thermoelectric device

Abstract

An apparatus (41) for generating an electric current from temperature differences in a bathing fitting (1), the apparatus (41) comprising a heat transfer plate (43) having a protrusion (63) configured to directly contact water carried in a first region of the fitting (1), and a thermoelectric module (45) comprising one or more thermoelectric elements (97a-c) configured to be thermally coupled between the heat transfer plate (43) and a housing (3) of the bathing fitting (1) located in a second region of the bathing fitting (1), the thermoelectric elements (97a-c) further configured to generate electrical power from temperature differences between water carried in the first and second regions of the bathing fitting (1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a device for generating an electric current from a temperature difference in a bath accessory, and a bath accessory including the device. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, bath fittings have the ability to mix hot and cold water and supply the mixed water to one or more output devices, such as faucets, stopcocks, handheld showerheads, or shower heads. One common type of fitting uses a mixing valve to mix hot and cold water, while another uses a thermostatic valve core. The thermostatic valve core is assembled in a housing having a cavity for receiving the valve core, an inlet for coupling the valve core to the water supply line, and an outlet for coupling to the output device. After installation, a decorative cap is fitted on top of the housing.

[0003] The water supply pipes provide water at different temperatures, thus creating a temperature difference that will form within the fittings. It is known to use a thermoelectric module to generate current from this temperature difference. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for generating an electric current from a temperature difference in a bath accessory, the apparatus comprising: a heat transfer plate having protrusions configured to directly contact water carried in a first region of the accessory; and a thermoelectric module including one or more thermoelectric elements configured to be thermally coupled between the heat transfer plate and a housing of the bath accessory located in a second region of the bath accessory, the thermoelectric elements also configured to generate electricity from a temperature difference between the water carried in the first and second regions of the bath accessory.

[0005] The device allows the thermoelectric module to be integrated into a shower accessory with a mixer valve core in a space-efficient and cost-effective manner, without requiring extensive redesign. The shower accessory can be a thermostatic shower accessory.

[0006] The plate allows for the movement of temperature differences in position and orientation to facilitate the integration of the thermoelectric module into the housing of the shower accessory. Heat transfer from the first region to the thermoelectric module is performed through direct contact with the heat transfer plate. However, since heat transfer occurs at the inlet of the thermoelectric valve core, no water is diverted from the valve core during device operation. Therefore, the use of the device has minimal impact on the operation of the shower system or plumbing system. The thermoelectric module is located in the second region, so there is no need to move the heat. The device recovers energy (heat) that would otherwise be wasted and generates useful electricity.

[0007] The protrusion may be configured to extend through a hole formed in the housing of the shower accessory into the inner cavity of the shower accessory.

[0008] The water carried in the first region can be at a first temperature, and the water carried in the second region can be at a second temperature, which is different from the first temperature.

[0009] The heat transfer plate may include a first portion comprising the protrusion, and a second portion extending away from the first portion. The second portion may be configured to be thermally coupled to the thermoelectric element. The first portion may also be thermally coupled to the second portion.

[0010] The protrusion may extend along a first direction. The second portion may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

[0011] The second part can be generally planar. The protrusion can extend beyond the plane of the heat transfer plate.

[0012] The protrusion may include a plurality of surfaces arranged to extend into a cavity formed in the first region of the bath accessory.

[0013] The device may include a seal to form a watertight seal between the first portion of the heat transfer plate and the housing of the bath accessory, surrounding the protrusion.

[0014] The heat transfer plate may at least partially form a seat for positioning the seal.

[0015] The thermoelectric module can be configured to be in direct contact with the housing of the bath accessory.

[0016] The device may include an electrical socket electrically coupled to the thermoelectric element and configured to connect to an output load.

[0017] The socket can be mounted on the support member and can be electrically coupled to the thermoelectric element.

[0018] The output load may include one or more light-emitting devices.

[0019] The device may include a controller configured to control the operation of the output from the socket and / or the output load based on the voltage generated by the thermoelectric module.

[0020] The controller can be configured to control the electrical output from the socket and / or the output load based on the stability of the voltage generated by the thermoelectric module.

[0021] The controller can be configured to control the operation of the output from the socket and / or the output load in two modes, the two modes being: a first mode when the output is stable, and a second mode when the output is unstable.

[0022] The output in the first mode can depend on the magnitude of the voltage.

[0023] The heat transfer plate may have a first side and a second side. The protrusion may extend from the first side of the heat transfer plate. The first side of the heat transfer plate may also be adjacent to the thermoelectric module.

[0024] The device can be configured to be installed in a shower fitting that includes a mixer valve core.

[0025] According to a second aspect of the invention, a bathing accessory is provided, the bathing accessory comprising: a housing defining: a first inlet for receiving water at a first temperature, a second inlet for receiving water at a second temperature (different from the first temperature), and an inner cavity for accommodating a valve core (the valve core being used to mix the water for the first inlet and the second inlet); and a first device according to the first aspect, the first device being mounted on the outer surface of the housing.

[0026] The housing may include a hole extending through the housing into an inner cavity in the first region of the bath accessory.

[0027] The housing may at least partially define a seat for positioning the seal.

