Portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely-cold high-altitude area

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of thermoelectric power generation, in particular to a portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold high-altitude areas, which comprises a hydrocarbon fuel burner, and sectional thermoelectric generators are arranged on two sides of the hydrocarbon fuel burner. A liquid cooling plate is arranged on the side, away from the hydrocarbon fuel combustor, of the sectional type thermoelectric generator, the hydrocarbon fuel combustor, the sectional type thermoelectric generator and the liquid cooling plate are fixedly connected in a tightly attached mode through fixing devices, and the hydrocarbon fuel combustor is used for transferring combustion heat to the hot end of the sectional type thermoelectric generator. The liquid cooling plate is used for cooling the cold end of the sectional type thermoelectric generator, the sectional type thermoelectric generator generates voltage according to the temperature difference between the hot end and the cold end to generate power, the liquid cooling plate is connected with a radiator, and the radiator is used for cooling a cooling medium in the liquid cooling plate. According to the utility model, continuous and stable power supply can be ensured in extreme weather in extremely cold high-altitude areas.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of thermoelectric power generation technology, specifically to a portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional batteries have long been the primary power source for portable devices. However, lead-acid batteries are bulky, heavy, have low energy density, high self-discharge rates, short lifespans, and long charging times. They also contain heavy metals like lead, and improper disposal can cause significant environmental pollution. Solar energy, as a natural resource, offers unique advantages due to its abundant reserves and clean, pollution-free characteristics. However, solar power generation is affected by factors such as solar radiation, temperature, and weather, with weather being the most uncontrollable factor. On cloudy days or when cloud cover is thick, solar power generation becomes unpredictable.

[0003] When the location for motor vehicle communication support is far from urban areas and the diesel generator lacks sufficient fuel, the communication equipment cannot function, threatening communication capabilities. This is especially true in extremely cold, high-altitude regions. Above 1000m altitude, the diesel generator power decreases by 0.9% for every 100m increase in altitude. At 4000m, the power output drops by 27%, and at 5000m, the drop is as high as 36%. Furthermore, the reduced air density prolongs the arc-extinguishing time of switching devices such as relays, contactors, and air switches that use air as the arc-extinguishing medium, reducing switching capacity, shortening electrical life, and making contacts more prone to burnout. Due to the low oxygen content in the air, the diesel engine speed fluctuates more significantly under the same load changes compared to standard atmospheric pressure. To stabilize the engine speed, the fuel quantity increases, leading to higher fuel consumption. Excessive fuel and insufficient oxygen result in incomplete combustion, significantly reducing the overall thermal efficiency of the engine.

[0004] In extremely cold, high-altitude regions, winter sunshine rates can reach 70-80%, but due to cloudy and rainy days, over 20% still lack solar radiation. While solar energy can be fully utilized under most conditions, supplementary measures are necessary to address insufficient solar energy. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel and reliable power generation systems to improve the safety and reliability of outdoor survival.

[0005] Thermoelectric power generation is a clean technology that directly converts heat energy into electrical energy. It can directly convert heat energy from solar energy, nuclear radiation, and industrial waste heat into electrical energy through thermoelectric devices. The advantages of thermoelectric power generation include zero greenhouse gas emissions, high reliability, maintenance-free operation, no moving parts or chemical reactions, and it is not limited by ambient temperature. The power generation efficiency of a thermoelectric generator mainly depends on the figure of merit (ZT) of the thermoelectric material and the temperature difference between the hot and cold ends; the higher the ZT and the greater the temperature difference, the higher the power generation efficiency. The development of medium-temperature (500K–900K) and high-temperature (>900K) thermoelectric modules is limited by various factors such as processing and manufacturing processes and production costs. Therefore, current research on thermoelectric power generation technology mostly focuses on the low-temperature range (300K–500K) based on waste heat utilization. However, from a thermodynamic perspective, if a small portion of industrial waste heat is recovered and utilized to become a higher-quality energy source that is easier to store or transport, it will make a significant contribution to reducing carbon emissions from fossil fuels.

[0006] Medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation has broad application prospects and value. High-power thermoelectric power generation systems can be used as mobile power sources in extremely cold and high-altitude environments. Simultaneously, medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation devices can be combined with traditional thermal equipment to improve the overall system efficiency and output power. Improving the component performance of thermoelectric materials will further highlight the advantages of medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation technology, resulting in considerable economic and social benefits.

[0007] In summary, most existing projects focus on the recovery and reuse of waste heat from heat treatment processes and low-temperature energy sources such as solar thermal power generation, while high-quality energy sources in the medium-temperature range are not being effectively utilized. Utility Model Content

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to address the shortcomings of existing technologies by providing a portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions, which can ensure a continuous and stable power supply in extreme weather conditions in these regions.

[0009] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this utility model provides a portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions. The system includes a hydrocarbon fuel burner, with segmented thermoelectric generators arranged on both sides of the burner. A liquid-cooled plate is installed on the side of each segmented thermoelectric generator away from the burner. The burner, segmented thermoelectric generators, and liquid-cooled plate are fixedly connected by a fixing device. The burner transfers heat from combustion to the hot end of the segmented thermoelectric generators, while the liquid-cooled plate cools the cold end. The segmented thermoelectric generators generate electricity based on the temperature difference between the hot and cold ends. A radiator is connected to the liquid-cooled plate to cool the cooling medium within it.

