Thermoelectric module and power generation device comprising the same

Abstract

A thermoelectric module according to an embodiment of the present application includes a substrate, thermoelectric elements arranged on the substrate to be spaced apart from each other, and a cover arranged on the substrate and on one side of the thermoelectric elements, wherein the cover includes a first side surface closest to one side of the thermoelectric elements and a second side surface facing the first side surface, the first side surface includes a first groove recessed toward the second side surface, the second side surface includes a second groove recessed toward the first side surface, and a width of the first groove is greater than a width of the second groove.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a thermoelectric module and an electric power generation device including the thermoelectric module. More particularly, the present invention relates to a thermoelectric module that utilizes the temperature difference between a low-temperature section and a high-temperature section of a thermoelectric element, and an electric power generation device including the thermoelectric module or a Peltier device configured to cool or heat a particular object, such as a fluid. Background Technology

[0002] The thermoelectric effect refers to the direct energy conversion between heat generated by the movement of holes and electrons in a material and electricity.

[0003] Elements that utilize the thermoelectric effect are collectively referred to as thermoelectric elements. A thermoelectric element has the following structure: P-type and N-type thermoelectric materials are bonded between metal electrodes to define a PN junction pair.

[0004] Thermoelectric elements can be classified into elements that use resistance to temperature change, elements that use the Seebeck effect (i.e., the phenomenon of electromotive force generated by temperature difference), and elements that use the Peltier effect (i.e., the phenomenon of heat absorption or heat generation through current).

[0005] Thermoelectric elements are widely used in household appliances, electronic components, and communication devices. For example, thermoelectric elements can be used in cooling devices, heating devices, and power generation devices. Therefore, there is a growing demand for increasingly higher thermoelectric performance in thermoelectric elements.

[0006] In recent years, there has been a demand for generating electricity using thermoelectric elements and high-temperature waste heat generated from engines in vehicles, ships, etc. In this case, the fluid flow section through which the first fluid passes is arranged on the low-temperature side of the thermoelectric element, the radiator is arranged on the high-temperature side of the thermoelectric element, and a second fluid with a temperature higher than the first fluid can pass through the radiator. Therefore, electricity can be generated from the temperature difference between the low-temperature and high-temperature sections of the thermoelectric element. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a thermoelectric module that uses the temperature difference between a low-temperature part and a high-temperature part of a thermoelectric element, and an electric power generation device including the thermoelectric module or a Peltier device, the Peltier device being configured to cool or heat a specific object, such as a fluid.

[0009] Technical solution

[0010] A thermoelectric module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a substrate; thermoelectric elements disposed on the substrate and spaced apart from each other; and a cover disposed on the substrate and on one side of each thermoelectric element, wherein the cover includes a first side surface closest to the thermoelectric element and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface, wherein the first side surface includes a first groove recessed toward the second side surface, wherein the second side surface includes a second groove recessed toward the first side surface, and wherein the width of the first groove is greater than the width of the second groove.

[0011] The substrate may include a first region and a second region, a thermoelectric element may be disposed in the first region, and a connector portion electrically connected to the thermoelectric element may be disposed in the second region.

[0012] The cover can be arranged on the connector section.

[0013] The connector portion may include a first connector and a second connector, which are symmetrically arranged and spaced apart from each other, and at least a portion of the first connector and at least a portion of the second connector may be arranged to overlap perpendicularly with the first groove.

[0014] The wire can be connected to at least one end of the first connector, which is arranged to overlap perpendicularly with the first groove, and at least one end of the second connector.

[0015] The cover may include: a first covering area disposed on a first connector; and a second covering area disposed on a second connector, and a first groove may be disposed between the first covering area and the second covering area.

[0016] The cover may further include a first guide region and a second guide region, which protrude from the first cover region and the second cover region toward the substrate, respectively. The first guide region may be disposed on the side surface of the first connector, and the second guide region may be disposed on the side surface of the second connector.

[0017] The first guiding region and the second guiding region can be in contact with the substrate.

[0018] One of the two opposite surfaces of the cover, the surface pointing towards the substrate, may have multiple grooves.

[0019] The second groove may include a curved surface with a predetermined curvature.

[0020] The third groove can be formed at the edge of the substrate.

[0021] At least one of the second and third grooves may have the same shape and size as each other.

[0022] The thermoelectric module may further include a fluid flow section, on one surface of which the substrate is disposed.

[0023] Multiple first through holes can be arranged on two opposite sides of the cover and spaced apart from each other, and the fluid flow section, the substrate and the cover are connected through the multiple first through holes.

[0024] The width of each of the first coverage area and the second coverage area may be 0.8 to 0.95 times the width of each of the first connector and the second connector.

[0025] The width of each of the first coverage area and the second coverage area may be greater than the width of each of the first connector and the second connector.

[0026] A system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a power generating device including a flow channel and a plurality of thermoelectric modules disposed on at least one surface of the flow channel; and a chamber including an internal space and a connecting portion in which the power generating device is disposed, the connecting portion being connected to the power generating device, wherein the connecting portion includes a first recess disposed on an outer surface facing the internal space.

[0027] The system may include a first weld bead disposed in a first recess.

[0028] The first recess may have an inclined portion in the direction from the outer surface to the inner surface of the connecting portion.

[0029] The first weld bead can be arranged to surround the side surface of the flow channel.

[0030] A portion of the first weld bead can be arranged to protrude from the outside of the chamber.

[0031] The first weld bead can be arranged to protrude from the outside of the cavity.

[0032] The connecting portion may include a second recess disposed in its inner surface.

[0033] The first weld bead can be arranged in the second recess.

[0034] The flow channel may include multiple unit flow channels. Each of the multiple unit flow channels may have a surface that contacts an adjacent unit flow channel. The second weld bead may be arranged along the connection portion formed when the surfaces of the unit flow channels contact each other.

[0035] The unit flow channel may include multiple fastening holes. The distance between the first connecting surface that contacts an adjacent unit flow channel and the fastening hole closest to the first connecting surface among the multiple fastening holes may be less than the distance between the multiple fastening holes.

[0036] The distance between the second connecting surface that contacts the adjacent unit flow channel and the fastening hole closest to the second connecting surface among the plurality of fastening holes can be less than the distance between the plurality of fastening holes.

[0037] Beneficial effects

[0038] According to embodiments of the present invention, a thermoelectric module that can be easily assembled and has excellent power generation performance can be obtained, and a power generation device including the thermoelectric module can be obtained.

[0039] In particular, according to embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to obtain a power generation device in which a thermoelectric module and a fluid flow section are firmly combined to reduce thermal deformation by alleviating the thermal stress applied to the thermoelectric module.

[0040] Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to obtain a power generation device in which wires are easily connected to a connector.

[0041] According to embodiments of the present invention, a power generation system with excellent sealing performance can be obtained.

[0042] According to embodiments of the present invention, a power generation system with high connectivity between the chamber and the power generation device including the thermoelectric module can be obtained. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of a power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a view showing a thermoelectric element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 7This is a top plan view showing a surface of a fluid flow section included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a thermoelectric module included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 9 This is a top plan view of the first substrate of a thermoelectric module included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 10 This is a top plan view showing multiple thermoelectric modules arranged on a surface of a fluid flow section included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 11 This is a top plan view showing multiple thermoelectric modules and multiple covers arranged on a surface of a fluid flow section included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 12 This is a top plan view showing multiple thermoelectric modules and multiple covers arranged on a surface of a fluid flow section included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the invention, and wires connected to a connector.

[0054] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A magnified view of a portion of the image.

[0055] Figure 14a and Figure 14b This is a view showing a cover included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a plate according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 16 This is a partial perspective view showing the connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 17 A partial sectional view of the connecting part is shown, taken along the first direction A-A'.

[0059] Figure 18 A partial sectional view of the connection is shown, taken along the second direction B-B'.

[0060] Figure 19 This is a partial perspective view showing a first plate and a power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 20A partial sectional view of the first plate and the power generation device is shown, taken along the first direction A-A'.

[0062] Figure 21 A partial sectional view of the first plate and the power generation device is shown, taken along the second direction B-B'.

[0063] Figure 22 This is a partial perspective view showing a first plate, an electric power generation device, and a weld bead according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 23 It is a partial sectional view taken along the first direction A-A' and showing the first plate, the power generation equipment and the weld bead.

[0065] Figure 24 It is a partial sectional view taken along the second direction B-B' and showing the first plate, the power generation equipment and the weld bead.

[0066] Figure 25 This is a view showing the fluid flow section according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 26 This is a view used to explain the connection of the unit fluid flow sections.

[0068] Figure 27 This is a top plan view of a power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0069] In the following description, exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0070] However, the spirit of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein, but can be implemented in various different forms. One or more constituent elements in the embodiments may be selectively combined and substituted within the scope of the spirit of the present invention.

[0071] Furthermore, unless otherwise specifically and explicitly defined and explained, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of this invention may be interpreted in a meaning that would be generally understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The meanings of common terms (such as terms defined in dictionaries) may be interpreted taking into account the contextual meaning of the relevant art.

[0072] Furthermore, the terminology used in the embodiments of the present invention is for the purpose of explaining the embodiments and not for limiting the present invention.

[0073] In this specification, unless otherwise specified, the singular form may also include the plural form. The expression "at least one (or one or more) of A, B, and C" may include one or more of all combinations that can be obtained by combining A, B, and C.

[0074] Furthermore, the terms first, second, A, B, (a) and (b) can be used to describe the constituent elements of embodiments of the present invention.

[0075] These terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from another, and the nature, sequence, or order of the constituent elements is not limited by these terms.

[0076] Furthermore, when a component is described as being “connected,” “joined,” or “attached” to another component, the component may be directly connected, joined, or attached to the other component, or connected, joined, or attached to the other component through another component in between.

[0077] Furthermore, the interpretation of "one constituent element being formed or arranged above or below another constituent element" includes not only cases where the two constituent elements are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more additional constituent elements are formed or arranged between the two constituent elements. Additionally, the expression "above or below" can include meanings based on the downward and upward directions of a constituent element.

[0078] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the power generation system may include a power generation device 1000, a chamber 2000, a guide member 3000, a wiring conduit 4000, a channel cover 5000, and a junction box 6000.

[0080] The power generating device 1000 can be arranged in the chamber 2000. Multiple power generating devices 1000 can be configured. Multiple power generating devices 1000 can be arranged in the chamber 2000. A portion of the power generating device 1000 can be connected to a connecting portion of the chamber 2000. The portion of the power generating device 1000 can be connected by insertion into a hole in the chamber 2000. A weld bead can be arranged between the chamber 2000 and the portion of the power generating device 1000 inserted into the connecting portion of the chamber 2000. The power generating device 1000 can be fixed to the chamber 2000 by a welding member, and the interior and exterior of the chamber 2000 can be sealed by the welding member.

