Forecasting; MF&A-16 International Business; MF&A-17 International
Management; MF&A-18 Consulting and Professional Issues; MF&A-19 Case Studies

MULTIDISCIPLINARY GROUP (MD)
Tracks: MD-01 Corporate Social Responsibilities and Ethics; MD-02 Health
Care Administration; MD-03 Budgeting and Financial Management; MD-04
Business Communication; MD-05 Administration of Justice and other Legal
Issues; MD-06 Project Planning and Political Systems; MD-07 Diversity Issues
in Organizations;  MD-08 Leadership and Strategic Planning; MD-09 Economic
Development and Cultural Change; MD-10 Entrepreneurship and Small Business;
MD-11 Research Methods

EDUCATIONAL STUDIES AND RESEARCH GROUP (ESR)
Tracks: ESR-01 Adult Education; ESR-02 Administration; ESR-03 Corporate,
Global and Management Education; ESR-04 Curriculum Studies; ESR-05 Educa-
tional Leadership; ESR-06 Education in the Professions; ESR-07 Social
Context of Education; ESR-08 Instruction and Learning; ESR-09 Measurement
and Research Methodology; ESR-10 Policy Analysis, Law and Education;
ESR-11 Distance Education and Communication

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT GROUP (HRM)
Tracks: HRM-01 Comparative Labor Relations; HRM-02 Compensation and Benefits;
HRM-03 HRM in Higher Education Institutions; HRM-04 Labor Education in the
21st Century; HRM-05 Motivation; HRM-06 Participatory Management/Quality;
HRM-07 Performance Appraisal; HRM-08 Private and Public Sector Collective
Bargaining; HRM-09 Recruitment and Selection; HRM-10 Safety, Health and
Employee Relations and Assistance Programs; HRM-11 Teaching Innovation/Cases in
 HRM;
HRM-12 Training and Career Development

ORGANIZATIONAL STUDIES GROUP (OS)
Tracks: OS-01 Organizational Theory; OS-02 Organizational Structure;
OS-03 Organizational Behavior; OS-04 Organizational Change and Development;
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From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr 15 18:12:54 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 13 Apr 1995 06:36:04 GMT
From: hatch@CompuTech.reno.nv.us (Stephen Hatch)
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Subject: Solar Powered House
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  I live in Northern Nevada and my house is almost entirely Solar powered.
PhotoVoltaics battery stored Inverter driven 120 volt system.
It works great.
I have thirty feet of 3inch black ABS pipe on the roof covered by clear plexiglass
that produces steam if I don't watch it and cool it down.
The wood stove heats quite adequately in the dead of winter.
What's all the idiotic discussions about??
Some of us are already doing it...... not gumming it.
Total invested cost is less than $6,000.    And that spent over a two year period.
You wanna know more?
Stephen Hatch

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Apr 15 20:13:01 1995
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Date: 14 Apr 1995 08:24:22 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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_Super-Solar Houses--Saunders's Low-Cost, 100% Solar Designs_

By William A. Shurcliff (with extensive help from Norman B. Saunders)

Copyright 1983 by William A. Shurcliff

Brick House Publishing Company, Andover MA 

Table of Contents

1. Introduction                            1
2. Preview of the Three Houses             7
3. General Strategies                     15

I. Shrewsbury House

4. Shrewsbury House: Specific Strategies  23
5. Attic Solar Window                     38
6. Upper Thermal-Storage System           46
7. Lower Thermal-Storage System           49
8. Greenhouse                             53
9. Air-Drive System                       57
10. South Window System                   61
11. Non-South Windows                     65
12. Other Components                      67
13. Operation in Summer                   72
14. Performance                           76
15. Cost                                  84
16. Discussion                            85

II. Cliff House       

17. Cliff House: A General Overview       91
18. Sunspace                              99
19. Thermal-Storage Systems              105
20. Main Airflow System                  108
21. Other Components                     113
22. Wintertime Performance               115
23. Keeping Cool in Summer               117

III. All-Solar-Too House

24. All-Solar-Too House: Main Goals
    and Strategies                       121

IV. Comparison

25. Comparison of the Three Houses       131

Patents and Trademarks                   137
Bibliography                             138
Index                                    140

Introduction
------------

This book is about three remarkable houses. One, called Shrewsbury House,
was essentially completed and occupied late in 1981; through two winters
and one summer it has performed with full success. Another, called Cliff
House, is nearly complete as of this writing (May 1983.) The third, called
All-Solar-Too House, is a design prepared for the 1982 Gardenway Passive
Solar Design Competition; as yet no construction is scheduled.

Main Performance Features

All three houses, employing unique solar heating systems invented and
engineered by Norman B. Saunders of Weston, Massachusetts, are 100%
solar heated. More exactly, they are kept warm by intrinsic heat sources
(human bodies, electric lights, cooking stove, etc.) and by solar energy.
None has a furnace or wood stove. Also, all stay cool in summer.

The "100% solar heated" claim [now much stronger, in 1995, after 12 years
of electronic data logging of house temperatures, etc.--Nick] needs some
slight qualification. Although the houses will remain comfortable throughout
the winter without auxilliary heat, the occupants may, on certain occasions,
make use of a small electric heater to make one room extra warm, if someone
in the house is ill, or to accelerate the drying of fresh paint. And they may
do so when, for experimental purposes, various changes are made in system
components or in control procedures. One house, Cliff House, has a fireplace
that was included for reasons of esthetics.

All three houses have many attractive features other than heating
self-sufficiency. Operation is automatic, or hearly so. The houses
remain fairly warm in winter even if left unoccupied for a week or more.
Each has an integral south greenhouse or sunspace. Each has ample window
areas, not only on the south, but also on the east, west and north.

In each of these houses, the space heating system employs no conventional
collector panels, no pumps, no valves, no drains, no moving liquid, no pipes.
There are no Trombe walls. In none of the living-area rooms is there any
bulky equipment used solely for space heating. Thus there is great freedom
of choice in room layout, furniture placement, etc.

All three houses have automatic passive solar preheating of the domestic
hot water supply.

Low Cost

For each house, construction cost is low--about the same as for a conventional
house of comparable size and comfort. More interestingly, the construction
cost is comparable to, or slightly lower than, that of a typical 40-80%
passively solar-heated house, and it is much lower than that of a typical
_actively_ solar-heated house.

How can the cost be so low? Because:

o Most of the components consist of low-cost materials--air, water,
  stones, glass, plastic, fiberglass, etc.

o Most of the components can be assembled on-site by carpenters and
  others of typical competence.

o There is no furnace, no oil tank, no furnace room, no furnace
  chimney, no radiators, no air conditioner.

Operating cost is low--$50 to $100 per year for electric power to run the
one or two small fans that are the heart of the temperature control system.

Comparison with Other Leading Designs

How do these three houses compare with other outstandingly successful,
energy-conserving passive solar houses in the United States and Canada?
It is premature to make judgements with respect to Cliff House and
All-Solar-Too House. But Shrewsbury House has been in use throughout two
winters and one summer, and the record is clear: its performance has been
superb. I make the guess that its performance equals or surpasses that of all
other houses--in the USA or Canada--of comparable size, comfort, etc. 

Many hundred superinsulated houses have been built and operated for
one or more years and have performed excellently. They keep warm in
winter and cool in summer. But nearly all of them require an auxiliary
heating system. Most have no greenhouse. Many require operating thermal
shades in the evening and in the morning. Many have smaller-than-normal
areas of windows on the east, west, and north sides of the house.

Scores of double-envelope houses have been built and operated for two
or more years. They have performed well, and annual fuel bills have
been of the order of $200 or less. But auxiliary heating systems are
needed and some rooms are sometimes on the chilly side. Many double-envelope
houses entailed considerable extra construction cost, of the order of
$5,000 to $15,000. (Some early builders of double-envelope houses have
recently lost some of their enthusiasm for the double envelope itself
and are attaching greater significance to earth-coupling and solar energy
storage--a shift toward some of the features that, in Saunders-designed
houses, play major roles.)

About 100,000 passive solar houses that have large areas of south-facing
windows and much added thermal mass have been built and have been in use
for two or more years. Nearly all of these require auxiliary heating systems;
many require large areas of thermal mass that preempt space in the most
important part of the house--the south part; many employ large thermal
shutters or shades that must be operated twice a day; many suffer from
excessive glare on sunny days; many tend to overheat, especially on very
hot days late in the summer when the solar energy input via the south
windows is especially large.

Clearly it is a noteworthy advance when a solar engineer develops designs
that, besides requiring no auxiliary heating system, provide an integral
greenhouse, have ample window areas on all sides of the house, operate
automatically (no thermal shutters or shades to operate), reduce glare,
keep cool in the summer, and solar-preheat the domestic hot water supply.
To do all this at a cost that is no greater than that of a conventional
house is a landmark achievement.

The performance of the Shrewsbury House is now well proven, and I am
confident that Cliff House and All-Solar-Too House have the capability
of approximating its superb performance.

Crumbling the Classic Rule, "Do not try to achieve 100% solar heating."

Ten years ago, most solar architects and engineers were convinced that,
in designing houses for cold climates (such as New England), it was foolish
to try to achieve 100% solar heating. Prestigious experts made detailed
calculations that showed conclusively (they said) that, in New England
for example, it was unwise to try to achieve more than about 50-70% 
solar heating. They warned that the cost of achieving a higher percentage,
such as 80% or 90%, would be enormous and would far outweigh the benefits.
Even if the designer were to double the size of the collector and double
the size  of the storage system, he would get only about 90% solar heating.
To achieve 100% might require tripling the sizes, and much of the added
capacity would be useful only on five or ten days a year.

Especially clear warnings against attempting to achieve 100% solar
heating in cold climates are contained in articles by G. O. G. Lof and
R. A. Tybout. See, for example, their article in Natural Resource Journal,
Vol. 10(2), p. 268, 1970, or their article in Solar Energy, Vol. 14, p. 253,
1973. Tybout was an economist and Lof was one of the world's foremost solar
heating experts... 

Faith in the experts' negative pronouncements began to weaken a few years ago,
with the advent of superinsulated houses. By 1981 there were hundreds of such
houses, and by the spring of 1983 one or two thousand had been completed or
were under construction in the USA or Canada. Most of these houses require
only $50 to $150 worth of fuel per winter, and a few come close to being
100% heated by the combination of intrinsic heat and direct-gain solar energy.
Many such houses have no furnace, but do have a wood stove or a small electric
heater.

The final crumbling of the experts' gloomy view occurred in January and
February of 1982. In these midwinter months, Robert Bushey, owner and
occupant of Shrewsbury House, found that his house held at about 70 F--
day and night, in clear weather adn overcast weather, with no backup heat
at all. The goal was reached: 100% solar heating in a cold climate! It was
reached at no extra cost. For good measure, the goal was achieved without
turning the thermostat that controls the fan below 70 degrees F, without
reducing the areas of east, west, and north windows, without needing to
close thermal shutters each night and open them each morning, and without
curtailing fresh air input.

Why a full-length book?

To devote an entire book to three solar-heated houses may seem absurd.
A typical solar house can be described in a few pages.

But Saunders's three low-cost, 100% solar houses are different--very
different. They embody several radically new approaches to solar heating.
The design goals and also the general strategies used are new and strange, and
some of the key components are puzzling even to experienced solar designers.

A galaxy of new concepts is involved.

To clearly convey what the designs are all about, and what exactly the
heating and cooling systems consist of, requires a book.

Norman Saunders: Inventor and Doer

Norman B. Saunders, a professional engineer residing at 15 Ellis Road,
Weston, MA 02193, is a thoughtful, quiet, deliberate inventor: an inventor
of the lone-wolf type and one of New Englands's best known solar consultants. 

His passion is devices that are simple, homely and durable. He avoids
like the plague any device that is merely brilliant, flashy, impressive, or
striking. From forty years' experience in physics, mechanical engineering,
electrical engineering, and electronics engineering, he has developed the
greatest distrust of "brilliant" devices which, so often, turn out to cost
three times as much as anyone had predicted and to break down much too
promptly.

He turns his back instantly, with no apology, on most types of conventional
solar heating equipment.

Ignoring popular trends in solar design, he goes his own way, trying
to formulate the heating and cooling requirements in the simplest and
most basic way possible.

One of his main approaches is to use a multipronged attack: use a lot
of "little" pieces of equipment that will work together well. Each,
although simple and unimpressive, contributes significantly. Together
they provide a full but low-cost solution.

Accordingly, his inventions cover a broad range, from special glazing
materials and special window structures to special south roof louver
systems, special heat-storage assemblies, and special airflow controls; also,
various special systems for use in commercial buildings, eg high-temperature 
(steam-producing) systems. (The appendix lists many of his patents.)

But he does a lot more than think and patent: he tries out his inventions
prompltly. He puts them to work, either in his own house or in houses of
friends or clients. Often he continues to improve a given invention,
year after year.

Some of the solar houses that he has designed--and that have worked well--
are described in my earlier books... His first solar house is described in
his book Solar Heating Basics [a new edition may be coming... :-)] and in
a very recent report. See also the book by Carriere and Day.

I have found his patents hard to read, hard to understand. My impression is
that very few people have given the patents the attention that they deserve.
He has written a number of reports on his inventions, but they are heavy
reading.

For all these reasons, his major contributions to the art of solar heating
have been, until now, little known outside of New England. This is true even
though he has been generous with his time in presenting papers on his
developments at various meetings of solar energy societies and in giving
monthly talks and seminars to local groups on the theory and practice of
solar heating.

...

Some patents (copies of which are available for $3 each from The Commissioner
of Patents and Trademarks/Washington, DC 20231)

3,952,947 4/27/76  Solar heating system employing controlled
                   introduction of outdoor air via a special window.

4,078,603 3/14/78  Skylight-type collector with storage and
                   distribution systems.

4,123,002 10/31/78 System for controlling air temperature, humidity
                   and ventilation with use of ground coupling.

4,157,639 6/12/79  Seals for vertical and sloping windows or glazing.

4,201,189 5/6/80   South window solar-radiation absorbing element (as
                   in Shrewsbury House and All-Solar-Too House.)

4,296,733 10/27/81 Transparent roof employing reflective louvers that
                   admit much solar radiation in winter and admit little
		   solar radiation in summer.

Note: US patents are normally valid for 17 years from date of issue.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr 19 02:14:13 1995
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From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Subject: Re: MRA free energy hobby project!
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DaveHatunen <hatunen@netcom.com> wrote:

A very nice evaluation of an MRA device... 

I think I'm beginning to understand these things. I wonder how they can be
useful. How about loosely coupling 1 to 3 60 Hz MRAs to the output windings
of an automobile alternator (without the diodes), connected to a windmill, as
an energy source, and connecting the MRA output to the 60 Hz power grid,
somehow, with suitable safety circuitry? It seems to me that the windmill
might be able to synchronize at multiple rotational speeds this way, and still
provide a 60 Hz output at a high voltage...

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr 19 23:14:23 1995
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Date: 18 Apr 1995 04:13:56 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Subject: Re: MRA free energy hobby project!
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Harry H Conover <conover@max.tiac.net> wrote:
>Nick Pine (nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu) wrote:
 
>: I think I'm beginning to understand these things. I wonder how they can be
>: useful...
 
>Nick, wouldn't a Trace Inverter  be  better choice for this applicaton than 
>using a previously discredited MRA? ^---error1              error2--^
   ^---error3 

Trace inverters seem pretty complicated for this task, and an MRA
would seem to have some multiple rotational speed synchronization 
and load matching potential that is not in the Trace...

And Trace as a company seems leery of synchronous utility interfaces,
for political or business reasons, I guess... ("Yes, our box could
operate in that mode, but we don't want to irritate the utilities.")

>Remember, MRA is already demonstrated to be an energy sink without 
>any obvious useful function or application, not an energy source. 

Oh, I forgot. But what does that have to do with the price of cheese?
Previously discredited tools can be useful too, in new applications.
I hesitate to mention a certain architect, enamored of eternal harmonies.

Jeez Harry, I wish you would act less like an ignorant, illiterate,
backward-thinking, incorrigible curmudgeon, and more like me... :-)

Nick

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Harry H Conover <conover@max.tiac.net> wrote:
>Nick Pine (nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu) wrote:
>
>: Trace inverters seem pretty complicated for this task, and an MRA
>: would seem to have some multiple rotational speed synchronization 
>: and load matching potential that is not in the Trace...
>
>Seems like an appules and orgis comparison to me, Nick.  I suspekt
>that yur reeding mor sophistication into MRA curkuts then most of
>us elektronics and injuneering types do.

As I understand it, these things are resonant circuits, and if you are
somehow able to attach the output of a 60 Hz version to a power line,
and chop the low voltage alternator output, and loosely couple it to
the MRA input, you could end up with a windmill that would have a
reasonably high effective output voltage, as a fairly pure sine wave,
loosely phase locked to the chopping frequency. If the windmill
rotational speed changed a bit, and the chopping freq were fairly high
compared to 60 Hz and the rotational speed, it seems possible that one
could lock to a new, slightly different rotational speed. So this
would be a sort of synchronous system, with highish multiply/divide ratios
that would change as the windspeed changed. I'm just kinda rambling here.
Does this make sense at all? I don't have a detailed plan, or even a clear
idea of how this might work, and I don't really give a hoot about all this,
but sometimes these crude ideas work out nicely...

I'd say there is some potential. Something further to explore. I do have
a couple of EE degrees, and 25 years of experience as an engineer, so
I can speak ex-catheter on this particular hunch, if I'm sitting down...

>: And Trace as a company seems leery of synchronous utility interfaces,
>: for political or business reasons, I guess... ("Yes, our box could
>: operate in that mode, but we don't want to irritate the utilities.")

That's an actual quote from a Trace employee, BTW...

>Posubly tru, but bare in mind that wen you use powur lines for electrical
>sinks and not (as they were intenduded) sorces, you exxtend the risk
>and ramufucatons of your mistukes and inncompetunce from yur locul domaan
>to the greatur comunety, with a potental imppact on pubblic safty.
>This is wy injuneers dooring this kind of theeng are licunsed.

I can relate to that. But PEs do a lot of silly things too, and
sometimes they just try to make their lives simple, vs designing
inspired cool systems... The last time I employed a PE was when a house
I owned had a fire, and the building inspector (who had a high-school
education) refused to let me reconstruct it as it had stood for the
last hundred years. So I did a bunch of beam strength calculations,
and got a PE to stamp a dwg, and everyone ended up happy, altho one of
us was a tad poorer. I guess bribing the building inspector might have
been cheaper, and equally safe, from a stuctural point of view :-)

Of course there are people who also believe that one should not do
high-temperature experimental sewage treatment in the attic, that it
makes more sense for licenced professionals to treat sewage in 50 million
dollar treatment plants, connected to every house in the county by pipes
and pumps and sewage blenders. I do think that certain architect would agree
with me that there are alternatives to this sort of over-centralization,
were he to realize that we are on the same side here. 

I just took a PE review course, BTW, and intended to take the exam last
weekend, but the state licensing board had a fire that apparently destroyed
all their EIT records, so I have to somehow go prove that I passed that test
10 years ago... Yuck.

>: >Remember, MRA is already demonstrated to be an energy sink without 
>: >any obvious useful function or application, not an energy source. 
>
>: Oh, I forgot. But what does that have to do with the price of cheese?
>: Previously discredited tools can be useful too, in new applications.
>: I hesitate to mention a certain architect, enamored of eternal harmonies.
>
>Well Nick, acktully, I would mor expekt that certun arketek to champiun the
>MRA klugge than suphistikated persuns like you and I.  :-)

Perhaps if it had a convective loop, or a gravity battery, certain
cylindrical seers would so champeen it.
 
>: Jeez Harry, I wish you would act less like an ignorant, illiterate,
>: backward-thinking, incorrigible curmudgeon, and more like me... :-)
>
>Wurken on it, Nick!  Unfortunetally, my resurch on combinin expoxy with
>Capt. Krunch cerual to prodooce new, strngg, lite strukturel materieels 
>eats intu my avalable time.  Stil, I'm tryun!

Sounds good, Harry. Sounds a bit like Bucky's patented "stockade system."

Have you been using a strange spell-checker lately? Or perhaps a Griz filter?
 
Nick

From JAMIE@UTKVX.UTCC.UTK.EDU  Thu Apr 20 12:01:47 1995
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Date: Thu, 20 Apr 1995 11:40:14 -0500 (EST)
From: James Pizzirusso <JAMIE@UTKVX.UTCC.UTK.EDU>
Subject: Watts Bar Rally/Renewables Fair
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>From:	IN%"jdavis@cs.utk.edu" 20-APR-1995 11:24:40.34
To:	IN%"jamie@utkvx.utk.edu"
CC:	
Subj:	

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  
APRIL 19TH - WATTS BAR RALLY AND RENEWABLE ENERGY FAIR
PLEASE DISTRIBUTE FREELY!

Renewables Now, Watts Bar Never!
Saturday & Sunday April 29-30, 1995 in Spring City Tennessee.
Renwables Energy Fair & Watts Bar Rally.
Saturday: 10am - 7pm	Sunday: 11am - 5pm

Come Enjoy the Power of the Sun.

*  Come hear Dave Freeman, former head of the Tennessee Valley 
Authority (TVA), speak about renewable energy.

*  Meet Cyrus, Greenpeace's 18-wheel truck that carries a portable
solar electric generator and provides power from the sun!

*  Watch the actual building of a straw bale house and a geodesic 
dome that are super energy efficient.

*  Learn about the potential of windpower in the region!

*  March to the Watts Bar nuclear power plant (see fact sheet 
below) - the last nuclear power plant under construction in the 
United States.  With over 22 years of construction and $8 billion
spent, it is time ot pull the plug on this money drain!  
Saturday 11am - 2pm.

*  There will be music, food, theater and fun both days!

Directions:  Take I-75 from Chattanooga or Knoxville, Tennessee to
Exit 60 near Spring City.  Head northwest & follow the signs to 
the Watts Bar Dam.  Follow signs to the fair (across from the
nuclear plant).

Hosted by the Snail Darter Alliance (Students Promoting 
Environmental Action in Knoxville, Foundation for Global 
Sustainability, Katuah Earth First!, Tennessee Valley Energy 
Reform Coalition, Student Environmental Action Coalition, and
Greenpeace).

For more information, call: (615)-524-4771, or (615)-624-3939.
or email: jamie@utkvx.utk.edu or jdavis@cs.utk.edu



          *** Watts Bar Nuclear Power Plant Fact Sheet  ***
                  PLEASE DISTRIBUTE FREELY

Watts Bar nuclear power plant is the only nuclear power plant 
still under activeconstruction in the United States.  Watts Bar is
the only nuclear power plant that has not received an operating 
license from the NRC.  Watts Bar has one of the most dismal 
construction histories in the United States.  TVA has spent over 
$1 million every day for the past six years trying to "correct" 
safety problems.  Every year, TVA says this plant will go into 
operation.  Every year, this plant is delayed and hundreds of 
millions of dollars are spent - 8 billion thus far.  As the only 
federal power utility in the country, TVA has been allowed to 
incur this massive debt at the expense of American taxpayers.

	        WATTS BAR IS A LEMON!!! 

*  The Watts Bar nuclear plant, located in Spring City, Tennessee 
is approximately 50 miles southwest of Knoxville and 75 miles 
northeast of Chattanooga, Tennessee.  The Tennessee Valley 
Authority (TVA) began construction on Watts Bar in 1972 with a 
$325 million budget and planned to begin operation in 1978.

*  In 1985, after delays and cost-overruns, TVA applied for an 
operating license intending to begin operation of the plant in 
mid-April.  Only weeks before Watts Bar was about to go online, 
safety concerns expressed by employees halted all construction at 
the plant.  A subsequent Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) 
investigation confirmed that the actual status of Watts Bar 
revealed a large number of significant safety problems not 
previously identified by TVA.  TVA was denied an operating license
for the facility.  The safety problems were identified in many 
areas including structural welding, electrical cables, concrete, 
seismic supports and an overall poor quality assurance and quality 
control program.  Official NRC investigations of this matter 
blamed employee harassment and intimidation as one of the root 
causes of TVA's problems.

*  Congress initiated hearings spanning throughout 1986 to deal 
with the subject of TVA mis-management, intimidation and 
harassment of employees, shoddy development of their nuclear 
program, and failure of top-level TVA managers to identify crucial
safety problems.  TVA delayed the operation of the plant until 
1988.  In 1990, after more delays and cost-overruns, the NRC once 
again denied an operating permit when safety inspections 
identified further deficiencies at the plant.

*  In 1992, TVA released a study rating Watts Bar with the highest
probability of a core meltdown accident of any plant in the United 
States.  According to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, over the 
next 20 years, there is a 45% chance of a meltdown accident at a 
nuclear power plant in the United States.  

*  In August, 1993 the Nuclear Regulatory Commission Inspector 
General released a report indentifying TVA as having 1/4 of all 
the employee intimidation and harassment concerns filed with the 
NRC - more than any other utility in the country.   This same year,
the TVA delayed the start up of Watts Bar three times. 

*  In 1994, during a test to prepare for the operation of the 
plant, the control room caught on fire because of a loose wire 
behind the control panels.  Several people were taken to the 
hospital.  TVA again delayed the operation of Watts Bar two more 
times.

*  In reference to many of the problems at Watts Bar Unit One, the 
NRC recently stated in a staff assessment that, "the same mistakes 
have been repeated, and original problems have not been corrected."
The NRC staff noted, during several inspections, that Quality 
Assurance had been inadequate.

*  Today, Watts Bar is in its 22nd year of construction.  For the 
past three years, TVA has consistently delayed the start up of 
Watts Bar for months at a time while promising unrealistic 
operation dates and underestimating costs.  The projected cost to 
complete Unit One at Watts Bar is $8 billion.  TVA has already 
ceased contruction on Unit Two and several other plants due in 
part to public concern.  Currently, TVA is spending over $1 million
every day to fix safety problems still being discovered at 
the plant.  

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Apr 20 14:14:35 1995
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Date: 17 Apr 1995 11:13:10 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3mu0i6$6ss@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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References: <11456.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>, <3mm5nr$6ce@mack.rt66.com>, <Pine.SUN.3.91.950417035924.25119B-100000@tyrell.net>
Subject: Re: Proposing the creation of alt.solar.photovoltaic
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Willie  <willie@tyrell.net> wrote:

>I checked the .newsrc file and could not find the alt.solar.photovoltaic
>group. When this group is created...

Perhaps you mean IF this group is created. I don't know that anyone is
ever going to do that, altho I've told several people how to do that,
in some detail...