[0010] In some embodiments, the hydrocarbon fuel burner includes a housing, the side of which, which does not contact the segmented thermoelectric generator, is configured as a hollow sidewall.

[0011] Preferably, thermally conductive silicone grease is applied between the housing and the segmented thermoelectric generator.

[0012] Furthermore, the housing is provided with an exhaust pipe, an intake pipe, an igniter, and a blower. The intake pipe is used to deliver hydrocarbon fuel into the housing, the blower is used to deliver air into the housing, the igniter is used to ignite the hydrocarbon fuel, and the exhaust pipe is used to expel exhaust gas.

[0013] Preferably, the inner wall surface of the housing has a corrugated structure.

[0014] Preferably, the air inlet pipe includes a porous flame stabilizer pipe, on which multiple air outlets are vertically formed.

[0015] In some embodiments, the liquid cooling plate is connected to an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, the radiator includes a water pump and a heat exchange tube bank, the inlet end of the water pump is connected to the outlet pipe, the outlet end of the water pump is connected to the inlet of the heat exchange tube bank, the inlet pipe is connected to the outlet of the heat exchange tube bank, and a fan is fixedly installed on the heat exchange tube bank.

[0016] Furthermore, the heat exchange tube bank includes a hollow plate and fins, one end of the fins is inserted into the hollow plate, a flow channel is formed between two adjacent fins, and the other end of the fins extends out of the hollow plate.

[0017] Furthermore, two heat sinks are symmetrically arranged, and the two heat sinks are used to dissipate heat from the two liquid cooling plates respectively.

[0018] Furthermore, the heat sink includes an independent power supply for powering the fan and the igniter.

[0019] The beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0020] 1. This utility model utilizes a segmented thermoelectric generator, solving the matching problem of different thermoelectric materials. This allows the thermoelectric module to achieve optimal power generation efficiency across the entire operating temperature range, with a maximum applicable temperature range of 900K. The segmented thermoelectric generator can achieve a larger temperature difference, increasing the output power of the thermoelectric generator. The burner uses a hydrocarbon fuel burner. The energy density of hydrocarbon fuel combustion is much higher than that of conventional energy storage batteries. Some hydrocarbon fuels still immediately vaporize into gaseous fuels in extremely cold natural environments. Based on the high energy density of hydrocarbon fuel combustion, the micro-energy system can still achieve high power output, maintain stable power output for a long time, and meet the demand for rapid response energy, ensuring stable power supply for medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation systems in extremely cold and high-altitude areas. High-altitude areas have low air density and poor heat dissipation. By using a liquid-cooled plate and radiator, the cooling rate of the cold end of the segmented thermoelectric generator is ensured, maintaining a certain temperature difference between the hot and cold ends of the segmented thermoelectric generator. This helps to improve the output power of the thermoelectric power generation system and enhance the stability of the portable thermoelectric power generation system.

[0021] 2. The side of the shell of this utility model that does not contact the segmented thermoelectric generator is set as a hollow sidewall. The hollow sidewall can play a good role in heat insulation, which can reduce heat loss in the combustion chamber and prevent the components near the sidewall from being damaged by high temperature.

[0022] 3. The thermally conductive silicone grease placed between the shell and the segmented thermoelectric generator of this utility model is beneficial to improving the heat exchange efficiency between the segmented thermoelectric generator and the hydrocarbon fuel burner, and ensuring the temperature difference between the hot end and the cold end.

[0023] 4. The inner wall of the shell of this utility model has a corrugated structure. The corrugated structure can not only enhance the heat exchange between the flame and the wall, but also make fuller use of the heat generated by combustion.

[0024] 5. The porous flame stabilizer tube of this utility model has excellent flame stabilization performance, which can make the flame burn stably within a wide operating range and make the temperature distribution in the combustion chamber uniform, thereby improving the power generation efficiency of the segmented thermoelectric generator.

[0025] 6. The heat exchange tube bank of this utility model adopts a hollow plate and fin structure. On the one hand, the fan can directly dissipate heat from the hollow plate to the liquid cooling medium. On the other hand, the fan can dissipate heat from the fins, thereby indirectly dissipating heat from the liquid cooling medium in the flow channel. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the hydrocarbon fuel burner of this utility model;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the porous flame stabilizer tube of this utility model;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the liquid cooling plate and the heat sink of this utility model.