[0081] The power generation device 1000 may include a flow channel and multiple thermoelectric modules. The flow channel may include a fluid inlet port, a fluid outlet port, and a fluid passage pipe. The fluid inlet port may be configured as multiple fluid inlet ports, the fluid outlet port may be configured as multiple fluid outlet ports, and the fluid passage pipe may be configured as multiple fluid passage pipes. The fluid inlet port may be disposed on at least one surface of the flow channel, and the fluid outlet port may be disposed on at least one surface of the flow channel. The fluid inlet port and the fluid outlet port may communicate with the fluid passage pipe. The multiple thermoelectric modules may be disposed on at least one surface of the flow channel. The multiple thermoelectric modules may be disposed on at least one of a first surface of the flow channel and a second surface of the flow channel opposite to the first surface. The thermoelectric module may include multiple thermoelectric elements disposed on a substrate. The multiple thermoelectric modules may be electrically connected to each other. The multiple thermoelectric modules may be electrically connected to each other by means of wires.

[0082] The chamber 2000 may include an internal space defined by a plurality of plates. The power generating device 1000 may be arranged within the internal space of the chamber 2000. The chamber 2000 may include a connecting portion for connection with the power generating device 1000. Because multiple power generating devices 1000 may be arranged within the internal space of the chamber 2000, the connecting portion may be configured as multiple connecting portions. The connecting portion may include a first hole and a recess.

[0083] The chamber 2000 may include multiple plates. The plates may be configured as multiple plates. The plates may include a first plate 2100 and a second plate 2300. The first plate 2100 and the second plate 2300 may be arranged facing each other. The first plate 2100 may be arranged to be spaced apart from the second plate 2300 at a predetermined interval. The distance between the first plate 2100 and the second plate 2300 may be less than the length of the power generation device 1000.

[0084] The connecting portion can be arranged on the first plate 2100 and the second plate 2300. Therefore, the first hole and the recess can be arranged in the first plate 2100 and the second plate 2300. The first hole formed in the first plate 2100 and the first hole formed in the second plate 2300 can be arranged facing each other. The number of first holes formed in the first plate 2100 and the number of first holes formed in the second plate 2300 can be equal to each other. One end of the power generating device 1000 can be inserted into the first hole formed in the first plate 2100. The other end of the power generating device 1000 can be inserted into the first hole of the second plate 2300, which is arranged facing the hole formed in the first plate 2100. After the power generating device is inserted into the first hole, a weld bead can be arranged in the recess.

[0085] The plates may include a third plate 2500 and a fourth plate 2700. The third plate 2500 and the fourth plate 2700 may be arranged facing each other. The third plate 2500 may be arranged spaced apart from the fourth plate 2700 at a predetermined interval. The third plate 2500 may be connected to the first plate 2100 and the second plate 2300. The fourth plate 2700 may be connected to the first plate 2100 and the second plate 2300. The first plate 2100, the second plate 2300, the third plate 2500, and the fourth plate 2700 may be connected to each other to define an internal space. After the power generating device 1000 is inserted into the first holes of the first plate 2100 and the second plate 2300, the third plate 2500 and the fourth plate 2700 may be connected to the first plate 2100 and the second plate 2300.

[0086] The guide member 3000 can be coupled to the chamber 2000. The guide member 3000 can be coupled to a second hole formed in a first plate of the chamber 2000. The guide member 3000 can be arranged on the upper surface of one side of the power generation device 1000.

[0087] The guide member 3000 may include a housing 3100 and a cover 3500. The housing 3100 may have a durable space for accommodating molding material. The upper side of the housing 3100 may be open. A wiring hole may be arranged in the lower surface of the housing 3100, and a wire extending from the power generating device 1000 may pass through the wiring hole. A conduit may be arranged on one side surface of the housing 3100. The conduit may be inserted into a second hole formed in the first plate. A wire passing through the wiring hole may pass through the interior of the conduit. The cover 3500 may be arranged on the upper side of the housing 3100. After the interior space of the housing 3100 is filled with the molding member, the cover 3500 may be attached to the upper side of the housing 3100.

[0088] The channel cover 5000 can be disposed on the outside of the chamber 2000. The channel cover 5000 can be disposed on the outside of the first plate of the chamber 2000. A groove can be formed on one side of the channel cover 5000, and the conduit of the guide member 3000 can be disposed in the groove.

[0089] The wiring conduit 4000 can be arranged between the guide member 3000 and the junction box 6000. Wires passing through the guide member 3000 can pass through the interior of the wiring conduit 4000. Wires passing through the wiring conduit 4000 can be connected to the junction box 6000.

[0090] The junction box 6000 can be disposed on one surface of the channel cover 5000. The junction box 6000 can also be disposed on the outer surface of the channel cover. The junction box 6000 can be connected to a wire passing through the pipe. The junction box 6000 can be electrically connected to the thermoelectric module of the power generation device 1000 via the wire.

[0091] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of a power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] refer to Figures 3 to 4 The power generation device 1000 includes a fluid flow section 1100 and a thermoelectric module 1200 disposed on the surface of the fluid flow section 1100. Multiple power generation devices 1000 may be arranged in parallel to be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals, thereby defining a power generation system.

[0093] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the power generation device 1000 can generate electricity by using the temperature difference between a first fluid flowing through the interior of the fluid flow section 1100 and a second fluid flowing through the exterior of the fluid flow section 1100.

[0094] The first fluid introduced into the fluid flow section 1100 may be water, but is not limited thereto. Various fluids with cooling properties may be used as the first fluid. The temperature of the first fluid introduced into the fluid flow section 1100 may be, but is not limited to, less than 100°C, particularly less than 50°C, and even more particularly less than 40°C. The first fluid may be a fluid with a temperature lower than that of the second fluid. The temperature of the first fluid discharged after passing through the fluid flow section 1100 may be higher than the temperature of the first fluid introduced into the fluid flow section 1100.

[0095] The first fluid is introduced from the fluid inlet port of the fluid flow section 1100 and then discharged through the fluid outlet port of the fluid flow section 1100. To facilitate the introduction and discharge of the first fluid and to support the fluid flow section 1100, an inlet port flange (not shown) and an outlet port flange (not shown) may be further arranged on the fluid inlet port side and the fluid outlet port side of the fluid flow section 1100, respectively. Alternatively, a plurality of fluid inlet ports (not shown) may be formed on a fifth surface 1150 of the fluid flow section 1100, which is arranged perpendicular to the first surface 1110, the second surface 1120, and the third surface 1130, the second surface 1120 being arranged opposite to the first surface 1110, and the third surface 1130 being arranged between the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120. A plurality of fluid outlet ports 1162 may be formed in a sixth surface 1160 opposite to the fifth surface 1150. Multiple fluid inlet ports (not shown) and multiple fluid outlet ports 1162 can be connected to multiple fluid passage pipes (not shown) disposed in the fluid inlet portion 1100. Thus, a first fluid introduced into the fluid inlet port can pass through the fluid passage pipe and then be discharged from the fluid outlet port 1162.

[0096] However, this is provided for illustrative purposes only, and the number, location, and shape of the fluid inlet and outlet ports are not limited thereto. The fluid flow section 1100 may have a single fluid inlet port, a single fluid outlet port, and a fluid passage pipe configured to connect the fluid inlet and outlet ports.

[0097] Simultaneously, the second fluid passes outside the fluid flow section 1100, for example, through the radiator 1220 of the thermoelectric module 1200 arranged outside the fluid flow section 1100. The second fluid can be, but is not limited to, waste heat generated from an engine of a vehicle, ship, etc. For example, the temperature of the second fluid can be, but is not limited to, 100°C or higher, particularly 200°C or higher, more particularly 220°C to 250°C. The second fluid can be a fluid with a temperature higher than the first fluid.

[0098] In this specification, an example will be described where the temperature of a first fluid flowing through the interior of the fluid flow section 1100 is lower than the temperature of a second fluid passing through the radiator 1220 of the thermoelectric module 1200, which is arranged outside the fluid flow section 1100. Therefore, in this specification, the fluid flow section 1100 may be referred to as a flow channel or a cooling section. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the temperature of the first fluid flowing through the interior of the fluid flow section 1100 may be higher than the temperature of the second fluid passing through the radiator 1220 of the thermoelectric module 1200, which is arranged outside the fluid flow section 1100.

[0099] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the thermoelectric module 1200 may include a thermoelectric element 1210 and a heat sink 1220 disposed on the thermoelectric element 1210. The thermoelectric element 1210 according to an embodiment of the present invention may have... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The structure of the thermoelectric element 100 shown is illustrated.

[0100] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The thermoelectric element 100 includes a first substrate 110, a first electrode 120, a P-type thermoelectric leg 130, an N-type thermoelectric leg 140, a second electrode 150, and a second substrate 160.

[0101] The first electrode 120 is disposed between the first substrate 110 and the lower bottom surface of the P-type thermocouple 130, and between the first substrate 110 and the lower bottom surface of the N-type thermocouple 140. The second electrode 150 is disposed between the second substrate 160 and the upper bottom surface of the P-type thermocouple 130 and the upper bottom surface of the N-type thermocouple 140. Therefore, the plurality of P-type thermocouples 130 and the plurality of N-type thermocouples 140 are electrically connected to each other through the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 150. A pair of P-type thermocouples 130 and N-type thermocouples 140 disposed between the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 150 and electrically connected to each other can define a cell.

[0102] For example, according to the Peltier effect, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 150 via wires 181 and 182, the substrate from which current flows from the P-type thermocouple 130 to the N-type thermocouple 140 can operate as a cooling section by absorbing heat, and the substrate from which current flows from the N-type thermocouple 140 to the P-type thermocouple 130 can operate as a heat generating section by being heated. Alternatively, according to the Seebeck effect, when a temperature difference exists between the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 150, charge can move between the P-type thermocouple 130 and the N-type thermocouple 140, thereby generating electricity.

[0103] In this case, both the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be bismuth telluride (Bi-Te) type thermoelectric legs containing bismuth (Bi) and tellurium (Te) as main components. The P-type thermoelectric leg 130 can be a bismuth telluride (Bi-Te) type thermoelectric leg containing at least one of antimony (Sb), nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), lead (Pb), boron (B), gallium (Ga), tellurium (Te), bismuth (Bi), and indium (In). For example, relative to 100% by weight of the total weight, the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 can contain 99 to 99.999% by weight of Bi-Sb-Te as the main component material and 0.001 to 1% by weight of at least one of nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), lead (Pb), boron (B), gallium (Ga), and indium (In). The N-type thermoelectric leg 140 may be a bismuth telluride (Bi-Te) type thermoelectric leg containing at least one of selenium (Se), nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), lead (Pb), boron (B), gallium (Ga), tellurium (Te), bismuth (Bi), and indium (In). For example, relative to 100% by weight of the total weight, the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 may contain 99 to 99.999% by weight of Bi-Se-Te as the main component material and 0.001 to 1% by weight of at least one of nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), lead (Pb), boron (B), gallium (Ga), and indium (In).