Meanwhile, I have to go on reading about this very expensive and
mostly impractical technology, including news of amazing price
breakthroughs, "just around the corner." I wonder how many people have
rooftops full of PV panels and housefuls of batteries and $3000
refrigerators, who also live next to power lines and have big oil
burners in the basement, which they use to heat their houses, while
they vent the exhaust from their electric clothes dryers outside? :-)

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue Apr 25 03:46:06 1995
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Date: 24 Apr 1995 08:43:46 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Would you please take this discussion to alt.solar.photovoltaic?

Thanks,

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue Apr 25 03:46:07 1995
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From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Would you please take this discussion to alt.solar.photovoltaic?

Thanks,

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue Apr 25 04:16:05 1995
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From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Subject: Passive Solar House Heating Lectures in the Philadelphia Area
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High-Performance, Cost-Effective, Passive Solar House Heating

Wednesday, April 26, at 7:30 PM at the Academy of Natural Sciences, and

Thursday, April 27, at noon at Ursinus College, Pfhaler Hall room 114

Local engineer Nick Pine will describe a *new*, simple, passive solar heating
technique for houses, offices, schools, greenhouses and other structures.
The technique may be used for new houses as well as for retrofits to existing
houses: a low-thermal-mass sunspace heats the house in average solar weather,
and a higher-temperature, high-thermal-mass "solar closet"/sauna inside the
sunspace, heats the house during cloudy weather.

Nick believes that this inexpensive technique can provide close to 100% of
the year-round space heating  and  water heating requirements of a house in
Pennsylvania. A number of 100%-solar, inexpensive houses with long track
records have been designed by Professional Engineer Norman Saunders, using
similar techniques. These houses are mostly in the New England area, and
some of them have no backup heating systems at all.

The lecture will include a paper handout, a tutorial on the simple mathematics
of heatflow, and some examples of useful solar materials and tools, including
computer simulations. There will be a slide show with pictures of many local
buildings, with some specific suggestions for solar improvements for each,
including estimated costs of materials and numerical benefits. There will
also be some specific suggestions for further practical solar research.
 
Sponsors include the Philadelphia Solar Energy Society and the Ursinus College
Sigma Xi scientific society. There is no admission fee. All are invited. 
 

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr 26 08:46:48 1995
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Date: 18 Apr 1995 20:25:30 GMT
From: shviid@magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu (Steen H Hviid)
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Subject: Re: Where are the Earthships?
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The idea with the tires is to avoid making the adobe bricks, instead the
tires are filled with dirt and punded full. I have a copy of the video
where Dennis Weaver builds his house in Colorado, it looks impressive.
His house in in two level, built into the side of a hill (typicaly for
these houses) so there is only an exposed south side. The south side
is all-glass to get heat from the sun.

They do not use any other insulation than what the surrounding earth provides,
they say it takes about a year for the temperature to even out in the walls
of this earth-bermed house. I am surprised they don't use any insulation
though, since the earth a few feet down will be constantly about 60 degrees
(in the desert) or so. But maybe the charging-up over the year make up for it?
-- 
Steen Hansen (Hviid)    E-mail: hansen+@osu.edu
Computer Specialist,    The Ohio State University
There is something fundamentally wrong in treating the earth as if it was 
a business in liquidation.  -- Herman Dailey, quoted in "Earth in the Balance"

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr 26 09:16:43 1995
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Date: 25 Apr 1995 09:17:10 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Subject: Re: Passive Solar House Heating Lectures in the Philadelphia Area
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Woodrow W. Baker <knapper@bga.com> wrote:
>Nick Pine (nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu) wrote:
>: High-Performance, Cost-Effective, Passive Solar House Heating
>
>: The lecture will include a paper handout...
>
>Hope you can post the paper handout here.

Sure, if you like. I'll be handing out these updated postings...

Article: 2080 of alt.architecture.alternative
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Subject: One way to build a high-performance passive solar house
Date: 9 Feb 1995 08:56:54 -0500 [updated 4/25/95]
Organization: Villanova University

Step 1.

Look up the average outdoor temperature in December, where you live.

The nice new, free book, _Solar Radiation Data Manual for Flat-Plate
and Concentrating Collectors_, from the National Renewable Energy
Laboratory at (303) 275-4099, has this information, as well as some
solar information, for many places in the United States. (They also
have a CD, with *hourly* solar weather data for 247 US cities over the
last 30 years, that might be used for passive solar house simulations.)

For example, where I live, in the northeast, the average December
temperature is about 32 degrees F, and the average amount of sun falling
on a south wall is about 1,100 Btu per square foot per day.

Step 2. 

Estimate how many Btu/day you need to heat your house at that average
outdoor temperature.

For example, if you have a 30' x 30' 2-story house, you have about
3,000 square feet of walls and roof. If the R-value of that surface is,
say, 30, it takes about 3,000/30 = 100 Btu per hour to heat the house to
68 degrees, if it is 67 degrees outside. Subtract the average outdoor
temperature from the indoor temperature and multiply by 24 hours, then
multiply this by the sum of each surface area divided by its R-value.

Our example house takes (68-32) x 24 x 100 = 86,000 Btu per day to heat. 
Call it a hundred thousand, a nice round number that is about the same
amount of heat as a gallon of oil burned in an old oil burner.

Step 3. 

Calculate how much south-facing glazing you need on your low-thermal-mass
sunspace, to supply that amount of solar heat, on an average day.

Where I live, each square foot of south facing wall receives about 1,000
Btu/day, another nice round number. If the low-thermal-mass sunspace has an
insulated low-thermal-mass wall between it and the house, with a big window
fan in one window, to suck most of the warm air into the house during the day,
and you let the sunspace get icy cold at night, the sunspace will be about
68 F during the day, as a first approximation. So the heat lost from each
square foot of glazing in the sunspace to the outside, during the day, in our
example house, will be about (68-32) x 5 hours, or 180 Btu, if the sun shines
for 5 hours on a winter day. So each square foot of sunspace glass provides
about 800 Btu/day to the house, net, on an average winter day. Another way
to figure this is that each square foot of south-facing glazing collects the
heat-equivalent of 1-2 gallons of oil per year. If your present oil bill
indicates that you need a thousand square feet of glazing or more, perhaps
more house insulation and caulking are needed before solar heating, or you
could just use the sunspace to reduce the oil heat, with no thermal store.

Our example house would need about 100,000/800 = 125 square feet of glazing
in the low-thermal-mass sunspace glass to keep it warm on an average day.
Say, an 8' high x 16' wide window, with an insulated wall between that window
and the rest of the house. The sunspace might be quite shallow, eg some
cost-effective "solar siding," instead of, say, vinyl siding, as in the solar
closet wall below. Or it might be a bit deeper, extending out from the house
8', and used for growing ripe, red tomatoes and basil in December, perhaps
with a couple of extra hours of 90% high-pressure sodium and 10% mercury
vapor light, and a little heat leaked from the house on freezing nights.

Step 4.

Take a guess at how many cloudy days there are in a row in December, where you
live, and what the outdoor temperature is during those days. In many places,
cloudy days are warmer than sunny days in December.

(If you wanted to be more precise, the weather bureau, or perhaps NREL or NOAA
could help. Or you could calculate Gaussian statistics using the CD data.)

Let's say that our example house is in a climate with 5 cloudy days in a row,
in December, and that the average temperature during those days is 32 F.

Step 5.

Calculate how many 55 gallon drums full of water you need to keep the house
warm for that cloudy day period.

In our example house, this would be 5 x 100,000 = 500,000 Btu, about the same
as 5 gallons of oil. If the water in the drums is hot, say 130 F, and the
drums can keep the house warm until the water cools to, say, 80 F, then
each drum stores about 25,000 Btu, about the same as a quart of oil. So
5 gallons divided by one quart is 20 drums (talk about apples and oranges :-)

How do you keep the drums that hot? You build an insulated solar closet behind
the sunspace, in the house, with an air heater as part of the insulated wall
between the sunspace and the house, with a transparent vertical cover of glass
or transparent "solar siding," eg Dynaglas or Replex ((800) 726-5151)
polycarbonate plastic, which costs about a dollar a square foot, and comes
in long sheets, about 4' wide.

Behind that siding, you staple some 80% greenhouse shadecloth, which costs
about 14 cents per square foot, leaving a 1" air gap between the siding and
the shadecloth, and you leave another 1" air gap between the shadecloth and
the 3 1/2" of fiberglass insulation in the 6" wall, and you put small vents
(about 1% of the overall area, eg 1 square foot in our example house) at the
top and bottom of this air heater, to allow warm air from the solar closet to
flow into the outside air gap through the vent hole at the bottom of the air
heater, _through_ the shadecloth, and back through the upper vent hole into
the insulated solar closet. The vent holes should have plastic-film backdraft
dampers to keep the air from flowing when the sun is not shining. These might
be made from chicken wire and a thin (1 mil) plastic film like that used for
dry cleaner bags. 

The inside wall of the closet could be the foil face of the fiberglass
insulation. The floor might be dirt, covered with a layer of plastic.
There should be an air space between the drums and the walls of the
solar closet, to allow air to circulate around the drums. There should
also be a vent to the house, to be slightly opened on cloudy days. This
could be an electric air damper controlled by a thermostat. (Another
approach might be to put the 55 gallon drums on a strong attic floor as
an overhead "warmstore," a la Norman Saunders, for new construction.)

In our example house, if the 2' diameter x 3' long drums were stacked up
horizontally, 4 high, the solar closet would be 8' high x 10' long x 4' deep.
I would make it 6' longer, and use the non-drum space for a sauna. The
solar closet should also have 3 1/2" of fiberglass insulation in its ceiling,
ie the second floor of the house, and in its back (north) wall, inside the
house. Note that most of the "waste heat" from this solar closet ends up
in the house via the sunspace from the front glazing, when it is collecting
heat, and via most of the insulated surface the rest of the time. Note
that the solar closet does not usually provide heat for the house, except
during cloudy day periods, so it stays hot like a stagnant solar collector.

The sauna might have a very small woodstove, for burning newspapers, junk
mail, old paper towels, college committee recommendations, letters from
congressmen, and press releases announcing amazing new price breakthroughs
in photovoltaic technology.

Nick

Article: 2127 of alt.architecture.alternative
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Subject: Passive solar house evolution
Date: 13 Feb 1995 09:49:42 -0500
Organization: Villanova University

Question 1: If you put a 55 gallon drum full of water in a 2' square x 4' tall
uninsulated box in the shade in Philadelphia, in January, what would the
average temperature of the drum be? 

Answer 1: According to the NREL _Solar Radiation Data Manual_, the average
January temperature in Philadelphia is -0.9 degrees C, or about 30 degrees F.

Q2: What would the average box temperature be if it were in the sun,
in Philadelphia, in January, and if it were painted white?

According to the 1993 ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, the "sol-air
temperature," or equivalent air temperature, Te, of a vertical surface
in the sun, is the outdoor temperature + 0.15 x U, IF the surface is painted
a light color, and the amount of sun falling on the surface is U Btu/hour.

According to the NREL book, a south-facing wall in Phila in January receives
about 3.3 kWh/m^2/day, ie 3300 x 3.41 Btu/10.76 ft^2/m^2 = 1000 Btu/ft^2/day
of sun. This is an average daily insolation of about 40 Btu/ft^2/hour. So
assuming the sun only shines on the south side of the box, if it were painted
white, the average temperature of the south side would be 30 + 0.15 x 40 = 36
degrees. The interior temperature should be the average temp. of all of the
outside surfaces, I think. Each face of the box has a surface area of 8 ft^2,
and the top and bottom have areas of 4 ft^2, so the average drum temperature
should be about (8x36+3x8x30+2x4x30)/(8+3x8+4+4) = 1248 / 40 = 31.2 F, 1.2
degrees warmer than the drum in the shade.

Q3. What would the drum temperature be if the box were painted black?

The ASHRAE HOF says that the sol-air temperature of a DARK vertical surface
is the outdoor temperature + 0.3 * U, so if the black box were receiving 
the same amount of sun as the white box, the average temperature of the
south wall would be 30 + 0.3 x 40 = 42 F. So you can raise the effective
average outdoor temperature of a white south-facing wall in Philadelphia by
an average of 6 degrees, in January, just by painting it darker. Not bad... 

In the above case, the average temperature of the drum/box would be 

(8x42+3x8x30+2x4x30)/40 = 32.4 F, just above freezing.

Q4. Suppose the box had a single-pane glass south wall, with no insulation?

In this case, the solar energy, Ein, that goes into the box would be about

Ein = 2 x 4 ft^2 x 1,000 Btu/ft^2/day = 8,000 Btu/day,

assuming the glass transmits 100% of the solar energy.

If the drumwater has an average temperature of Tw, and the walls and glass
front of the box have an R-value of 1, the energy that goes out of the box
in one day is Eout = (Tw-30) x 24 hours x 40 ft^2/R1. If energy is conserved,
ie Ein = Eout, then Tw = 30 + 8,000/(24x40) = 38.3 degrees F. An improvement.
Six degrees warmer than the unglazed box...

Q5. How about if we add R-14 insulation to the other three sides and the top
and the bottom?

In this case, the solar energy that goes into the box is the same, but
the solar energy that goes out of the box, into the outside air, is

Eout = (Tw-30) x 24 hours x (8 ft^2/R1 + 32ft^2/R14) = (Tw-30) x 247, so if
Eout = Ein, then Tw = 30 + 8,000/247 = 62 degrees F, a livable temperature,
when the sun is shining, which begins to decrease when the sun stops shining.
This is often as far as passive solar house designs go, with the house getting
colder and colder on cloudy days, as a lot of heat leaks out of the south-
facing windows. One of the problems with this design is that you have to
*live* inside the "heat battery," so you can't make it too warm. 

Q6. But then suppose we make the glazed side an ideal air heater, so it
collects the sun's heat during the day, but the drum is insulated at night?

Now Eout = Es + Eother, where Es is the heat lost through the ideal south wall
air heater. Say the sun shines for 6 hours a day in January... Then
Es = (Tw-30) x 6 hours x 8 ft^2/R1 + (Tw-30) x 18 hours x 8 ft^2/R14.

Eother is the heat lost through the east, north and west walls of the box,
as well as the top and bottom. Eother = (Tw-30) x 24 hours x 32 ft^2/R14. 

So, if the energy into the box equals the energy out of the box, then

(Tw-30)(48+10+55) = 8,000, so Tw = 30 + 8,000/113 = 103 degrees F. But wait!
This is no good... This passive solar house has too much south-facing glass!
It overheats! At this point, the thing to do is open the windows in January,
or (better) move out of the little box with the drum in it, and build a house
behind it, using the hot water in the drum as a heat battery for cloudy days.

If the drum and its air heater are inside a sunspace, and the air from the
sunspace heats the house during sunny-day periods, the heat lost from the south
side of the air heater will help heat the house during sunny day periods. If
the house is built around an insulating solar closet containing the warm drum,
the heat lost from the drum will help heat the house too... So the heat that
leaks out of the heat battery during sunny-day periods is not wasted.

Q7. Now suppose we make the box 8' tall instead of 4' tall, so that the air
heater collecting area is 16 ft^2, and the drum on top still gets all the
collected heat, but none of the collected heat goes out through the lower half
of the box or the uninsulated glass at night?
                                                 g: glass       giii
Ein = 16 ft^2 x 1,000 Btu/day = 16,000 Btu/day.  D: drum        giDi
                                                 i: insulation  giii
Eout = Es + Eother                                              giii

       Es = (Tw-30)x6x16ft^2/R1 + (Tw-30)x18x8ft^2/R14 = (Tw-30)(96+10).

       Eother = (Tw-30)x24x32/R14 = (Tw-30)x55, as before.

So Ein = Eout ==> Tw = 30 + 16,000/(96+10+55) = 131 degrees. This is getting
interesting... We could not possibly live inside this solar closet, except
for a few minutes at a time, as a sauna, but it is good to have a heat battery
like this sitting around, charged up to a high temperature, because that will
make the useful heat that we can get out of it last for a long time, during
periods of cloudy days. Along with a bit more glazing, one might also put an
electric water heater inside this closet, and preheat its cold water input
with about 20' of 1 1/4" copper pipe running along the ceiling of the closet,
to heat water for taking showers, etc... If the input water is preheated, and
the water heater is in a 130F room, the electric heating element should rarely
turn on.

Q8. Suppose we used two layers of glazing instead of one, above?

Ein would be the same, in this simple model.

Es would be about (Tw-30)(48+10), and Eother would be the same.

So Tw = 30 + 16,000/(48+10+55) = 174 degrees F.

Q9. Then suppose we add a reflecting pool or shutter in front, which
increases the solar input by 50%?

Tw = 30 + 16,000x1.5/(48+10+55) = 242 F. (Which of course, would make
the water steam. Maybe these drums should be full of sand. But then you
would need about 3 times more of them, since masonry has about a third
the heat capacity of water, and a higher thermal resistance.)

Q10. But wait, we were going to put the solar closet inside the sunspace,
right? So during the day, when the solar air heater is working, the south
side of the air heater will be exposed to, say, 68 F house air, not 30 F air,
and the other walls of the solar closet will also be exposed to 68 F air,
not 30 F outside air. So what would the "water temperature" be in this case?

It's roughly the same little calculation, using 68 F instead of 30 F:

Tw = 68 + 16,000x1.5(48+10+55) = 280 F.

Q11. Then suppose we lay the drum/box down horizontally, and put the air
heater side at the focus, under an ideal 4:1 reflective linear parabolic
concentrator? Or use an R-14 movable reflective shutter to cover the glass
over the drum when the sun is not shining?

Ein = 16,000 x 4 = 64,000 Btu/day.

Eout does not change.

So Tw = 68 + 64,000/(48+10+55) = 634 degrees F.

...

So, it seems to me that it isn't too hard to arrange for a passive solar house
to have a "solar closet" with a few high temperature 55 gallon drums full of 
water, a "heat battery" that can be discharged in a controlled way, to provide
heat for a house during cloudy days...

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr 26 10:46:40 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Sun, 23 Apr 1995 16:03:08 GMT
From: David Allen <wizsigns@IOL.IE>
Message-Id: <14563.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
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Subject: catalogue
content-length: 105
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Send Catalogue to

David Allen
Wizard Signs
Cormaddyduff
Virginia
Co. Cavan.
Ireland.

Thanks

catalogue

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr 26 12:16:47 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 23 Apr 1995 18:11:46 GMT
From: RGNR13A@prodigy.com (Matt Farner)
Message-Id: <3ne592$325u@usenetp1.news.prodigy.com>
Organization: Prodigy Services Company  1-800-PRODIGY
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: earthship--i have one==i live in one!!!
content-length: 1003
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First:  Please read any of Michael Reynolds books about earthships

I own all three and I love them.  Mike is a gem..  He literally writes to 
tell you how to build them..  I know of earthships in many states 
including Michigan, Idaho, Hawaii, Florida, Mew Mexico and Arizona

The thermal mass concepts work well--you stay warm in winter and cool in 
summer.
Recycle:  you use tires for a good use instead of trying to get rid of 
them.

I invite all who are really interested in a great concpt in recycleing 
and in energy efficient building to read Mike's books.  Many good 
libraries have them..If yours does not ask them to order it from Solar 
Survival Press, POB 1041, Taos, New Mexico  87571.

You are also welcome to tour our earthship in Northern Idaho (near Coeur 
d'Alene) or see our new one to begin constrcution in Michigan this fall.

One other important note:  recyclinig pays!!!   The cost of a "tirehouse" 
earthship can be as low as $15 per sq ft!!!

We love our tirehouse/earthship.

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Apr 26 15:16:46 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 25 Apr 1995 14:27:41 -0400
From: markmrohs@aol.com (MarkMrohs)
Message-Id: <3njeut$9jh@newsbf02.news.aol.com>
Organization: America Online, Inc. (1-800-827-6364)
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Subject: Siemens Solar Training Programs
content-length: 588
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X-Status: 

The schedule and description of the Siemens Solar Industries Training
Programs for 1995 have been posted to alt.business.seminars and to
news.announce.conferences.  Anyone interested in learning more about the
Basic Photovoltaic Technology Self Study Program (12 hours of video
lessons with 500 page training manual) or the Comprehensive Photovoltaic
System Design Seminar (5-day hands-on field assembly, lecture and system
design practice with guest speakers) should reference those postings.  The
next Seminar is May 15-19 at the Siemens Solar Training Center in
Camarillo, California.

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Apr 27 02:46:54 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 25 Apr 1995 09:28:56 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3niteo$c8p@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <11039.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Subject: Re: AE Digest - 23 Apr 1995 to 24 Apr 1995 -Reply
content-length: 658
Status: O
X-Status: 

Anton Simmons  <AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@cmsa.Berkeley.EDU> wrote:

>Nick Pine, would you take your discussions/contributions to some other list
>somewhere else, please.

No thank you.

>PV, and its use, is a subject within AE/RE, whatever you wish to call it,

I call it stupid, IF you have a power line next door,
and you don't somehow sell power back to the utility.

But then, who am I to criticize the expensive hobbies of other people...
I would simply prefer to not have to read about them here.

>and I will continue to post here, thanks.

May you soon be lighting your one little candle in the dark.
Or perhaps subscribing to alt.solar.photovoltaic.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed May  3 22:49:34 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Mon, 1 May 1995 10:36:13 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
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Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Re: T@Re: EKOSE'A & EKOTECTUREO_^?6hrs:Tpm;lB(ec&
content-length: 3222
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X-Status: 

April 25, 1995

EKOTECTURE =A9  is defined as the integration of fields of architecture,
engineering and ecology, resulting in the design and construction of
buildings which meet the following criteria.

(A) Structural Integrity
Ekotecture structures can resist the stresses of nature to protect and
preserve human life. They are designed to resist earthquakes, can float in
a flood or tidal surge and can withstand the effects of tornadoes and
hurricanes.
(B) Healthier Buildings
The presence of plants in the outer air envelope adds oxygen to the
building interior air and acts as an electrostatic filter, purifying the
interior air.
 (C) Standardization of Components
The standardization of building components, reduces the manufacturing cost
making it affordable to the mass market.
(D) Widely Available Indigenous Materials
 Ekotecture is manufactured from elements which exist in abundance world
wide, further lowering the cost and increasing availability. The components
will be manufactured from an ultra lightweight super strength insulating
concrete using a nonmetallic fiber reinforcing.
(E) Utilizes Universal Energies, Forces and Principles
They utilize solar, gravity, geothermal, phase change, evaporative cooling
effects of ordinary water, capillary action, osmosis and other universal
natural energies, forces and principles to provide the utility conveniences
and food.
(F) Zero Pollution from Operation
Ekotecture puts nothing into the earth, air or water and takes nothing out
of the earth air or water, beyond the materials and energy needed to
manufacture the structure itself, eliminating the need to acquire, for it's
operation, non-renewable resources ( fossil fuel or nuclear fuel ) and the
pollution and threats to human life caused by their mining, refinement  and
combustion or utilization.
(G) Decentralization
Inherent in the concept of Ekotecture, is decentralization of the
production of utilities and the elimination of friction and combustion,
real estate required for distribution and the cost and loss of efficiency
of the distribution system.
(H) Quality, Taste, Freshness of Food
By growing food locally, using recycled organic waste, fresh supplies of
fish, shrimp, fruits and vegetables would increase the quality and the
freshness of the food supply.
(I) Superior Return on Invested Capital
Ekotecture is provides an ecological, economical solution to our present
needs and  fits the structure of the profit oriented corporate capitalists
system of mass production and standardization. The ultimate market for
Ekotecture is global. All existing buildings will eventually justify the
need for retrofitting or rebuilding. Massive economies of scale are
possible, given such a demand. The company who builds and maintains new
Ekotecture utility will  be able to show superior returns on invested
capital.
(J) Patents & Business Plan Development
At present we are working on filing the patents with our attorneys and
soliciting third party technical opinions.

Lee Porter Butler & Jill Karlin Butler, Principals* Ekotecture
International Corporation

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


Re: T@Re: EKOSE'A & EKOTECTUREO_^?6hrs:Tpm;lB(ec&

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu May  4 07:49:22 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 4 May 1995 07:05:26 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3oacdm$oac@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <pmclaasn.21.0010F940@ING.SUN.AC.ZA>, <3o5a5s$m0h@sundog.tiac.net>, <1995May3.091713.48013@msuvx1.memphis.edu>
Subject: Re: 80% SOLAR MATERIAL efficiency
content-length: 303
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<urwfoster@cc.memphis.edu> fuzzed:

>... all info is appropriate in any newsgroup that caters to people
>trying to advance benign energy production.  So Pv is appropriate in thermal
>and thermal is appropriate in renewables.

Sure, and if you wrap up a chair in enough gauze, it's a beachball :-)

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri May  5 11:19:50 1995
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Date: 3 May 1995 07:30:37 GMT
From: nep@ccnet.com
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Organization: Norris Electronic Publications
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Renewable Energy Directory on the Web
content-length: 651
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I'm in the process of compiling company info for a Web-based directory on renewable energy.  

If you would like to list your company, (free standard listing) please send the company name, address, phone, fax, e-mail, URL (if 
avail), contact name, contact title, and a brief (<30 word) description.  Appropriate business functions include manufacturing, 
retailer product distribution, finance, development, research, engineering, law, and consulting.

Please respond via e-mail.

I will publicize the location of the directory at a future date.  Feel free to reply if you have any questions.

Ben Norris
nep@ccnet.com
Norris Electronic Publications

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri May  5 11:19:52 1995
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Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 14:20:34 GMT
From: "Solar Energy Industries Assoc." <seiaopps@ACCESS.DIGEX.NET>
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Subject: Solar Technician Training Workshop
content-length: 7856
Status: O
X-Status: 

NOTE: AGENDA INCLUDED


               Solar Hot Water Technician Training Workshop

            REFURBISHMENT AND INSTALLATION OF LARGE AND SMALL
                        SOLAR WATER HEATING SYSTEMS


                              June 2-3, 1995
                              Albuquerque, NM


                               Sponsored by:
                       Sandia National Laboratories

                               Conducted by:

             Renewable Energy & Efficiency Training Institute
                                    and
                              SEMCO/AAA Solar


Background

The owners of thousands of non-functioning solar hot water systems (large
and small) are eager to get them working again.  However, most businesses
in the Solar Thermal Industry today lack qualified service technicians who
can perform the simple repairs needed.  Many qualified people, who were
trained in the 80's, are now either in business for themselves or have
moved on to greener pastures.  The bottom line is this: if our industry
cannot find technicians, then we must train them.  To that end, this
workshop is offered to you and your employees.