[0028] The shower accessory may include a recess in the housing, the recess being arranged to accommodate the thermoelectric module, the recess forming the second region.

[0029] The inner cavity and the shell can be generally cylindrical and extend in the axial direction.

[0030] The shower accessory may include wedge-shaped protrusions to form a planar surface for mounting the thermoelectric module and the heat transfer plate.

[0031] The housing may define a sub-cavity formed within the inner cavity at a first axial position along the length of the housing, wherein water received at the first inlet enters the inner cavity through the sub-cavity to enter the valve core, and the sub-cavity forms the first region.

[0032] The sub-cavity may extend around at least a portion of the periphery of the housing.

[0033] At least a portion of the sub-cavity may overlap with the second region in the peripheral direction. The first region and the second region may be spaced apart along the axial direction.

[0034] The housing may define an inlet channel for guiding water from the second inlet to a second sub-cavity formed within the inner cavity, whereby water from the second inlet enters the valve core. The housing may further define an outlet channel for guiding water from the valve core to an outlet device. The inlet channel and the outlet channel may extend along the axial direction and may be circumferentially spaced from each other. The second region may be located circumferentially between the inlet channel and the outlet channel.

[0035] The shower accessory may include a second device according to the first aspect. The first device and the second device may be circumferentially spaced around the housing on opposite sides of the inlet channel.

[0036] The first sub-cavity can overlap circumferentially with the first device and the second device, such that the protrusions of the heat transfer plate of the first device and the heat transfer plate of the second device both protrude into the same sub-cavity.

[0037] The shower accessory may include a mixer valve core. The mixer valve core may be a thermostatic valve core.

[0038] It will be understood that the features of the bathing accessories discussed with respect to the first device can also be applied to the second device.

[0039] It will also be understood that the features discussed with respect to any particular aspect may also be applied to any other aspect of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0041] Figure 1 A perspective view shows a housing of a bath accessory incorporating a device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the device being used to generate electricity from temperature differences;

[0042] Figure 2A It shows Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the fitting shown is taken through the inlet of the housing;

[0043] Figure 2B It shows Figure 1 The cross-sectional view shown is taken through the outlet of the housing, perpendicular to the... Figure 2A The view in the middle;

[0044] Figure 3It shows Figure 1 The accessories, in which the housing is cut open to show in more detail the device for generating electricity from temperature differences;

[0045] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 Heat transfer plate for devices that generate electricity from temperature differences;

[0046] Figure 5 A more detailed schematic illustration shows the circuitry for a device used to generate electricity from temperature differences; and

[0047] Figure 6 The schematic diagram illustrates the integration of the output device with... Figure 1 Among the accessories. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Figure 1 An example of a mixer shower accessory 1 is shown, which is used as an example to illustrate various embodiments. Figure 2A and Figure 2B Accessory 1 is shown in cross-section. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The two views are cropped at 90 degrees to each other.

[0049] Shower accessory 1 has a generally cylindrical shower accessory body, which is formed by a cylindrical housing 3 defining a longitudinal axis XX. The housing 3 is fixed to a mounting plate 5, which in turn is fitted to a wall or other supporting surface (not shown). Therefore, in use, the axis XX extends out of the wall or supporting surface.

[0050] In the following text, the top / front and bottom / rear of accessory 1, as well as various components of accessory 1, will be referred to. These terms are defined along axis XX relative to plate 5. Thus, the “bottom,” “base,” or “rear” of an element is the end closest to plate 5, while the “top” or “front” is the opposite end separated from plate 5. The directions of up / down and forward / backward will also be defined along this axis XX, with up / forward being away from plate 5 along axis XX and down / backward being towards plate 5 along axis XX.

[0051] In one example, the housing 3 is secured to the mounting plate 5 by screws 7; however, it will be understood that this is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand the various mechanisms used to secure the housing 3 to the plate 5. For example, any suitable mechanical fittings may be used, or interlocking protrusions may be used.

[0052] like Figure 2AAs shown, housing 3 and plate 5 define a pair of inlets 9a, 9b for connection to a water supply pipe (not shown). In this example, the first inlet 9a is arranged to connect to a hot water supply, and the second inlet 9b is connected to a cold water supply.

[0053] Each of the housing inlets 9a and 9b is coupled to a respective inlet channel 13a and 13b defined within the housing, the inlet channels 13a and 13b having openings 15a and 15b into an inner cavity 11 defined within the housing. The inlet channels 13a and 13b extend along axis XX and are formed in protrusions extending radially from the housing 3. The two inlet channels 13a and 13b are formed at positions opposite each other around the diameter of the housing 3.

[0054] Cavity openings 15a and 15b are controlled by check valves 17a and 17b, which are biased to close cavity openings 15a and 15b. Under sufficient water pressure, check valves 17a and 17b open to allow water passage into cavity 11. In one example, check valves 17a and 17b can open at a pressure of 0.025 bar or greater.

[0055] The cavity 11 houses a thermostatic mixer valve core 19 for mixing hot and cold water. Figure 2A In the middle, the valve core 19 is shown in cross-section, while... Figure 2B In the diagram, the outer surface of valve core 19 is shown. Valve core 19 has a hot inlet and a cold inlet (not shown) axially aligned with cavity openings 15a, 15b to receive water from housing inlets 9a, 9b.