[0104] Both the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be formed in a block or stacked form. Typically, a block-shaped P-type thermoelectric leg 130 or a block-shaped N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be obtained by: a process of manufacturing an ingot by heat-treating the thermoelectric material; a process of obtaining thermoelectric leg powder by grinding and sieving the ingot; a process of sintering the thermoelectric leg powder; and a process of cutting the sintered body. In this case, both the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be polycrystalline thermoelectric legs. When both the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 are polycrystalline thermoelectric legs as described above, the strength of the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be improved. Stacked P-type thermoelectric legs 130 or stacked N-type thermoelectric legs 140 can be obtained by: a process of forming a unit component by applying a paste containing thermoelectric material onto a sheet substrate; a process of stacking the unit components; and a process of cutting the stacked unit components.

[0105] In this case, a pair of P-type thermoelectric legs 130 and N-type thermoelectric legs 140 can have the same shape and volume or different shapes and volumes. For example, because the P-type thermoelectric legs 130 and N-type thermoelectric legs 140 have different electrical conductivity, the height or cross-sectional area of ​​the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be different from that of the P-type thermoelectric leg 130.

[0106] In this case, the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 or the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can have a cylindrical shape, a polygonal prism shape, an elliptical cylinder shape, etc.

[0107] In this specification, the thermoelectric leg may be referred to as a thermoelectric structure, semiconductor element, semiconductor structure, etc.

[0108] The performance of the thermoelectric element according to an embodiment of the present invention can be represented by the thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT). The thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) can be represented by Formula 1.

[0109] [Formula 1]

[0110] ZT=α 2 ·σ·T / k

[0111] Here, α represents the Seebeck coefficient [V / K], σ represents the conductivity [S / m], and α 2 σ represents the power factor [W / mK] 2 Furthermore, T represents temperature, and k represents thermal conductivity [W / mK]. k can be expressed as a·cp·ρ, where a represents the thermal diffusivity [cm]. 2 / S], cp represents specific heat [J / gK], and ρ represents density [g / cm³]. 3 ].

[0112] To obtain the thermoelectric figure of merit of a thermoelectric element, the Z value (V / K) can be measured using a Z meter, and the thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) can be calculated using the measured Z value.

[0113] In this configuration, the first electrode 120 can be disposed between the first substrate 110 and the P-type thermoelectric leg 130, and between the first substrate 110 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140, respectively. The second electrode 150 can be disposed between the second substrate 160 and both the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140. Both the first electrode 120 and the second electrode 150 can contain at least one of copper (Cu), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), and nickel (Ni), and both have a thickness of 0.01 mm to 0.3 mm. When the thickness of the first electrode 120 or the second electrode 150 is less than 0.01 mm, the electrode function deteriorates, which may reduce conductivity. When the thickness of the first electrode 120 or the second electrode 150 is greater than 0.3 mm, the resistance increases, which may deteriorate conductivity.

[0114] Furthermore, both the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 160, which face each other, can be metal substrates and each has a thickness of 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm. If the thickness of the metal substrate is less than 0.1 mm or greater than 1.5 mm, the heat dissipation performance or thermal conductivity may increase excessively, which could degrade the reliability of the thermoelectric element. Furthermore, when both the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 160 are metal substrates, insulating layers 170 can be further formed between the first substrate 110 and the first electrode 120, and between the second substrate 160 and the second electrode 150, respectively. The insulating layer 170 may contain a material with a thermal conductivity of 1 to 20 W / mK. In this case, the insulating layer 170 may be a layer made of a resin composition containing at least one of an inorganic material and an epoxy resin and a silicone resin, a layer constructed as a silicone composite containing silicone and an inorganic material, or an alumina layer. In this case, the inorganic material may be at least one of oxides, nitrides, and carbides of aluminum, boron, silicon, etc.

[0115] In this configuration, the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 160 can have different dimensions. That is, the volume, thickness, or area of ​​one of the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 160 can be greater than the volume, thickness, or area of ​​the other. In this case, the thickness can be the thickness in the direction from the first substrate 110 toward the second substrate 160. The area can be the area in a direction perpendicular to the direction from the first substrate 110 toward the second substrate 160. Therefore, the heat absorption or heat dissipation performance of the thermoelectric element can be improved. Specifically, the volume, thickness, or area of ​​the first substrate 110 can be greater than at least one of the volume, thickness, and area of ​​the second substrate 160. In this scenario, when the first substrate 110 is positioned in a high-temperature region to achieve the Seebeck effect, when the first substrate 110 is used as a heat-absorbing region to achieve the Peltier effect, or when a sealing member (described below) is placed on the first substrate 110 to protect it from the external environment affecting the thermoelectric element, at least one of the volume, thickness, and area of ​​the first substrate 110 may be larger than at least one of the volume, thickness, and area of ​​the second substrate 160. In this case, the area of ​​the first substrate 110 may be limited to 1.2 to 5 times the area of ​​the second substrate 160. When the area of ​​the first substrate 110 is less than 1.2 times the area of ​​the second substrate 160, this has little impact on improving heat transfer efficiency. When the area of ​​the first substrate 110 is more than 5 times the area of ​​the second substrate 160, the heat transfer efficiency may actually deteriorate significantly, and the basic shape of the thermoelectric module may be difficult to maintain.

[0116] Furthermore, a heat dissipation pattern (e.g., an embossed pattern) can be formed on the surface of at least one of the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 160. Therefore, the heat dissipation performance of the thermoelectric element can be improved. When the embossed pattern is formed on the surface of the substrate that contacts the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 or the N-type thermoelectric leg 140, the bonding characteristics between the thermoelectric leg and the substrate can be improved.

[0117] Although not shown, a sealing member may be further arranged between the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 160. The sealing member may be disposed between the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 160, and may be arranged on each of the side surfaces of the first electrode 120, the P-type thermocouple 130, the N-type thermocouple 140, and the second electrode 150. Therefore, the first electrode 120, the P-type thermocouple 130, the N-type thermocouple 140, and the second electrode 150 can be sealed against external moisture, heat, contaminants, etc.

[0118] Return to reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the thermoelectric module 1200 may include a thermoelectric element 1210 and a heat sink 1220 disposed on the thermoelectric element 1210. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The illustration shows two thermoelectric modules 1200-1 and 1200-2 arranged on the first surface 1110 of the fluid flow section 1100, and two thermoelectric modules 1200-3 and 1200-4 also arranged on the second surface 1120, but the invention is not limited thereto. Two or more thermoelectric modules may be arranged on a single surface.

[0119] As described above, each thermoelectric element 1210 includes: a first substrate 110 arranged to contact the fluid flow portion 1100; a plurality of first electrodes 120 arranged on the first substrate 110; a plurality of thermoelectric legs 130 and 140 arranged on the plurality of first electrodes 120; a plurality of second electrodes 150 arranged on the plurality of thermoelectric legs 130 and 140; and a second substrate 160 arranged on the plurality of second electrodes 150. A heat sink 1220 is arranged on the second substrate 160. Furthermore, the insulating layer 170 may be further arranged between the first substrate 110 and the plurality of first electrodes 120, and between the plurality of second electrodes 150 and the second substrate 160, respectively.

[0120] In this configuration, the first substrate of the thermoelectric element 1210 disposed on the fluid flow section 1100 can be a metal substrate, and this metal substrate can be bonded to the surface of the fluid flow section 1100 using a heat transfer material (thermal interface material (TIM, not shown)). Because the metal substrate has excellent heat transfer properties, it facilitates heat transfer between the thermoelectric element and the fluid flow section 1100. Furthermore, when the metal substrate is bonded to the fluid flow section 1100 using a heat transfer material (thermal interface material (TIM)), heat transfer between the metal substrate and the fluid flow section 1100 is not obstructed. In this configuration, the metal substrate can be, but is not limited to, a copper substrate, an aluminum substrate, and a copper-aluminum substrate.

[0121] As described above, according to an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of thermoelectric modules 1200 are arranged on the surface of the fluid flow portion 1100. Each of the plurality of thermoelectric modules 1200 may include a connector configured to extract generated power to the outside or apply power to use the thermoelectric module as a Peltier module. According to an embodiment of the invention, a cover 1400 may be arranged on the connector to uniformly maintain the bonding force between the thermoelectric module 1200 and the fluid flow portion 1100 and to protect the wires connected to the connector.

[0122] Figure 7 This is a top plan view showing a surface of a fluid flow section included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a thermoelectric module included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 9 This is a top plan view of the first substrate of a thermoelectric module included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 This is a top plan view showing multiple thermoelectric modules arranged on a surface of a fluid flow section included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 This is a top plan view showing multiple thermoelectric modules and multiple covers arranged on a surface of a fluid flow section included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 This is a top plan view showing multiple thermoelectric modules and multiple covers arranged on a surface of a fluid flow section included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the invention, and wires connected to a connector. Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A magnified view of a portion of the image, and Figure 14a and Figure 14b This is a view showing a cover included in an electric power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] refer to Figures 7 to 14b The thermoelectric module 1200 is disposed on the first surface 1110 of the fluid flow section 1100. In the following description, for ease of description, only the thermoelectric module 1200 disposed on the first surface 1110 of the fluid flow section 1100 will be described, but the invention is not limited thereto. The same structure can be applied to the second surface 1120 opposite to the first surface 1110. (Refer to Reference) Figures 3 to 6 Repeated descriptions of the same content related to the fluid flow section 1100 and the thermoelectric module 1200 will be omitted.

[0124] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first substrate 1212 of the thermoelectric module 1200 is disposed on the first surface 1110 of the fluid flow section 1100. In this case, the first substrate 1212 may be disposed in direct contact with the first surface 1110 of the fluid flow section 1100, or disposed in indirect contact with the first surface 1110 of the fluid flow section 1100 by means of a heat transfer material (thermal interface material (TIM)). The first substrate 1212 may be a reference. Figures 1 to 4 The first substrate 110 is described. Therefore, compared with the reference... Figures 3 to 6 Repeated descriptions of content related to the first substrate 110 and content related to the first substrate 1212 will be omitted.

[0125] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the first substrate 1212 of the thermoelectric module 1200 may include a first region A1 and a second region A2. In this case, the plurality of first electrodes, the plurality of thermoelectric legs, the plurality of second electrodes, the second substrate, and the heat sink 1220 may be arranged in the first region A1. Connector portions 210 and 220 connected to the first electrodes may be arranged in the second region A2, which is located on one side of the first region A1. In this case, the plurality of first electrodes, the plurality of thermoelectric legs, the plurality of second electrodes, and the second substrate may be reference... Figures 3 to 6 The plurality of first electrodes 120, the plurality of thermoelectric legs 130 and 140, the plurality of second electrodes 150, and the second substrate 160 are described.