Workshop Content

The first of this series of traveling workshops will be
held on Friday and Saturday, June 2 and 3, 1995 at the National Solar
Thermal Test Facility at Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico.  The
two day workshop will cover several types of solar water heating systems
and will emphasize maintenance and repair, because if technicians can
troubleshoot and repair older existing equipment then they can also
install new equipment.  The workshop is split between classroom
lecture/discussion and hands-on exercises with printed instructions.
Attendees will assemble and troubleshoot several types of solar water
heating systems.  All attendees will receive a course text and a
manufacturers spec book, which will be a handy reference in the field.  At
the end of the workshop there will be a self-evaluation quiz for attendees
to gauge what they have learned and what other information might be
useful.

Who Should Attend

The typical attendee for this workshop is probably
already employed by a renewable energy company in some capacity and needs
to be brought up to speed to fill a niche in their company.  The workshop
is not limited to such people.  Contractors in related trades, architects,
engineers, and academic and government renewable energy professionals are
also welcome.

If you are not sure if this workshop is for you, call "Smitty" at SEMCO
(800) 246-8803.  Attendees should plan on bringing a small box of hand
tools including multimeter, electrical tools, and small adjustable
wrenches.

Who Should NOT Attend

If you are presently servicing solar hot water systems with little trouble
and/or feel you have a good understanding of the industry and the
equipment it has generated in the last 15 years, then this workshop will
waste your time and ours.

Instructors

Chuck Marken (AAA Solar), Odes Caster (AAA Solar), Jeff "Smitty" Schmitt
(SEMCO), and Tim Connolly (SEMCO) will be teaching the workshop.
Collectively they have over 55 years of experience in the solar business
and have installed or serviced over 10,000 solar water heating systems.

Registration

Deadline for registration is May 15.  Class size will be limited to 25
people on a first-come- first-served basis.  To register, fill out the
enclosed registration form, and mail it along with a check for $50.00
($40.00 for NM SEIA Chapter members) made payable to "Renewable Energy
Training Institute" to:

      RETI, 122 C St. NW, 4th floor
      Washington, DC 20001
      attn: Jeff Ross or Jeff Keas

After registering, you will receive additional information about the
workshop, including transportation and recommended hotel accommodations.

For More Information

Jeff Ross or Jeff Keas, Renewable Energy Training Institute
ph: 202-383-2559 (2614), fax: 202-383-2670 (2555)

Chuck Marken, AAA Solar Service & Supply, Inc.
ph: 800-245-0311, fax: 505-243-088

WORKSHOP AGENDA

The workshop is composed of four sessions, one each morning and one each
afternoon.  Each session is divided into a classroom component and a
corresponding hands-on component, with approximately 50% of the time
devoted to each component.  Day One will concentrate on plumbing and
mechanical aspects and Day Two will address electrical controls and
troubleshooting.

FRIDAY, JUNE 2,  7AM TO 5PM

7:00 - 9:30       CLASSROOM
        Introduction
        Recent history of solar industry (last 15 years)
        Solar water heating theory - how and why it works
        Solar collectors - types and applications
        Collector orientation, tilt and mounting
BREAK
        Passive batch water heaters
        Thermosyphon systems
        Direct pump and recirculation systems
        Glycol/oil systems
        Draindown and drainback systems and why they are not
         used
        Swimming pool systems, both indoor and outdoor
        Space heating systems

10:00 - 11:30     HANDS-ON (Workshop participants will be
divided into 4 groups and rotate between the following  stations)

1.       Simulated rooftoop - mounting orientation and safety
2.       Soldering and brazing
3.       Collector construction and repair
4.       Piping a thermosyphon system
5.       Piping a glycol system
6.       Piping a swimming pool system

11:30 - 12:30     LUNCH (provided by Sandia)

12:30 - 2:30     CLASSROOM
        What to look for in large commercial/industrial systems
         (John Anderson, SNL)
        Pumps - types and uses
        Head and flow considerations and pump
         replacement/substitution
        Heat exchangers, liquid to liquid and air to liquid
BREAK
        Storage tanks, construction and application
        Piping and material compatibility, insulation types
        Fluids, fluid compatibility and expansion tanks
        Flushing and filing glycol systems, getting the air out
        Hard water considerations and remedies

3:00 - 5:00     HANDS-ON  (4 groups to 5 stations)

1.       Tour of industrial solar thermal equipment at Sandia
2.       Pump troubleshooting
3.       Pump changeouts and substitutions
4.       Glycol drain, purge and fill
5.       Unplugging a heat exchanger



SATURDAY, JUNE 3,  7AM TO 5PM

7:00 - 9:00     CLASSROOM
        Measuring BTU output and understanding test data
        AC and DC electricity - load voltage and control
         voltage
        Basic switching devices and how they work
        Set point control, thermostats and aquastats
        Differential controls and thermistors
BREAK
        Multiple differentials and multiple outputs
        Domestic hot water controls
        Control strategies for space heat
        Pool/spa controllers

9:30 - 11:00      HANDS-ON (4 groups to 4 stations)

1.       Glycol system controls install station
2.       Bulk storage commercial controls install station
3.       Pool systems install station
4.       Space heating controls install station

11:00 - 12:00     LUNCH (provided by Sandia)

12:00 - 2:00     CLASSROOM
        Troubleshooting logic trees
        Standard test equipment and how to use it
        Component substitutions - recognizing what's there

2:00 - 4:00     HANDS-ON
        This session involves all participants at a troubleshooting
         station.  Trainers will disable a hot water systems and
         each group of participants will have 5-10 minutes to
         diagnose and recommend repairs to the faulty system.
         The remainder of the class will be given an opportunity
         to agree or recommend other solutions.  Simulated
         repair situations will include such problems as stuck
         sensors, bad relays, open wiring, and bad capacitors.

4:00 - 5:00       QUESTION & ANSWER, QUIZ, EVALUATIONS


Solar Technician Training Workshop

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri May  5 13:20:01 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 3 May 1995 04:36:54 -0400
From: polarbeer@aol.com (PolarBeer)
Message-Id: <3o7fb6$frl@newsbf02.news.aol.com>
Organization: America Online, Inc. (1-800-827-6364)
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
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Reply-To: polarbeer@aol.com (PolarBeer)
Subject: Re: wood pelleting machines?
content-length: 647
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Ralph Arnold    rarnold@teleport.com writes:

>Any suggestions on where to turn to find manufacturers of the machinery
>that are used to make wood pellets (used in pellet-burning wood stoves)?


Try contacting the Pellet Fuels Institute @
Phone: (612) 831-3203
Fax: (612) 831-3283

A good contact in the Portland area would be Eric Smith at ESA Process
Equipment in Vancouver, WA @
Phone: (206) 576-2824
Fax: (206) 576-2825
Eric represents Sprout-Bauer - the largest manufacturer of pelletizing
equipment in the US.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Phil St Jean
Northern Canada
polarbeer@aol.com
72774,3534@compuserve.com
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat May  6 06:20:02 1995
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Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 23:02:01 GMT
From: "Solar Energy Industries Assoc." <seiaopps@ACCESS.DIGEX.NET>
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Subject: SEIA Press Release
content-length: 9425
Status: O
X-Status: 

For Immediate Release   For Further Information Contact
        Scott Sklar, Executive Director
        (202) 383-2600

SOLAR INDUSTRY CALLS COAL INDUSTRY'S
REPORT "SHEER NONSENSE"

Washington, D.C.  (April 27, 1995) The Solar Energy Industries Association
(SEIA), the national trade organization of the photovoltaics and solar
thermal manufacturers, distributors, contractors, and component suppliers,
blasted the April 24th report by the coal industry's front organizations,
the Center for Energy and Economic Development (CEED) and Resource Data
International (RDI), as preposterous and unsupported propaganda.

Said SEIA Executive Director Scott Sklar, "It is unbelievable that the
coal industry, which receives nearly $8 billion in federal subsidies and
tax benefits in a single year, compared to less than $500 million in R&D
and tax incentives for the combined solar, wind, biomass, geothermal,
hydropower, and hydrogen energy industries, would make claims that it
would cost $52 billion to double the use of renewables by 2010."

O According to the April, 1993 study by the Alliance to Save Energy,
"Federal Energy Subsidies: Environmental and Fiscal Impacts," coal
subsidies per year totalled $8 billion (1989 reference year).

O A November, 1992 study by the Department of Energy's Energy Information
Administration, entitled, "Federal Energy Subsidies: Direct and Indirect
Interventions in Energy Markets," illustrated $1.1 billion in subsidies
and tax benefits for the coal industry (FY1992 reference year).  This
estimate, while more conservative, is still more than double the FY1996
request for the entire DOE renewable energy R&D budget.

These studies indicate that by the year 2010, the coal industry will have
reaped between $16.5 and $120 billion in federal taxpayer support (2 to 16
times greater than support for all renewables combined) for a mature
technology that has been in mainstream commercial use for over a hundred
years.  Solar technologies, most less than 20 years old, are only now
emerging in the commercial marketplace, with market growth of 35-40
percent a year over the last five years, and over 65 percent of new
product being exported overseas.

In contrast to the CEED study, Sklar highlighted the April, 1992 study jointly i
ssued by the American Gas Association, the Alliance to Save Energy, and SEIA, en
titled, "An Alternative Energy Future," which concluded that at current levels o
f support, the use of solar and renewables would double by 2010, natural gas wou
ld increase by 30 percent, and coal would decrease by 15 percent.  Furthermore,
over 350,000 net new jobs, as many as employed by the nation's largest automaker
, would be created in the solar and renewables, energy efficiency, and natural g
as industries.  The premise of the study was to show that by using the existing
incentives passed as part of the Energy Policy Act of 1992, the U.S. could meet
the greenhouse gas targets proposed under the UN climate change accords signed i
n Rio.

Sklar attributed the misguided CEED/RDI study to a desperate attack by
some in the coal industry in response to the recent public opinion survey
findings by Republican pollster Vince Breglio.  The telephone interview
questioned 1000 registered voters nation-wide in December, 1994.

O 85 percent of respondents agreed that the federal government should
continue to support public-private partnerships with American business to
promote the sale of renewable energy and efficiency technologies,
including programs to open new domestic and international markets.

O 42 percent ranked renewable energy technologies, including solar, as
their number one funding priority, as compared to 9 percent for nuclear, 7
percent for fossil fuels such as oil and coal, and 15 percent for natural
gas.

O 75 percent of respondents agreed that, while the overall Department of
Energy budget should be reduced, resources should be directed toward
renewable energy and efficiency and away from coal and other conventional
fuel technologies.

Solar technologies are bolstering the U.S. economy in key areas, including
exports and employment.  Over 65 percent of photovoltaics manufactured in
the U.S. are exported to developing countries.  And in contrast to coal,
60 to 80 percent of the solar technology produced in the next 15 years
would be exported overseas, offsetting oil imports which account for the
single largest component of our trade debt.

The solar industries directly employ nearly 20,000 people and support over
150,000 jobs in diverse areas such as glass and steel manufacturing,
electrical and plumbing contracting, architecture and system design,
battery and electrical equipment development, as well as general solar
system manufacturing.  Furthermore, as many as seven new, major
manufacturing plants, some with foreign investment dollars being poured
into the U.S. economy, are being built or are on the cusp of construction.
In comparison, although there currently are approximately 123 million jobs
in the United States, only about 1.4 million, or one percent, are
supported by the conventional energy industry.  Recent studies show a
trend toward even fewer jobs; for example, coal mining employment in the
United States fell by almost 40 percent between 1980 and 1988, even though
coal production grew by 14 percent.  With new methods of automation and
better production methods, the number of coal miners is predicted to
decline even further.

Solar technologies, besides providing good jobs, produce clean,
pollution-free energy.  Conversely, although fossil fuel industries
provide an extraordinarily small number of jobs for American workers, they
contribute most of the carbon emissions that threaten our atmosphere--70%
of the carbon emissions worldwide stem from fossil fuel combustion.  In
1992, United States industries emitted 5.4 tons of carbon in the form of
carbon dioxide per person.  Any new limitations on allowable carbon
emissions also will affect employment in fossil fuel-related occupations,
another reason for us to begin investing in solar energy.  A solar water
heating system, for example, will displace 71.5 tons of carbon dioxide
(CO2) when replacing an electric system, most of which get their
electricity from coal-fired plants.

In regard to the coal group's claim that no solar industry exists today or
will develop in the future because of utility restructuring, Sklar pointed
to signs abound that solar energy being accepted as an integral part of
utility business in a competitive power generation and service
marketplace:


O Over 31 trillion BTUs -- enough to satisfy the water heating needs of
nearly 1.8 million households -- are currently produced in the U.S. by
solar thermal systems, many of which are leased by utilities to consumers;

O Utilities currently use over 355 MW of solar thermal power in the U.S.
to produce more than 1,000 GWh/year -- equivalent to the electricity needs
of 100,000 American households;

O The solar thermal power industry has vowed to raise private capital to
finance a 1000 megawatt Solar Enterprise Zone in Nevada as the first new
wave of commercialization of central receiver, solar/dish engine, solar
trough and photovoltaics technologies.  Also, Solar Two, the first U.S.
baseload solar powerplant is on schedule to open in February 1996.

O Nearly 15 MW of electricity is produced in 36 states by utility-owned or
sponsored, grid-connected photovoltaics (PV).  Thousands of GW of
non-grid-connected applications exist in the U.S. and abroad, which
continue to be a lead market for PV technologies;

O PV-COMPACT, a 5 year pledge of $368 million by over 90 US electric
utilities, the largest renewable energy private sector leveraged program
ever, to help bring on the next generation of photovoltaics plants in the
United States.  The participants represent over 50 percent of the
electricity generating capacity in the U.S.

Sklar stated that solar energy could easily and economically supply 20
percent of the U.S. energy need over the next 30 years if current federal,
state and local programs to promote energy efficiency, renewable energy
development, pollution prevention and fuel diversity are maintained.  The
utilization of solar technology will double over the next 15 years with a
total of $2 billion in federal support -- approximately one quarter of the
coal industry's annual support.  The solar industries would create over
100,000 new, U.S.-based jobs without the pollution; negative environmental
impacts on land, water, and climate change; or black lung and mining
accident related health costs.  For example, according to a 1991 report by
the Mine Safety and Health Administration, nearly 14,000 coal miners are
seriously injured in accidents each year.

The Solar Energy Industries Association called the CEED/RDI study a flawed
and gross attempt to scare the American public with half-baked statistics
of their own invention.  Said Sklar, "the study was ridiculous not only
because it so poorly tried to distort reality, but also because it showed
the coal industry believes that it can aid our country's energy policy
debate by casting aspersions on other technologies.  In fact, the country
needs a diverse supply of energy resources."  Sklar called on the coal
industry and its front groups to stop the negative campaigning and become
a positive player in America's future.

RIGHT ON!!!









SEIA Press Release

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Date: 5 May 1995 07:46:46 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3od376$gq6@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Further perspectives on wall-warmers
content-length: 5635
Status: O
X-Status: 

We are wasting lots of energy in this country now, and a lot of that can
easily be helped. Ex-aerospace engineers like me don't usually work on
energy conservation for houses. Sometimes a different perspective helps.
 
In the last six months I've seen and taken pictures of hundreds of bare
south-facing walls that could be covered with inexpensive glazing a few
inches away from the walls, to make efficient wall-warmers, like the
one described in the Morse 1881 patent, but better and cheaper.
 
In the last six months I've seen and taken pictures of hundreds of
south-facing porches that could easily be enclosed with some sort of glazing
to make low-thermal-mass sunspaces, adding usable winter floorspace to houses,
as well as saving thousands of gallons of oil each year.  
 
There are many existing houses that just happen to have good solar
orientations and appropriate south-facing wall features, that cry out for
these "cream-skimming retrofits," home improvements that are inexpensive,
and save lots of energy...

There are many commercial buildings and schools and churches with easy,
high-performance, retrofit potential as well, especially buildings that were
built after air-conditioning became popular, and before the energy crisis
arrived. Say, from 1950 till 1970, when designers often deliberately
minimized the use of south-facing glass on walls, to reduce the cost of
air-conditioning. Some are still doing this... A local shopping center,
built two years ago, has a bare, cement-block wall on the back, facing
due south, that is about 800 feet long and 12 feet tall, a 10,000 gallon
a year wall. Adding wall warmers to these bare walls can often reduce air
conditioning bills, if they contain some shadecloth and work as solar
chimneys in summertime.

If you travel with a compass, and look at south-facing walls of existing
buildings, you develop an eye for cream-skimming retrofits, large, flat walls
with few windows, often painted white, often facing away from the street,
sometimes with blocked-up windows, sometimes with air conditioners sticking
out of the few windows left.

Sometimes, in cities, people tear down buildings to make parking lots, and
leave huge bare south-facing walls overlooking the parking lots. These walls
cry out for solar facades, advertising sprayed over shadecloth, Elvi on
velvet, banners, wall murals, or supergraphics inside glazed picture frames,
a few inches away from the wall. One rule of thumb is that every square foot
of south-facing glazing gathers the solar heat-equivalent of one or two
gallons of oil per year. 

A few years ago, I gave a college president a square foot of glass, with 
a label that said, "One gallon of oil per year." He asked, "What should I do
with this?" I said, "Show it to the board of directors at the next meeting,
and tell them that there is too little south-facing glass on campus." There
is still far too little south-facing glass on that campus. It seems time now 
to make some square feet of polycarbonate plastic. Lots of them.
 
For new construction, the picture seems even brighter. Many houses now
use vinyl or aluminum siding, and if transparent plastic siding is used
on the south side instead, with no sheathing board underneath, just an air
gap, a piece of inexpensive and durable greenhouse shading cloth, which comes
in many colors, another air gap and 3 1/2" of fiberglass insulation, with
some diagonal wind bracing, the south wall becomes an inexpensive solar air
heater, perhaps costing LESS than a normal 6" wall of a new house... This
can easily provide a reasonable fraction of the heat needed for a new house,
with no thermal storage.

To get close to 100% solar heat and hot water, some thermal storage is needed,
eg some inexpensive 55 gallon drums, perhaps 20 of them, stacked up on the
ground and each other, 4 high, in a 4' wide x 10' long x 8' tall insulated 
"solar closet," a sort of very small unfinished garage, taking up about 2%
of the floorspace of a new 2,000 square foot house. In return, such a house
would need no backup heating system.

The idea of using 55 gallon drums to store heat is not new. Steve Baer
has been using drumwalls to heat his house in New Mexico, for years.
He lives inside his "heat battery." That works well in places with 363
days of sun a year, but here on the east coast, we should be more careful
about storing heat for several cloudy days in a row. Insulating drumwalls
seems like a good idea, in this part of the country, as does keeping them
warmer than room temperature. Making the south side of an insulated drumwall
closet a passive solar air heater with backdraft dampers, can simply provides
the equivalent of movable insulation at night. It doesn't have to be a
completely passive air heater. It might have a small fan, for fan fans.
 
There are many reasons why solar house heating has not become more popular.
Some of them are aesthetic, some have to do with tradition or laziness or
ignorance, or the fact that cheap oil is a way of life in this country.
Few of them are economic, I think, and far fewer are technical reasons.
 
I'd like to show lots of people my slide show of easy retrofit possibilities,
with numbers, and some useful solar tools and materials, eg the Leslie-Locke
FV-1B automatic foundation damper, which sells for $10.83 at home stores, and 
has a bimetallic spring that can be removed and reversed and adjusted for
different temperature ranges, so the foundation vent can become an air damper
that opens on decreasing temperature, replacing $200 worth of active solar
air-heating controls... If you would like to see it, let me know.
 
Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May  7 07:20:09 1995
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Date: Fri, 5 May 1995 06:28:26 GMT
From: Nick Pine <nick@NFS.EE.VILL.EDU>
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Subject: Re: solar steam generation
content-length: 203
Status: O
X-Status: 

Norman Saunders has a patent on that...

Nick

(Are we ever going to get the reply field working correctly in this froup?)

Re: solar steam generation                                                   R

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May  7 09:20:17 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 5 May 1995 02:51:53 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3ochu9$g5h@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <pmclaasn.21.0010F940@ING.SUN.AC.ZA>, <3oa5e0$eqt@net.auckland.ac.nz>, <1995May4.111708.48181@msuvx1.memphis.edu>
Subject: Re: 80% SOLAR MATERIAL efficiency
content-length: 5160
Status: O
X-Status: 

R. Wesley Foster <urwfoster@cc.memphis.edu> wrote:

>Surely, N. isn't concerned about the current state of world affairs but
>rather more into the greed driven side of energy.

Au contraire, mon ami. I've been interested in solar heating for the last 20
years. I added Trombe walls to my old house in 1980, and I'm still improving
it (see below.) This started out being fun for me because I liked the idea
of getting something for nothing, but now it's a fairly expensive hobby.

Since our big oil war, I'm quite conscious of the connection between oil
and the loss of 500,000 human lives in Iraq, by one estimate, most of them
children, who died from starvation, poor sanitation and no medical treatment
after we killed 100,000 of their parents directly, for cheap oil...

Amory Lovins said in his 12/94 Atlantic article that we probably would not
have invaded Iraq had they only grown broccoli. For years, we shamelessly
funded both Iran and Iraq in their war with each other, supplying weapons
and money to both, in an attempt to create a "balance" that would ensure
cheap oil for our wasteful energy habits and make Exxon rich. Kuwait was
more or less created entirely by Standard Oil, setting up some rich sheiks
to sell us oil cheap in the 50s. WE are the international terrorists now,
not the arabs... We walk up to the arabs and point a gun at their heads
and say "You don't REALLY want to raise the price of your oil, do you?"

In private life this would be called extortion or robbery. Imagine going down
to the supermarket with a gun and telling the checkout clerk that the oranges
are too expensive. You would like to pay a bit less... Imagine walking into
the bursar's office with a gun, and saying you don't want to pay more than
$500 for the linear systems course, because the professor is so dull. Even
before George Bush, the five previous presidents, including gentle, Christian,
blessed, peacemaking Jimmy Carter, had publicly threatened war in the middle
east if they "cut off our vital supply of oil," and I believe that included
raising the price significantly... We are addicted to oil in this country,
as well as cocaine.

It's  their  oil, not ours, and they have a basic right to sell it for any
price that they want to sell it for. We have been bullying them into selling
it to us cheaply for years. And killing them, lately, en masse. This is not
a good thing. Killing people is bad, and it cannot go on. For one thing,
there is only a finite amount of oil in the world. It WILL run out...

>...a chair wrapped in gauze couldn't be a beachball but rather a gauzeball!!!

You may be one of the great fuzzy thinkers of our time :-)

Article: 3458 of alt.architecture.alternative
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Newsgroups: alt.architecture.alternative
Subject: radiant floor heating, sort of...
Date: 4 May 1995 06:48:43 -0400
Organization: Villanova University

My 1820 stone farmhouse now has a transparent steep south-facing attic
roof, which makes a very nice space upstairs, as well as a 600 ft^2
solar air heater, with a roof made from 4' wide x 12' long sheets of
clear corrugated polycarbonate plastic greenhouse roofing that costs
about a dollar a square foot. The south roof still looks a lot like
the north roof now, which is still covered with corrugated metal...
Except that when the sun is shining, and you look at it dead on, you
can still make out the cedar shingle purlins under the Dynaglas. I think
they would disappear if I put some shadecloth underneath, on the inside.

And we are starting to renovate the bathroom. The first step has been to
take all the plaster off one wall and rough-point the stone on the inside.
The wall was very dry, since it has polyurethane foam on the outside.

When we got down to the floor, there was this ugly new baseboard radiator
there, near the gap where the wood floor met the stone wall, getting in
the way of some cabinets-to-be, so we took off its metal skin and soldered
the fin tube into the loop downstairs, near the basement ceiling, just under
where it used to run on the floor above. It should collect less dust there.
I haven't used the oil burner in a year.

I wonder why more people don't put fin tubes under uninsulated first floors
of houses, near basement ceilings. Heat rises, and a wood floor has a low
R-value, and if the heat spreads out under the first floor, the heat transfer
area is increased, so the R-value of the floor is a lot less important...
I think I could make the floor disappear, mathematically. Perhaps the basement
ceiling should have a radiant barrier, some builder's foil stapled to the
ceiling, under the fin tubes... 

When I first moved into this house, the old radiators had frozen (in fact,
all the plumbing had frozen--ick) and when I got new baseboard radiators
put in, I noticed that some of the few electrical outlets in the rooms
disappeared, and the rooms got a bit smaller, since in many cases, furniture
had to be farther out from the walls... I'm thinking now of moving all the
fin tubes under the floors, so that all that will show above will be the
holes where the pipes used to come up from the basement.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May  7 14:20:16 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 5 May 1995 07:23:56 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3od1sc$glu@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: Re: Goin' off-line     help!!!!!!!
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>I will be moving to the end of the road above Rogue River, Oregon where 
>there ain't no power an' there ain't no phone.  Problem is, there ain't 
>no power an' there ain't no phone.  

I'd ask your local (or not so local) phone company about InterDigital
radio telephones. They give you a real phone in the house, with a standard
telephone interface, for modems, fax, etc. They use digital voice compression
and digital transmission in the 400 Mhz radio range, with a small sort of
TV antenna on the house. The antenna sites are custom-engineered, like
microwave links, for landline vs cellular reliability, ie, outages of
a few seconds a year, vs. 10% of the time, with some cellular scenarios.

These phone systems are often very cost-effective in remote, low-density
areas, where the alternative is running a wire 20 miles to a single
subscriber. InterDig sells most of its product overseas, where you might
find a solar-powered phone on a mud hut, with no running water, etc.

I used to be their patent agent.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed May 10 09:22:26 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 9 May 1995 16:30:21 -0400
From: seiaopps@access3.digex.net (Solar Energy Industries Assoc.)
Message-Id: <3oojct$acg@access3.digex.net>
Organization: Express Access Online Communications, Greenbelt, MD USA
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Subject: FEMP Training Program and Reception Invitation
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Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Training Institute 
122 C Street, NW, 4th floor, 
Washington DC 20001 

Invitation to a Renewable Energy Industry Reception 
June 5, 1995 5:00-7:00pm 
Madison Hotel, Washington DC

REETI has co-developed with NREL a course for the Federal Energy
Management Program on "Implementing Renewable Energy Projects" to be run
for the first time in Washington DC on June 5th and 6th.  This two day
course is designed to introduce federal facility energy managers and their
engineers and contractors to cost-effective renewable energy technologies
available for new and retrofit construction and electricity generation. 

As part of this event, REETI is hosting a reception and exhibition June
5th at the Madison Hotel from 5:00 to 7:00pm for the facility managers and
others to meet some of the renewable energy industry.  If you are an
industry person involved with one of the technologies listed below and are
interested in attending and/or exhibiting at the reception, please sign-up
with REETI.  THERE IS NO COST FOR ATTENDING OR EXHIBITING.