[0056] The thermostatic mixer valve core 19 is generally cylindrical in shape and extends along axis XX, with a single outlet 21 at its base for mixing water. A housing 3 defines an outlet chamber 23 into which the outlet 21 opens. A control element 25 is provided to control the mixing of water to change the temperature at outlet 21.

[0057] Check valves 17a and 17b, thermostatic mixer valve core 19, and control element 25 are known in the art.

[0058] like Figure 2B As shown in the best embodiment, a number of seals 33a to 33c are formed around the outer surface of the valve core 19 and spaced along the length of the valve core 19. The seals 33a to 33c engage respective portions 37a to 37c of the inner surface 35 of the housing 3, thereby defining the inner cavity 11.

[0059] The surface portions 37a to 37c and the seals 33a to 33c are annular, thus extending around the entire periphery of the cavity 11 and the valve core 19, thereby dividing the inner cavity 11 into two sub-cavities 11a and 11b. The first sub-cavity 11a is axially aligned with the first cavity opening 15a from the first inlet channel 13a and the hot water inlet of the valve core 19.

[0060] The second sub-cavity 11b is axially aligned with the cavity opening 15b from the second inlet channel 13b and the cold water inlet of the valve core 19.

[0061] The second sub-cavity 11b is located axially in front of the first sub-cavity 11a, therefore, as Figure 2A As shown in the optimal diagram, the second inlet channel 13b extends further forward in the axial direction than the first inlet channel 13a.

[0062] like Figure 2B As shown in the optimal configuration, housing 3 defines a pair of outlet openings 27a, 27b. Each outlet opening 27a, 27b provides mixed water from mixer valve core 19 and can be connected to different output devices (not shown). For example, the first outlet 27a can be connected to an overhead shower head, and the second outlet 27b can be connected to a handheld unit.

[0063] Each outlet opening 27a, 27b is connected to the outlet cavity 23 via a respective outlet channel 29a, 29b defined in the housing 3. The outlet channels 29a, 29b extend parallel to the axis XX, allowing water to flow away from the base 5. Therefore, the outlet openings 27a, 27b are arranged on the side of the housing 3.

[0064] Valve chambers 31a and 31b are formed within each outlet channel 29a and 29b. Valve chambers 31a and 31b house their respective valve modules (not shown) to control the flow to outlets 27a and 27b.

[0065] The outlet channels 29a and 29b are formed at positions opposite to each other around the diameter of the housing 3. Similar to the inlet channels 13a and 13b, the outlet channels 29a and 29b are formed in protrusions extending radially from the housing 3. However, unlike the inlet channels 13a and 13b, the outlet channels 29a and 29b extend the same length in the axial direction XX.

[0066] The exit channels 29a and 29b and the inlet channels 13a and 13b are spaced 90 degrees apart around axis XX. Therefore, the four channels 13a, 13b, 29a and 29b are equidistant from each other around the housing 3 of accessory 1.

[0067] Within accessory 1, there is a temperature difference between the hot water at the first inlet 9a and the cold water at the second inlet 9b. Accessory 1 includes a device 39 to utilize this temperature difference to generate electrical energy.

[0068] In the example shown, device 39 includes a pair of thermoelectric devices 41 provided on the outer surface of housing 3. A first thermoelectric device 41 is provided between a first outlet channel 29a and a first inlet channel 13a, and a second thermoelectric device 41 is provided between the first inlet channel 13a and the second outlet channel 29b.

[0069] Figure 3 Part 1 is shown, with the housing 3 cut open to show a cross-sectional view of the first thermoelectric device 41. It will be understood that the construction of the first thermoelectric device 41 is the same as that of the second thermoelectric device 41.

[0070] The thermoelectric device 41 includes a heat transfer plate 43 and a thermoelectric module 45 provided between the heat transfer plate 43 and the housing 3.

[0071] Figure 4 An example of the heat transfer plate 43 is shown in more detail. The plate 43 is generally rectangular in shape, has a planar body 47, and is formed of a thermally conductive material.

[0072] The housing 3 includes a wedge-shaped protrusion 53 on its outer surface to provide a flat surface for mounting the plate 43. The wedge-shaped protrusion 53 includes a groove or recess 55 shaped to receive the thermoelectric module 45. The groove 55 is axially aligned with the first sub-cavity 11a of the housing cavity 11, from which hot water travels to the thermostatic valve core 19. The groove is circumferentially located between the protrusion forming the first inlet channel 13a and one of the outlet channels 29a, 29b.

[0073] The housing 3 is also made of a thermally conductive material, so that the first side 83 of the thermoelectric module 45 is coupled to the housing, which is then heated by water in the first sub-cavity 11a and / or the inlet channel 13a.

[0074] At the location of the recess 55, the housing 3 may have a reduced thickness to improve the heat conduction of hot water to the thermoelectric module 45.

[0075] The heat transfer plate 43 has a first side 49 and an opposite, outward-facing second side 51. In the assembled accessory 2, the first side 49 is adjacent to the housing 3 and the thermoelectric module 45.