[0126] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the fluid flow section 1100 and the thermoelectric module 1200 can be connected by a connecting member 1300. For this purpose, a plurality of first-first through holes S11 can be formed in the first surface 1110 of the fluid flow section 1100, and a plurality of first-second through holes S12 corresponding to the plurality of first-first through holes S11 can also be formed in the first region A1 of the first substrate 1212 of the thermoelectric module 1200. Furthermore, a plurality of first-third through holes S13 corresponding to the plurality of first-first through holes S11 and the plurality of first-second through holes S12 can also be formed in the heat sink 1220 and the second substrate (not shown) of the thermoelectric module 1200. According to this configuration, as... Figures 10 to 13 As shown, a plurality of first connecting members 1310 can be connected to the plurality of first-first through holes S11, the plurality of first-second through holes S12 and the plurality of first-third through holes S13, so that the fluid flow section 1100 and the thermoelectric module 1200 can be connected.

[0127] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of second-first through holes S21 may be further formed in the first surface 1110 of the fluid flow section 1100, and a plurality of second-second through holes S22 corresponding to the plurality of second-first through holes S21 may be further formed in the second region A2 of the first substrate 1212 of the thermoelectric module 1200. Additionally, a cover 1400 may be further disposed in the second region A2 of the first substrate 1212. Figure 14a and Figure 14b As shown, a plurality of second-third through holes S23 corresponding to the plurality of second-first through holes S21 and the plurality of second-second through holes S22 can be formed in the cover 1400. A plurality of second connecting members 1320 can be connected to the plurality of second-first through holes S21, the plurality of second-second through holes S22 and the plurality of second-third through holes S23, so that the fluid flow section 1100, the thermoelectric module 1200 and the cover 1400 can be connected.

[0128] With this configuration, not only can the first region A1 of the first substrate 1212 of the thermoelectric module 1200 be connected to the fluid flow section 1100, but the second region A2 of the first substrate 1212 of the thermoelectric module 1200 can also be connected to the fluid flow section 1100. Therefore, a uniform bonding force can be applied between the fluid flow section 1100 and the entire first substrate 1212 of the thermoelectric module 1200, and heat can be evenly distributed across the entire first substrate 1212.

[0129] In particular, such as Figure 13 As shown, when the first substrate 1212 of the thermoelectric module 1200 is connected to the fluid flow section 1100 via the cover 1400, the tightening torque of the second connecting member 1320 can be increased by applying the cover 1400. With this configuration, the thermoelectric module 1200 can be more securely attached to the fluid flow section 1100 because the second connecting member 1320 is less likely to loosen even under vibration conditions.

[0130] In this configuration, the width D of the cover 1400 is approximately equal to the width D′ of the first substrate 1212 on which the cover 1400 is disposed. For example, the width D of the cover 1400 may be 0.9 to 1 times, particularly 0.925 to 1 times, and more particularly 0.95 to 1 times, of the width D′ of the first substrate 1212 on which the cover 1400 is disposed. With this configuration, the cover 1400 can press the first substrate 1212 across its entire width D′, which prevents deformation or detachment of the first substrate 1212.

[0131] More specifically, the plurality of second- and third through holes S23 can be formed on two opposite sides of the cover 1400. Therefore, the two opposite sides of the second region A2 of the first substrate 1212 can be supported uniformly in a balanced manner, and thermal deformation of the first substrate 1212 can be prevented. In this case, the interval d3 between two second- and third through holes S23 in a cover 1400 can be greater than the interval d4 between two first- and third through holes S13 in a heat sink 1220. According to this configuration, the cover 1400 can uniformly support the two opposite sides of the second region A2 of the first substrate 1212 in a balanced manner.

[0132] At the same time, such as Figure 14a and Figure 14b As shown, each of the plurality of second- and third through holes S23 formed on two opposite sides of the cover 1400 can have an inner wall with a stepped portion. That is, the diameter d1 of the second- and third through holes S23 in the first surface 1402 (which is arranged to point towards the first substrate 1212) of the two opposite surfaces of the cover 1400 can be smaller than the diameter d2 of the second- and third through holes S23 in the second surface 1402 of the cover 1400 opposite to the first surface 1402. The inner wall of the second- and third through holes S23 can have a stepped portion 1406. According to this configuration, the head of the second connecting member 1320 can be arranged on the stepped portion 1406 formed on the inner wall of the second- and third through holes S23.

[0133] In this configuration, the cover 1400 may contain an insulating material, such as a plastic material. With this configuration, the head of the second connecting member 1320 can contact the cover 1400, allowing the metal-containing first substrate 1212 to be insulated from the head of the second connecting member 1320, and improving the voltage withstand capability of the thermoelectric module 1200.

[0134] Furthermore, when the cover 1400 comprises a plastic material, it can be easily shaped into various sizes and shapes. More specifically, the cover 1400 can be made of a plastic material (such as polyphenylene sulfide (PPS)) that can be used at high temperatures. This construction prevents the cover 1400 from deforming due to the high temperature of the secondary fluid.

[0135] As described above, since the cover 1400 and the first substrate 1212 are connected by a connecting member 1320 passing through the plurality of second-third through holes S23, the area including the plurality of second-third through holes S23 can be referred to as the connecting portion 1400A. The connecting portion 1400A includes a first side surface 1410 closest to the thermoelectric element 1210 and a second side surface 1420 arranged opposite to the first side surface 1410. The second side surface 1420 of the cover 1400 can be arranged along the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212. In this case, the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212 can be an edge located in a second region A2 among the four edges of the first substrate 1212 and positioned in a direction parallel to the direction in which the plurality of connectors 210 and 220 are arranged. As described above, when the second side surface 1420 of the cover 1400 is arranged along the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212, the cover 1400 can press against the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212, which prevents the edge of the thermoelectric module 1200 from rising from the fluid flow section 1100. In this case, the first groove 1412 can be recessed in the first side surface 1410 of the cover 1400 and pointing towards the second side surface 1420, and the second groove 1422 can be recessed in the second side surface 1420 and pointing towards the first side surface 1410. As described above, when grooves are formed in the first side surface 1410 and the second side surface 1420 of the cover 1400, thermal stress can be applied to the two opposite surfaces of the cover 1400 in a balanced manner, which can prevent the cover 1400 from twisting due to the imbalance of thermal stress. In this case, the width B1 of the first groove 1412 is greater than the width B2 of the second groove 1422. For example, the width B1 of the first groove 1412 can be 1.5 to 3 times the width B2 of the second groove 1422. As described above, when the width B1 of the first groove 1412 is greater than the width B2 of the second groove 1422, wires W1 and W2 can be easily connected to the connector portions 210 and 220. Furthermore, when the width B1 of the first groove 1412, arranged close to the connector portions 210 and 220, is greater than the width B2 of the second groove 1422, heat generated from the connector portions 210 and 220 can be effectively dissipated through the first groove 1412, and the second side surface 1420 can maintain the rigidity of the cover 1400.Furthermore, when the width of the second groove 1422, which is arranged near the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212, is smaller than the width of the first groove 1412, the contact area between the cover 1400 and the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212 increases at the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212, thereby increasing the force applied by the cover 1400 to the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212. Therefore, the bonding force between the fluid flow portion 1100 and the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212 of the thermoelectric module 1200 can be increased, and the fluid flow portion 1100 can be prevented from rising from the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212 of the thermoelectric module 1200.

[0136] Specifically, the cover 1400 can be disposed on at least a portion of the connector portion 210 and at least a portion of the connector portion 220. As described above, when the connector portions 210 and 220 include a first connector 210 and a second connector 220 arranged spaced apart from each other, at least a portion of the first connector 210 and at least a portion of the second connector 220 can be exposed through the first recess 1412. With this configuration, wires W1 and W2 can be easily connected to one end of the first connector 210 and one end of the second connector 220 exposed through the first recess 1412. That is, because wires W1 and W2 can be connected after the cover 1400 is fixed to the first substrate 1212 of the thermoelectric module 1200, wires W1 and W2 can be replaced, or the connection routes of wires W1 and W2 can be changed.

[0137] In this case, since the connector portions 210 and 220 include a first connector 210 and a second connector 220 arranged to be spaced apart from each other at the same distance h2 from the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212, the cover 1400 may include a first covering area 1430 arranged on at least a portion of the first connector 210 and a second covering area 1432 arranged on at least a portion of the second connector 220, and a first groove 1412 may be arranged between the first covering area 1430 and the second covering area 1432.

[0138] In this case, such as Figure 13As shown, the distal ends of the first connector 210 and the second connector 220 can be arranged to expose from the lateral sides of the first coverage area 1430 and the second coverage area 1432. For example, the width C1 of each of the first coverage area 1430 and the second coverage area 1432 can be 0.8 to 0.95 times, particularly 0.85 to 0.9 times, the width C2 of each of the first connector 210 and the second connector 220. According to this configuration, the first coverage area 1430 and the second coverage area 1432 can protect the first connector 210 and the second connector 220 and facilitate the connection of wires W1 and W2.

[0139] However, when wires W1 and W2 are easily connected, the width C1 of each of the first covering area 1430 and the second covering area 1432 can be 0.8 to 1.1 times the width C2 of each of the first connector 210 and the second connector 220. According to this configuration, the first covering area 1430 and the second covering area 1432 can respectively protect the first connector 210 and the second connector 220 from external temperatures, etc., and more effectively prevent damage caused by warping due to temperature differences applied to and / or generated in the thermoelectric module.

[0140] In this configuration, one of the two opposite surfaces of the first covering region 1430, arranged to point towards the connector 210, and one of the two opposite surfaces of the second covering region 1432, arranged to point towards the connector 220, can be spaced apart from the connectors 210 and 220, respectively. With this configuration, the first covering region 1430 and the second covering region 1432 can protect the connectors 210 and 220 from external physical pressure, moisture, secondary fluids, or contaminants. The first covering region 1430 and the second covering region 1432 can also prevent the connectors 210 and 220 from contacting the shielding member made of metallic material, which increases the voltage withstand capability of the thermoelectric module 1200.

