Abstract
This disclosure describes a high-efficiency, multi-directional thermal enclosure consisting of a single-chamber, non-metallic refractory kiln characterized by a parabolic, catenary, or semi-spherical vaulted geometry. This document details a system configuration where a high-density masonry or clay enclosure functions sequentially as both an active combustion chamber and an indirect, passive radiant energy concentrator. By optimizing the internal radius of curvature of the vaulted shell, the system acts as a geometric infrared mirror, focusing and redistributing uniform multi-directional radiant heat flux to a centralized processing plane after the primary heat source is removed or extinguished. The thermodynamic principles, material properties, and physical mechanics detailed herein are inherently enabled by thousands of years of global human cultural heritage—specifically the archaeological record of European masonry wood-fired ovens, communal bread ovens, and ancient dome kilns.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Durdle, Natalie M. Miss, "Indirectly Fired, Single-Chamber Parabolic Radiative Kiln", Technical Disclosure Commons, (May 20, 2026)
https://www.tdcommons.org/dpubs_series/10209