[0076] The heat transfer plate 43 has a first portion 57 that covers the groove 55 in the assembled accessory 1. Therefore, the thermoelectric module 45 is assembled between the first portion 57 of the heat transfer plate 43 and the housing 3 located in the region of the first sub-cavity 11a of the accessory 1.

[0077] The heat transfer plate 43 has a second portion 59 that extends axially forward from the first portion 57, passes through the protruding structure 37b that separates the first sub-cavity 11a from the second sub-cavity 11b, and extends into the area of ​​the housing 3 that overlaps with the second sub-cavity 11b.

[0078] In the region where the heat transfer plate 43 overlaps with the second sub-cavity 11b, a hole 61 is formed extending through the housing 3 into the second sub-cavity 11b. The heat transfer plate 43 includes a corresponding protrusion 63 that extends from the first side 49 of the plate 43, through the hole 61, into the second sub-cavity 11b.

[0079] In the example shown, the protrusion 63 is generally rectangular in shape. It has a sidewall 65 that extends around the outer side of the protrusion 63, defining a hollow gap 67 within the outer side. The gap 67 is closed by an end wall 69 at its radially inner end and opens to the outer surface 51 of the heat exchange plate 43 at its radially outer end.

[0080] Sidewall 65 and endwall 69 define a first pair of parallel spaced surfaces 71a, 71b, a second pair of parallel spaced surfaces 73a, 73b, and an end surface 75. The second pair of parallel spaced surfaces 73a, 73b extend perpendicularly to the first pair of 71a, 71b and connect the ends of the first pair of 71a, 71b. These inner (wet) surfaces 71a, 71b, 73a, 73b, 75 extend into the second sub-cavity 11b and are in direct contact with the cold water in the second sub-cavity 11b. Opposite to these surfaces is a radially outer (dry) surface 77.

[0081] A stepped portion 79a is formed around the edge of the hole 61 in the housing 3. This stepped portion 79a forms a seat for positioning the seal 81a, which seals between the housing 3 and the heat transfer plate 43, thereby preventing leakage from the second sub-cavity 11b through the hole 61.

[0082] As discussed above, the heat transfer plate 43 is formed of a thermally conductive material. Therefore, the cold water in the second sub-cavity 11b is thermally coupled to the second side 85 of the thermoelectric module 45, which is opposite to the first side 83.

[0083] In this way, the thermoelectric module 45 is provided at the first region of the fitting 1. The first side 83 of the thermoelectric module 45 is thermally coupled to hot water in the first region of the fitting 1 (first sub-cavity 11a and / or inlet channel 13a) via the housing 3. The second side 85 of the thermoelectric module 45 is thermally coupled to cold water in a separate, different region by using a heat transfer plate 43 to transfer heat to the first region.

[0084] The heat transfer plate 43 is secured to the housing by screws (not shown), which extend into the housing 3 through screw holes 89 in the plate 43. The heat transfer plate 43 has a first screw hole 89a, which is formed axially at the front of the protrusion 63. A second screw hole 89b is formed at the opposite end (in the axial direction) of the heat transfer plate 43. The second screw hole 89b can be partially opened to form a clamp, such as... Figure 4 As shown in the image.

[0085] A thermal pad plate 91 is also provided. The pad plate 91 is formed of a non-thermally conductive material. The plate has a planar body 93, the planar body 93 having an end portion 93a and a connecting portion 93b, the end portion 93a being located between the head of a screw (not shown) and the heat transfer plate 43, and the connecting portion 93b extending between the end portions 93a.

[0086] The thermal washer plate 91 provides a surface for the screw (not shown) to abut. Furthermore, the thermal washer plate 91 has an annular protrusion 95 extending into the screw holes 89a, 89b, such that the annular protrusion 95 is positioned between the screw (not shown) and the heat transfer plate 43. The thermal washer plate 91 ensures that the screw (not shown), thermally coupled to the housing 3, is thermally isolated from the heat transfer plate 43 to prevent heat loss through the screw.

[0087] The heat-insulating gasket plate 91 also includes a cylindrical protrusion 133 that protrudes outward from the planar body 93 in the opposite direction to the annular protrusion 95. The cylindrical protrusion 133 ensures that the gasket plate 91 can only be installed in the correct orientation.

[0088] Figure 5 A circuit formed at one of the thermoelectric devices 41 is illustrated in more detail. Thermoelectric module 45 includes a plurality of thermoelectric elements 97a to 97c (three are shown for illustration, but any number may be used). The thermoelectric elements 97a to 97c are arranged in thermal parallel between heat transfer plate 43 and housing 3 and electrically in series. The thermoelectric elements 97a to 97c may include any suitable thermoelectric material (such as bismuth telluride), or are substantially composed of any suitable thermoelectric material (such as bismuth telluride).

[0089] Each thermoelectric module 45 is connected to a pair of wires 99a, 99b. Each pair of wires 99a, 99b is arranged to deliver current to or from one of the thermoelectric modules 45.

[0090] When multiple thermoelectric modules 45 are provided, the individual modules can be connected in a similar manner, such that the individual elements of each module are kept electrically in series and thermally in parallel.