[0141] Simultaneously, the distal ends of the first covering region 1430 and the second covering region 1432 can be bent to point towards the first substrate 1212. That is, the cover 1400 may further include a first guide region 1440 and a second guide region 1442 protruding from the first covering region 1430 and the second covering region 1432 toward the first substrate 1212. The first guide region 1440 may be disposed on the side surface of the first connector 210, and the second guide region 1442 may be disposed on the side surface of the second connector 220. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the wires W1 and W2 connected to the first connector 210 to the second connector 220 from being pushed upward toward the electrodes of the thermoelectric element and moving or separating. In this case, the first guide region 1440 to the second guide region 1442 may contact the first substrate 1212. With this configuration, pressure can be applied to the first substrate 1212 by the first guide region 1440 to the second guide region 1442, which can increase the bonding force between the first substrate 1212 and the fluid flow section 1100. As described above, the first covering area 1430 can be connected to the first guiding area 1440, and the second covering area 1432 can be connected to the second guiding area 1442. In this case, the first covering area 1430 and the second covering area 1432 can respectively support the first guiding area 1440 and the second guiding area 1442. When the width C1 of each of the first covering areas 1430 and the second covering area 1432 is within a predetermined range, for example, 0.85 times or more than the width C2 of each of the first connector 210 and the second connector 220, the cover 1400 can have high rigidity so that the cover 1400 can support the first guiding area 1440 and the second guiding area 1442.

[0142] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the invention, the first surface 1402 of the two opposing surfaces of the connecting portion 1400A (which is arranged to point towards the first substrate 1212 on the connecting portion 1400A of the cover 1400) can contact the first substrate 1212. A plurality of recesses R1 can be formed in the first surface 1402 and arranged at uniform intervals. With this configuration, injection molding of the cover 1400 can be easily performed, warping caused by thermal deformation can be prevented, the amount of material and weight of the cover 1400 required to form the cover 1400 can be reduced, and the first substrate 1212 can be uniformly pressed onto the entire area of ​​the cover 1400.

[0143] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the second groove 1422 of the cover 1400 may include a curved surface with a predetermined curvature. A third groove G may be formed at the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212, and the second groove 1422 and the third groove G may be arranged to correspond to each other. That is, the second groove 1422 and the third groove G may have the same size and shape, and be aligned at the same position on the first surface 1110 of the fluid flow portion 1100. With this configuration, after the thermoelectric module 1200 is arranged on the fluid flow portion 1100, the position of the cover 1400 is easily guided when it is arranged.

[0144] Furthermore, the second groove 1422 of the cover 1400 and the third groove G formed at the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212 can reduce the thermal stress of the first substrate 1212, which can reduce the thermal deformation of the first substrate 1212 and thus increase the bonding force between the first substrate 1212 and the fluid flow section 1100.

[0145] Specifically, at least one of the second groove 1422 and the third groove G may have a gradually curved shape with a predetermined curvature. As described above, this prevents thermal stress from concentrating on the edge portions, thus further improving performance in reducing thermal stress on the first substrate 1212.

[0146] In this configuration, the second groove 1422 can be formed between the plurality of second-third through holes S23 formed on two opposite sides of the cover 1400, and the third groove G can be formed between the first connector 210 and the second connector 220 arranged in the second region A2 of the first substrate 1212. In this configuration, the depth h1 of the third groove G can be less than the distance h2 from the edge E1 of the first substrate 1212 to the connectors 210 and 220. With this configuration, the bonding force between the first substrate 1212 and the fluid flow section 1100 can be maintained, and the voltage withstand performance of the thermoelectric module 1200 can be improved.

[0147] As described above, the focus is on the cover 1400 and the single thermoelectric module 1200 arranged on the fluid flow section 1100. However, as... Figures 10 to 12 As shown, multiple thermoelectric modules 1200 can be arranged on one surface of the fluid flow section 1100, and a cover 1400 can be arranged for each thermoelectric module 1200.

[0148] In this specification, thermoelectric element 100 or 1210 has been described as including a first substrate 110, a first electrode 120, a P-type thermoelectric leg 130, an N-type thermoelectric leg 140, a second electrode 150, and a second substrate 160, but the definition of thermoelectric element 100 or 1210 is not limited thereto. Thermoelectric element 100 or 1210 may be intended to include the first electrode 120, the P-type thermoelectric leg 130, the N-type thermoelectric leg 140, the second electrode 150, and the second substrate 160, and be disposed on the first substrate 110.

[0149] Furthermore, in this specification, the power generation device 1000 has been described as including a fluid flow section 1100, a thermoelectric module 1200, and a cover 1400, and the thermoelectric module 1200 has been described as including a thermoelectric element 1210 and a heat sink 1220, but the invention is not limited thereto. The thermoelectric module may be intended to include all of the fluid flow section 1100, the thermoelectric element 1210, the heat sink 1220, and the cover 1400.

[0150] In this specification, width may refer to the width in the direction in which multiple thermoelectric modules are arranged, that is, Figures 8 to 13 The width in the first direction shown. For example, the width D of the cover 1400, the width D' of the first substrate 1212, the width B1 of the first groove 1412, the width B2 of the second groove 1422, the width C1 of each of the first covering areas 1430 and the second covering areas 1432, and the width C2 of each of the first connectors 210 and the second connector 220 can respectively refer to the width in the direction in which the multiple thermoelectric modules are arranged, that is, Figures 8 to 13 The width in the first direction shown.

[0151] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a plate according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15 It is a perspective view showing the first and second plates, which are among a plurality of plates included in a chamber.

[0152] A chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of plates. The plurality of plates may include a first plate 2100 and a second plate 2300. The first plate 2100 may be arranged on the front side of the chamber, and the second plate 2300 may be arranged on the rear side of the chamber. Based on the power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the front side of the chamber may refer to the side in the direction in which the junction box is arranged, and the rear side of the chamber may refer to the side in the opposite direction to the front side. Therefore, the first plate 2100 and the second plate 2300 may be arranged facing each other.

[0153] The first plate 2100 may include a connecting portion 2110. The connecting portion 2110 may include a first hole 2120 and a recess 2130.

[0154] The first hole 2120 may have an elongated shape in one direction. For example, the first hole 2120 may have a rod shape formed from the upper side of the chamber toward the lower side. The first hole 2120 may be formed through the first plate 2100 from the first surface to the second surface. The first hole 2120 may also be formed through the first plate 2100 from the second surface to the first surface. The first surface of the first plate 2100 may refer to the outer side of the chamber, and the second surface of the first plate 2100 may refer to the inner side of the chamber.

[0155] The recess 2130 may be arranged along the edge of the first hole 2120. The recess 2130 may include a first recess and a second recess. The first recess may be arranged in a first surface of the first plate 2100 and formed along the edge of the first hole 2120. The second recess may be arranged in a second surface of the first plate 2100 and formed along the edge of the first hole 2120. That is, the first recess may be arranged on the outside of the chamber, and the second recess may be arranged on the inside of the chamber.

[0156] The power generating device can be inserted into the first hole 2120. A portion of the power generating device can be inserted into the first hole 2120. Multiple first holes 2120 can be provided. The multiple first holes 2120 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals.

[0157] The first plate 2100 may include a second hole 2140 and a third hole 2160.

[0158] The second hole 2140 may have, but is not limited to, a circular shape. The second hole 2140 may be formed from a first surface to a second surface of the first plate 2100 in a manner passing through the first plate 2100. The second hole 2140 may also be formed from a second surface to a first surface of the first plate 2100 in a manner passing through the first plate 2100. The first surface of the first plate 2100 may refer to the outer side of the chamber, and the second surface of the first plate 2100 may refer to the inner side of the chamber. A conduit included in the guide member can be inserted into the second hole 2140. A plurality of second holes 2140 may be provided. The plurality of second holes 2140 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals.

[0159] The third hole 2160 may have, but is not limited to, a circular shape. The third hole 2160 may be formed from the first surface of the first plate 2100 to the second surface, passing through the first plate 2100. The third hole 2160 may also be formed from the second surface of the first plate 2100 to the first surface, passing through the first plate 2100. The first surface of the first plate 2100 may refer to the outer side of the chamber, and the second surface of the first plate 2100 may refer to the inner side of the chamber. Screws connecting the channel cover, the chamber, and the guide member can be inserted into the third hole 2160. Multiple third holes 2160 may be provided. The multiple third holes 2160 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals.

[0160] The second plate 2300 may include a connecting portion 2310. The connecting portion 2310 may include a first hole 2320 and a recess 2320.

[0161] The connecting portion 2310 may include a first hole 2320. The first hole 2320 may have an elongated shape in one direction. For example, the first hole 2320 may have a rod shape formed from the upper side of the chamber toward the lower side. The first hole 2320 may be formed from the first surface of the second plate 2300 to the second surface in a manner that passes through the second plate 2300. The first hole 2320 may be formed from the second surface of the second plate 2300 to the first surface in a manner that passes through the second plate 2300. The first surface of the second plate 2300 may refer to the outer side of the chamber, and the second surface of the second plate 2300 may refer to the inner side of the chamber.

[0162] The recess 2320 may be arranged along the edge of the first hole 2320. The recess 2320 may include a first recess and a second recess. The first recess may be arranged in a first surface of the first plate 2100 and formed along the edge of the first hole 2320. The second recess may be arranged in a second surface of the first plate 2100 and formed along the edge of the first hole 2320. That is, the first recess may be arranged on the outside of the chamber, and the second recess may be arranged on the inside of the chamber.

[0163] A power generating device can be inserted into the first hole 2320. A portion of the power generating device can be inserted into the first hole 2320. Multiple first holes 2320 can be provided. The multiple first holes 2320 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals.

[0164] The first hole 2320 of the second plate 2300 can be arranged to face the first hole 2120 of the first plate 2100. The plurality of first holes 2320 arranged in the second plate 2300 can be arranged to face the plurality of first holes 2120 arranged in the first plate 2100.

[0165] Reference Figures 16 to 18 The connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention is described in detail.

[0166] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing the connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17 A partial sectional view of the connecting portion is shown, taken along the first direction A-A'. Figure 18 A partial sectional view of the connection is shown, taken along the second direction B-B'.

[0167] In Figure 16 When the first plate 2100 shown is cut along the first direction A-A', the connecting part is as follows: Figure 17 As shown. In this case, the first direction A-A' can be a direction parallel to the lower end of the chamber. The first direction A-A' can also be a direction parallel to the lower end of the power generation system.

[0168] Reference Figure 17 The connecting portion 2110 is described, showing a first plate 2100 cut along a first direction A-A'. The area of ​​the connecting portion 2110 can be divided into a first region 2111, a second region 2112, and a third region 2113.

[0169] A first hole 2120 and a first recess 2131 can be arranged in a first region 2111. The first recess 2131 can be arranged along the side surface of the first hole 2120 in the first region 2111. The first recess 2131 can have a predetermined shape. Figure 17 The first recess 2131 is shown to have a straight surface shape, but the invention is not limited thereto. The first recess 2131 may have a curved surface shape. Furthermore, the first recess 2131 may have an uneven shape. The first region 2111 may include a first opening open1 having a first width w1 in the first direction A-A' and a second opening open2 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A'. The first opening open1 may be disposed in the first surface of the first plate 2100. The first opening open1 may be disposed in the outer surface of the first plate 2100. The first opening open1 and the second opening open2 may communicate with each other.