The Audience as of May 2 included over 60 federal government officials and
their contractors, including one or more representatives from the
following government agencies: 

Veterans Affairs, Forest Service, Secret Service, Navy, Coast Guard,
National Guard, Maritime Administration, USSAH, National Park Service,
Department of Energy, Department of Interior, GSA, Army National Guard, US
EPA, FAA, Army, Department of Labor, CIA, Air Force, Department of
Agriculture, Department of Treasury, National Institute of Health, and the
Bureau of Printing and Engraving.

Technologies to be discussed include:

       Passive solar technologies for heating and cooling
       Ground source heat pumps for heating and cooling
       Solar water heating
       Solar preheating of ventilation air
       Photovoltaic and wind energy systems for remote or backup power
       Biomass systems for process heat or cogeneration 

For a copy of the course brochure which describes the course a little more
thoroughly, contact Chris DeChaine of EASI at 301-230-1502. 
       
To sign-up to attend and/or exhibit at the reception contact Jeff Keas of
REETI at ph: 202-383-2614, fx: 202-383-2670. 







From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri May 12 04:22:42 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 10:26:21 GMT
From: Nick Pine <nick@NFS.EE.VILL.EDU>
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Subject: Re: Used Solar Panel Source???
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>Greetings,

Hi Rob,

>I work for a public schools system in Mass. that is developing a mandatory
>environmental sciences cirriculum. In order to demonstrate alternative
>energy principles, I'd like to power the classroom lights (at least) using
>solar power only. This would be a great way for a new generation to become
>accustomed to alternative energy.

I don't think so. How about doing something with solar thermal power,
which is about 100X more cost-effective? Or invite Norman Saunders or
Tom Sciacca of Intelligen cogen systems to come talk to your class, if
you are near Boston...

A lean-to sunspace, or solar siding, here in the northeast, would cost about
a dollar a square foot with plastic glazing, and produce the heat equivalent
of about 1-2 gallons of oil per heating season, for the adjacent house, and
perhaps some living space and food. A 3 month payback period if you build it
in the Fall.

Heat production still seems like it should be a high priority, followed by hot
water, then maybe electricity, in declining order of ergs/year/$-invested...

It still continues to amaze me that so many people are interested in PV
applications, when there is so much oil being consumed for home heating in
this country, and solar house heating pays for itself at least 10 times
faster. Photovoltaics seem sort of trendy or glamorous... I don't know.
Maybe all the PV people live in warm places, where they don't need heat
at all, or they all live in the southwest, and already easily heat their
houses with the sun.

But I think that only about 2% of the houses in the US are solar heated now,
and it seems to me that that can be done anywhere in the US... At least
anywhere that people need house heat at all, which is most places... So
it seems to me that there is a huge job to be done, which is being largely
ignored by people interested in photovoltaics... Perhaps they are fiddling
while Rome burns.

I wonder how many people have large oil bills for house heating and also have
large arrays of PV cells on the roof? I wonder how many people have PV cells
on the roof and stacks of batteries in the house, and a large oil burner that
they use every day for heat, and a nearby grid they could easily connect to,
but don't? Why don't more people sell PV power back to the electric companies
in this country, using synchronous grid-tie inverters instead of piles of
batteries, like they do in europe? Part of it must be a psychologically
peculiar and unhealthy pride in being completely independent, in one aspect
of life, vs an attitude of harmony and cooperation. Part of it may be that
oil is so cheap, and we are so used to using that for heat. But I digress :-)

I suppose photovoltaics are more useful than those solar pith helmets
in the Real Goods catalog, but I don't know... Putting human energy
and money into PVs when there is so much oil that could be saved with
more solar house heating seems very strange to me. Irresponsible, even.
It seems almost like criminal negligence, given that we have just killed
100,000 people in the name of ensuring cheap oil for our wasteful house
heating habits. It's a little like H. L. Mencken's description of our
election of Coolidge. He said something like: "For a nation of 50,000,000
able-bodied and fairly intelligent people to elect someone like Coolidge
for president, is as if a person facing a dinner table of the finest viandes,
perfect pastries, wonderful vegetables and breathtaking desserts were to
turn around and begin to catch and eat flies."

But each to his own taste, I suppose... I don't really want to control
the behavior of other people, but when they seem to be acting very peculiar,
I feel a sort of urge to point that out once in a while...

>Any ideas???  THANKS!

I'd suggest you focus on space heating first, then perhaps water
heating, then maybe electricity...

Article: 1308 of alt.architecture.alternative
From: clarion@dorsai.org (Clarissa Coffey)
Subject: A solar cave
Organization: The Dorsai Diplomatic Mission NYs Computer Consulate
Date: Sun, 30 Oct 1994 14:33:14 GMT

Rex Roberts talked about caves dug into south-facing hills...

Suppose cavepersons had had glass:

                    .         ^
                     .        | up
                      .
     R10 earth at      .        south ==>
         55 degrees F   .
                         .
                        / g    If the enterprising caveperson had insulated
            Rc         /   g       the inside of the cavern with leaves and
    ------------------g  W  g       mud, until, say, Rc = 10, and the daytime
   |                  .----- .       temp of the cavern had been 65 degrees F
   |  20 x 20' cavern |       .       and the nighttime temp had been 55, and
   |     10' tall     |        .       he or she had desired to warm the cave
   |                  |         .       for, say, 5 days without sun, with an
    --------Rf--------           .       average sunnytime steady-state floor
   |vaulted -- stone  |           .       temp of, say 90 F, and mammoth skins
   |   -----  -----   | T          .       piled on top of the floor to make
   |---   floor    ---|             .       a sunny day R-value of Rf (which
        .                .           .       skins could be moved aside to
             .             Rc .   .   .       decrease the R-value of the floor
                 .                     g       during sunless times), how much
Note that since      .Rc                g       glass area, Ag, would have been
the upper edge of the    .               g  Ag   needed, and what would Rf and
glass is lower than the      .            g       the average floor thickness T
bottom of the floor, the floor   .Aa       g        have had to have been,
stays warm during sunless times,     .      g        ignoring the clerestory
because of this igloo-like heat trap.    .   g        cave window, W?
(How did the caveperson insulate around     . g
the edge of the floor?)                        g        south ==>
                                                .
The daily heatloss of the cavern would have been .
                                                  .
    Lday = (8 hours)(1200 ft^2/R20)(65-55) ~ 5K Btu.       32 F outside temp
                                                    .
During sunny times, the sun would shine onto the     .
absorbing surface Aa, assumed equal to Ag, and some   .
heat would be lost thru Rc to the earth underneath...  .
                                                        .
The daily net heat resulting from each square foot of    .
glass might have been on the order of                     .
                                                           .
    Eg = 1000 - 8(90-32)/R1 - 8(90-55)/R20                  .
         sun    glass loss    absorber back loss             .
       = 500 Btu/ft^2/day                                     .
                                                               .
So keeping the cavern warm might have required only about       .
10 ft^2 of glass... A 3.16 x 3.16' single-glazed window, or      .
an early sliding-glass door...                                    .
                                                                   .
The mammoth-skin floor resistance would want to have been about     .
                                                                     .
    Rf = (90-65)(400 ft^2)/(5000/8) = R-16.                           .
                                                                       .
    During sunless days, the skins would be moved around or a trapdoor  .
    in the floor would have been opened to reduce this, to get more heat .
    out of the floor...                                                   .
                                                                           .
Assuming the floor would have had a minimum R-value of 1, per square foot   .
(both sides), the required heat transfer rate would have been about 5000/8   .
Btu/hour, from 800 ft^2 of floor, which leads to a minimum temperature        .
differential, after 5 days, of about 1 degree F.

So if the masonry had held about 22 Btu/ft^3/degree F, the floor thickness
might have wanted to be about

    T = (5 days)(5000 Btu/day)/((90-66)(22)(400 ft^2)) = .12'

    Hmmm. Ferro-cement...

Other modern improvements might include making the whole thing above ground,
including some throwaway diet-pepsi bottles filled with water in the floor,
making the absorbing surface a parabolic reflector, and making the floor a
wall.

Nick Pine (nick@ece.vill.edu)


Article: 3458 of alt.architecture.alternative
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Newsgroups: alt.architecture.alternative
Subject: radiant floor heating, sort of...
Date: 4 May 1995 06:48:43 -0400
Organization: Villanova University

My 1820 stone farmhouse now has a transparent steep south-facing attic
roof, which makes a very nice space upstairs, as well as a 600 ft^2
solar air heater, with a roof made from 4' wide x 12' long sheets of
clear corrugated polycarbonate plastic greenhouse roofing that costs
about a dollar a square foot. The south roof still looks a lot like
the north roof now, which is still covered with corrugated metal...
Except that when the sun is shining, and you look at it dead on, you
can still make out the cedar shingle purlins under the Dynaglas. I think
they would disappear if I put some shadecloth underneath, on the inside.

And we are starting to renovate the bathroom. The first step has been to
take all the plaster off one wall and rough-point the stone on the inside.
The wall was very dry, since it has polyurethane foam on the outside.

When we got down to the floor, there was this ugly new baseboard radiator
there, near the gap where the wood floor met the stone wall, getting in
the way of some cabinets-to-be, so we took off its metal skin and soldered
the fin tube into the loop downstairs, near the basement ceiling, just under
where it used to run on the floor above. It should collect less dust there.
I haven't used the oil burner in a year.

I wonder why more people don't put fin tubes under uninsulated first floors
of houses, near basement ceilings. Heat rises, and a wood floor has a low
R-value, and if the heat spreads out under the first floor, the heat transfer
area is increased, so the R-value of the floor is a lot less important...
I think I could make the floor disappear, mathematically. Perhaps the basement
ceiling should have a radiant barrier, some builder's foil stapled to the
ceiling, under the fin tubes...

When I first moved into this house, the old radiators had frozen (in fact,
all the plumbing had frozen--ick) and when I got new baseboard radiators
put in, I noticed that some of the few electrical outlets in the rooms
disappeared, and the rooms got a bit smaller, since in many cases, furniture
had to be farther out from the walls... I'm thinking now of moving all the
fin tubes under the floors, so that all that will show above will be the
holes where the pipes came up from the basement.

Nick


Article: 118 of alt.solar.thermal
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Newsgroups: alt.solar.thermal,alt.energy.renewable,alt.architecture.alternative
Subject: Super-Solar Houses
Followup-To: alt.solar.thermal
Date: 14 Apr 1995 08:24:22 -0400
Organization: Villanova University

_Super-Solar Houses--Saunders's Low-Cost, 100% Solar Designs_

By William A. Shurcliff (with extensive help from Norman B. Saunders)

Copyright 1983 by William A. Shurcliff

Brick House Publishing Company, Andover MA

Table of Contents

1. Introduction                            1
2. Preview of the Three Houses             7
3. General Strategies                     15

I. Shrewsbury House

4. Shrewsbury House: Specific Strategies  23
5. Attic Solar Window                     38
6. Upper Thermal-Storage System           46
7. Lower Thermal-Storage System           49
8. Greenhouse                             53
9. Air-Drive System                       57
10. South Window System                   61
11. Non-South Windows                     65
12. Other Components                      67
13. Operation in Summer                   72
14. Performance                           76
15. Cost                                  84
16. Discussion                            85

II. Cliff House

17. Cliff House: A General Overview       91
18. Sunspace                              99
19. Thermal-Storage Systems              105
20. Main Airflow System                  108
21. Other Components                     113
22. Wintertime Performance               115
23. Keeping Cool in Summer               117

III. All-Solar-Too House

24. All-Solar-Too House: Main Goals
    and Strategies                       121

IV. Comparison

25. Comparison of the Three Houses       131

Patents and Trademarks                   137
Bibliography                             138
Index                                    140

Introduction
------------

This book is about three remarkable houses. One, called Shrewsbury House,
was essentially completed and occupied late in 1981; through two winters
and one summer it has performed with full success. Another, called Cliff
House, is nearly complete as of this writing (May 1983.) The third, called
All-Solar-Too House, is a design prepared for the 1982 Gardenway Passive
Solar Design Competition; as yet no construction is scheduled.

Main Performance Features

All three houses, employing unique solar heating systems invented and
engineered by Norman B. Saunders of Weston, Massachusetts, are 100%
solar heated. More exactly, they are kept warm by intrinsic heat sources
(human bodies, electric lights, cooking stove, etc.) and by solar energy.
None has a furnace or wood stove. Also, all stay cool in summer.

The "100% solar heated" claim [now much stronger, in 1995, after 12 years
of electronic data logging of house temperatures, etc.--Nick] needs some
slight qualification. Although the houses will remain comfortable throughout
the winter without auxilliary heat, the occupants may, on certain occasions,
make use of a small electric heater to make one room extra warm, if someone
in the house is ill, or to accelerate the drying of fresh paint. And they may
do so when, for experimental purposes, various changes are made in system
components or in control procedures. One house, Cliff House, has a fireplace
that was included for reasons of esthetics.

All three houses have many attractive features other than heating
self-sufficiency. Operation is automatic, or hearly so. The houses
remain fairly warm in winter even if left unoccupied for a week or more.
Each has an integral south greenhouse or sunspace. Each has ample window
areas, not only on the south, but also on the east, west and north.

In each of these houses, the space heating system employs no conventional
collector panels, no pumps, no valves, no drains, no moving liquid, no pipes.
There are no Trombe walls. In none of the living-area rooms is there any
bulky equipment used solely for space heating. Thus there is great freedom
of choice in room layout, furniture placement, etc.

All three houses have automatic passive solar preheating of the domestic
hot water supply.

Low Cost

For each house, construction cost is low--about the same as for a conventional
house of comparable size and comfort. More interestingly, the construction
cost is comparable to, or slightly lower than, that of a typical 40-80%
passively solar-heated house, and it is much lower than that of a typical
_actively_ solar-heated house.

How can the cost be so low? Because:

o Most of the components consist of low-cost materials--air, water,
  stones, glass, plastic, fiberglass, etc.

o Most of the components can be assembled on-site by carpenters and
  others of typical competence.

o There is no furnace, no oil tank, no furnace room, no furnace
  chimney, no radiators, no air conditioner.

Operating cost is low--$50 to $100 per year for electric power to run the
one or two small fans that are the heart of the temperature control system.

Comparison with Other Leading Designs

How do these three houses compare with other outstandingly successful,
energy-conserving passive solar houses in the United States and Canada?
It is premature to make judgements with respect to Cliff House and
All-Solar-Too House. But Shrewsbury House has been in use throughout two
winters and one summer, and the record is clear: its performance has been
superb. I make the guess that its performance equals or surpasses that of all
other houses--in the USA or Canada--of comparable size, comfort, etc.

Many hundred superinsulated houses have been built and operated for
one or more years and have performed excellently. They keep warm in
winter and cool in summer. But nearly all of them require an auxiliary
heating system. Most have no greenhouse. Many require operating thermal
shades in the evening and in the morning. Many have smaller-than-normal
areas of windows on the east, west, and north sides of the house.

Scores of double-envelope houses have been built and operated for two
or more years. They have performed well, and annual fuel bills have
been of the order of $200 or less. But auxiliary heating systems are
needed and some rooms are sometimes on the chilly side. Many double-envelope
houses entailed considerable extra construction cost, of the order of
$5,000 to $15,000. (Some early builders of double-envelope houses have
recently lost some of their enthusiasm for the double envelope itself
and are attaching greater significance to earth-coupling and solar energy
storage--a shift toward some of the features that, in Saunders-designed
houses, play major roles.)

About 100,000 passive solar houses that have large areas of south-facing
windows and much added thermal mass have been built and have been in use
for two or more years. Nearly all of these require auxiliary heating systems;
many require large areas of thermal mass that preempt space in the most
important part of the house--the south part; many employ large thermal
shutters or shades that must be operated twice a day; many suffer from
excessive glare on sunny days; many tend to overheat, especially on very
hot days late in the summer when the solar energy input via the south
windows is especially large.

Clearly it is a noteworthy advance when a solar engineer develops designs
that, besides requiring no auxiliary heating system, provide an integral
greenhouse, have ample window areas on all sides of the house, operate
automatically (no thermal shutters or shades to operate), reduce glare,
keep cool in the summer, and solar-preheat the domestic hot water supply.
To do all this at a cost that is no greater than that of a conventional
house is a landmark achievement.

The performance of the Shrewsbury House is now well proven, and I am
confident that Cliff House and All-Solar-Too House have the capability
of approximating its superb performance.

Crumbling the Classic Rule, "Do not try to achieve 100% solar heating."

Ten years ago, most solar architects and engineers were convinced that,
in designing houses for cold climates (such as New England), it was foolish
to try to achieve 100% solar heating. Prestigious experts made detailed
calculations that showed conclusively (they said) that, in New England
for example, it was unwise to try to achieve more than about 50-70%
solar heating. They warned that the cost of achieving a higher percentage,
such as 80% or 90%, would be enormous and would far outweigh the benefits.
Even if the designer were to double the size of the collector and double
the size  of the storage system, he would get only about 90% solar heating.
To achieve 100% might require tripling the sizes, and much of the added
capacity would be useful only on five or ten days a year.

Especially clear warnings against attempting to achieve 100% solar
heating in cold climates are contained in articles by G. O. G. Lof and
R. A. Tybout. See, for example, their article in Natural Resource Journal,
Vol. 10(2), p. 268, 1970, or their article in Solar Energy, Vol. 14, p. 253,
1973. Tybout was an economist and Lof was one of the world's foremost solar
heating experts...

Faith in the experts' negative pronouncements began to weaken a few years ago,
with the advent of superinsulated houses. By 1981 there were hundreds of such
houses, and by the spring of 1983 one or two thousand had been completed or
were under construction in the USA or Canada. Most of these houses require
only $50 to $150 worth of fuel per winter, and a few come close to being
100% heated by the combination of intrinsic heat and direct-gain solar energy.
Many such houses have no furnace, but do have a wood stove or a small electric
heater.

The final crumbling of the experts' gloomy view occurred in January and
February of 1982. In these midwinter months, Robert Bushey, owner and
occupant of Shrewsbury House, found that his house held at about 70 F--
day and night, in clear weather adn overcast weather, with no backup heat
at all. The goal was reached: 100% solar heating in a cold climate! It was
reached at no extra cost. For good measure, the goal was achieved without
turning the thermostat that controls the fan below 70 degrees F, without
reducing the areas of east, west, and north windows, without needing to
close thermal shutters each night and open them each morning, and without
curtailing fresh air input.

Why a full-length book?

To devote an entire book to three solar-heated houses may seem absurd.
A typical solar house can be described in a few pages.

But Saunders's three low-cost, 100% solar houses are different--very
different. They embody several radically new approaches to solar heating.
The design goals and also the general strategies used are new and strange, and
some of the key components are puzzling even to experienced solar designers.

A galaxy of new concepts is involved.

To clearly convey what the designs are all about, and what exactly the
heating and cooling systems consist of, requires a book.

Norman Saunders: Inventor and Doer

Norman B. Saunders, a professional engineer residing at 15 Ellis Road,
Weston, MA 02193, is a thoughtful, quiet, deliberate inventor: an inventor
of the lone-wolf type and one of New Englands's best known solar consultants.

His passion is devices that are simple, homely and durable. He avoids
like the plague any device that is merely brilliant, flashy, impressive, or
striking. From forty years' experience in physics, mechanical engineering,
electrical engineering, and electronics engineering, he has developed the
greatest distrust of "brilliant" devices which, so often, turn out to cost
three times as much as anyone had predicted and to break down much too
promptly.

He turns his back instantly, with no apology, on most types of conventional
solar heating equipment.

Ignoring popular trends in solar design, he goes his own way, trying
to formulate the heating and cooling requirements in the simplest and
most basic way possible.

One of his main approaches is to use a multipronged attack: use a lot
of "little" pieces of equipment that will work together well. Each,
although simple and unimpressive, contributes significantly. Together
they provide a full but low-cost solution.

Accordingly, his inventions cover a broad range, from special glazing
materials and special window structures to special south roof louver
systems, special heat-storage assemblies, and special airflow controls; also,
various special systems for use in commercial buildings, eg high-temperature
(steam-producing) systems. (The appendix lists many of his patents.)

But he does a lot more than think and patent: he tries out his inventions
prompltly. He puts them to work, either in his own house or in houses of
friends or clients. Often he continues to improve a given invention,
year after year.

Some of the solar houses that he has designed--and that have worked well--
are described in my earlier books... His first solar house is described in
his book Solar Heating Basics [a new edition may be coming... :-)] and in
a very recent report. See also the book by Carriere and Day.

I have found his patents hard to read, hard to understand. My impression is
that very few people have given the patents the attention that they deserve.
He has written a number of reports on his inventions, but they are heavy
reading.

For all these reasons, his major contributions to the art of solar heating
have been, until now, little known outside of New England. This is true even
though he has been generous with his time in presenting papers on his
developments at various meetings of solar energy societies and in giving
monthly talks and seminars to local groups on the theory and practice of
solar heating.

...

Some patents (copies of which are available for $3 each from The Commissioner
of Patents and Trademarks/Washington, DC 20231)

3,952,947 4/27/76  Solar heating system employing controlled
                   introduction of outdoor air via a special window.

4,078,603 3/14/78  Skylight-type collector with storage and
                   distribution systems.

4,123,002 10/31/78 System for controlling air temperature, humidity
                   and ventilation with use of ground coupling.

4,157,639 6/12/79  Seals for vertical and sloping windows or glazing.

4,201,189 5/6/80   South window solar-radiation absorbing element (as
                   in Shrewsbury House and All-Solar-Too House.)

4,296,733 10/27/81 Transparent roof employing reflective louvers that
                   admit much solar radiation in winter and admit little
                   solar radiation in summer.

Note: US patents are normally valid for 17 years from date of issue.

Nick




Re: Used Solar Panel Source???                                               R

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May 14 04:53:35 1995
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Date: 10 May 1995 06:29:52 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3oq4j0$k46@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: A high-performance, cost-effective, solar heated pool
content-length: 4142
Status: O
X-Status: 

Solar pool heating should be easy, since temperatures are low, it is usually
done only in mild weather, and there is a large inherent water heat battery.
The May/June issue of Solar Today has a primer on conventional solar pool
heating that says: "In many areas of the country, solar pool heating is the
most economically attractive solar technology available today."

But there is still room for improvement, especially for year-round heating.
Yesterday, a physics teacher told me about a remarkable house that was next
to a swimming pool, which was under a conventional greenhouse. In winter, the
engineer/owner pumped some of the swimming pool water into the house, to heat
the house. This was done years ago, in PA, and it's probably all gone now,
along with the engineer. I wonder how it worked. A water-source heat pump?

Here is one way to heat a pool:

1. Put a 16 x 32' piece of plastic on the ground, and lay some cement blocks
on top. Lay some plywood or steel greenhouse bench mesh on top of the cement
blocks. One could also support the plywood with 55 gallon drums full of water,
standing upright. 

2. Buy a 15 x 30' rectangular steel pool from J C Penny, for about $2000.
Or build one out of 2 x 6s on 4' centers, with ferrocement over 4' wide
chicken wire. Set this up on top of the hollow platform above.

3. Make a 15 x 30' rigid pool cover out of 2" of beadboard and 2 x 4s, with a
layer of Thermo-ply underneath, sprayed with clear urethane, shiny side down,
and another layer of Thermo-ply on top, shiny side up. This would be hinged
along the 32' north edge of the pool, with a few counterweights hanging over
the north edge.

4. Buy a 21' x 36' commercial plastic film greenhouse, for about $1000, from
Stuppy at (800) 877-5025 or E C Geiger at (800) 432-9434, and put it up over
the pool. Or build an A frame over the pool, with Dynaglas for the south side
and ferrocement over kerfed 16' 2 x 4s, every 4', for the curved north side.
Attach a garage door opener to the top, to lift up the pool cover to an angle
of about 45 degrees, when the sun is shining and the pool needs heat. 

5. Make a hollow bench along each 16' edge of the pool, to form an air
distribution plenum, for the space under the pool. At one endwall of the
greenhouse, make a 4 ft^2 vertical airshaft or duct from the peak of the
greenhouse to the middle of the bench. Fit a 2000 cfm exhaust fan (perhaps
solar powered) to the middle of the bench at the other end of the pool. 

In the Philadelphia area, in January, the average amount of sun that comes
into the greenhouse, Ein, is about 12' (height) x 36' x 1000 Btu/ft^2/day, ie
430K Btu/day, over about 6 hours. The average outdoor temperature in this area
in January is about 30F. Say the pool were kept at 80F, in January.

Then the amount of energy that leaves the pool each day, Eout, would be about

    6 hours x 15 x 30 (80-30)/R1 = 135K thru the top, when the sun is shining,
+  18 hours x 15 x 30 (80-30)/R12 = 34K thru the top, at other times,
+  24 hours x 360 ft^2 (80-30)/Rs = 430K/Rs, thru the sides.

So if Ein = Eout,  135K + 34K + 430K/Rs = 430K, so 430K/Rs = 261K, so the side
insulation would have to be at least Rs = 430K/261K, about R2, eg 1/2" of
white beadboard, glued to the sides of the pool.

If the 12,000 gallon pool were closed up, while the sun didn't shine for a few
days, it would initially lose heat at a rate of about 45K Btu/day through the
top, and 130K Btu/day through the R2 sides, so the water temperature in the
pool would initially decrease by about (45K + 130K)/(12,000 x 8lb/gallon) = 2
degrees F per day.

Possible enhancements include a solar pool cover to reduce evaporation losses
when the top is up, a white surface or a reflecting pond on the ground along
the south edge of the greenhouse, a layer of vertical glazing along the 30'
south side of the pool, tomato plants, an indoor herb garden, orange trees,
lights, fountains, insulation for the north greenhouse roof, and another layer
of glazing or UV-transparent Tedlar film for the south side, to allow tanning
in January. 

Nick

PS: This might also make a dandy sewage treatment system.

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May 14 07:23:29 1995
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Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 11:28:17 GMT
From: Robert Winfield <winfield@CPCUG.ORG>
Message-Id: <27921.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Solar panels (fwd)
content-length: 1263
Status: RO
X-Status: 

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 11:14:53
From: ALAN NOBLE <anoble@balloons.win-uk.net>
To: balloon@lut.ac.uk
Subject: Solar panels

Following his historic solo crossing of the Pacific in a
Roziere balloon Steve Fossett is planning another long distance
balloon flight - I can't say what, but it will be with his existing
balloon. I would like to be able to equip him with lightweight
solar panels capable of generating around 13V dc (it has to be
greater than 12V dc to charge the batteries) at a minimum of 5
amps (preferably more). Solar panels for charging boat batteries
are easy to source, but the substrate is too heavy. Equally I
don't want to use film panels over the top of the balloon because
of the loss in the down-lead. My plan is to clamp lightweight
structures to the burner poles, top of the fuel tanks (so they can
be angled manually to face the sun), or even hang them below the
gondola in a cone or triangular config.
Does anybody on the list have knowledge of solar panel technology,
or is able to point me in the direction of somebody that does?
Please reply to my e-mail address - ANOBLE@BALLOONS.WIN-UK.NET - to
save clogging the airwaves. Many thanks. Alan Noble at Cameron
Balloons UK.