[0091] Wires 99a and 99b can connect thermoelectric module 45 to any electrical component or device 101. For example, the electricity generated in thermoelectric module 45 can be used to power one or more lamps (e.g., LED lamps). The lamps can be decorative or ornamental. For example, the lamps can be operable to provide supplemental and / or recreational lighting in rooms such as bathrooms, wet rooms, or washrooms (e.g., in shower rooms or rain showers). The lamps can indicate the operational status of bath fittings or plumbing fixtures such as shower units, shower heads, spray heads, mixer valves (e.g., thermostatic mixer valves), faucets, stopcocks, toilets, and flushing for toilets or bidets.

[0092] Thermoelectric module 45 can be electrically connected to an electrical storage device (not shown) such as a battery or capacitor for later use as needed by the user.

[0093] By using electricity generated from temperature differences to power electrical components or devices 101, it is not necessary to connect the electrical components or devices to a main power supply or another power supply. For example, this can alleviate to some extent the potential problems of connecting electrical components or devices to a main power supply or another power supply when the electrical components or devices are located in a humid environment such as a shower room, shower room, bathroom, washroom, or wet room.

[0094] like Figure 1 and Figure 2A As shown in the best embodiment, device 39 includes an electrical socket 103. The electrical socket 103 is provided to facilitate connection between the thermoelectric device 41 and the output device 101.

[0095] In the example shown, a socket 103 is provided on a support member 105 extending from the back panel 5. The support member 105 is generally planar in shape and extends perpendicular to the axial direction XX. The socket 103 is formed on the support member 105 such that it is spaced from the housing 3 for easy access and connection.

[0096] The socket 103 is formed by a socket protrusion 107 formed on the support member 105. The socket protrusion 107 includes a cylindrical sidewall 109 that surrounds an opening in the support member 105 and extends in a direction axially forward from the support member 105. A body member 111 is formed on the top of the sidewall 109 (i.e., axially forward). The body member 111 has a front portion 111a and a rear portion 111b, the front portion 111a extending axially forward from the sidewall 109 and the rear portion 111b extending into a space 113 defined within the sidewall 109. The rear portion 111b extends only a portion of the length of the sidewall 109, such that a groove 115 is formed in the rear surface of the support member 105.

[0097] The front portion 111a of the main body member 111 has an outer wall 117 that extends radially beyond the side wall 109 and tapers inward as it extends forward in the axial direction. The outer wall 117 extends rearward past the end of the side wall 109, thereby forming an outer lip 117a at its rear end.

[0098] A pair of telescopic probe connectors 119 are provided. The telescopic probe connectors 119 extend through the body member 111 in front of the socket protrusion 107 and rearward into the recess 115.

[0099] In use, wires 99a and 99b extend from the thermoelectric module 45 and connect to the telescopic connector probe 119 on the rear side of the support member 105. In one example, an opening (not shown) may be provided in the support member 105 to allow wires 99a and 99b to pass through. In other examples, wires 99a and 99b may simply pass around the edge of the support member 105.

[0100] The operation of device 39 will now be described. There is a temperature difference between the cold water flowing in the second sub-cavity 11b and the hot water flowing in the first sub-cavity 11a and / or the hot water inlet channel 13a.

[0101] In the UK, hot water is typically supplied at around 65°C, and cold water is typically supplied at around 15°C. The exact temperature of hot and / or cold water supplies may vary depending on location (e.g., country), season, time of day, and / or weather conditions.

[0102] At the location of the thermoelectric device 41, the temperature difference between the cold water flowing in the first pipe 3 and the hot water flowing in the second pipe 4 will depend, for example, on the proximity of the device 1 to the hot water supply and / or cold water supply.

[0103] The temperature difference between the cold water flowing in the second sub-cavity 11b and the hot water flowing in the first sub-cavity 11a and / or the hot water inlet channel 13a can reach or at least 10°C, 20°C, 30°C, 40°C, or 50°C.

[0104] The heat transfer plate 43 allows for the movement of locations with temperature differences by conducting the temperature of cold water to different positions. Heat is also conducted from the first sub-cavity 11a and / or the hot water inlet channel 13a through the housing 3 of the accessory 1. As a result of the temperature difference between the water flowing in the second sub-cavity 11b and the water flowing in the first sub-cavity 11a and / or the hot water inlet channel 13a, a temperature difference exists between the first portion 57 of the heat transfer plate 43 and the housing 3 of the accessory 1.

[0105] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the temperature difference between the first portion 57 of the heat transfer plate 43 and the housing 3 of the fitting extends radially outward from the axial direction XX. On the other hand, the temperature difference between the first sub-cavity 11a and / or the hot water inlet channel and the second sub-cavity 11b is parallel to the axial direction XX.

[0106] Thermoelectric module 45 is disposed between the first portion 57 of heat transfer plate 43 and the housing 3 of accessory 1 located in the region of the first sub-cavity 11a. Thermoelectric module 45 is configured to generate electricity due to the temperature difference between the first portion 57 of heat transfer plate 43 and housing 3. The generated electricity is delivered to any electrical component or device by wires 99a, 99b.

[0107] It will be understood that although the embodiments discussed above have a pair of thermoelectric devices 41, each of which has a single thermoelectric module 45, any number of individual devices 41, each having any number of modules 45, may be provided.

