Dynamic switching thermoelectric thermal management systems and methods

Abstract

A dynamic switching thermoelectric thermal management system and method is disclosed. The thermal management system includes a heat dissipation device, a thermoelectric module, an ambient temperature sensor, a heat source temperature sensor, an energy storage device and a controller. One side of the thermoelectric module is thermally coupled to the heat source and another side is thermally coupled to the heat dissipation device. The controller periodically samples the temperature sensors and dynamically switches the thermoelectric module between a power generation mode in which the thermoelectric module uses the temperature difference between the heat source and ambient to charge the energy storage device, a cooling mode in which the thermoelectric module is powered to create a voltage difference across the thermoelectric module to cool the heat source, and an idle mode. The thermal management system can be integrated into a portable electronic device, for example a portable computing device.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 405,891, filed on Oct. 22, 2010, entitled “Dynamic Switching Thermoelectric Thermal Management Systems and Methods” which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY[0002]This invention relates to a dynamic switching thermal management system and more particularly to a temperature controlling system using a thermoelectric module and an energy storage device.[0003]For most heat generating systems, a large fraction of energy is dissipated as waste heat. As a result, the temperatures of the heat sources in the system are elevated. Most of these heat sources need passive or powered heat dissipation devices to extract the waste heat and maintain the critical components of the system within a desired temperature range. Moreover, the powered cooling devices need additional energy to operate.[0004]Prior systems have used a fan driven heat sink assembly ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005]The waste heat can provide a source of energy recovery as well. The temperature difference between the hot heat sources and the cold ambient makes thermoelectric power generation possible. The temperature difference can creates an electric potential difference in thermoelectric materials. If an external load is connected, the thermoelectric material can serve as a power source in the completed circuit. During thermoelectric power generation, the temperature of the heat source will be raised compared to its temperature without the power generation device. In certain scenarios, heat generating systems can work in elevated temperature ranges; eliminating the need to further cool the heat sources down. However, if the desired operating temperature range is exceeded, the performance of the system may be compromised.

Problems solved by technology

Moreover, the powered cooling devices need additional energy to operate.

However, if the desired operating temperature range is exceeded, the performance of the system may be compromised.

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