Solar panels (fwd)

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat May 13 23:23:19 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Mon, 8 May 1995 15:21:25 GMT
From: ifjed@nmsua.nmsu.edu (Slieve M'Daid)
Message-Id: <ifjed.760.2FAE36F5@nmsua.nmsu.edu>
Organization: Alamogordo Branch Community College
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Zomeworks Sunflow
content-length: 89
Status: RO
X-Status: 

That's Zomeworks Sunflow, a freeze-tolerant solar water heating system for 
about $1000.

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May 14 13:23:25 1995
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Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 14:16:04 GMT
From: Renewable News Network <rnn@WORLD.STD.COM>
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Subject: NEW ENGLAND ENERGY TASK FORCE (NEETF)
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1:30 PM Tuesday, May 16, 1995 TASK FORCE MEETING

Conference Rooms, 11th Floor, One Congress Street,
Boston, MA.

The theme will be "Electricity Competition:  How
Efficiency and Renewables Can Plug-In."  Speakers
include:

=F9 Theo MacGregor, Conservation Coordinator, MA Division
of Public Utilities, Boston, MA
=F9 Jeanne Sole, Staff Attorney - Conservation Law
Foundation, Boston, MA
=F9 Donald Bradshaw, Senior Consultant, Arthur D. Little,
Cambridge, MA
=F9 Larry Alexander, Executive Director, Consortium for
Energy Efficiency, Boston, MA
=F9 Erika Morgan, Deputy Commissioner, MA Division of
Energy Resources
=F9 Harvey Michaels, President-CEO, Xenergy Corporation

Each speaker will make a brief statement, respond to
comments and questions from co-speakers and then the
floor will be open for questions from meeting
participants.

Organization and Work Group Coordinators will report as
appropriate on current activities, accomplishments and
challenges.  Our goal is to promote more efficient energy
use and a better balanced energy resource system to
assure an adequate supply of energy at reasonable costs.

If you wish to continue to receive NEETF Agendas and
Minutes, please send your request to:

Hugh Saussy, Jr., Director - Region I
Department of Energy - Boston Office
One Congress Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02114

              --------> <RNN> Renewable News Network
                                  info@rnn.com
NEW ENGLAND ENERGY TASK FORCE (NEETF)

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May 14 10:53:26 1995
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Date: Wed, 10 May 95 00:49:51 -0500
From: Josh Myers <joshmyers@delphi.com>
Message-Id: <Jg2fj0P.joshmyers@delphi.com>
Organization: Delphi (info@delphi.com email, 800-695-4005 voice)
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Subject: Re: Sunpower Stirling Engine
content-length: 500
Status: RO
X-Status: 

the sd100 is kind of old technology isnt it?.  William Beale has move
a long way past that engine.  as I remember that was sort of 1978?
design.  he is up working with cummins on free piston generators for
solar applications now.  they have a 7.5kw unit built and running.
i cant remember if beale has an address at the shop but he did have
an e-mail address at ohio state I think.  a good description of the sd100
in "lecture notes in engineeing" by walker and senft,  springer-verlag
publishers
jm

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May 14 12:23:23 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Sat, 13 May 95 22:50:57 PST
From: "Ralph D. Arnold" <rarnold@teleport.com>
Message-Id: <91550.rarnold@teleport.com>
Organization: Teleport - Portland's Public Access (503) 220-1016
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Subject: Any Experince with Savonius Rotor Windmills?
content-length: 373
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X-Status: 

I received an interesting catalog from Jade Mountain (18004421972),
which lists a book discussing how to build a wind generator from
oil drums, titled "Savonius Rotor Construction".  Have any of you
personally built these and, if so, any tips or experiences that might help
me?  Any add'l reference books you'd like to recommend?  
Thanks!   Ralph     rarnold@teleport.com

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon May 15 08:23:35 1995
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Date: Sun, 14 May 1995 12:44:04 -0800
From: amt@teleport.com
Message-Id: <amt-1405951244040001@ip-pdx1-20.teleport.com>
Organization: Planet Peace
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Black Mesa Permaculture Project on Navajo/Hopi Reservation
content-length: 5253
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X-Status: D

Here is an upcoming workshop/intensive for those interested in
Permaculutre.  It will be held on the Navajo/Hopi Reservation and is a
project of Indigenous People living on Reservation lands.   For more info
on this project and other issues concerning the environment and Indigenous
Peoples - check out URL http://www.teleport.com/~amt/PlanetPeace

----------------
Planet Peace
----------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Black Mesa Permaculture Project
     4th Annual Dryland Permaculture Intensive Design Course on the
     Navajo/Hopi Reservation, May 27 - June 4
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Permaculture, or permanent (agri)culture, means working with natural forces
- wind, sun, and water - to provide food, shelter, water and other needs
with minimum labor and without depleting the land. Permaculture is a
holistic approach based on traditional agricultural practices.

The Black Mesa Permaculture Project is a project of Indigenous People living
on Reservation lands on Black Mesa in the Four Corners area of the
Southwest with assistance of concerned support groups and persons.
Permaculture techniques allow people to diversify and increase flora
production, to restore eroded lands, and to make more efficient use of
resources. We feel that this project will help us and other Native Americans
integrate self-reliance and cultural values.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

                     4th Annual Intensive Design Course

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Instructors

The course will have three instructors, two of which are local Native
Americans. Justin Willy and George Crittenden have both taken certified
permaculture courses and are currently enrolled in an ecoforestry program.
George has several years previous experience in fire suppression and
reforestation while Justin has taught hands-on classes and consulted on
permaculture projects in the Black Mesa for five years. Both are working on
projects in their local areas and have been doing consulting work and giving
presentations to schools and local groups on the Black Mesa for nearly three
years in an attempt to expand the role of permaculture in healing the land.

Dan Dorsey, the primary instructor for the first three workshops has a
degree in forestry and has studied regenerative systems for over ten years.
In addition to residential landscapes, he has designed sustainable projects
for Tucson City Parks and Recreation, the Tucson Community Food Bank, and
the Tohono O'Odham Indian Nation. A well-known speaker in the Tucson area,
Dan emphasizes strategies for water harvesting, re-vegetation of damaged
areas, and integrating people with a sustainable environment.

This complete course will provide you with a permaculture design
certificate. Workshop fees promote scholarships for indigenous people.
Bring: camping gear, food, rain gear, notebooks, and work gloves.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Objectives

  1. Conduct surveys of site-specific soil, water, water-shed conditions,
     locally occurring native plant species, to provide a base of
     information for planning permaculture systems.
  2. Continue presentation of annual, comprehensive, hands-on permaculture
     courses on reservations which are open to the public and free to Native
     Americans.
  3. Set up a tree grow out program for planting in spring and fall.
  4. Design and construct with each family appropriate runoff water
     diversion and collection structures, and /or spring developments, to
     enable the family to make optimal use of available water resources.
  5. Work with each family, level bordered or terraced fields, and organic
     or garden plots in which collected runoff waters will be used for
     irrigation.
  6. Work to build solid fertility in their permaculture plots with locally
     available organic materials.
  7. Select and plant an appropriate mix of perennial trees, shrubs,
     grasses, and herbs with food or medicinal value.
  8. Plan and construct additional soil and water conservation and
     permaculture structures, including runoff plots for annual plantings,
     greenhouses to extend the growing season, and erosion control
     structures.
  9. Collect and ensure the survival and availability of traditional
     varieties of seeds and cultivators.
 10. The use of appropriate technology training will build all the needed
     skills and capacities in permaculture system design and construction so
     that the instructors and consultants will be primarily Native American.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Registration

To register, send your name, address, and phone number along with $250.00 or
non refundable $50.00 deposit to: Black Mesa Permaculture Project, PO Box
26195, Tucson, AZ 85796. Make cheques payable to Black Mesa Permaculture
Project.

-- 
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Nothing Real Can Be Threatened.  Nothing Unreal Exists.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon May 15 11:23:37 1995
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Date: 14 May 1995 21:01:02 GMT
From: sky-tech@inet.uni-c.dk (Jorgen Skyt)
Message-Id: <3p5r2e$27q@news.uni-c.dk>
Organization: News Server at UNI-C, Danish Computing Centre for Research and Education.
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <91550.rarnold@teleport.com>
Subject: Re: Any Experince with Savonius Rotor Windmills?
content-length: 1647
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Ralph D. Arnold (rarnold@teleport.com) wrote:
: I received an interesting catalog from Jade Mountain (18004421972),
: which lists a book discussing how to build a wind generator from
: oil drums, titled "Savonius Rotor Construction".  Have any of you
: personally built these and, if so, any tips or experiences that might help
: me?  Any add'l reference books you'd like to recommend?  
: Thanks!   Ralph     rarnold@teleport.com

  Sorry, I can't give you any booktitles, but I believe there are numerous
books covering windenergy-turbines, amoung them "handy-man" versions of
the Savonius. You can find them all in the local library. 

  The Savonius is not very efficient on longer timescales, but it is
probably the easiest and cheapes windturbine to be build. 

  Advantages is low cost, standard equipment/materials, and the
interesting possibility to build a Savonius into the existing design of a
standard house, even in a city (chimney-mount if not to heavy). 
  The disadvantages is low energy output and heavy weight per kilowatt -
or kilojoule or whatever. 

  A major advantages in the construction is, that you don't have to worry
about which direction the wind comes from. So you build it, mount it,
connect it - and it works! For an experiment, start up with Polyethylene
bottles or ping-pong balls cut in half. You will then be able to do some
experiments. 

  Unfortunately, the Savonius is difficult to mount in altitudes where the
wind is more steady and runs faster. But then again: Think about the
chimney-mount. There you have the high-altitude mount ready made for
smaller applications. 

Best wishes
Joergen Skyt
Denmark

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed May 17 18:24:05 1995
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To: sustag-public@ces.ncsu.edu
Date: Fri, 12 May 1995 10:34:00 +0600
From: jim.mcnelly@midwest.org (Jim Mcnelly)
Message-Id: <36.295.1676@midwest.org>
Organization: Granite City Connection St. Cloud MN 612-654-8372
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <Pine.HPP.3.91.950511000340.13304E-100000@forth.stir.ac.uk>
Subject: WORMS
content-length: 1719
Status: O
X-Status: 

Juan writes:
References: <Pine.HPP.3.91.950511000340.13304E-100000@forth.stir.ac.uk> 

MR> I am culturing worms (E. foetida), and feeding fish with it. It is a
MR> good proteine source. On the other hand I've got pleanty of humus as
MR> a result of the worm culture, however I do not know how good it
MR> could be as an organic fertlizer? It is made of aquatic plants
MR> (Pistia stratiotes) and caw manure. Do somebody knows what to do
MR> with this stuff?

As a person who has been raising e.foetida for 22 years and with 
extensive experience marketing worm castings, I recommend using it as a 
potting soil amendment in rations from 20% to 33%. Of over 1,000 plant 
growth trials I am familiar with, no container plant tested did not 
benefit from the worm compost over conventional compost.

At studies at the Rothampstead research station in the 1980s conducted 
by Dr. Clive Edwards now at the Ohio State University, plant growth 
using worm castings was increased 20% to 200% over controls as measured 
by increased root mass, numbers of shoots, and size of plant.

You can also add it when planting shrubs, flowers, and trees, as well as 
using it in the garden around the active root zone. Some people market 
the product as a top dressing for house plants, but the benefits seem to 
be most pronounced when the castings are in the plant root zone.

Mr Compost~~~

Jim~ McNelly

Please note new E-mail address
compost@cloudnet.com


 * RM 1.3 02460 * Scotty, I need that power!

------------------============<>=============-----------------
   Granite City Connection (612) 654-8372 28.8K 3 Lines
   Email: jim.mcnelly@midwest.org (Jim Mcnelly)
------------------============<>=============-----------------

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Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 08:33:09 GMT
From: Nick Pine <nick@NFS.EE.VILL.EDU>
Message-Id: <19433.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
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Subject: Re: AE Digest - 14 May 1995 to 15 May 1995
content-length: 304
Status: O
X-Status: 

Hi Marge,

In article <6006.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu> you write:

>Don't you think it could work?

Sure :-) If we can make the reply and subject lines work correctly
in this newsgroup, we can do anything :-)

Nick

Re: AE Digest - 14 May 1995 to 15 May 1995                                   R

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu May 18 21:54:43 1995
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To: sustag-public@ces.ncsu.edu
Date: 17 May 1995 07:42:03 GMT
From: Scott Crawford <exec@hawaii-nation.org>
Message-Id: <3pc9cb$9tf@nuhou.aloha.net>
Organization: Nation of Hawaii
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <3p51ip$5gu@newsbf02.news.aol.com>
Subject: Re: Aquaculture:  Request for Info Sources
content-length: 904
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Aloha,

The Native Hawaiian people developed one of the most sophisticated 
aquaculture systems in the world, and much of the knowledge of these 
techniques is still intact.

Two good sources for contacts are:

Wai`anae Coast Community Development Corporation
P.O. Box 630
Wai`anae, Hawai`i  96792
808/696-7241 ph
808/696-9411 fx

Office of Hawaiian Affairs
Economic Development Division
711 Kapiolani Blvd, Suite 500
Honolulu, Hawaii  96813
808/594-1928 ph
808/594-1865 fx

And they can probably refer you to others in Hawaii or elsewhere.

Scott

      /\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
     /                                    \
    /  Scott Crawford - Nation of Hawai`i  \
    \                                      /
    /       exec@hawaii-nation.org         \
    \   http://hawaii-nation.org/nation/   /
     \                                    /
      \/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/


From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Fri May 19 14:24:39 1995
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Date: Thu, 18 May 1995 17:01:31 GMT
From: David Bazeley <nrnf_eea@nlnet.nf.ca>
Message-Id: <1153.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Subject: Compost Power
content-length: 489
Status: O
X-Status: 

I am looking for information and/or references for the power output of
anaerobic compost piles. I am told the temperature in the pile centre is
around 60 degrees C, but I am trying to establish the rate at which this
could be removed without seriouly cooling the pile. I am told there is
definitely excess heat, as in an open compost pile it radiates/convects away.

Any help with this presumably somewhat wierd request would be greatly
appreciated.

Regards,

David Bazeley
Compost Power

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat May 20 19:25:02 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 17 May 1995 08:57:35 GMT
From: helthuis@cs.utwente.nl (Bert Helthuis)
Message-Id: <3pcdpv$50n@utrhcs.cs.utwente.nl>
Organization: University of Twente, Dept. of Computer Science
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: recent Home Power Mag  editions ?
content-length: 482
Status: O
X-Status: 

Hello,

I'm reading editions of Home Power Magazine on 'sunsite.unc.edu',
but the last one stored there is #35, whereas the last actual edition
appears to be #45. I know of the Redwood Alliance BBS where back issues
are available, but I'm on the Internet only  ( :-) sorry for that ) AND
I'm living in the Netherlands. Does some kind soul have any pointers
to these issues available via FTP/WWW/... ?
Thanks in advance,

Bert Helthuis
searching for renewable energy from Holland ..

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat May 20 19:54:53 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 18 May 1995 20:16:12 GMT
From: lbutler.gate.net@bigblue.oit.unc.edu (Lee Porter Butler)
Message-Id: <lbutler.gate.net-1805951524520001@wpbfl2-45.gate.net>
Organization: Ekotecture Incorporated
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <amt-1705951209450001@ip-pdx5-03.teleport.com>
Subject: Re: CORRECTION:Black Mesa Permaculture Project on Navajo/Hopi Reservation
content-length: 1345
Status: RO
X-Status: 

thanks for your response. What do you think of this? I am trying to create
a lens of focus group, which could present and advocate practical
solutions to our present problems. I would appreciate your help. I believe
that if we can language the request properly, millions of people who feel
just like we do and can not express it, will respond with support and add
power to our message.


The
DOLPHIN GREEN
Planetary Prosperity Project©

We are a group of individuals seeking environmental equilibrium
 
&  a voluntary world order through

€A Return of economic and political responsibility 
to the neighborhoods and communities.
€A voluntary world order based on self discipline, 
non-violence, strength, courage, compassion and trust.
€The protection of individual civil liberties, 
private life styles and religious freedom.
€The commercial development of intentional,  sustainable, floating 
communities,  powered by solar, gravity, geothermal and other 
universally abundant ecologically harmonious sources of energy.

To support this vision of a better world & receive our quarterly newsletter
Send name, address, your own ideas &  $15 to:
The Dolphin Green Prosperity Project
620 Biscayne Drive 
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401 (407) 659-7656
Or you may charge your credit card by calling 
(407) 833-9007 or VIA Internet <lbutler@gate.net>

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May 21 04:54:57 1995
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Date: 19 May 1995 08:33:13 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3pi369$ier@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: Subsidizing the Sun
content-length: 990
Status: O
X-Status: 

Here's a quote from Steve Baer's intro to the pamphlet, "Subsidizing the Sun," 
written with William Shurcliff, in 1988, about 4 years after the 40% renewable
US tax credits expired:

   I don't want to watch them try to subsidize the sun again. I don't care
   what the subsidies are to oil, coal or nuclear energy. If you read
   the following pamphlet you will see why I believe that it is futile
   to try to subsidize the sun. Our only hope is to take away competing
   subsidies. What I hate most about our government help is the kind of
   people it attracts. The "far-sighted" environmentalists who prove
   you need it, the weapons lab scientists who promise to solve the problem
   for just a few hundred million dollars and, least vile of the three groups,
   the fast buck artists who peddle the overpriced equipment. Another
   sidelight I don't like (actually I have kind of enjoyed it) is becoming
   a "crackpot" by repeating an obvious truth to people who will not listen.

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May 21 13:25:02 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 19 May 1995 17:40:59 -0500
From: rvaidyan@ub.d.umn.edu (rajiv vaidyanathan)
Message-Id: <3pj6pr$5dk@ub.d.umn.edu>
Organization: University of Minnesota, Duluth
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: World Power Technologies - E-mail
content-length: 389
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Just to let you folks know. World Power Technolgoies - the manufacturer 
of the Whisper line of wind generators now have an e-mail address to go 
along with their homepage.  Here are the details:

WWW Page:  http://www.webpage.com/wpt/
E-mail:    wpt@cp.duluth.mn.us

This is not a commercial announcement - simply information for anyone who 
may want to contact them for whatever reason.

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May 21 22:55:16 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 04:47:14 GMT
From: Kerry Miller <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:ASTINGSH%KSUVM.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Message-Id: <4290.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Subject: Re: Any Experince with Savonius Rotor Windmills?
content-length: 3386
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Hugh wrote (citing Joergen),
> |>   Advantages is low cost, standard equipment/materials, and the
> |> interesting possibility to build a Savonius into the existing design of a
> |> standard house, even in a city (chimney-mount if not to heavy)....
>
> Another claimed advantage is that the gearbox and generator
>  are at the bottom of the rotor [often on the ground], with easy
>  access for installation or maintenance.  The more reliable the
>  generator the less advantage.
>
> |> ... For an experiment, start up with Polyethylene
> |> bottles or ping-pong balls cut in half. You will then be able to do some
> |> experiments.

If you want an anemometer, go with bottles. But a rotor of any size
reveals that
it is essential to have *both* bearings securely anchored. Guys won't do it.
The problem is, you're dealing with a three-dimensional dynamic balance
problem (bad enough in ~2D: ever try to balanvce your own tires?) and
the rectangular cross section of a cylindrical Savonius is made to order for
a design that throws itself out of balance once its rotating.

Take your oil drum, cut it in half,  fasten the halves to hubs (offsetabout a
foot) and string it up on a shaft. Then wait and watch the central space
*open up* and youll be able to see the shaft .  What this tells you is that
centripetal forces are deforming the surface -- in the section, from a
vertical line to a catenary curve. But the distortion is different on the
downwind side from the upwind side: i.e., out of balance.  Once the thing
starts throwing out, it's only a matter of time before the guys give way, or
the shaft fatigues or the whole thing topples over -- taking your chimbley
with it.

Having damped your enthusiasm, here's a
possible solution:  hang the axis *horizontally*.: both bearings are equally
rigid (or floppy if you want to look at it that way) plus you can draw your
power off from *both* ends. The axis is of course transverse to the
prevailing winds. (Dont worry about omnidirectionality. That was S's big
idea, because he thought it would work as a sail for water craft which go
all directions - but show me a place that has good consistent wind from all
directions and I'll show you a  place called Oz.)  The rotor will respond
well to wind even 45 off-axis, in any case.

 Secondly, forget the drums; make your own windcatcher with (doubly)
curved skins.  Fabric over ribs is one way to at least approximate this, with
the further advantage that when the wind finally takes it (nothing manmade
yet that's put up against nature stays put forever) its only a few yards of
cloth blowing into the neighbors yard rather than a serious piece of metal
plate.

The comments about loss of efficiency in gearing up for generation are
true enough -- but there are  other things to do with power (e.g. pumped
water storage or hydraulic swashplate compression) and anyway,
whatever happened to the Orbidrive (TM) cam type boxes that were
marketed as having 1000:1 ratios at 97% eff?

If you really want electrics, wind your own rotor: at a radius of two or 3 ft,
something will come of it (providing of course the stators are on the same
floppy/rigid mountings...), tho at this point I'm not speaking from
experience ;-)


kerry miller         astingsh@ksuvm.ksu.edu
/ / *    Reduce   Reuse  Repair   Recycle   Reject    Remember.  * / /
Re: Any Experince with Savonius Rotor Windmills?

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun May 21 22:55:16 1995
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Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 04:47:14 GMT
From: Kerry Miller <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:ASTINGSH%KSUVM.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Message-Id: <4290.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Re: Any Experince with Savonius Rotor Windmills?
content-length: 3386
Status: RO
X-Status: D

Hugh wrote (citing Joergen),
> |>   Advantages is low cost, standard equipment/materials, and the
> |> interesting possibility to build a Savonius into the existing design of a
> |> standard house, even in a city (chimney-mount if not to heavy)....
>
> Another claimed advantage is that the gearbox and generator
>  are at the bottom of the rotor [often on the ground], with easy
>  access for installation or maintenance.  The more reliable the
>  generator the less advantage.
>
> |> ... For an experiment, start up with Polyethylene
> |> bottles or ping-pong balls cut in half. You will then be able to do some
> |> experiments.

If you want an anemometer, go with bottles. But a rotor of any size
reveals that
it is essential to have *both* bearings securely anchored. Guys won't do it.
The problem is, you're dealing with a three-dimensional dynamic balance
problem (bad enough in ~2D: ever try to balanvce your own tires?) and
the rectangular cross section of a cylindrical Savonius is made to order for
a design that throws itself out of balance once its rotating.

Take your oil drum, cut it in half,  fasten the halves to hubs (offsetabout a
foot) and string it up on a shaft. Then wait and watch the central space
*open up* and youll be able to see the shaft .  What this tells you is that
centripetal forces are deforming the surface -- in the section, from a
vertical line to a catenary curve. But the distortion is different on the
downwind side from the upwind side: i.e., out of balance.  Once the thing
starts throwing out, it's only a matter of time before the guys give way, or
the shaft fatigues or the whole thing topples over -- taking your chimbley
with it.

Having damped your enthusiasm, here's a
possible solution:  hang the axis *horizontally*.: both bearings are equally
rigid (or floppy if you want to look at it that way) plus you can draw your
power off from *both* ends. The axis is of course transverse to the
prevailing winds. (Dont worry about omnidirectionality. That was S's big
idea, because he thought it would work as a sail for water craft which go
all directions - but show me a place that has good consistent wind from all
directions and I'll show you a  place called Oz.)  The rotor will respond
well to wind even 45 off-axis, in any case.

 Secondly, forget the drums; make your own windcatcher with (doubly)
curved skins.  Fabric over ribs is one way to at least approximate this, with
the further advantage that when the wind finally takes it (nothing manmade
yet that's put up against nature stays put forever) its only a few yards of
cloth blowing into the neighbors yard rather than a serious piece of metal
plate.

The comments about loss of efficiency in gearing up for generation are
true enough -- but there are  other things to do with power (e.g. pumped
water storage or hydraulic swashplate compression) and anyway,
whatever happened to the Orbidrive (TM) cam type boxes that were
marketed as having 1000:1 ratios at 97% eff?

If you really want electrics, wind your own rotor: at a radius of two or 3 ft,
something will come of it (providing of course the stators are on the same
floppy/rigid mountings...), tho at this point I'm not speaking from
experience ;-)


kerry miller         astingsh@ksuvm.ksu.edu
/ / *    Reduce   Reuse  Repair   Recycle   Reject    Remember.  * / /
Re: Any Experince with Savonius Rotor Windmills?

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon May 22 18:25:32 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 23:27:34
From: aaasolar@rt66.com (Chuck Marken)
Message-Id: <aaasolar.2.00177652@rt66.com>
Organization: Engineering International, Inc.
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Morning Star Controls (prev. Looking for Information)
content-length: 478
Status: RO
X-Status: 

Brian:

Having checked with the ancient ones, I am told that Morning Star is no 
longer in business. However, systems like yours are still installed, so 
replacement equipment is available. 

If you have access to the web, go to http://www. rt66.com/aaasolar. I found 
controls and a basic wiring diagram. Better yet call 1-800-245-0311 and get 
the Solar Design Catalog sent to you. It's free.

Hope this indicates a direction to try and you're up and running by fall. 

Bill


From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue May 23 13:26:04 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 22 May 1995 12:58:51 GMT
From: konjohn@eua.ericsson.se (John Self)
Message-Id: <3pq1qb$969@euas20.eua.ericsson.se>
Organization: Ellemtel Telecom Systems Labs, Stockholm, Sweden
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Reply-To: konjohn@eua.ericsson.se
Subject: Stockholm EV exhibition - Report
content-length: 4514
Status: RO
X-Status: 

The exhibition of electric vehicles in Stockholm on Sunday was very interesting - 
there were more than 80 vehicles there, ranging from an electric cycle to a hybrid 
sports car. Two of the EVs were very old showpieces: a fire engine from about 1905 
and a small flatbed delivery truck from about 1920. But the rest of the vehicles 
displayed were practical every day units for transporting people or delivering goods.

The city of Stockholm obviously takes alternative energy sources seriously. The 
company Stockholm ENERGI operates its own fleet of Volkswagen Golf (Rabbit) cars, 
and charging points are available at 14 city parking areas. Another city company 
runs a mixed fleet of 19 EVs.