[0170] The first opening 2120 can be arranged in the second region 2112. The second region 2112 may include a second opening open2 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A' and a third opening open3 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A'. The second opening open2 included in the second region 2112 may be a second opening open2 included in the first region 2111. Therefore, the second region 2112 can extend from the first region 2111. The second opening open2 and the third opening open3 can communicate with each other.

[0171] The first hole 2120 and the second recess 2132 can be arranged in the third region 2113. The second recess 2132 can be arranged along the side surface of the first hole 2120 in the third region 2113. The second recess 2132 can have a predetermined shape. Figure 17 The second recess 2132 is shown to have a straight surface shape, but the invention is not limited thereto. The second recess 2132 may have a curved surface shape. Furthermore, the second recess 2132 may have an uneven shape. The third region 2113 may include a third opening open3 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A' and a fourth opening open4 having a first width w1 in the first direction A-A'. The third opening open3 included in the third region 2113 may be a third opening open3 included in the second region 2112. Therefore, the third region 2113 may extend from the second region 2112. The fourth opening open4 may be arranged in the second surface of the first plate 2100. The second surface of the first plate 2100 may be a surface opposite to the first surface of the first plate 2100. The fourth opening open4 may be arranged in the inner surface of the first plate 2100. The third opening open3 and the fourth opening open4 may communicate with each other.

[0172] The average width of the first region 2111 along the first direction A-A' can be greater than the average width of the second region 2112 along the first direction A-A'. The average width of the second region 2112 along the first direction A-A' can be less than the average width of the first region 2111 along the first direction A-A'. The average width of the third region 2113 along the first direction A-A' can be greater than the average width of the second region 2112 along the first direction A-A'. The average width of the second region 2112 along the first direction A-A' can be less than the average width of the third region 2113 along the first direction A-A'.

[0173] The sidewall surrounding the first region 2111 may have an inclined portion in the direction from the first opening 1 toward the second opening 2. The inclined portion may have, but is not limited to, a shape with a straight surface. The inclined portion may have a shape with a curved surface. The width of the first region 2111 in the first direction A-A' may decrease in the direction from the first opening 1 toward the second opening 2. The sidewall surrounding the third region 2113 may have an inclined portion in the direction from the fourth opening 4 toward the third opening 3. The width of the third region 2113 in the first direction A-A' may decrease in the direction from the fourth opening 4 toward the third opening 3.

[0174] Reference Figure 18 The connecting portion is described, showing a first plate 2100 cut along a second direction B-B'. The area of ​​the connecting portion can be divided into a first region 2111, a second region 2112, and a third region 2113.

[0175] A first hole 2120 and a first recess 2131 can be arranged in a first region 2111. The first recess 2131 can be arranged along the side surface of the first hole 2120 in the first region 2111. The first recess 2131 can have a predetermined shape. Figure 18 The first recess 2131 is shown to have a straight surface shape, but the invention is not limited thereto. The first recess 2131 may have a curved surface shape. Furthermore, the first recess 2131 may have an uneven shape. The first region 2111 may include a first opening open1 having a third width w3 in the second direction B-B' and a second opening open2 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B'. The first opening open1 may be arranged in the first surface of the first plate 2100. The first opening open1 may be arranged in the outer surface of the first plate 2100. The first opening open1 and the second opening open2 may communicate with each other.

[0176] The first opening 2120 can be arranged in the second region 2112. The second region 2112 may include a second opening open2 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B' and a third opening open3 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B'. The second opening open2 included in the second region 2112 may be a second opening open2 included in the first region 2111. Therefore, the second region 2112 can extend from the first region 2111. The second opening open2 and the third opening open3 can communicate with each other.

[0177] The first hole 2120 and the second recess 2132 can be arranged in the third region 2113. The second recess 2132 can be arranged along the side surface of the first hole 2120 in the third region 2113. The second recess 2132 can have a predetermined shape. Figure 18 The second recess 2132 is shown to have a straight surface shape, but the invention is not limited thereto. The second recess 2132 may have a curved surface shape. Furthermore, the second recess 2132 may have an uneven shape. The third region 2113 may include a third opening open3 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B' and a fourth opening open4 having a third width w3 in the second direction B-B'. The third opening open3 included in the third region 2113 may be the third opening open3 included in the second region 2112. Therefore, the third region 2113 may extend from the second region 2112. The fourth opening open4 may be arranged in the second surface of the first plate 2100. The second surface of the first plate 2100 may be the surface opposite to the first surface of the first plate 2100. The first opening open1 may be arranged in the inner surface of the first plate 2100. The third opening open3 and the fourth opening open4 may communicate with each other.

[0178] The average width of the first region 2111 in the second direction B-B' can be greater than the average width of the second region 2112 in the second direction B-B'. The average width of the second region 2112 in the second direction B-B' can be less than the average width of the first region 2111 in the second direction B-B'. The average width of the third region 2113 in the second direction B-B' can be greater than the average width of the second region 2112 in the second direction B-B'. The average width of the second region 2112 in the second direction B-B' can be less than the average width of the third region 2113 in the second direction B-B'.

[0179] The sidewall surrounding the first region 2111 may have an inclined portion in the direction from the first opening 1 toward the second opening 2. The width of the first region 2111 in the second direction B-B' may decrease in the direction from the first opening 1 toward the second opening 2. The sidewall surrounding the third region 2113 may have an inclined portion in the direction from the fourth opening 4 toward the third opening 3. The width of the third region 2113 in the second direction B-B' may decrease in the direction from the fourth opening 4 toward the third opening 3.

[0180] Since the second plate can be constructed identically to the first plate mentioned above, a repeated description of the second plate will be omitted.

[0181] Reference Figures 19 to 21 Describe the structure in which the connecting parts and the power generation equipment are connected.

[0182] Figure 19 This is a partial perspective view of the first plate and the power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 20 A partial sectional view of the first plate and the power generation device is taken along the first direction A-A' and is shown. Figure 21 A partial sectional view of the first plate and the power generation device is shown, taken along the second direction B-B'.

[0183] like Figure 19 As shown, when a portion of the power generating device 1000 is inserted into the first hole 2120 of the first plate 2100, and the power generating device 1000 is cut along the first direction A-A', the connecting part and the power generating device 1000 can be connected as follows: Figure 20 As shown. In this case, the first direction A-A' can be a direction parallel to the lower end of the chamber. The first direction A-A' can also be a direction parallel to the lower end of the power generation system.

[0184] refer to Figure 20 When the first plate 2100 is cut along the first direction A-A', the region of the connecting portion can be divided into a first region 2111, a second region 2112, and a third region 2113. A portion of the power generating device 1000 can be arranged in the first region 2111, the second region 2112, and the third region 2113 of the connecting portion. Specifically, a portion of the fluid flow section 1100 included in the power generating device 1000 can be arranged in the first region 2111, the second region 2112, and the third region 2113 of the connecting portion. The thermoelectric module 1200 included in the power generating device 1000 may not be inserted into the connecting portion.

[0185] The first region 2111 may include a first opening open1 having a first width w1 in the first direction A-A' and a second opening open2 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A'. The first opening open1 and the second opening open2 may communicate with each other. The power generating device 1000 may be arranged in the first region 2111. Because the power generating device 1000 is inserted into the first hole 2120 of the first plate 2100, the width of the power generating device 1000 in the first direction A-A' may be equal to the second width w2 of the second opening open2.

[0186] Because the first width w1 of the first opening open1 and the second width w2 of the second opening open2 are different from each other, the sidewall surrounding the first region 2111 can have an inclined portion in the direction from the first opening open1 toward the second opening open2. The width of the first region 2111 in the first direction A-A' can decrease in the direction from the first opening open1 toward the second opening open2. Therefore, even if the power generating device 1000 is arranged in the first region 2111 of the first hole 2120, empty space can be defined in the first recesses a1 and a2.

[0187] The second region 2112 may include a second opening open2 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A' and a third opening open3 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A'. The second opening open2 included in the second region 2112 may be a first opening open1 included in the first region 2111. Therefore, the second region 2112 can extend from the first region 2111. The second opening open2 and the third opening open3 may communicate with each other. According to an embodiment, the width of the power generating device 1000 in the first direction A-A' may be equal to the second width w2 of the second opening open2 and the second width w2 of the third opening open3, and the sidewall of the second region 2112 may not have an inclined portion. Therefore, unlike the first region 2111, a groove may not be formed between the power generating device 1000 and the sidewall of the second region 2112.

[0188] The third region 2113 may include a third opening open3 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A' and a fourth opening open4 having a first width w1 in the first direction A-A'. The third opening open3 included in the third region 2113 may be the third opening open3 included in the second region 2112. Therefore, the third region 2113 may extend from the second region 2112. The third opening open3 and the fourth opening open4 may communicate with each other.

[0189] Because the first width w1 of the fourth opening open4 and the second width w2 of the third opening open3 are different from each other, the sidewall surrounding the third region 2113 can have an inclined portion in the direction from the fourth opening open4 toward the third opening open3. The width of the third region 2113 in the first direction A-A' can decrease in the direction from the fourth opening open4 toward the third opening open3. Therefore, even if the power generating device 1000 is arranged in the third region 2113 of the first hole 2120, empty spaces can be defined in the second recesses b1 and b2 in the third region 2113.

[0190] like Figure 21 As shown, when a portion of the power generating device 1000 is inserted into the first hole 2120 of the first plate 2100, and the power generating device 1000 is cut along the second direction B-B', the first plate 2100 and the power generating device 1000 can be as follows: Figure 21 As shown. In this case, the second direction B-B' can be a direction perpendicular to the first direction A-A'.

[0191] refer to Figure 21 When the first plate 2100 is cut along the second direction B-B', the region of the connecting portion can be divided into a first region 2111, a second region 2112, and a third region 2113. A portion of the power generating device 1000 can be arranged in the first region 2111, the second region 2112, and the third region 2113 of the connecting portion. Specifically, a portion of the fluid flow portion 1100 included in the power generating device 1000 can be arranged in the first region 2111, the second region 2112, and the third region 2113 of the connecting portion.

[0192] The first region 2111 may include a first opening open1 having a third width w3 in the second direction B-B' and a second opening open2 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B'. The first opening open1 and the second opening open2 may communicate with each other. The power generating device 1000 may be arranged in the first region 2111. Because the power generating device 1000 is inserted into the first hole 2120 of the connecting part, the width of the power generating device 1000 in the second direction B-B' may be equal to the fourth width w4 of the second opening open2.

[0193] Because the third width w3 of the first opening open1 and the fourth width w4 of the second opening open2 are different from each other, the sidewall surrounding the first region 2111 can have an inclined portion in the direction from the first opening open1 toward the second opening open2. The width of the first region 2111 in the second direction B-B' can decrease in the direction from the first opening open1 toward the second opening open2. Therefore, even if the power generating device 1000 is arranged in the first region 2111 of the connecting portion, an empty space can be defined in the first recesses c1 and c2 between the power generating device 1000 and the sidewall of the first region 2111 based on the second direction B-B'.