[0108] Figure 6 A schematic example of how the output device 101 can be integrated into an accessory is shown.

[0109] like Figure 6 As shown, the shower accessory 1 may have a cover 121, which is arranged to fit over the housing 3. The cover has a cylindrical section 121a and a planar section 121b, the cylindrical section 121a being arranged to cover the housing 5, and the planar section 121b extending radially outward from the cylindrical section 121a.

[0110] The cover plate 121 can be secured to the back plate 3 by any suitable means (e.g., interlocking protrusions or screws). The cover plate 121 may define the control element 25 of the user control device 123 to operate the thermostatic valve core, and may also include other user control devices (not shown), such as buttons, for operating the valve to open and close outlets 27a, 27b.

[0111] An output device 101 is also formed within the cover plate 121. In this case, the output device 101 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 125. One or more LEDs 127 are mounted on the PCB, and a cover lens 129 is provided above the LEDs. The PCB 125 contacts a retractable probe 119 of a socket 103. Electrically printed lines (not shown) formed in the PCB 125 provide an electrical connection between the retractable probe 119 and the LEDs 127.

[0112] In the example shown, the LED is provided in the planar portion 121b of the cover 121, adjacent to the junction between the planar portion 121b and the cylindrical portion 121a. The LED 127 may extend around the entire periphery of the cylindrical portion 121a or only a portion thereof. Alternatively, the LED 127 may be provided in other locations, anywhere on or near the fitting 1. The cover 121 includes a transparent portion 131 that covers the LED 127.

[0113] The cover 121 also includes an internal structure 135 to form a closed cavity 137 around the PCB 125. The closed cavity 137 has an opening 139 aligned with the socket 103. A socket protrusion 107 extends into the opening 139. The opening has a protrusion 139a arranged to engage a lip 117a on the socket protrusion 107 to hold the socket in place. The outer wall 117 forms a grommets to provide a watertight seal between the socket 103 and the cover 121, thereby ensuring that no water can travel from the outside of the fitting 1 into the area surrounding the PCB 125 and the LED 127.

[0114] LED 127 is powered by a current generated by thermoelectric modules 45a and 45b. In one example, the current can travel directly to LED 127. Therefore, the output depends on the current supplied, which in turn depends on the established temperature difference (i.e., the output is brighter when the temperature difference increases).

[0115] In other examples, a controller 141 may be provided on the PCB, which is arranged to control the output of the LED. In one example, the controller 141 may monitor the generated voltage or current and control the output accordingly. In a further example, the LED may be controlled based on a switch (not shown) provided on accessory 1, or a thermistor at inlet 9 or outlet 27.

[0116] For example, controller 141 can monitor the stability and / or amplitude of the generated flow or voltage.

[0117] In one example, when a user expects warm water from accessory 1, they can open accessory 1 and set the desired temperature. Initially, due to a delay in the system, the water supplied at the hot inlet 9a is cold. In this case, the thermostatic valve core 19 initially draws water only from the hot inlet 9a.

[0118] As the temperature of the water from the hot inlet 9a gradually increases, the valve core 19 begins to draw both hot and cold water until the desired temperature is reached at the outlet 21. Furthermore, as the water temperature at the hot inlet 9a gradually increases, the current / voltage output from the thermoelectric module 45 also increases.

[0119] In one example, using the above operations, controller 141 can control the LED to have three different output modes:

[0120] - Mode 1: Stable current / voltage below the first threshold (indicates low temperature difference when accessory 1 is not in use).

[0121] - Mode 2: Increased / unstable voltage / flow (indicates an increased temperature difference as the temperature of the water passing through the hot inlet 9a gradually increases).

[0122] - Mode 3: Stable voltage / flow above a second threshold, which may optionally be the same as the first threshold (indicating that the water at the hot inlet 9a is at a constant temperature).

[0123] Therefore, LED 127 can be used as an indicator of when the water from the hot inlet 9a is at the correct temperature.

[0124] Different modes can include any one or more of the following: no output (i.e., LED off), flashing, varying intensity, varying number of LEDs off, different colored LEDs on / off, etc.

[0125] In one example, mode 1 and mode 3 can be the same operating mode, with the output proportional to the magnitude of the generated voltage / current.

[0126] In use, the thermoelectric module 45 can continue to generate electricity after the user has finished using the shower accessory 1, because water will still be present in the first sub-cavity 11a, the second sub-cavity 11b, and the hot water inlet channel 13a, and the thermoelectric module 45 will have temperature on both sides. In an embodiment, the thermoelectric device can continue to generate electricity after the user has finished using the shower accessory for a duration of 5 minutes or at least 10 minutes, or at least 15 minutes.

[0127] In the example discussed above, the generated electricity is used to power LED 127. In an alternative example, a portion of the generated electricity could be stored, for example, in a capacitor or battery, for later use. This could, for example, allow one or more electrical components and / or devices to operate during startup after the shower accessory 1 has been inactive for a period of time (when there is no temperature difference across the thermoelectric module 45). When the water in the hot water inlet channel 13a heats up, the thermoelectric module 45 will then generate electricity from the resulting temperature difference.