I have outlined the EVs below and I have a lot of other material, including some 
prices, phone and fax numbers of the manufacturers or suppliers. If anybody wants 
more information, send me an e-mail with your fax number, and I'll mail/fax you. 

Finally, something to look out for this year: The Scandinavian Electric Car Rally 
from Gothenborg to Oslo between 2 and 5 August. 
Contact: SECR 95, Box 53, 401 20 Gothenburg, Sweden. 
Tel: 031 62 60 61 Fax: 031 62 60 66. I have one colour brochure in English which I would be pleased to post on, otherwise give them a call for more information.
 
There were two main classes of EVs, three wheel and four wheel, with variations on 
the basic theme within the class.

THREE WHEEL

Most of this class were utility vehicles. 

There were about 15 yellow Post trucks used for mail delivery in the Stockholm 
suburbs. These were a rather curious design called TUGGER, with front steering 
on one wheel, but the other two wheels were staggered, not aligned together at 
the rear. There was 120 degree access to the mail on the waist-high L-shaped 
load platform. Range 40 km, with 800 stops, all-weather capability. 
Max load 300 kg.

The ELEBRA Carry would be at home used for park, estate, golf course maintenance: 
single seat over the rear wheel and a flatbed with box or cage attachment, tipper. 
Max load 400 kg. Platform 1250 x 1250 mm. 

EZGO similar to above. Company: Ground and Garden, Stockholm 08 621 40000.

City El was a very sleek, low-slung, single seater. It had a semi-reclined driving 
position, canopy hinged at the front that takes the instrument panel and steering 
wheel with it when you lift it up. Just like being in a high-performance sailplane. 
Also available as a convertible. max speed: 60 kmh. Weight 400 kg, motor max 3.5 kW, 
nominal 2.5 kW, 36 V supply. 8 hours between charges. Made in Denmark. $2500.

FOUR WHEEL

SOLON - definitely the best-looking car - a red sports car which used hybrid drive technolgy: a three cylinder diesel turbo driving a generator. max speed: is 
110 kmh (70mph). Battery charge time 5 hours. Electric motor power 40 kW, diesel 
8 kW. Diesel consumption 2 litres/hour. The two doors opened out and then flipped 
up and forward like the Lamborghini Countach.

Kewet - a small two-seat hatchback shopper with a small load area. Jazzy colours 
but quite expensive. Top speed 60 kmh. Range 50 km at 50 kmh.

Volkswagen Golf Citystromer based on the successful VW Golf (US = Rabbit), and 
operated by the Stockholm ENERGI company. max speed: 110 kmh, range: 80 km at 50 kmh, 
65 km at 70 kmh, 56 km in city traffic.

CITYVAN 200 is based on a small Japanese delivery van, converted to electric 
operation by a Finnish company. max speed: 80 kmh, acceleration 0 - 50 kmh 13 sec, 
range: in city 70 km, motor power 22 kW. A local delivery company uses these vans.

Solectria Force 95 - a four-door compact saloon (Chrysler Neon size). Photo only, 
but looks very sleek. max speed: 115 kmh, range: 70 - 100 km with lead acid batteries, 
120 to 150 km with "other" batteries.

There was even a 340 series Volvo hybrid that used a Honda portable generator as 
the power for charging the batteries. Novel idea that. Looked like a private 
conversion, but well carried out.

Renault Extra van, based on the Renault 5 car.

Ford Escort vans and estate cars.

THE CYCLE
Rexoped 2000 is a bicycle with a motor built in to the front wheel hub, small
battery pack on the back carrier, motorcycle twistgrip throttle. Max speed: 22 kmh, 
range: 20 - 25 km, 2 hour charge time, weight 26 kg. Battery 36 V/4 Ah. 
Very impressive. Made by the Swedish bicycle firm Rex.

      //
     //
\\  //
 \\//
  \/ohn   "Yield to temptation - it may not pass your way again"  
  

[my employer only sponsors the bandwidth, not my opinions]



From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue May 23 13:25:52 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Mon, 22 May 1995 16:45:42 +0100 (BST)
From: men3cah@sun.leeds.ac.uk (The Ageing Hippie)
Message-Id: <1995May22.154543.1992@leeds.ac.uk>
Organization: University of Leeds, England
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <3pe1pj$1aom@usenetp1.news.prodigy.com>
Subject: Re: NYT EV and lead impacts
content-length: 2316
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In article <3pe1pj$1aom@usenetp1.news.prodigy.com>, RXFN56A@prodigy.com (Steven Piet) writes:
> Some interesting posting on this subject.  However, I think people need 
> to keep some matters in perspective.  Any activity has safefy and 
> environmental impacts, the issues are the amount, cost of reducing 
> impacts, alternatives, etc.  For decades, researchers have rightly 
> pointed out the hazards of lead in the environment (paint, gasoline, 
> smelting, etc.).  It is only appropriate to consider another new possible 
> source of lead - increased lead batteries.  Attacking the motives of 
> people does not contribute to useful debate and inquiry.  Especially 
> attacking the NYT as being a friend of conservative business interests is 
> pretty nuts; the NYT has supported and reported every environmentalist 
> attack and report for decades, with typically inadequate attention to 
> science in the process.
> 
> Electric vehicles can be a beneficial step in air pollution if (a) the 
> net lifecycle air pollution of the required generation of electricity is 
> less than the gasoline generated pollution, (b) the EV technology does 
> not add significantly some new pollution source (such as lead)  and (c) 
> the safety hazards of the EV's are reduced.   The energy should be able 
> to be generated with less air pollution using low emission technologies 
> such as fission and hydropower, which themselves have environmental 
> impacts (especially hydropower).   The safety hazards of EV's need more 
> study; lead batteries are heavy --> more momentum --> crash forces.  Yes, 
> everyone loves the idea of improved battery technologies.  And, I will 
> buy my family an EV when the technology is suitable.  But, lead acid 
> battery EV's are crummy performers, are not necessarily safer than 
> current cars, not necessarily more environmentally benign.
> 
> -
>   STEVEN PIET  RXFN56A@prodigy.com

- Nice post. Just one thing; when talking about the environmental impact of
fission and hydropower, you imply that the impact of hydropower is worse than
that of fission.
	I hope this is a typo. If it isn't, may I ask how you make your nuclear
waste safe (given that not all reactors are fast breeding) in America, 'cause us
simple folk in Blighty would quite like to know...

Luv,

Ageing Hippie 

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue May 23 23:26:03 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Tue, 23 May 1995 05:12:54 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
Message-Id: <18870.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Subject: response to focus group
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Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 21:02:18 GMT
=46rom: shelter@peg.apc.org (Madhudvisah dasa Swami)
Subject: Changing the Face of the Earth!
To: lbutler@gate.net
X-Newsreader: Forte Free Agent v0.46

lbutler.gate.net (Lee Porter Butler) wrote:

>What do you think of this? I am trying to create a lens of focus group,
>which could present and advocate practical solutions to our present
>problems. I would appreciate your help. I believe that if we can language
>the request properly, millions of people who feel just like we do and can
>not express it, will respond with support and add power to our message.

  I think you will have to express it in more clear language!

>The
>DOLPHIN GREEN
>Planetary Prosperity Project=A9

>We are a group of individuals seeking environmental equilibrium
>
>&  a voluntary world order through

>=C4A Return of economic and political responsibility
>to the neighborhoods and communities.

  It's a sentimental idea which presumes people will voluntarily
  cooperate together [without a leader I suppose] for the environment and
  world peace. They won't do it!

  Nothing substantial has ever been accomplished without a leader. If
  people have faith in a leader and the leader is actually qualified then
  your objects could be achieved. You have to face reality. The vast
  majority of people are not capable of making decisions considering all
  angles of vision. I have been involved in many cooperative decision
  making groups and committees and invariably they don't work as a group.
  Everyone is trying to push their own ideas...

>=C4A voluntary world order based on self discipline,
>non-violence, strength, courage, compassion and trust.

  Once again sentimental and unrealistic [it sounds nice though!]. In
  reality there will always be rebellious people and if there is no
  strong government to check them they will just exploit the citizens and
  create havoc in society. What would your "peaceful, non-violent
  collective government" do about them? It's not practical. Non-violence
  is not for governments. The government is responsible to protect the
  citizens so they have to curb the disturbing elements in society and
  sometimes violence is necessary, they have to protect the citizens from
  attacks from outside so violence is sometimes necessary here also.

>=C4The protection of individual civil liberties,

  Sometimes this requires violence on the part of the government.

>private life styles and religious freedom.

  I don't understand what you mean by "private lifestyles". Religious
  freedom is ok. But people have to follow some bona fide religious
  system properly. The government should see to this.

>=C4The commercial development of intentional,  sustainable, floating
>communities,  powered by solar, gravity, geothermal and other
>universally abundant ecologically harmonious sources of energy.

  Why not just get some land and some cows and bulls? You can use the
  bulls to plow the fields and grow grains and vegetables, you can milk
  the cows and you can get building materials from the forest. What more
  could you want?

  Better to develop simple, local communities rather than such a complex
  thing as you have mentioned.


  I'm in the process of getting a WWW site together at:

     http://www.peg.apc.org/~shelter

  You will find  "Changing the Face of the Earth" there [soon]. I think you =
will
  be interested.

  Thank you. Hare Krishna.



                          ___________________________________________
Madhudvisah dasa Swami   |                                           |
(shelter@peg.apc.org)    | S H E L T E R   I N T E R N A T I O N A L |
   +61 02 248 967        |___________________________________________|
                                CHANT HARE KRISHNA AND BE HAPPY!

Quotes from His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada (c) BBT

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656 =20


response to focus group

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Tue May 23 23:26:06 1995
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Date: Tue, 23 May 1995 05:10:38 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
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Subject: euology
content-length: 9282
Status: O
X-Status: 

We speak and they are silent
all men are brothers and yearn to be free
we speak and they turn away
we see and try to make them see

we burried our dead president today
he spoke and they were silent
he had hope and they did not believe
we laid down our arms and they were violent

they shot his brother Bobby
they killed Martin Luther King
we called out again to our parents
to let go of this evil thing

they shot their own children today
Kent State so far away
they made their point
we can not stay

there is no place in America
 for those who are free
our heart was burried at Wounded knee
Auschwitz, Nagasaki to name just three

we speak about the children
they do not care
we speak about the earth
and meaningless warfare

they burried my son today
lost in this miserable life
looking for someone who cares
he finally took the dare

we speak and no one listens
we call for a place where children can hear
we ask that they preserve the earth
for the future ones so dear

they are caught up in their monkey culture
monkey this, monkey that
we plead with the powers that be
to give us just one tiny place
where men can be free

all of their empty warehouses
all of their greed
all of their wealth and all of their need
leaves no place for those who can feel

they burried my other son today
he was so strong
playing music and
singing his song

there was no place in this world
for children like him
he was too kind
to willing to bend

we speak and no one listens
we write and they can not respond
the whole world is dead now
that is the end of this song

Dear Harold and Mutzie,
     Lee and I have so much to give to the world.  We aren't just thinking
of ourselves, as our vision is one that we believe will make a difference
in the world to make it a better place.  All of my art work is directed
with that in mind, as is all of Lee's architecture.  We have been
interested in a community of people who are able to hear the wisdom in our
philosophy, and embrace it by responding to it.  That means addressing any
of the issues that we raise.  (We live in south Florida, so we realize that
we are at a deficit to begin with, as most people seem quasi brain-dead,
having left the north for retirement or whatever reason.)  We don't even
ask that anyone agree with the philosophy, because it begins with a
dialogue, or even a question.  What do you mean by x,y,or z?    Lee has
written you, and in countless talks to you requested some sort of response.
There has been only the response of  a refusal to talk about issues that
you believe you will disagree about (even though you don't really know as
you have never discussed them).  i.e.  you have put your foot down and told
Lee that you refuse to talk about LSD.  You will listen to Lee for great
lengths of time on subjects that interest you from the internet to
religion, music, your children.
     Lee has a brilliant mind.  You have recognized that.  Mutzie likes
listening to his comforting voice.  When Lee used to go to his
"appointments" with Harold I used to laughingly tell him that he was doing
the psychiatry on you Harold, but there is more than a grain of truth to
that, and if you let your ego down for a minute you will admit that.    The
fact of the matter is that Lee and I need people who will give us energy,
and recognize us, instead of draining us, and demoralizing us.  You have
criticized Lee and looked down upon him for his efforts writing the
President, or desiring a response to his work.  We call you "Herr Doctor",
"Herr Holier Than Thou".  Lee is the only one I know out there holding the
torch, asking the questions, and looking for the answers, and spending a
lifetime on the solutions and then offering them up.  For people who call
him "One of their best friends" to ridicule him for his efforts is painful.
YOU NEED TO JOIN THE WAR, Instead of sitting on the sidelines
dispassionately.  YOU KNOW IN YOUR HEART OF HEARTS THAT WHAT WE ARE DOING
IS MERITORIOUS.
     Quite truthfully Harold and Mutzie I don't want you to buy my art
work.  If my vision of the world as expressed through my art doesn't move
you I won't let you own my art.  Lee has told me that  I will only attract
light.  Once I remember Lee telling me you wanted me to put my art work in
your office, gracing your walls.  You wouldn't of course be able to buy
it.( there it is again our energy for no exchange).  You and people like
you are responsible for the ugliness in the world, because you don't
support art.  You think it  doesn't merit any energy exchange.  You
probably thought you would be doing me a favor "letting me grace your walls
with my art".  I  tried to sell you on Patrick's work, or Patricia
Feinman's work, or anyone other than me, as I have twelve other artists
there.  I wanted your support.  You know that we are struggling.  You know
that I am the only one earning a dime, and that Lee's life is threatened by
this illness.  We need every ounce of energy possible to support Lee to
live.  It's about energy.  Lee has given you so much of his wisdom and
energy, and you know it  We deserve something in the exchange.  We give
freely from the depths of our being because we have what I call a
generosity of spirit.  This is a great blessing that both Lee and I have,
but now we are in life-threatening situations and we are calling out for
help, and not without an ability to give in abundance.How can one measure a
lifetime of enjoyment derived from a beautiful creation, that has been
created with the intention to give pleasure and enjoyment be measured by
dollars and cents.  The owner of the beautiful creation is always the
winner.
     I know Harold that you were crying by the time Lee finished talking to
you.  I know you had called as a friend to say some kind and comforting
words about our deep loss.
Both you and Mutzie bypassed me, without a thought as to how all this must
be affecting me. I was deeply hurt by it, first when Mutzie called, as  I
have been acutely aware of  your ignoring me in the energy exchange, and I
would have carried on saying nothing, if I wasn't pressed by both you and
Lee to say something.  Aaron and David were very close to me.  Aaron called
me "Mom", and  I know that I was the closest thing that either of the boys
had to a mother they dreamed about.  Aaron was going to give Lee one of his
kidneys, and had considered being the father to a baby for me.
       I hope that this is an opportunity for growth. I
f it is we all might be able to build a friendship, but if it isn't I know
that one day you will look back on my words, and realize what your role has
been.  You have a choice.

We love you no matter what you decide.     Jill and Lee
Dear Harold and Mutsi,

We did not choose to communicate with you. You choose to communicate with
us, because of an article Jill had written on Yoga. Yoga is about union or
unity. It is about the unification of the body with the mind and spirit,
the emotions with the intellect. You would not have been touched by her
wisdom nor acted to call her, if you did not at least understand the very
basics of this concept. What Jill and I are trying to communicate to you is
about unity and the implications of joining and integration and harmony, a
process which leads to peace, Nirvana or understanding. It is the process
which brought Jill and I together. It is very powerful. Once you surrender
to the mysteries of life, the secrets of life open up for you. It gives you
compassion, hope, faith and energy to love people, no matter how they treat
you. It gives you the capacity to accept something like the death of your
children, and to go on living and being a light in the world.

Our role is to give of light, i.e. love, understanding, acceptance, of you,
of the wino on the corner of Tamarind and Clematis begging for a dime, the
rich  socialites who spent all of their time and all of the money on people
like you and plastic surgeons, all in an effort to escape from who they
really are and what their really could do with their energy. We accept and
love all of you, equally, and with compassion and empathy for you small
worlds and the problems you are caught up in. We appeal you, but we do and
will try to communicate with you about the issues which robbed us of our
two children and many other fine young people who are growing up in our
world.

Your children, if allowed to know us, beyond superficially controlled
situations, would support and endorse everything we try to teach. All of
children hear us and support us and love us because they se they we are
awake and care about the whole, not just the parts we like. We are writing
to point this out to you because, if we can make even a small dent in your
psychic armor, reinforced by your official legal status, giving you the
right to decide or judge other people's lives, making or breaking their
future,  expensive homes, gated communities, fancy clothes and smug holier
than thou attitudes, which you express and command like a pure genius, then
there is some hope for the rest of the world.

We know you are trying to do the right thing. All we say is that you are
incapable of responding to our energy. please respond.
Jill and Lee

Written by Lee

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656


euology

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed May 24 11:56:10 1995
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Date: Fri, 12 May 1995 14:33:57 GMT
From: dnoble@magi.com (Duncan Noble)
Message-Id: <dnoble-1205951033570001@magi2p25.magi.com>
Organization: Noble Consulting
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Renewable Energy Policy
content-length: 1408
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Here is your chance to improve government policy on renewable energy.

I am pulling together some information about Canadian government economic
and financial policies that encourage or discourage the adoption of
renewable energy solutions like wind, solar, etc.  This includes direct
government spending on energy R&D, tax treatment for energy producers,
manufacturers, and investors, and other government policies.  This
information will be used by Renewable Energy Associations in Canada to
influence senior politicians about opportunities to reform existing
policies so that renewable energy is treated more fairly, compared to
fossil fuels and nuclear.

Any information or sources about spending and policies in Canada, the U.S.
or other countries would be greatly appreciated.  For example, a while
back I believe there was some information posted here on the U.S. DOE 1995
Budget by energy sector.  Does anyone have the latest version, or even a
copy of the original posting? 

In return for your help, I will summarize the information I receive from
this and other sources and make it available to this newsgroup.  In case
you were wondering, I am not being paid for this work.

-- 
Duncan Noble, Noble Consulting      Tel: (613) 235-6476
38 Renfrew Avenue                   Fax: (613) 235-9367
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada             Email: dnoble@magi.com

            http://infoweb.magi.com/~dnoble/

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed May 24 11:56:12 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 23 May 1995 07:05:38 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3psfi2$eo3@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <9505221653.AA17105@nfs.ee.vill.edu>, <Pine.SOL.3.91.950522183209.22916C-100000@rocky>
Subject: Re: Solar thermal/Gas Hybrid Proj.
content-length: 1497
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X-Status: 

Rama Polefka  <ez013053@peseta.ucdavis.edu> wrote:
 
>> You might check out the patent issued to Norman Saunders on a solar
>> steam generator, which consists of a linear sort of cusplike concentrating
>> reflector below a glass boiler, with an intermediate radiation absorbing
>> mesh grid just below the waterline.

>Indeed I will!!! Do you have any additional info...?

You can reach Norman B. Saunders, PE, at
              15 Ellis Road,
              Weston, MA 02193

Some of his patents (copies of which are available for $3 each from
The Commissioner of Patents and Trademarks/Washington, DC 20231):

3,952,947 4/27/76  Solar heating system employing controlled
                   introduction of outdoor air via a special window.
		   [I think this one briefly describes the steam generator.]

4,078,603 3/14/78  Skylight-type collector with storage and
                   distribution systems.

4,123,002 10/31/78 System for controlling air temperature, humidity
                   and ventilation with use of ground coupling.

4,157,639 6/12/79  Seals for vertical and sloping windows or glazing.

4,201,189 5/6/80   South window solar-radiation absorbing element (as
                   in Shrewsbury House and All-Solar-Too House.)

4,296,733 10/27/81 Transparent roof employing reflective louvers that
                   admit much solar radiation in winter and admit little
		   solar radiation in summer.

Note: US patents are normally valid for 17 years from date of issue.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon May 29 13:58:34 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 26 May 1995 06:13:27 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3q49k7$d8i@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Meanwhile, in Texas...
content-length: 5331
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Joining this program in medias res...

>Well, the kid wonder and his sidekick just wandered by; they finished my
>uh, square.  I told them put me 4 cornerposts in the ground and nail 2x4s
>around the top.

Hmmm. How big is this square? 16' x 16'?

>Well, they set the posts in cement and screwed the 2x4s
>around the top and braced the corners.

OK...

>After they recovered from the shock of charging me $120 for the whole thing, 
>we looked up one of your messages with the 800 number for Dynaglas.

Replex has an 800 number. The Dynaglas people are at (408) 997-6100. If I
were you, I'd look in your local phone book for commercial greenhouse
and nursery suppliers, and/or call Stuppy at (800) 877-5025 and matter-of-
factly ask them to send you a copy of their nice 1/2" thick pink greenhouse
catalog, which happens to have a $5 price printed on the cover, which as a
large Texas agribusinessperson, you should not have to pay. No need to
even talk about that.

One local greenhouse supplier sells Dynaglas in standard 4' x 12' lengths,
and delivers to the Collegeville area once a week. It's fun to watch
them deliver to my house. They pull up in front of the house in a full
size tractor trailer, in this rural neighborhood. The driver won't
come into my driveway, because he could never turn around, so I have
to carry the stuff in from the road. 

Dynaglas is for commercial greenhouses, and comes in custom lengths.
The product sold to homeowners, etc. is called Suntough, (tuff?) available
in standard lengths at Home Depot stores, etc. I'd get the 4' wide clear
kind, not the 2' wide stuff that Home Depot sells, since that way you have
less work to put it up, and fewer joints for air leaks.
 
>After all, I told them, with this overengineered thing for the 
>pole beans, now I have to do something more than just run vines on it.

Ya know, a lot of engineers design things before they start building them.
They make a drawing, a plan, ahead of time :-) Your overengineered pole bean
support is an underengineered building. But I guess ya gotta start somewhere.
At least real engineers do that. We electrical engineers frequently just
wing it, when designing computer systems, and plan to fix it up later
with programmable parts and software.

>So our next step is to figure how to put glazing over the top; would you
>suggest something more slanty, or putting thin PVC pipe curved over the top? 

I would say... Make the south wall vertical, or make it slant back, up
to say, 30 degrees from vertical, towards the north, using 12-16' long
straight 2 x 4s on 4' centers. (This will make a tall greenhouse.) 
And cover that south wall with Dynaglas or polyethylene film.

Then, take some more long 2 x 4s and lay them down on their 1 1/2" edges and
make some saw cuts about halfway through the 2 x 4s across their other short
edges every 2-6" or so, along, say, 12' of their 16' length. The saw cuts
at the end should be a bit closer together or deeper than the ones in the
middle of the 2 x 4. Then slip some bricks or cement blocks under the cut
sections of two of the 2 x 4s, and bend them into parabolas, roughly, so
that when the uncut straight length of each 2 x 4 is resting flat on the
ground, the cut curved part is sitting 1 - 3' above the ground. You may
have to get some people (or a car) to stand on top of the 2 x 4s to make
this curve, or you may have to make the saw cuts a bit deeper, but don't
make the cuts any deeper than you have to...

(This is not the way that people usually build houses :-)

Then, using some 2" deck screws, screw some thin (1/4"?) exterior plywood or
exterior flakeboard to the concave surface, on 4' centers, keeping the 2 x4s
curved. When you are done, you will have two 16' 2 x 4s connected by two
sheets of plywood (or Thermo-Ply if you can find any), with the plywood
screwed onto half of the width of the short edge of each 2 x 4, ie 3/4"
of each short edge of each 2 x 4. The plywood will thus be supported on
4' centers.

Paint the inside surface of each piece of plywood white. Make another one
of these curved 4' x 16' panels, with the same shape. Then attach the 4'
edge of one panel to the NE corner of the 16' long north wall with a bolt,
so it can hinge up, measure over exactly 4' and attach the other panel in
the same way. And bolt another curved 2 x 4 to the NW corner of the
foundation. Then nail a 16' 2 x 4 ridge beam flat along the upper ends
of the 5 2 x 4s, and screw on 4 more sheets of plywood to the underside,
between the two panels, to make two more panels. Fill up the space between
the plywood and the top edges of the 2 x 4s with leaves or straw or beadboard
or some leftover foam peanut packing material, staple a layer of poly film
over that, using batten tape, and tilt up the north wall, and attach the
ridge beam to the 2 x 4s of the south wall at the peak, somehow, as you stand
on an orchard ladder. A vent at the top would be nice, with a door to close
it somehow in winter time.

>in the fall, we're planning on 55 gallon drums of water in the back

Sounds good, under the benches. Perhaps with a solar powered fan at the top
to blow down some warm air through a poly film duct to the space under the
benches, with a poly film skirt around the drums to make a solar closet. 

>and Dynaglas on the other 3 walls...

Sounds good...

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon May 29 22:28:30 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 30 May 1995 02:24:54 GMT
From: london@sunSITE.unc.edu (Larry London)
Message-Id: <3qdvlm$rne@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Organization: SunSITE at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
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This document (GUIDE) is the April 21, 1995 update of:
ftp://sunsite.unc.edu/pub/academic/agriculture/sustainable_agriculture/GUIDE
For more information contact Lawrence London, london@sunSITE.unc.edu.