[0194] The second region 2112 may include a second opening open2 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B' and a third opening open3 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B'. The second opening open2 included in the second region 2112 may be a first opening open1 included in the first region 2111. Therefore, the second region 2112 can extend from the first region 2111. The second opening open2 and the third opening open3 may communicate with each other. According to an embodiment, the width of the power generating device 1000 in the second direction B-B' may be equal to the fourth width w4 of the second opening open2 and the third width w3 of the third opening open3, and the sidewall of the second region 2112 may not have an inclined portion. Therefore, unlike the first region 2111, a groove may not be formed between the power generating device 1000 and the sidewall of the second region 2112.

[0195] The third region 2113 may include a third opening open3 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B' and a fourth opening open4 having a third width w3 in the second direction B-B'. The third opening open3 included in the third region 2113 may be the third opening open3 included in the second region 2112. Therefore, the third region 2113 may extend from the second region 2112. The third opening open3 and the fourth opening open4 may communicate with each other.

[0196] Because the third width w3 of the fourth opening open4 and the fourth width w4 of the third opening open3 are different from each other, the sidewall surrounding the third region 2113 can have an inclined portion in the direction from the fourth opening open4 toward the third opening open3. The width of the third region 2113 in the second direction B-B' can decrease in the direction from the fourth opening open4 toward the third opening open3. Therefore, even if the power generating device 1000 is arranged in the third region 2113 of the connecting portion, an empty space can be defined in the second recesses d1 and d2 between the power generating device 1000 and the sidewall of the third region 2113.

[0197] Since the second plate can be constructed identically to the first plate mentioned above, a repeated description of the second plate will be omitted.

[0198] Reference Figures 22 to 24 Describe the structure in which the first plate, power generation equipment, and weld beads are connected.

[0199] Figure 22 This is a partial perspective view showing a first plate, a power generation device, and a weld bead according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23A partial sectional view of the first plate, the power generation equipment, and the weld bead is taken along the first direction A-A' and is shown. Figure 24 It is a partial sectional view taken along the second direction B-B' and showing the first plate, the power generation equipment and the weld bead.

[0200] like Figure 22 As shown, when a portion of the power generating device 1000 is inserted into the first hole 2120 of the first plate 2100, and the power generating device 1000 is cut along the first direction A-A', the first plate 2100 and the power generating device 1000 can be as follows: Figure 23 As shown. In this case, the first direction A-A' can be a direction parallel to the lower end of the chamber. The first direction A-A' can be a direction parallel to the lower end of the power generation device.

[0201] refer to Figure 23 When the first plate 2100 is cut along the first direction A-A', the region of the connecting portion can be divided into a first region 2111, a second region 2112, and a third region 2113. A portion of the power generating device 1000 can be arranged in the first region 2111, the second region 2112, and the third region 2113 of the connecting portion. Specifically, a portion of the fluid flow portion 1100 included in the power generating device 1000 can be arranged in the first region 2111, the second region 2112, and the third region 2113 of the connecting portion. The thermoelectric module 1200 included in the power generating device 1000 may not be inserted into the first hole 2120.

[0202] The first region 2111 may include a first opening open1 having a first width w1 in the first direction A-A' and a second opening open2 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A'. The first opening open1 and the second opening open2 may communicate with each other. The power generating device 1000 may be arranged in the first region 2111. Because the power generating device 1000 is inserted into the first hole 2120 of the first plate 2100, the width of the power generating device 1000 in the first direction A-A' may be equal to the second width w2 of the second opening open2.

[0203] Because the first width w1 of the first opening open1 and the second width w2 of the second opening open2 are different from each other, the sidewall surrounding the first region 2111 can have an inclined portion in the direction from the first opening open1 toward the second opening open2. The width of the first region 2111 in the first direction A-A' can decrease in the direction from the first opening open1 toward the second opening open2.

[0204] The first weld bead 2200 can be disposed in a first recess between the power generating device 1000 and the sidewall of the first region 2111. Therefore, the first weld bead 2200 can be arranged to surround the side surface of the flow channel. Because the first weld bead 2200 is disposed in a recess formed between the power generating device 1000 and the sidewall of the first region 2111, the contact area between the first weld bead 2200, the first plate 2100, and the power generating device 1000 can be increased. Therefore, the connection force between the first plate 2100 and the power generating device 1000 can be increased, and the sealing between the interior and exterior of the chamber can be improved. According to an embodiment, the first weld bead 2200 can be arranged to protrude from the outside of the chamber. Specifically, the first weld bead 2200 can be disposed in the first recess and protrude to the outside of the first recess. According to another embodiment, the first weld bead 2200 can be arranged not to protrude from the outside of the chamber. Specifically, the first weld bead 2200 can be arranged not to protrude to the outside of the first recess. That is, the first weld bead 2200 is arranged only in the first recess.

[0205] The second region 2112 may include a second opening open2 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A' and a third opening open3 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A'. The second opening open2 included in the second region 2112 may be a first opening open1 included in the first region 2111. Therefore, the second region 2112 can extend from the first region 2111. The second opening open2 and the third opening open3 may communicate with each other. According to an embodiment, the width of the power generating device 1000 in the first direction A-A' may be equal to the second width w2 of the second opening open2 and the second width w2 of the third opening open3, and the sidewall of the second region 2112 may not have an inclined portion. Therefore, unlike the first region 2111, a groove may not be formed between the power generating device 1000 and the sidewall of the second region 2112.

[0206] The third region 2113 may include a third opening open3 having a second width w2 in the first direction A-A' and a fourth opening open4 having a first width w1 in the first direction A-A'. The third opening open3 included in the third region 2113 may be the third opening open3 included in the second region 2112. Therefore, the third region 2113 may extend from the second region 2112. The third opening open3 and the fourth opening open4 may communicate with each other.

[0207] Because the first width w1 of the fourth opening open4 and the second width w2 of the third opening open3 are different from each other, the sidewall surrounding the third region 2113 can have an inclined portion in the direction from the fourth opening open4 toward the third opening open3. The width of the third region 2113 in the first direction A-A' can decrease in the direction from the fourth opening open4 toward the third opening open3. According to an embodiment, unlike the first recess, the first weld bead 2200 is not arranged in the third recesses b1 and b2. However, the invention is not limited thereto. According to another embodiment, the first weld bead 2200 can also be arranged in the second recesses b1 and b2. For example, when a predetermined interval is defined between the sidewall of the first plate and the side surface of the flow channel in the second region 2112, the first weld bead 2200 can also be arranged in the second recess through this predetermined interval during the process of the first weld bead 2200 being arranged in the first recess.

[0208] like Figure 22 As shown, when a portion of the power generating device 1000 is inserted into the first hole 2120 of the first plate 2100, and the power generating device 1000 is cut along the second direction B-B', the first plate 2100 and the power generating device 1000 can be as follows: Figure 24 As shown. In this case, the second direction B-B' can be a direction perpendicular to the first direction A-A'.

[0209] refer to Figure 24 When the first plate 2100 is cut along the second direction B-B', the region of the connecting portion can be divided into a first region 2111, a second region 2112, and a third region 2113. A portion of the power generating device 1000 can be arranged in the first region 2111, the second region 2112, and the third region 2113 of the connecting portion. Specifically, a portion of the fluid flow portion 1100 included in the power generating device 1000 can be arranged in the first region 2111, the second region 2112, and the third region 2113 of the connecting portion. The thermoelectric module 1200 included in the power generating device 1000 may not be inserted into the first hole 2120.

[0210] The first region 2111 may include a first opening open1 having a third width w3 in the second direction B-B' and a second opening open2 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B'. The first opening open1 and the second opening open2 may communicate with each other. The power generating device 1000 may be arranged in the first region 2111. Because the power generating device 1000 is inserted into the first hole 2120 of the connecting part, the width of the power generating device 1000 in the second direction B-B' may be equal to the fourth width w4 of the second opening open2.

[0211] Because the third width w3 of the first opening open1 and the fourth width w4 of the second opening open2 are different from each other, the sidewall surrounding the first region 2111 can have an inclined portion in the direction from the first opening open1 toward the second opening open2. The width of the first region 2111 in the second direction B-B' can decrease in the direction from the first opening open1 toward the second opening open2. Therefore, even if the power generating device 1000 is arranged in the first region 2111 of the first hole 2120, a groove can be formed between the power generating device 1000 and the sidewall of the first region 2111 based on the second direction B-B'. The first weld bead 2200 can be arranged in the groove formed between the power generating device 1000 and the sidewall of the first region 2111 based on the second direction B-B'. Because the weld bead 2200 is arranged in the first recess, the contact area between the first weld bead 2200, the first plate 2100, and the power generating device 1000 can be increased. Therefore, the connection force between the first plate 2100 and the power generation device 1000 can be increased, and the sealing between the interior and exterior of the chamber can be improved. According to an embodiment, the first weld bead 2200 can be arranged to protrude from the outside of the chamber. Specifically, the first weld bead 2200 can be arranged in the first recess and protrude to the outside of the first recess. According to another embodiment, the first weld bead 2200 can be arranged not to protrude from the outside of the chamber. Specifically, the first weld bead 2200 can be arranged not to protrude to the outside of the first recess. That is, the first weld bead 2200 can be arranged only in the first recess.

[0212] The second region 2112 may include a second opening open2 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B' and a third opening open3 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B'. The second opening open2 included in the second region 2112 may be a first opening open1 included in the first region 2111. Therefore, the second region 2112 can extend from the first region 2111. The second opening open2 and the third opening open3 may communicate with each other. According to an embodiment, the width of the power generating device 1000 in the second direction B-B' may be equal to the fourth width w4 of the second opening open2 and the third width w3 of the third opening open3, and the sidewall of the second region 2112 may not have an inclined portion. Therefore, unlike the first region 2111, a groove may not be formed between the power generating device 1000 and the sidewall of the second region 2112.

[0213] The third region 2113 may include a third opening open3 having a fourth width w4 in the second direction B-B' and a fourth opening open4 having a third width w3 in the second direction B-B'. The third opening open3 included in the third region 2113 may be the third opening open3 included in the second region 2112. Therefore, the third region 2113 may extend from the second region 2112. The third opening open3 and the fourth opening open4 may communicate with each other.