[0128] As discussed above, the heat transfer plate 43 and the housing 3 are formed of a thermally conductive material. The housing 3 and the heat transfer plate 43 may be formed of the same material or different materials. An example of a suitable thermally conductive material is a metal or alloy, which may include copper, aluminum, or brass, or the metal or alloy may consist substantially of copper, aluminum, or brass. Alternatively, the heat transfer plate 43 and the housing 3 may comprise a thermally conductive plastic, or a plastic such as an engineering plastic in which and / or on which a thermally conductive material is present, or the heat transfer plate 43 and the housing 3 may consist substantially of a thermally conductive plastic, or a plastic such as an engineering plastic in which and / or on which a thermally conductive material is present. For example, the thermally conductive material may at least partially encase the plastic. The thermally conductive material may extend through the plastic, such as an engineering plastic.

[0129] The heat transfer plate 43 and / or housing 3 can be arranged to maximize the temperature difference across the thermoelectric module 45 to improve the efficiency of power generation.

[0130] For example, the protrusion 63 may include fins or additional surfaces to increase the total surface area of ​​the heat transfer plate 43 in contact with the cold water in the sub-cavity 11b. The surface area in contact with the cold water can be between 100 and 2000 mm². 2 The changes between them.

[0131] Similarly, in the region of the thermoelectric module 45, the thickness of the housing 3 forming the main body of the shower accessory can be optionally reduced. For example, the thickness of the housing in the region of module 45 can typically be between 0.5 and 5 mm, and the thickness away from module 45 can be between 20 and 200 mm.

[0132] The length and width of the heat transfer plate 43 can be between 20 and 200 mm. The thickness of the heat transfer plate 43 can be between 0.5 and 5 mm. On the surface of the heat transfer plate 43, the protrusion 63 can have a length and width between 2 and 100 mm. Along the axial direction, the distance between the protrusion 63 and the thermoelectric module 45 can be between 2 and 150 mm (measured from the nearest edge, i.e., the rear edge of the protrusion 63 to the front edge of the module 45).

[0133] In the example discussed above, the heat transfer plate 43 and the thermoelectric module 45 are planar, while the curved housing 3 includes wedge-shaped protrusions 53 to provide a flat surface for engaging the two. It will be understood that in other examples, the heat transfer plate and / or module may be curved, or at least have curved surfaces for engaging the housing 3. Alternatively, the housing 3 may have planar surfaces.

[0134] The housing 3 can be formed from a single integral part, or from any number of parts connected together. Although the housing in the example discussed above has a cavity 11 divided into two sub-cavities 11a, 11b by seals 33a to 33c on the valve core 19, cavities 11a, 11b can be formed individually. Similarly, any suitable number of cavities can be formed. For example, there could be only a single cavity for cold water, while hot water can be supplied directly to the valve core. In this case, heat is transferred from the hot water inlet passage 13a. Alternatively, three or more cavities can be formed, with two or more cavities optionally supplying water at the same temperature.

[0135] In the example shown above, each of the sub-cavities 11a, 11b extends around the entire periphery of the housing 3; however, this is not necessarily the case. In other examples, the sub-cavities may extend only around a portion of the periphery of the housing 3.

[0136] In the example discussed above, a pair of thermoelectric modules 45 are provided in the space on either side of the hot water inlet channel 13a. It will be understood that, otherwise, the thermoelectric modules 45 may be provided directly above the hot water inlet channel 13a.

[0137] In the example discussed above, a single washer plate 91 is provided to thermally insulate the heat transfer plate 43 from the housing 3 via heat conduction through the screw (not shown). It will be understood that this function can be provided by a separate thermal washer at each screw (not shown).

[0138] The above discussion presents an example of socket 103. However, it will be understood that this is merely an example. It will be understood that any suitable connection can be formed to connect the thermoelectric module 45 to the output device 101. In some examples, socket 103 may be omitted entirely, and the thermoelectric module 45 may be directly connected to the output device 101.

[0139] In the example discussed above, a pair of thermoelectric devices 41a, 41b are coupled to the same socket and output device 101. It will be understood that this is not necessary for multiple thermoelectric devices 41; each thermoelectric device 41 may have a separate socket and / or output device 101, or two or more thermoelectric devices 41 may be connected to the same socket and / or output device 101.

[0140] In the example discussed above, the heat transfer plate 43 is in direct contact with the cold water, and the thermoelectric module is thermally coupled to the hot water via the housing 3. However, it will be understood that this can be reversed so that the heat transfer plate is in direct contact with the hot water. This can be done either by changing which sub-cavities 11a, 11b receive the hot and cold water, or by placing the thermoelectric module 45 in the region of the cold water cavity 11b, and extending the protrusion 63 into the hot water cavity 11a.

[0141] In a further example, the housing 3 may include sealed openings in both cavities, such that the water in the first cavity 11a is thermally coupled to the thermoelectric module 45, either in direct contact with the hot water or in direct contact with the hot water via the second heat transfer plate.