____________________________________________________________________
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Accessing FAQs and Selected Information Resources at sunSITE.unc.edu
____________________________________________________________________
--------------------------------------------------------------------

World Wide Web (lynx available via telnet for vt100 users)
 WWW URL info:
  http://sunsite.unc.edu/london/Gateway_to_Archives.html
  http://sunsite.unc.edu/london/Rec.Gardens-FAQs.html
  http://sunsite.unc.edu/london/Herb_Archives.html
 GOPHER URL info:
  URL for sustainable agriculture is:
  gopher://sunsite.unc.edu/11/.pub/academic/agriculture/sustainable_agriculture
/
         [add gardening/gardening-faqs/ to the path for the rec.gardens FAQs]
  URL for rural skills is:
  gopher://sunsite.unc.edu/11/.pub/academic/agriculture/rural-skills/
  URL for energy resources is:
  gopher://sunsite.unc.edu/11/.pub/academic/environment/alternative-energy/ener
gy-resources/
----->  [Home Power Magazine archives are here]
  URL for alternative healthcare is:
  gopher://sunsite.unc.edu/11/.pub/academic/medicine/alternative-healthcare/
  URL for pesticide education is:
  gopher://sunsite.unc.edu/11/.pub/academic/environment/pesticide-education/
 FTP URL info:
  file://sunsite.unc.edu/pub/academic/agriculture/sustainable_agriculture/
       [add gardening/gardening-faqs/ to the path for the rec.gardens FAQs]
  file://sunsite.unc.edu/pub/academic/agriculture/rural-skills/
  file://sunsite.unc.edu/pub/academic/medicine/alternative-healthcare/
       [the herb archives are here]
  file://sunsite.unc.edu/pub/academic/environment/alternative-energy/energy-res
ources/
----->  [Home Power Magazine archives are here]
  file://sunsite.unc.edu/pub/academic/environment/pesticide-education/

Anonymous FTP:
  ftp sunSITE.unc.edu
  Login: anonymous
  Password: (enter your Internet e-mail ID)
  cd pub/academic
    cd agriculture/sustainable_agriculture
      cd gardening/gardening-faqs
  cd pub/academic/agriculture/rural-skills
  cd pub/academic/medicine/alternative-healthcare
    cd herbs
  cd pub/academic/environment/alternative-energy/energy-resources
----->  [Home Power Magazine archives are here]
  cd pub/academic/environment/pesticide-education

WAIS (available via telnet, follow login instructions)

Ftpmail (Send e-mail to ftpmail@sunsite.unc.edu for help file on ftpmail usage)

Gopher: (gopher sunSITE.unc.edu)
The Worlds of sunSITE
  Sustainable Agriculture Information
    gardening
      gardening-faqs
  links to:
    Rural Skills: etc.
    Alternative Energy
----->  [Home Power Magazine archives are here]
    Alternative Healthcare
    Pesticide Education
    - other Gopher sites with ag/gardening information

The Worlds of SunSITE
  browse sunSITE archives
    academic
      agriculture
        sustainable_agriculture
          gardening
            gardening-faqs
        rural-skills

The Worlds of sunSITE
  browse sunSITE archives
    academic
      environment
        alternative energy
          energy-resources
----->  [Home Power Magazine archives are here]
        pesticide-education

The Worlds of sunSITE
  browse sunSITE archives
    academic
      medicine
        alternative healthcare
          herbs

__________________
------------------
About the Archives
__________________
------------------

Newsgroup, mailing-list, newsletter archives/documents/FAQs on
sustainable agriculture, permaculture, IPM, landscaping, gardening,
farming, rural skills, horticulture, metalworking, woodworking, weather,
housebuilding, food, cooking, nutrition, ecology, environment, pesticide
education, health-safety-welfare, beekeeping, food preservation,
alternative: healthcare, energy, architecture, housing, communities
and many other related topics.

Partial list of topics
----------------------
historic food
food preserving
health-safety-welfare
sourdough bread-yoghurt-kraut-fermented foods
vegetarian cooking
alternative architecture
alternative/co-housing, sustainable/intentional communities - co-operatives
alternative healthcare
health and safety faqs
sustainable agriculture
gardening-farming-rural life
gardening faqs
landscaping-landscape architecture
permaculture
integrated pest management
hydrology
meteorology
beekeeping
hydroponics
biological pest control
mycology
botany
vermiculture
wildlife
hydroponics
aquaponics
bioremediation
aquaculture
guides to Internet agriculture/healthcare/environment/biology resources
homeopathy
ayurveda
nutrition
meditation

Newsgroup archives:

sci.agriculture
sci.agriculture.beekeeping
alt.sustainable.agriculture
alt.agriculture.misc
alt.agriculture.fruit
rec.ponds
sci.bio.entomology.lepidoptera
alt.landscape.architecture
rec.gardens
misc.rural
rec.food.preservation
sci.bio
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sci.geo.geology
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bionet plants
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bionet.biology.grasses
bionet photosynthesis
bionet cellbiology
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bionet.biology.tropical

alt.architecture.alternative
alt.housing.nontrad
sci.energy
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alt.energy.renewable
alt.solar.thermal
alt.solar.photovoltaic
sci.engr.lighting

misc.health.alternative
alt.aromatherapy
sci.life-extension
alt.health.ayurveda
alt.folklore.gemstones
alt.folklore.herbs
alt.co-evolution
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alt.consciousness.mysticism
rec.food.veg
rec.food.veg.cooking
sci.med.nutrition
alt.food.fat-free
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alt.med.allergy












From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Thu Jun  1 08:29:12 1995
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	for london@sunsite.unc.edu (london@sunsite.unc.edu)
To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: Wed, 31 May 1995 18:14:29 GMT
From: Lee Butler <lbutler@GATE.NET>
Message-Id: <26711.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
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Subject: Re: AE Digest - 27 May 1995 to 29 May 1995
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We want to star a "home Page" for the www. Can you help us?

Ekotecture International Incorporated
Solar Gravity Geothermal Powered Sustainable Construction

Wednesday, May 31, 1995

Gentlemen:

I propose that we base any future design technologies or life support
systems on the following:

The availability of abundant indigenous materials.That they contain minimal
embodied energy. That their assembly and maintenance be simple enough to
eventually provide all of the advantages of  the new technology to all
people living on the earth, now and in the future.

Secondly, we could agree to base these new machines-structures on
universally available energies such as gravity, solar, geothermal specific
heat, ( thermal inertia) capillary action ( the mechanism plants use to
pump water 100's of feet vertically, evaporative cooling, photosynthesis
and many other natural systems which can relieve and replace our human
labor, therefore supporting human life. We could agree to use these
abundant benign universal energies, principles and processes to support
human life without producing harmful pollution in the air, water or earth,
without friction or combustion ( except for rituals and personal cooking ).


Thirdly, we could agree to build the new  structures in such a way that
they can survive the frequent and widespread catastrophic forces of nature
including floods, earthquakes, tidal surges, tornadoes and hurricanes which
annually cause billions of dollars of property damage and the even greater
cost of lost human lives and productivity.

=46inally, we could  agree to the application of some basic minimum
standardization of component concepts and ( third world) mass assembly by
hand labor techniques, in order to radically reduce the cost of the
structure-infrastructure ( machine ) to the level where sustainable
structures could eventually be bought and paid for by all human families,
with either "currency", money or exchange of hand labor and equivalent
services.

=46urther preliminary descriptions of the engineering and structural
specifications, performance criteria and construction methods are contained
in the technical paper, Ekotecture, An Integrated Approach to Sustainable
Construction.

I believe and hope these assumptions, principles, concepts and goals are
clearly self evident and will certainly become the basis of a vibrant new
world ( great architectural) economy,  creating a beautiful, sustainable
global culture.

I invite the reader to respond! Before a new company can be formed, other
people ( third party endorsements)  must understand and further explain
these concepts. I am writing you because your contribution is important.
Without you and others like you, offering additional expert opinions
regarding these basic concepts and proposals, Ekotecture will not be fully
realized.

With best regards,


Lee Porter Butler.

620 Biscayne Drive * West Palm Beach, Florida, 33401 * (407) 659-7656
 Internet < lbutler@gate.net >

Ekotecture International Incorporated
Solar Gravity Geothermal Powered Sustainable Construction


 Description of Ekotecture Structures

 (1) produces "0" zero pollution, taking nothing out of the earth, air or
water, putting nothing back into the earth, air or water.
 (2)  integrates the architectural building structure with a decentralized
utility infrastructure.
 (3) utilizes a  complex of flotation tanks as part of its "floating
foundation platform" structurally integrated with the architectural
superstructure above, enabling the entire structure to resist seismic
horizontal (earthquake) shear  forces, hurricane wind forces, floods,
fires, tidal surges and tornadoes.
(4)utilizes passive and active solar,  gravity  convection ( fluid
dynamics), geothermal  inertia, capillary action, evaporative cooling,
photovoltaics, solar water heaters, biodigestors, solar chimneys, ect  and
others power" the  Ekotecture utility system
(5) maintains comfortable interior temperatures, year round in all
climates, by utilizing the gravity geothermal convection  double air
envelope  =81 and the gravity solar convection chimney    =81 eliminating
mechanical and electrical  systems for  day lighting, heating, cooling,
space conditioning, ventilation and  humidity control, all of which
combined,  help to eliminate "sick building syndrome" and retard the growth
of  molds, fungus, bacteria and germs.  (7) utilizes the organic atomic
spiraling dodecahedral  stacking crystalline structures as the model for
the  design of its physical structure. Based on the geodesic geometry of
Bucky Fuller.
 (8) utilizes widely available indigenous materials, including industrial
and commercial waste products  to form ultra-strong, lightweight, inert,
fireproof, inexpensive, molded structural components which reducing
construction assembly time.
 (9) utilizes its organic wastes to produce organic fertilizer and methane g=
as
(10) utilizes a "garden greenhouse space" to negatively ionize the air,
removing all particle pollutants, odors, toxic "off gassing", and
increasing the oxygen content, eliminating sick building syndrome.
(11) utilizes low voltage direct  photovoltaics generated electric current
which is stored in very large underground liquid storage batteries
(12) captures rain water and uses the latest radionic water treatment
technologies and rock-mineral-salt additives to produce a nutritionally
superior drinking and domestic water supply ( stored in underground tanks).

(13) utilizes the gray water from lavatories, showers and laundry to
fertilize and water the landscape ( stored in underground tanks )
(14) utilizes the concept of central ownership and maintenance of the
utility generating infrastructure, billing the occupants for  services
consumed in order to integrate with existing economic business structures,
wall street, self-interest  and conventional thinking.
(15) Ekotecture able to offers investors superior returns on invested
capital by  (A) reducing exposure to losses from natural disasters, acts of
war, sabotage, ect. (B) eliminating the requirement  to supply the system
with natural resources ( fossil fuel or nuclear ) and (C)  maintain an
expensive sprawling and vulnerable  distribution system which requires an
expensive real estate  right of way (D)  maintain a friction-combustion
fossil nuclear based high maintenance  mechanical technology which is
dangerous to human life and impossible to fix by most people (E) by being
able to bill the consumer for  the sum total dollar amounts now going into
natural disaster insurance, fire insurance, lights, electricity, heating,
cooling, thermal gas for cooking, water, heating water, heating and cooling
of the structure, all of which are now paid separately to several different
companies.  Ekotecture will reduce the total cost of housing and
maintenance for the consumer.
(16) Ekotecture, by design, links the resource being generated by the
living-working environments  ( methane gas and organic fertilizer to supply
the local food needs of each community and create jobs, i.e. hydroponic
fruits and vegetables, aquaculture of fish and shrimp, horticulture of
flowers,herbs and spices, providing fresh  agri & aquatic  produce,
convenient to the occupants of all structures, creating jobs where the
people are, harvesting and selling  fresh produce without the necessity of
refrigeration thereby eliminating many auto trips to the grocery for the
consumer.


Lee Porter Butler and Jill Karlin Butler
( Principals )

Ekotecture International Incorporated
Solar Gravity Geothermal Powered Sustainable Construction



Ekotecture Biospheres=81 (patented) are designed and  built according to the
principles  of Ekotecture knowledge as follows:

(1) integrates the architectural structural functions with the utility
infrastructure functions
(2) utilizes solar, gravity, geothermal and other universal energies to
"power" the integrated utility system ( utilizes photovoltaics, solar water
heaters, biodigestors and solar chimneys).
(3) eliminates  friction generating mechanical systems ( waste heat) and
combustion
(4) produces "0" zero pollution, taking nothing out of the earth, air or
water, putting nothing back into the earth, air or water.
(5) utilizes the organic spiraling dodecahedral stacking crystalline
structures as models for the design principles of its physical structure.
(6) utilizes industrial and commercial waste to  manufacture ultra-strong,
lightweight, inert, fireproof,inexpensive molded structural components
which eliminate mold, mildew, fungus, virus and bacterial growth.
(7) utilizes flotation tanks as part of its "floating foundation platform"
structurally integrated with the superstructure above, enabling the
structure to resist seismic horizontal earthquake shear forces, hurricane
wind forces, floods, tidal surges and tornadoes while  retaining its
ability to produce interior comfort, electricity, gas, water and to manage
it's organic wastes.
(8) utilizes its organic wastes to produce organic fertilizer and methane ga=
s
(9) maintains comfortable interior temperatures, year round in any climate,
by utilizing the gravity geothermal convection  double air envelope
eliminating mechanical systems for heating, cooling, space conditioning,
ventilation and  humidity control
(10) utilizes a "garden greenhouse space" to negatively ionize the air,
remove all particle pollutants, odors, toxic "off gassing", and increase
the oxygen content, eliminating sick building syndrome
(11) utilizes low voltage direct electric current moving through
"electrically activated portions of the structural wall elements,
eliminating electrical wiring and the associated potential for fire
(12) utilizes rain water and the latest radionic water treatment
technologies and rock-mineral-salts to produce a nutritionally superior
drinking and domestic water supply
 (13) utilizes the gray water from lavatories, showers and laundry to
fertilize and water the landscape
(14) utilizes the concept of central ownership and maintenance, economy of
scale and mass production to reduce the cost of manufacture and operation
approximately 90% over existing systems
(15) offers investors superior returns on invested capital with minimum
exposure to losses from natural disasters, acts of war, sabotage, ect. or
the requirement  to supply the system with natural resources ( fossil fuel
or nuclear ) or to maintain an expensive ( real estate ) right of way or
maintain a friction ( wear) based mechanical technology.
(16) links the resource being generated by the  living-working environments
( methane gas and organic fertilizer with hydroponic, aquaculture,
horticulture and  agricultural facilities and companies, providing fresh
agri & aquatic  produce, convenient to the occupants of all structures,
creating jobs and eliminating auto trips to the grocery.

April 25, 1995

Gentlemen:

EKOTECTURE =A9  is defined as the functional integration of the principles o=
f
architecture, engineering and ecology, resulting in the design of
sustainable structures, described as follows:

(A) Structural Integrity
Ultra lightweight, fiber reinforced insulating stressed skin panels resist
the forces of nature to protect human life. Designed to resist earthquakes,
float in a flood or tidal surge and withstand the effects of
tornadoes,hurricanes and fires, reducing fire and casualty losses.
(B) Healthier Buildings
The presence of plants in the outer air envelope  adds oxygen to the
building interior air and acts as an electrostatic filter, purifying the
interior air.
(C) Standardization of Components
The standardization of component parts reduces the manufacturing cost.
(D) Indigenous Materials
Manufactured from widely available, inexpensive materials.
(E) Utilizes Universal Energy, Forces and Principles
Incorporates the solar-gravity-geothermal double air envelope , and other
passive principles.
(F) Zero Operating Pollution
Puts nothing into the earth, air or water and takes nothing out of the
earth air or water, preserving the natural environment.
(G) Decentralized Infrastructure
Eliminates the cost and loss of efficiency caused by distribution systems.
(H) Superior Return on Invested Capital
Allows for each consumer to be billed monthly for utility services yet
functions without the expense of non-renewable (fossil or nuclear)
resources, making it is more profitable than conventional utility system
investments.



Lee Porter Butler & Jill Karlin Butler



620 Biscayne Drive * West Palm Beach, Florida, 33401 * (407) 659-7656
 Internet < lbutler@gate.net >






620 Biscayne Drive * West Palm Beach, Florida, 33401 * (407) 659-7656

The Origin of the cosmos
In the beginning, everything was dark and void. There was no thought and no
thing. There was no light, only darkness and it ran deep, infinitely deep,
in every direction. All was quiet. This lasted for an infinite period of
time.

Then, from everywhere, nowhere, everywhere,  simultaneously, the mind of
God experienced the thought of the universe beginning with a big band,
blowing light particles all over the universe and organized in patterns and
common structural characteristics we call atoms. These tiny light centers,
are consciousness of their own identity and it is this consciousness,
connected to the consciousness of God which connects them to each other and
to congregations of different atomic characteristics to form water, algae,
wiggling microbes, spermatozoa, snakes, dolphins, puppies and warriors or
what we call man kind. This super chain of atomic energy is an interactive
generator capable of destroying the whole universe.

Each of us possesses a spirit energy which is equal to everyone else, so
there is no escape if you try to dominate or judge. Judgment is left alone
to God almighty, maker of heaven and earth and everything there of. God
created all of us to explain all of the above to each other.

Consciousness creates Form

Consciousness, human consciousness, is now creating the form and character
of our entire universe. Through the power of our mind, communication and
corporation, we can accomplish anything that can be stated and agreed upon
as a shared intention. Human abilities to perform miracles and magic
through this sacred order are legendary. It is the secret of the Cabal, the
Pyramids of ancient Egypt, the supernatural powers of Moses and David. It
is the power to which Jesus testified and demonstrated byhis miracles. It
is the power called upon by Lord Krishna, when he vanquished his evil
enemies without every leaving his marriage bed. It has come to be referred
to down through the ages as the light. Each of us possesses the light and
the ability to let it shine in the world to make the world a better place.
Each of us has been given some special gift which we can share with
everyone in the whole wide world. This simple truth has been hidden from
humanity for since long before recorded history. It has been impossible
before this very moment to communicate this to you but the time has come
for everyone to stand up and be counted. The time has come for all of us to
communicate with someone, anyone, everyone about our dreams, pains, sorrows
and our desires. When we chant Hari Krishna, and we chant Hari Krishna
often, we evocate the awesome power and force of will that was krishna's
right. Krishna and Rama and Lord Brama God, all give us this power.

Become  your true self. Let go, surrender to your desires and trust
yourself to contain yourself and set reasonable limits for yourself, lest
you go to far and destroy life. Self discipline is the axiom of our age.
The age of hero's, guru's and leaders is dysfunctional and dead. Long live
the free spontaneous artistic individual who can express their innermost
feelings and desires to as many people as possible. This is what the arts
is all about, writing and publishing, this is what acting,  poetry and the
spoken word is all about. This is what singing, painting, cooking and
sculpture is all about. And so I invite you to live in joy and bliss,
create art, let your light shine.We invite you to investigate reserving
your place in the Ekotecture ARKS, the floating cities and flying
biospheres, by purchasing stock in the new company, Ekotecture
International Inc. Creative communication is what it is all about. We
invite you to share your point of view with us.

Alpha Lee Raibow Light Cloud, Messenger/Prophet  from the Seven Stars.

Lee Porter Butler
620 Biscayne Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
407-659-7656 =20


Re: AE Digest - 27 May 1995 to 29 May 1995

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun Jun  4 11:29:48 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 1 Jun 1995 05:13:42 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3qk0c6$nlu@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <3qdvqh$kf2@news.wco.com>, <econnect.snowcrest.net-3005952056480001@ppp0.yreka.snowcrest.net>
Subject: Re: Solar a/C
content-length: 555
Status: O
X-Status: 

Bob-O Schultze <econnect.snowcrest.net> wrote:

>Air conditioners come in many different sizes and energy requirements. A
>small in-the-window for one room machine will draw about 1KW per hour.

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun Jun  4 11:29:50 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 1 Jun 1995 05:29:51 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3qk1af$nmk@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <18480.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Subject: Re: Converting An old House to Renewables
content-length: 17173
Status: O
X-Status: 

Steve Paschke  <AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@cmsa.Berkeley.EDU> wrote:

>If your thinking of re-siding soon, add 2" of rigid foam to the exterior
>of your house. 

How about some solar siding? Put Dynaglas or Replex single wall corrugated
clear polycarbonate sheets on the house, with an inch air gap behind
them, a layer of 80% greenhouse shadecloth, another inch air gap, and
holes at the top and bottom of the wall, with plastic flap dampers, so
that in the wintertime, house air flows up between the glazing and the
shadecloth, sideways thru the shadecloth, and back into the house. In
summer, you'd want to vent air from the top of the wall to the outside,
and vent house air into the wall at the bottom, if the house is not
air-conditioned, otherwise vent outside air into the wall at the bottom.

>  The most cost effective solar power at present is solar hot water heating.

Really? I used to spend a lot more on space heating than water heating, 
and passive solar space heating is usually more efficient, since the
temperatures are lower, and cheaper, since there are no moving liquids,
pumps, heat exchangers, plumbing, etc.

>If your going to change your water heater, buy a solar heater.

Or better yet, perhaps, try making a water heater as described in Q7
of the second posting below...

Article: 2080 of alt.architecture.alternative
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Subject: One way to build a high-performance passive solar house
Date: 9 Feb 1995 08:56:54 -0500 [updated 4/25/95]
Organization: Villanova University

Step 1.

Look up the average outdoor temperature in December, where you live.

The nice new, free book, _Solar Radiation Data Manual for Flat-Plate
and Concentrating Collectors_, from the National Renewable Energy
Laboratory at (303) 275-4099, has this information, as well as some
solar information, for many places in the United States. (They also
have a CD, with *hourly* solar weather data for 247 US cities over the
last 30 years, that might be used for passive solar house simulations.)

For example, where I live, in the northeast, the average December
temperature is about 32 degrees F, and the average amount of sun falling
on a south wall is about 1,100 Btu per square foot per day.

Step 2. 

Estimate how many Btu/day you need to heat your house at that average
outdoor temperature.

For example, if you have a 30' x 30' 2-story house, you have about
3,000 square feet of walls and roof. If the R-value of that surface is,
say, 30, it takes about 3,000/30 = 100 Btu per hour to heat the house to
68 degrees, if it is 67 degrees outside. Subtract the average outdoor
temperature from the indoor temperature and multiply by 24 hours, then
multiply this by the sum of each surface area divided by its R-value.

Our example house takes (68-32) x 24 x 100 = 86,000 Btu per day to heat. 
Call it a hundred thousand, a nice round number that is about the same
amount of heat as a gallon of oil burned in an old oil burner.

Step 3. 

Calculate how much south-facing glazing you need on your low-thermal-mass
sunspace, to supply that amount of solar heat, on an average day.

Where I live, each square foot of south facing wall receives about 1,000
Btu/day, another nice round number. If the low-thermal-mass sunspace has an
insulated low-thermal-mass wall between it and the house, with a big window
fan in one window, to suck most of the warm air into the house during the day,
and you let the sunspace get icy cold at night, the sunspace will be about
68 F during the day, as a first approximation. So the heat lost from each
square foot of glazing in the sunspace to the outside, during the day, in our
example house, will be about (68-32) x 5 hours, or 180 Btu, if the sun shines
for 5 hours on a winter day. So each square foot of sunspace glass provides
about 800 Btu/day to the house, net, on an average winter day. Another way
to figure this is that each square foot of south-facing glazing collects the
heat-equivalent of 1-2 gallons of oil per year. If your present oil bill
indicates that you need a thousand square feet of glazing or more, perhaps
more house insulation and caulking are needed before solar heating, or you
could just use the sunspace to reduce the oil heat, with no thermal store.

Our example house would need about 100,000/800 = 125 square feet of glazing
in the low-thermal-mass sunspace glass to keep it warm on an average day.
Say, an 8' high x 16' wide window, with an insulated wall between that window
and the rest of the house. The sunspace might be quite shallow, eg some
cost-effective "solar siding," instead of, say, vinyl siding, as in the solar
closet wall below. Or it might be a bit deeper, extending out from the house
8', and used for growing ripe, red tomatoes and basil in December, perhaps
with a couple of extra hours of 90% high-pressure sodium and 10% mercury
vapor light, and a little heat leaked from the house on freezing nights.

Step 4.

Take a guess at how many cloudy days there are in a row in December, where you
live, and what the outdoor temperature is during those days. In many places,
cloudy days are warmer than sunny days in December.

(If you wanted to be more precise, the weather bureau, or perhaps NREL or NOAA
could help. Or you could calculate Gaussian statistics using the CD data.)

Let's say that our example house is in a climate with 5 cloudy days in a row,
in December, and that the average temperature during those days is 32 F.

Step 5.

Calculate how many 55 gallon drums full of water you need to keep the house
warm for that cloudy day period.

In our example house, this would be 5 x 100,000 = 500,000 Btu, about the same
as 5 gallons of oil. If the water in the drums is hot, say 130 F, and the
drums can keep the house warm until the water cools to, say, 80 F, then
each drum stores about 25,000 Btu, about the same as a quart of oil. So
5 gallons divided by one quart is 20 drums (talk about apples and oranges :-)

How do you keep the drums that hot? You build an insulated solar closet behind
the sunspace, in the house, with an air heater as part of the insulated wall
between the sunspace and the house, with a transparent vertical cover of glass
or transparent "solar siding," eg Dynaglas or Replex ((800) 726-5151)
polycarbonate plastic, which costs about a dollar a square foot, and comes
in long sheets, about 4' wide.

Behind that siding, you staple some 80% greenhouse shadecloth, which costs
about 14 cents per square foot, leaving a 1" air gap between the siding and
the shadecloth, and you leave another 1" air gap between the shadecloth and
the 3 1/2" of fiberglass insulation in the 6" wall, and you put small vents
(about 1% of the overall area, eg 1 square foot in our example house) at the
top and bottom of this air heater, to allow warm air from the solar closet to
flow into the outside air gap through the vent hole at the bottom of the air
heater, _through_ the shadecloth, and back through the upper vent hole into
the insulated solar closet. The vent holes should have plastic-film backdraft
dampers to keep the air from flowing when the sun is not shining. These might
be made from chicken wire and a thin (1 mil) plastic film like that used for
dry cleaner bags. 

The inside wall of the closet could be the foil face of the fiberglass
insulation. The floor might be dirt, covered with a layer of plastic.
There should be an air space between the drums and the walls of the
solar closet, to allow air to circulate around the drums. There should
also be a vent to the house, to be slightly opened on cloudy days. This
could be an electric air damper controlled by a thermostat. (Another
approach might be to put the 55 gallon drums on a strong attic floor as
an overhead "warmstore," a la Norman Saunders, for new construction.)

In our example house, if the 2' diameter x 3' long drums were stacked up
horizontally, 4 high, the solar closet would be 8' high x 10' long x 4' deep.
I would make it 6' longer, and use the non-drum space for a sauna. The
solar closet should also have 3 1/2" of fiberglass insulation in its ceiling,
ie the second floor of the house, and in its back (north) wall, inside the
house. Note that most of the "waste heat" from this solar closet ends up
in the house via the sunspace from the front glazing, when it is collecting
heat, and via most of the insulated surface the rest of the time. Note
that the solar closet does not usually provide heat for the house, except
during cloudy day periods, so it stays hot like a stagnant solar collector.

The sauna might have a very small woodstove, for burning newspapers, junk
mail, old paper towels, college committee recommendations, letters from
congressmen, and press releases announcing amazing new price breakthroughs
in photovoltaic technology.

Nick

Article: 2127 of alt.architecture.alternative
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Subject: Passive solar house evolution
Date: 13 Feb 1995 09:49:42 -0500
Organization: Villanova University

Question 1: If you put a 55 gallon drum full of water in a 2' square x 4' tall
uninsulated box in the shade in Philadelphia, in January, what would the
average temperature of the drum be? 

Answer 1: According to the NREL _Solar Radiation Data Manual_, the average
January temperature in Philadelphia is -0.9 degrees C, or about 30 degrees F.