[0214] Because the third width w3 of the fourth opening open4 and the fourth width w4 of the third opening open3 are different from each other, the sidewall surrounding the third region 2113 can have an inclined portion in the direction from the fourth opening open4 toward the third opening open3. The width of the third region 2113 in the second direction B-B' can decrease in the direction from the fourth opening open4 toward the third opening open3. Unlike the first recess, the first weld bead 2200 may not be arranged in the second recesses d1 and d2 formed between the sidewall of the third region 2113 and the power generation device 1000. However, the invention is not limited thereto. According to another embodiment, the first weld bead 2200 may also be arranged in the second recesses b1 and b2. For example, when a predetermined interval is defined between the sidewall of the first plate and the side surface of the flow channel in the second region 2112, the first weld bead may also be arranged in the second recess through this predetermined interval during the process of arranging the first recess.

[0215] Since the second plate can be constructed identically to the first plate mentioned above, a repeated description of the second plate will be omitted.

[0216] Figure 25 This is a view showing the fluid flow section according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 26 This is a view used to explain the connection of the unit fluid flow sections.

[0217] refer to Figure 25According to an embodiment of the present invention, the fluid flow section 1100 may include a plurality of unit fluid flow sections. The plurality of unit fluid flow sections may contact one surface of each of adjacent unit fluid flow sections. For example, one surface of the first unit fluid section 1100-1 and one surface of the second unit fluid flow section 1100-2 may contact each other, one surface of the second unit fluid flow section 1100-2 and one surface of the third unit fluid flow section 1100-3 may contact each other, and one surface of the third unit fluid flow section 1100-3 and one surface of the fourth unit fluid flow section 1100-4 may contact each other. The outermost unit fluid flow section arranged among the plurality of unit fluid flow sections may be connected to a connecting portion of the chamber.

[0218] Each of the plurality of unit fluid flow sections may have an uneven shape implemented on a surface that contacts an adjacent unit fluid flow section. For example, an uneven shape may be implemented on a surface where the first unit fluid flow section 1100-1 connects to the second unit fluid flow section 1100-2. An uneven shape may be implemented on the surface where the second unit fluid flow section 1100-2 connects to the third unit fluid flow section 1100-3, and an uneven shape may be implemented on the surface where the second unit fluid flow section 1100-2 connects to the first unit fluid flow section 1100-1.

[0219] The uneven shapes formed on the surfaces of the plurality of unit fluid flow sections can engage with each other, allowing adjacent unit fluid flow sections to be connected to each other. For example, the uneven shape of a surface of the first unit fluid flow section 1100-1 that connects to the second unit fluid flow section 1100-2 can be configured to engage with the uneven shape of a surface of the second unit fluid flow section 1100-2 that connects to the first unit fluid flow section 1100-1. Therefore, the ease and accuracy of assembling the unit fluid flow sections can be improved. Furthermore, the connection force between the unit fluid flow sections can be increased.

[0220] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second weld bead 2220 may be arranged along the connection portion formed between the surfaces of a plurality of unit fluid flow portions that are in contact with each other. The second weld bead 2220 may be arranged to surround the connection portion between the unit fluid flow portions. For example, refer to Figure 26The second weld bead 2220 can be arranged along the connection portion of the second unit fluid flow portion 1100-2 and the third unit fluid flow portion 1100-3, which are formed to be connected to each other. The second weld bead 2220 can be arranged on the surface of the connection portion and the unit fluid flow portion adjacent to the connection portion. The second weld bead 2220 can be arranged along the connection portion and extend to the surface of the unit fluid flow portion adjacent to the connection portion. Even though the unit fluid flow portions are connected to each other due to the interlocking of their concave and convex shapes, the fluid in the fluid passage pipe in the fluid flow portion may leak to the outside of the fluid flow portion due to pressure. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the connection force between the connection portions between the unit fluid flow portions. According to the present invention, the second weld bead 2220 can surround the connection portion, which can solve the problems mentioned above.

[0221] Figure 27 This is a top plan view of a power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0222] like Figure 27 As shown, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of thermoelectric elements 1201 to 1206 and a shielding member 1500 may be arranged on one surface of the unit fluid flow portion. The plurality of thermoelectric elements 1201 to 1206 and the shielding member 1500 may be arranged on the front surface of the unit fluid flow portion. The plurality of thermoelectric elements 1201 to 1206 and the shielding member 1500 may be arranged on the rear surface of the unit fluid flow portion. The shielding member 1500 may have the same length as the unit fluid flow portion. The shielding member 1500 may have openings formed at positions corresponding to the plurality of thermoelectric elements 1201 to 1206, such that the plurality of thermoelectric elements 1201 to 1206 can be exposed.

[0223] The shielding member 1500 may have a plurality of fastening holes. The fastening holes of the shielding member 1500 may correspond to a plurality of fastening holes h1 to h7 arranged in one surface of the unit fluid flow section. That is, the plurality of fastening holes h1 to h7 may be arranged in the front and rear surfaces of the unit fluid flow section, respectively. The shielding member 1500 and the unit fluid flow section can be connected to each other by screws that penetrate the plurality of fastening holes h1 to h7 of the shielding member 1500 and the unit fluid flow section.

[0224] The plurality of fastening holes h1 to h7 formed in the unit fluid flow section can be arranged at predetermined intervals. For example, the distance between the first fastening hole h1 and the second fastening hole h2 can be equal to the distance between the second fastening hole h2 and the third fastening hole h3.

[0225] The distance w6 between the first coupling surface of the unit fluid flow part and the fastening hole h1 closest to the first coupling surface among the plurality of fixing holes h1 to h7 arranged in the unit fluid flow part may be smaller than the interval w5 between the plurality of fastening holes h1 to h7 (w6 < w5). The distance w7 between the second coupling surface of the unit fluid flow part and the fastening hole h7 closest to the second coupling surface among the plurality of fastening holes h1 to h7 arranged in the unit fluid flow part may be larger than the interval w5 between the plurality of fastening holes h1 to h7 (w7 > w5). That is, the plurality of fastening holes h1 to h7 arranged in one surface of the unit fluid flow part may be asymmetrically arranged in the longitudinal direction of the unit fluid flow part. Since the plurality of fastening holes h1 to h7 arranged in one surface of the unit fluid flow part are asymmetrically arranged in the longitudinal direction of the unit fluid flow part as described above, the plurality of fastening holes h1 to h7 arranged in the front and rear surfaces of the unit fluid flow part may also be asymmetrically arranged. Therefore, even if the thickness of the unit fluid flow part is small, the coupling force between the shielding member 1500 and the unit fluid flow part can be increased.

[0226] The power generation system may generate power by using heat generated from ships, vehicles, power plants, geothermal energy, etc. A plurality of power generation devices may be arranged to effectively collect heat. In this case, each of the power generation devices may improve the cooling performance of the low-temperature part of the thermoelectric element by increasing the bonding force between the thermoelectric module and the fluid flow part, so that the efficiency and reliability of the power generation device can be improved, which can improve the fuel efficiency of transportation means (such as ships or vehicles). Therefore, the transportation cost can be reduced and an environmentally friendly industrial environment can be established in the marine transportation industry and the transportation industry. In the case of applying the present invention to manufacturing industries (such as the steel industry), the material cost can be reduced.

[0227] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art can understand that the present invention can be variously modified and changed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention disclosed in the claims.

Claims

1. A thermoelectric module, comprising: substrate; Thermoelectric element, said thermoelectric element being disposed on said substrate; Connector portion, which is electrically connected to the thermoelectric element; as well as A cover, which is disposed on the connector portion of the thermoelectric element. The cover includes a first side surface adjacent to the thermoelectric element and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface. The first side surface includes a first groove recessed toward the second side surface. The second side surface includes a second groove recessed toward the first side surface. The width of the first groove is greater than the width of the second groove, and the substrate includes a first region and a second region. The thermoelectric element is arranged on the first region, and the connector portion is arranged on the second region.

2. The thermoelectric module according to claim 1, wherein, The connector section includes a first connector and a second connector, which are arranged symmetrically and spaced apart from each other.

3. The thermoelectric module according to claim 2, wherein, At least a portion of the first connector and the second connector are arranged to overlap perpendicularly with the first groove.

4. The thermoelectric module according to claim 3, wherein, The wire is connected to at least one of the ends of the first connector and the second connector, which are arranged to overlap perpendicularly with the first groove.

5. The thermoelectric module according to claim 3, wherein, The cover includes: A first coverage area, the first coverage area being disposed on the first connector; and The second coverage area is disposed on the second connector, and The first groove is arranged between the first covering area and the second covering area.

6. The thermoelectric module according to claim 5, wherein, The cover further includes a first guiding region and a second guiding region, the first guiding region and the second guiding region protruding from the first covering region and the second covering region toward the substrate, respectively. The first guiding region is disposed on the side surface of the first connector, and The second guiding area is disposed on the side surface of the second connector.

7. The thermoelectric module according to claim 6, wherein, The first guiding region and the second guiding region are in contact with the substrate.

8. The thermoelectric module according to claim 6, wherein, One of the two surfaces of the cover, the surface pointing towards the substrate, has a plurality of grooves.

9. The thermoelectric module according to claim 6, wherein, The second groove includes a curved surface with a predetermined curvature.

10. The thermoelectric module according to claim 9, wherein, A third groove is formed at the edge of the substrate.

11. The thermoelectric module according to claim 10, wherein, At least one of the second and third grooves has the same shape and size as each other.

12. The thermoelectric module according to claim 6 further includes a fluid flow section, wherein the substrate is disposed on one surface of the fluid flow section.

13. The thermoelectric module according to claim 12, wherein, A plurality of first through holes are arranged to be spaced apart from each other on two opposite sides of the cover, and the fluid flow section, the substrate and the cover are connected through the plurality of first through holes.

14. The thermoelectric module according to claim 13, wherein, The width of each of the first coverage area and the second coverage area is 0.8 to 0.95 times the width of each of the first connector and the second connector.

15. The thermoelectric module according to claim 13, wherein, The width of each of the first coverage area and the second coverage area is greater than the width of each of the first connector and the second connector.

16. The thermoelectric module according to claim 1, wherein, The cover includes insulating material.

17. An electricity generation system, comprising: A power generation device, the power generation device comprising a fluid flow section and a plurality of thermoelectric modules, the plurality of thermoelectric modules being arranged on at least one surface of the fluid flow section; as well as The chamber includes an internal space and a connecting part, the power generating device is arranged in the internal space, and the connecting part is connected to the power generating device. The thermoelectric module includes: A substrate, thermoelectric elements are arranged on the substrate and spaced apart from each other; and A cover is disposed on the substrate and on one side of each of the thermoelectric elements. The cover includes a first side surface closest to the thermoelectric element and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface. The first side surface includes a first groove recessed toward the second side surface. The second side surface includes a second groove recessed toward the first side surface. Wherein, the width of the first groove is greater than the width of the second groove, and The connecting portion includes a first recess disposed on the outer surface facing the interior space, and The first weld bead is arranged in the first recess.

18. The power generation system according to claim 17, wherein, The first recess has an inclined portion in the direction from the outer surface to the inner surface of the connecting portion.

Images