[0142] In the example discussed above, the temperature difference between the cold and hot water at the inlet was used to generate electricity. In other examples, the temperature difference between the cold water at the inlet and the mixed water at the outlet could also be used. It will be understood that this temperature difference depends on the user setting for the desired accessory output temperature. Therefore, for lower output temperatures, the temperature difference will be smaller, and thus the generated electricity will be less.

[0143] Although specific embodiments have been described, various modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0144] It will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the concept herein. Except where mutually exclusive, any feature may be used alone or in combination with any other feature, and this disclosure extends to and includes all combinations and sub-combinations of one or more features described herein.

Claims

1. A device for generating an electric current from a temperature difference in a bath accessory, the device comprising: A heat transfer plate comprising a first portion and a second portion, the second portion extending axially from the first portion and including only one protrusion configured to directly contact water carried in a first region of the bath accessory, the protrusion including a plurality of surfaces defined by its sidewalls and endwalls, the plurality of surfaces being arranged to extend into a cavity of the first region, the sidewalls extending around the outer side of the protrusion defining a hollow cavity within the outer side, the cavity being closed by the endwall at a radially inner end, the remainder of the heat transfer plate excluding the protrusion being located outside the cavity of the first region; as well as A thermoelectric module comprising one or more thermoelectric elements configured to be thermally coupled between a first portion of a heat transfer plate and a housing of the bath accessory located in a second region of the bath accessory, the first portion also being thermally coupled to the second portion, the thermoelectric elements further configured to generate electricity from the temperature difference between water carried in the first and second regions of the bath accessory.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The protrusion extends along a first direction, and the first portion extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

3. The device as described in claim 2, wherein, The heat transfer plate is generally planar, and the protrusion extends out of the planar surface of the heat transfer plate.

4. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, comprising a seal to form a watertight seal between the second portion of the heat transfer plate and the housing of the bath fitting, surrounding the protrusion.

5. The device as claimed in claim 4, wherein, The heat transfer plate at least partially forms a first seat for positioning the seal.

6. The device as described in any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The thermoelectric module is configured to be in direct contact with the housing of the shower accessory.

7. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, comprising an electrical socket electrically coupled to the thermoelectric element and configured to be connected to an output load.

8. The device as claimed in claim 7, wherein, The socket is mounted on the support member and is electrically coupled to the thermoelectric element.

9. The device as claimed in claim 7, wherein, The output load includes one or more light-emitting devices.

10. The device of claim 7, comprising: A controller configured to control the operation of the output from the socket and / or the output load based on the voltage generated by the thermoelectric module.

11. The device as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The controller is configured to control the electrical output from the socket and / or the output load based on the stability of the voltage generated by the thermoelectric module.

12. The device as claimed in claim 11, wherein, The controller is configured to control the operation of the output from the socket and / or the output load in two modes, the two modes being: a first mode when the output is stable, and a second mode when the output is unstable.

13. The device as claimed in claim 12, wherein, The output in the first mode depends on the magnitude of the voltage.

14. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The heat transfer plate has a first side and a second side, wherein the protrusion extends from the first side of the heat transfer plate and the first side of the heat transfer plate is adjacent to the thermoelectric module.

15. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The device is configured to be installed in a shower fitting that includes a mixer valve core.

16. A bath accessory, comprising: The housing defines: a first inlet for receiving water at a first temperature, a second inlet for receiving water at a second temperature different from the first temperature, and an inner cavity for accommodating a valve core for mixing water for the first inlet and the second inlet; as well as A first device, which is the device as described in any one of claims 1 to 15, is mounted on the outer surface of the housing.

17. The bath accessory as claimed in claim 16, wherein, The housing includes a hole that extends through the housing into an inner cavity in the first region of the bath accessory.

18. The bath accessory as claimed in claim 17, wherein, The first device is the device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the housing at least partially defines a second seat for positioning the seal.

19. The bath accessory of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the housing includes a recess arranged to receive the thermoelectric module, the recess forming the second region.

20. The bath accessory as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein, The inner cavity and the shell are generally cylindrical and extend in the axial direction.

21. The bath accessory of claim 20, comprising a wedge-shaped protrusion to form a planar surface for mounting the thermoelectric module and the heat transfer plate.

22. The bath accessory as claimed in claim 20, wherein, The housing defines a sub-cavity formed within the inner cavity at a first axial position along the length of the housing, where water received at the first inlet enters the inner cavity via the sub-cavity to enter the valve core, the sub-cavity forming the first region.

23. The bath accessory as claimed in claim 22, wherein, At least a portion of the sub-cavity overlaps with the second region in the peripheral direction, and the first region and the second region are spaced apart along the axial direction.

24. The bath accessory as claimed in claim 22, wherein, The shell limits: An inlet channel for guiding water from the second inlet to a second sub-cavity formed within the inner cavity, wherein water from the second inlet enters the valve core in the second sub-cavity; as well as An outlet channel for guiding water from the valve core to the outlet device. The inlet channel and the outlet channel extend along the axial direction and are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The second region is located circumferentially between the entrance channel and the exit channel.

25. The bath accessory of claim 24, further comprising a second device, the second device being the device of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the first device and the second device are circumferentially spaced on opposite sides of the inlet channel around the housing.

26. The bath accessory as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein, The shower accessory includes a mixer valve core.

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