Q2: What would the average box temperature be if it were in the sun,
in Philadelphia, in January, and if it were painted white?

According to the 1993 ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, the "sol-air
temperature," or equivalent air temperature, Te, of a vertical surface
in the sun, is the outdoor temperature + 0.15 x U, IF the surface is painted
a light color, and the amount of sun falling on the surface is U Btu/hour.

According to the NREL book, a south-facing wall in Phila in January receives
about 3.3 kWh/m^2/day, ie 3300 x 3.41 Btu/10.76 ft^2/m^2 = 1000 Btu/ft^2/day
of sun. This is an average daily insolation of about 40 Btu/ft^2/hour. So
assuming the sun only shines on the south side of the box, if it were painted
white, the average temperature of the south side would be 30 + 0.15 x 40 = 36
degrees. The interior temperature should be the average temp. of all of the
outside surfaces, I think. Each face of the box has a surface area of 8 ft^2,
and the top and bottom have areas of 4 ft^2, so the average drum temperature
should be about (8x36+3x8x30+2x4x30)/(8+3x8+4+4) = 1248 / 40 = 31.2 F, 1.2
degrees warmer than the drum in the shade.

Q3. What would the drum temperature be if the box were painted black?

The ASHRAE HOF says that the sol-air temperature of a DARK vertical surface
is the outdoor temperature + 0.3 * U, so if the black box were receiving 
the same amount of sun as the white box, the average temperature of the
south wall would be 30 + 0.3 x 40 = 42 F. So you can raise the effective
average outdoor temperature of a white south-facing wall in Philadelphia by
an average of 6 degrees, in January, just by painting it darker. Not bad... 

In the above case, the average temperature of the drum/box would be 

(8x42+3x8x30+2x4x30)/40 = 32.4 F, just above freezing.

Q4. Suppose the box had a single-pane glass south wall, with no insulation?

In this case, the solar energy, Ein, that goes into the box would be about

Ein = 2 x 4 ft^2 x 1,000 Btu/ft^2/day = 8,000 Btu/day,

assuming the glass transmits 100% of the solar energy.

If the drumwater has an average temperature of Tw, and the walls and glass
front of the box have an R-value of 1, the energy that goes out of the box
in one day is Eout = (Tw-30) x 24 hours x 40 ft^2/R1. If energy is conserved,
ie Ein = Eout, then Tw = 30 + 8,000/(24x40) = 38.3 degrees F. An improvement.
Six degrees warmer than the unglazed box...

Q5. How about if we add R-14 insulation to the other three sides and the top
and the bottom?

In this case, the solar energy that goes into the box is the same, but
the solar energy that goes out of the box, into the outside air, is

Eout = (Tw-30) x 24 hours x (8 ft^2/R1 + 32ft^2/R14) = (Tw-30) x 247, so if
Eout = Ein, then Tw = 30 + 8,000/247 = 62 degrees F, a livable temperature,
when the sun is shining, which begins to decrease when the sun stops shining.
This is often as far as passive solar house designs go, with the house getting
colder and colder on cloudy days, as a lot of heat leaks out of the south-
facing windows. One of the problems with this design is that you have to
*live* inside the "heat battery," so you can't make it too warm. 

Q6. But then suppose we make the glazed side an ideal air heater, so it
collects the sun's heat during the day, but the drum is insulated at night?

Now Eout = Es + Eother, where Es is the heat lost through the ideal south wall
air heater. Say the sun shines for 6 hours a day in January... Then
Es = (Tw-30) x 6 hours x 8 ft^2/R1 + (Tw-30) x 18 hours x 8 ft^2/R14.

Eother is the heat lost through the east, north and west walls of the box,
as well as the top and bottom. Eother = (Tw-30) x 24 hours x 32 ft^2/R14. 

So, if the energy into the box equals the energy out of the box, then

(Tw-30)(48+10+55) = 8,000, so Tw = 30 + 8,000/113 = 103 degrees F. But wait!
This is no good... This passive solar house has too much south-facing glass!
It overheats! At this point, the thing to do is open the windows in January,
or (better) move out of the little box with the drum in it, and build a house
behind it, using the hot water in the drum as a heat battery for cloudy days.

If the drum and its air heater are inside a sunspace, and the air from the
sunspace heats the house during sunny-day periods, the heat lost from the south
side of the air heater will help heat the house during sunny day periods. If
the house is built around an insulating solar closet containing the warm drum,
the heat lost from the drum will help heat the house too... So the heat that
leaks out of the heat battery during sunny-day periods is not wasted.

Q7. Now suppose we make the box 8' tall instead of 4' tall, so that the air
heater collecting area is 16 ft^2, and the drum on top still gets all the
collected heat, but none of the collected heat goes out through the lower half
of the box or the uninsulated glass at night?
                                                 g: glass       giii
Ein = 16 ft^2 x 1,000 Btu/day = 16,000 Btu/day.  D: drum        giDi
                                                 i: insulation  giii
Eout = Es + Eother                                              giii

       Es = (Tw-30)x6x16ft^2/R1 + (Tw-30)x18x8ft^2/R14 = (Tw-30)(96+10).

       Eother = (Tw-30)x24x32/R14 = (Tw-30)x55, as before.

So Ein = Eout ==> Tw = 30 + 16,000/(96+10+55) = 131 degrees. This is getting
interesting... We could not possibly live inside this solar closet, except
for a few minutes at a time, as a sauna, but it is good to have a heat battery
like this sitting around, charged up to a high temperature, because that will
make the useful heat that we can get out of it last for a long time, during
periods of cloudy days. Along with a bit more glazing, one might also put an
electric water heater inside this closet, and preheat its cold water input
with about 20' of 1 1/4" copper pipe or fin tube running along the ceiling of
the closet, to heat water for taking showers, etc... If the input water is
preheated, and the water heater is in a 130F room, the electric heating
element should rarely turn on.

Q8. Suppose we used two layers of glazing instead of one, above?

Ein would be the same, in this simple model.

Es would be about (Tw-30)(48+10), and Eother would be the same.

So Tw = 30 + 16,000/(48+10+55) = 174 degrees F.

Q9. Then suppose we add a reflecting pool or shutter in front, which
increases the solar input by 50%?

Tw = 30 + 16,000x1.5/(48+10+55) = 242 F. (Which of course, would make
the water steam. Maybe these drums should be full of sand. But then you
would need about 3 times more of them, since masonry has about a third
the heat capacity of water, and a higher thermal resistance.)

Q10. But wait, we were going to put the solar closet inside the sunspace,
right? So during the day, when the solar air heater is working, the south
side of the air heater will be exposed to, say, 68 F house air, not 30 F air,
and the other walls of the solar closet will also be exposed to 68 F air,
not 30 F outside air. So what would the "water temperature" be in this case?

It's roughly the same little calculation, using 68 F instead of 30 F:

Tw = 68 + 16,000x1.5(48+10+55) = 280 F.

Q11. Then suppose we lay the drum/box down horizontally, and put the air
heater side at the focus, under an ideal 4:1 reflective linear parabolic
concentrator? Or use an R-14 movable reflective shutter to cover the glass
over the drum when the sun is not shining?

Ein = 16,000 x 4 = 64,000 Btu/day.

Eout does not change.

So Tw = 68 + 64,000/(48+10+55) = 634 degrees F.

...

So, it seems to me that it isn't too hard to arrange for a passive solar house
to have a "solar closet" with a few high temperature 55 gallon drums full of 
water, a "heat battery" that can be discharged in a controlled way, to provide
heat for a house during cloudy days...

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun Jun  4 12:59:53 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 1 Jun 1995 05:42:21 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3qk21t$no6@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
References: <26711.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
Subject: Re: AE Digest - 27 May 1995 to 29 May 1995
content-length: 3173
Status: O
X-Status: 

Alpha Lee Rainbow Light Cloud, Messenger/Prophet from the Seven Stars,
who appears to lack a sense of humor or humility, further froths:

> Description of Ekotecture Structures

>(5) maintains comfortable interior temperatures, year round in all
>climates, by utilizing the gravity geothermal convection  double air
>envelope  =81 and the gravity solar convection chimney    =81 eliminating
>mechanical and electrical  systems for  day lighting, heating, cooling,
>space conditioning, ventilation and  humidity control, all of which
>combined,  help to eliminate "sick building syndrome" and retard the growth
>of  molds, fungus, bacteria and germs.  (7) utilizes the organic atomic
>spiraling dodecahedral  stacking crystalline structures...

Before the millenium, some of us might want to try a nice new electronic air
filter made by Aqua-Air Technologies, at (410) 489-5288. The ESSA electronic
filter comes in 14 standard sizes, and slips in place of a normal air filter
in a hot air heating system. It has a retail price of about $200. It's an inch
thick, and it uses three metal screens with two filter pads between the
screens. The center screen has a potential of 7,000 VDC, and the outer two
are grounded. The filter pads cost about a dollar, and need replacing about
every two months. The device comes with a small 110-24V transformer which
plugs into a wall socket, and the power consumption is listed as 24VAC at
1.6 VA, ie less than two watts. 

Here is the basic filter performance:

Typical Ambient Particle                
Size distribution (in microns) per m^3       Particle Removal Rates 
                                         
                       % by    % by          Electrostatic   ESSA
Size (um.)   Count     count   weight        ($800-1200)     ($200)

10+          1,000     .005%   28%  xxx x    99%             99+%
5-10        35,000     .175%   52%    x x    95%             99+%
1-5        264,000    1.32%    17%    x x    85%             99+%
.5-1     1,352,000    6.78%     2%    xxx    60%             90+%
.01-.5  18,280,000   91.72%     1%    xxx    40%             65%

                                    |||||_ bacteria/viruses/spores
                                    ||||_ cooking/tobacco smoke
                                    |||_ household dust
                                    ||_ pollen/mold/spores
                                    |_ dander/hair

Average synthetic dust weight arrestance: 79%

Single pass efficiency: 33% @0.3 um, 75% @0.5 um, 95% @1 um, 99% @3 um

Pressure drop: 0.05" @150 lfm, 0.1" @225 lfm, 0.15" @300 lfm, 0.22" @375 lfm

ASHRAE dust holding capacity: 20 gm/ft^2

Does not produce ozone

More than one person with severe asthma has told me that these really work,
that they have had their first night of good sleep in years, after spending
one night in a bedroom with one of these devices.

The air filter product is available now, and Aqua Air will soon have a
stand-alone console model with built-in fan, prefilter and charcoal filter.
One low-cost way of using the air filter now is to buy a $15 20" box fan and
mount a 20" ESSA filter on the suction side, with duct tape...

Nick 

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun Jun  4 13:59:51 1995
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To: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Date: 2 Jun 1995 02:46:41 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3qmc4h$3db@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
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Subject: Re: Bubble Wrap as Insulation
content-length: 677
Status: O
X-Status: 

MShadowfax <mshadowfax@aol.com> wrote:

>     While uncartoning some new electronics today, I began to wonder if
>anyone has used or considered using bubble wrap as a form of insulation
>and, if so, what kind of results they had. 

Seems to work OK, especially behind glass or flat fiberglass glazing.
I helped build a solar wood kiln that way, with some 4' wide Sealed Air Corp
bubble pack, which cost 5-10 cents/ft^2, and it worked fine for years. They
used to stick bubble pack up on the inside of glass greenhouses. Less than R2,
as I recall, and no UV inhibitors, unlike "solar pool covers," which cost more
and have that blue color that makes them less efficient. 

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun Jun  4 13:59:52 1995
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Date: 2 Jun 1995 03:04:13 -0400
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Subject: Re: moters to alternaters?
content-length: 840
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James VanBokkelen <jbvb@elf.com> wrote:
 
>A motor can only act as a generator if 1) the field is generated
>by permanent magnets (many small DC motors, specialized alternators
>used in micro-hydro and wind generators) or 2) there's some
>external "exciter" which supplies current for a wound field coil.

Date: Fri, 2 Jun 95 02:53:24 EDT
From: Mailer-Daemon (Mail Delivery Subsystem)
Subject: Returned mail: User unknown

   ----- Transcript of session follows -----
Connected to elf.com:
<<< 550 <jbvb@elf.com>... User unknown

   ----- Unsent message follows -----
From: nick (Nick Pine)
To: jbvb@elf.com
Subject: Re: moters to alternaters?

Seems to me that self-excitation is possible. In fact, that's one of
the things Intelligen seeks to avoid.

I'd very much like to talk with you more about Intelligen...

Nick     (610) 489-0545 

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun Jun  4 14:30:00 1995
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Date: 1 Jun 1995 08:01:20 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
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Subject: Re: Web-LESS SOlar Column = Solar electric + generator
content-length: 1382
Status: O
X-Status: 

Charles Collins <CharlieC@netins.net> wrote:
 
>Dear Mr. Solar; I have a cabin in a beautiful remote location that
>unfortunately does not have any power lines. We are currently running a
>gasoline generator many hours a day. How can I start on solar?

Add a low-thermal-mass sunspace :-) I wonder how the house is heated...
It would be nice if the waste heat from the generator ended up heating
the house or its hot water...

>   The next step is to get a large compatible inverter which is used to
>change your 12 DC volt into 110 AC current.

I wonder if it might be better to buy two 24V or 48V smaller inverters,
in light of your following statement? It seems to me that a typical inverter
would fail twice a year, if it has, say, a 5,000 hour Mean Time Between
Failures (MTBF), and it might take a few hours to fix, each time, but with
two of them, each, say, half the capacity, the unavailability of both would
approach that of the grid, or telephone unavailability, which is carefully
designed to be unavailable for at most a few seconds a year, max, using
redundant systems. This way you can repair one inverter while still using
the other, if you know that one is broken. As I recall, the outputs
of some Trace inverters can be connected, if you have a synchronizing
cable between them...

>This approach will give you a chance to build a reliable electrical system

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon Jun  5 16:30:23 1995
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Date: 2 Jun 1995 07:53:21 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3qmu3h$46o@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
Sender: london@sunsite.unc.edu
Subject: Saunders Patents
content-length: 2407
Status: O
X-Status: 

Issued patents of Norman Saunders (copies of which are available for $3 each
from The Commissioner of Patents and Trademarks/Washington, DC 20231,
or $2 each from Norman Saunders, P.E./15 Ellis Road/Weston MA 02193.

3,952,947  4/27/76 Solar heating system employing controlled
                   introduction of outdoor air via a special window
                   (window, triple glazed, with air flow in or out.)

4,018,214     ?    Water store behind double glass.

4,018,947  4/19/77 Heating and ventilation system (a division of
                   3,952,947 above.)

4,078,603  3/14/78 Skylight-type collector with storage and
                   distribution systems (transparent ceiling
		   collector/radiator.)

4,123,002 10/31/78 System for controlling air temperature, humidity
                   and ventilation with use of ground coupling (earth-
		   tempered air in and heat recovery on exhaust.)

4,129,120 12/12/78 Heating and ventilation system (a CIP of 3,952,947,
                   more fully describing a solar steam generator with
		   very low thermal loss.)

4,157,639  6/12/79 Seals for vertical and sloping windows or glazing
                   (very inexpensive permanent glazing system.)

4,201,189   5/6/80 South window solar-radiation absorbing element (selective
                   absorber, window, thermosyphon collector, as in Shrewsbury
		   House and All-Solar-Too House.)

4,296,733 10/27/81 Transparent roof employing reflective louvers that
                   admit much solar radiation in winter and admit little
		   solar radiation in summer (Solar Staircase (TM) and
		   all its variants.)

4,305,379 12/15/81 Solar energy fluid heating system (simple pressurized
                   drain-back solar DHW system.)

4,398,530  8/16/83 Solar collector and heating and cooling system (cont. of
                   4,078,603, describing monitor lighting and heating for
		   shops and markets.)

4,452,205 11/12/85 Dual storage heating and cooling system (one way to build
                   a house with a warm store in the attic and a cool store
		   in the basement. My copy has this note at the bottom,
		   "License fee is ten cents per square foot of floor area
		   of building. Payment permits use of this and all other
		   Suanders solar patents. Subject to change without notice.")

Note: US patents are normally valid for 17 years from date of issue.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon Jun  5 00:30:03 1995
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Date: Thu, 1 Jun 1995 20:53:17 GMT
From: Marge Wood <mwood@ACUVAX.ACU.EDU>
Message-Id: <25915.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Reply-To: Alternative Energy Discussion List <%cmsa.Berkeley.EDU:AE%SJSUVM1.BITNET@bigblue.oit.unc.edu>
Subject: Sustainable Cities/TX
content-length: 1788
Status: RO
X-Status: 

I just received a nice packet of information from the Sustainable Energy
Development Council in Austin.  They are having a Sustainable Cities
Roundtable on June 5 in Austin.  Here's a bit of the brochure:

The Texas Sustainable Energy Development Council envisions a Texas
responsibly powered by its sustainable energy resource base and serving as
a model to others in equitable prosperity, environmental health, advanced
technology, innovative government, and respect for future generations.

[the roundtable] is the fifth in a series of statewide roundtables designed
by the TXDC to [discuss energy efficiency and sustainability].

For information on the TX Sustainable Energy Development Council call
512 463 1745.

This day long roundtable on June 5 is only $35 and you call
512 471 1922 to register.

I know this is short notice, but it seems like it might be a good place to
meet folk interested in sustainability and related issues.  It is
sponsored by the UT School of Architecture.  No, I'm probably not going, but
folks who live near Austin might want to go over there.  One of the sessions
is about energy.  This brochure was only a tiny part of the contents of the
nice packet I got from the SEDC.  One of the brochures points out that Texas
has always exported energy, and if we switch to wind and solar and other
forms of renewable energy, we can continue to export energy.

For more information, call Charlotte Banks, SEDC, 512 463 1745. (that's for
the entire packet.)

Any of us scurrying around yesterday, unplugging all the electric stuff and
hunting new batteries, know there is plenty of wind; getting folk to buy it
in a more usable form is the challenge.

Marge
no, Abilene (our side of town anyway) didn't have any tornadoes.
Sweetwater did.
Sustainable Cities/TX

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Jun  7 00:00:42 1995
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Date: Sun, 4 Jun 1995 03:43:59 GMT
From: Marge Wood <mwood@ACUVAX.ACU.EDU>
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Subject: new issue of HOME POWER
content-length: 2863
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X-Status: 

This has to be the best issue yet.  Or maybe I'm just able to understand
more of it!  There is a nice long article about wind power and the various
types of wind generators and what can reasonably be expected.  I skipped
the stuff about hydro, but the pictures are nice.  And the article about
renewable energy and politics is great.  I'm going to wave it under the
noses of all my friends.  Hope y'all keep the phone numbers of your
legislators and the White House comments line taped to the edges of your
monitor....
I also received  the third issue of CSW RENEWS, about renewable energy
in Texas.  I wish Fort Davis weren't so far west; I want to go see the wind
farm out there.  I noticed that Cummins Solar Dish Stirling Engine installation
at the solar park is supposed to happen in July.  Maybe we can talk Cummins
into doing some sort of display next year at Earth Day!  hmmmmm....and it
sounds like WTU (MY utility!) is making positive noises about renewable
energy.  Also, on page 3, there is an article about a new kind of solar pump
patented by Charles McAnally.  It is much more efficient and less likely to
pull in sand.  He says "We use a much lighter fiberglass rod and polyurethane
casing...."  ...the Solamotor design can actually allow water wells to be
drilled at a 90 degree angle.  (pp. 3-5, CSW RENEWS, Vol. 1, Number 3,
Spring 1995).  Of course, wouldn't you know, McAnally is located in Fort
Davis.  But those of you who read this might live close enough to go take a
look at his pumps before he's so busy you can't get near them.  Y'all who
would like to receive this publication can subscribe for free by calling
214 77-RENEW.
In case some of you missed the ways to contact Charlotte Banks, PLEASE email
her or call her with your comments by Monday some time.  Of course, email
will be easiest for you and her, since Monday she'll be busy all day in the
last of the 5 roundtables about the development of energy policy in Texas.
Please send her your ideas about what would benefit the Texans where you are.
Her address is

cbanks@glo.texas.gov

and she will see that your email goes to the council, which includes the
governor of Texas.

I also chatted briefly with the person who will be working with vocational
tech. here in the AISD starting in the fall, and I suggested that renewable
energy would be great to include in the curriculum, and also that the bright
academics ought to be teamed with the clever and bright kids who are good at
figuring out how to make things happen, and offer scholarships for kids and
for teachers.  Anyone out there have any good renewable energy curriculum
that could be used for movable hands-on experience, or short presentations?
I noticed that WTU gave scholarships for essays on renewable energy done by
Ft. Davis high school students.
Well, see y'all another day!
Marge
new issue of HOME POWER

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Wed Jun  7 09:00:43 1995
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Date: 6 Jun 1995 11:27:50 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3r1s5m$1nf@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: Re: Aesthetics of solar housing
content-length: 2165
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X-Status: 

William Robert HINDLE  <hindle@hndl.demon.co.uk> wrote:

>I've read all the items about shadecloth behind glazing but what does it 
>look like?

Most glazing looks dark, black from a distance, the color of what is inside
from closer up. Solar glazing with black shadecloth behind it looks black too.
The new 600 ft^2 clear corrugated polycarbonate plastic, steep-sloping, south-
facing attic roof on my 1820 stone farmhouse has gone un-noticed by most,
since it looks a lot like the north-facing, corrugated metal roof of the house
from a distance. With a light inside at night, it is more noticable. 

The only neighbor of mine who has actually noticed my new roof is himself
a roofer. He said he envied the low labor cost, vs. asphalt shingles, as he
watched the contractor attach the 4' wide x 12' long clear panels with
hex-head screws on 4' centers.

>I have visions of a greenhouse with sagging, fading sackcloth 
>inside - am I unduly pessimistic?

This seems unrealistic to me. If you put the shadecloth behind the glazing,
and look at it thru the glazing, it will just look black. Period. I've
tried this. There may be some sags or fades, but you won't see them much.

OTOH, I just hung a temporary 16' tall x 32' wide single piece of 80% black
shadecloth over the front of my house, which faces the road, 100' away. It
looks a bit odd from the road, but it keeps the house cool, since it covers up
the 512 ft^2 Trombe wall and all of the windows in that wall. The view from
the inside is fine. Attenuated, but clear, with a little moire pattern,
like looking through a window screen. Or two.

>Would my local authority give planning permission?

I suppose so. One hopes they would be concerned with safety and health energy
savins, vs. consumed by aesthetics. If not, that should be changed.

>Where can I see pictures of solar housing?

One nice little book is _Sun Angles for Design_, by Robert Bennett, PE
and architect. The book is mainly has lots of graphs that help to calculate
overhangs for shading, but it also has lots of nice solar house pictures.
Copies are available for $5 each from the author at 6 Snowden Road/Bala
Cynwyd, PA 19004.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Jun 10 17:31:45 1995
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Date: 7 Jun 1995 03:59:06 -0400
From: nick@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu (Nick Pine)
Message-Id: <3r3m8a$92p@vu-vlsi.ee.vill.edu>
Organization: Villanova University
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Subject: Re: Bubble Wrap as Insulation -Reply
content-length: 505
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X-Status: 

In article <D9rqHy.84B@dcs.ed.ac.uk>, Neil Ferguson <ngf@dcs.ed.ac.uk> wrote:
 
>    It should certainly be possible to reduce your refrigerator 
>power consumption by wrapping it in insulation (eg. bubble wrap) 
>- basically you'd just be adding to the refrigerator's already-
>fitted insulation, which should reduce heat entry.

Seems like this would make condensation on the colder metal surfaces. I wonder
how you'd keep them from rusting? Seems like you need a vapour barrier on the
warm side.

Nick

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sat Jun 10 17:31:49 1995
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Date: Fri, 9 Jun 1995 19:36:12 GMT
From: "Association of Management (AoM)" <aomgt@INFI.NET>
Message-Id: <11342.usenet@merckx.graphics.cornell.edu>
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Subject: AoM Red Eye Call for Completed Camera-Ready Papers
content-length: 1722
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X-Status: 

AoM RED EYE CALL FOR COMPLETED CAMERA-READY PAPERS
June 28th Postmarked Deadline

The Association of Management (AoM) has 18 spaces available for
paper presentation, and proceedings publication in its forthcoming
August 2-5, 1995, 13th Annual International Conference being held at
the Waterfront Centre Hotel in Vancouver, BC, Canada.

The referee committee will accept two copies of finished camera-ready,
single-spaced manuscripts ( 6-10 pages) for internal blind review up until June
28th, 1995 (postmarked date).  Accepted manuscripts will be published
in both the AoM electronic proceedings publication and the traditional
bound AoM proceedings  book.  Manuscripts are to be accompanied by a disk
done in MSWord or WordPerfect.  The disk will be used for electronic
publication.

Categories of interest are:  human resource management,
organizational management, educational related topics, business,
management functions and applications, transportation, computer
machinery, information technology, information systems, information
resources, leadership and leaders, global health and ecology,
alternative energy and multidisciplinary topics related to all of the above.

Interested persons should contact <aomgt@infi.net>, Dr. Stephen LeMah
for information, instructions and conference materials inclusive of
registration fees, hotel reservation rates and so forth.

Two copies of your manuscripts and the disk may be sent to:

Dr. Stephen LeMah, Chairperson
Association of Mangement (AoM) Blind Review Committee
5309 Sidney Court, P. O. Box 64841
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23464-0841 USA
Tel: 804-479-5363     Fax: 804-479-0656
Internet email:  <aomgt@infi.net>

AoM Red Eye Call for Completed Camera-Ready Papers

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Sun Jun 11 14:05:10 1995
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Date: 7 Jun 1995 19:51:59 GMT
From: stanb@sr.hp.com (Stan Bischof)
Message-Id: <3r500v$k7v@canyon.sr.hp.com>
Organization: Hewlett Packard Sonoma County
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References: <802393495snz@mold.demon.co.uk>, <D9rr49.DLH@dcs.ed.ac.uk>, <3r4uak$b1g@nntp4.u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aero-Gel
content-length: 819
Status: RO
X-Status: 

David Tashima (tash) wrote:
: This is true, but it is conceivable to coat the surfaces of the bubbles with
: conductive material in such a way as to create a substantial capacitance.  

Considering that this is probably a closed cell material and 
you need _two_ electrodes for a capacitor it is not at all
obvious how you would go about this!

Any even conceptual suggestions about how you might do this?

If it's an open cell design then making a battery electrode becomes
pretty obvious, but even for open cell I don't see an obvious
way to create two opposed electrodes.

But who knows? any ideas?

--
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Stan Bischof   Hewlett Packard Company   707-577-3994  stanb@sr.hp.com
----------------------------------------------------------------------

From news@bigblue.oit.unc.edu  Mon Jun 12 00:35:25 1995
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