[0030] Figure label:

[0031] Liquid cooling plate 1; water inlet pipe 11; water outlet pipe 12;

[0032] Fixing device 2;

[0033] 3. Segmented thermoelectric generator;

[0034] 4. Hydrocarbon fuel burner; 41. Inlet pipe; 42. Housing; 43. Porous flame stabilizer; 44. Blower; 45. Ignition device; 46. Combustion chamber; 47. Exhaust pipe; 48. Hollow sidewall;

[0035] Radiator 5; Water pump 51; Heat exchange tube array 52; Fan 53; Bolt 54. Detailed Implementation

[0036] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, this utility model provides a portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions. It includes a hydrocarbon fuel burner 4, segmented thermoelectric generators 3 on both sides of the hydrocarbon fuel burner 4, and a liquid-cooled plate 1 on the side of each segmented thermoelectric generator 3 away from the hydrocarbon fuel burner 4. The hydrocarbon fuel burner 4, segmented thermoelectric generators 3, and liquid-cooled plate 1 are fixedly connected by a fixing device 2. The hydrocarbon fuel burner 4 transfers the heat from combustion to the hot end of the segmented thermoelectric generators 3, and the liquid-cooled plate 1 cools the cold end of the segmented thermoelectric generators 3. The segmented thermoelectric generators 3 generate electricity based on the temperature difference between the hot and cold ends. A radiator 5 is connected to the liquid-cooled plate 1 to cool the cooling medium within it. The fixing device 2 can use U-shaped brackets to fix and tightly attach the hydrocarbon fuel burner 4, the two segmented thermoelectric generators 3, and the two liquid-cooled plates 1 together, ensuring efficient heat exchange.

[0038] It is understandable that the power generation efficiency of a thermoelectric generator is positively correlated with the temperature difference between the hot and cold ends. To improve power generation efficiency, it is necessary to increase the temperature of the hot end and decrease the temperature of the cold end. To improve the output power of the thermoelectric generator and ensure the stability of power supply, this utility model uses a segmented thermoelectric generator 3, which solves the matching problem of different thermoelectric materials, thereby enabling the thermoelectric module to achieve optimal power generation efficiency across the entire operating temperature range. The maximum applicable temperature range can reach 900K. The segmented thermoelectric generator 3 can achieve a larger temperature difference, thereby increasing the output power of the thermoelectric generator. The structure of the segmented thermoelectric generator 3 is existing technology and will not be described in detail here. The burner employs a hydrocarbon fuel burner 4, with propane or a propane-butane mixture as the fuel. The energy density of hydrocarbon fuel combustion is significantly higher than that of conventional energy storage batteries. Even in extremely cold environments (-40℃), propane or propane-butane fuel immediately vaporizes into gaseous fuel. Based on the high energy density of hydrocarbon fuel combustion, the micro-energy system can still achieve high power output, maintain stable power output over long periods, and meet the demand for rapid energy response, thus ensuring stable power supply for the medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system in extremely cold, high-altitude regions. In high-altitude areas, the air density is low, resulting in poor heat dissipation. By using a liquid-cooled plate 1 and a radiator 5, the cooling rate of the cold end of the segmented thermoelectric generator 3 is ensured, maintaining a certain temperature difference between the hot and cold ends of the segmented thermoelectric generator 3. This helps to increase the output power of the thermoelectric power generation system and improve the stability of the portable thermoelectric power generation system.

[0039] It should be noted that the increase in thermoelectric power generation efficiency due to temperature difference is very limited at low temperatures, resulting in low power output. Based on the optimal temperature range, traditional thermoelectric materials can be divided into three categories: Bi2Te3-based materials for ambient temperatures, PbTe-based materials for medium temperatures, and SiGe for high temperatures. Bi2Te3 is a good low-temperature thermoelectric material; however, due to its susceptibility to oxidation and vaporization, it cannot be used for medium-to-high temperature applications in air. Approximately 70% of thermoelectric components on the market use bismuth and telluride materials. PbTe, with its high melting point of 1190K, good chemical stability, low vapor pressure, and high chemical strength, can operate efficiently in the medium temperature range. SiGe is a typical high-temperature thermoelectric material; however, the relatively poor thermoelectric performance of the p-type thermocouple arm and the high cost of germanium limit the large-scale commercial application of SiGe alloys. PbTe and SiGe materials are mainly used in spacecraft power generation and are widely used in medium-to-high temperature power generation applications.

[0040] Different thermoelectric materials have different optimal operating temperature ranges; deviating from the optimal operating temperature will reduce the ZT value. A reasonable thermal design can fully utilize the characteristics of thermoelectric materials and effectively improve power generation. Compared to thermoelectric power generation modules made from a single material, segmented thermocouple arms improve the overall power generation efficiency of the thermoelectric module, reduce the overall weight of the thermoelectric module, improve portability, and enhance the performance of the thermoelectric generator within a certain temperature range. Based on the optimal operating temperature of the thermoelectric materials, this invention adopts a segmented thermoelectric generator 3 (STEG), with PbTe thermoelectric material at the hot end and Bi2Te3 thermoelectric material at the cold end, resulting in a wider applicable temperature range.

[0041] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the hydrocarbon fuel burner 4 includes a housing 42, and the side of the housing 42 that does not contact the segmented thermoelectric generator 3 is configured as a hollow sidewall 48.

[0042] Understandably, the hollow sidewall 48 can provide good heat insulation, reduce heat loss in the combustion chamber 46, and prevent high-temperature damage to components near the sidewall surface, so that heat is absorbed as much as possible by the hot ends of the segmented thermoelectric generators 3 on both sides.

[0043] Preferably, thermally conductive silicone grease is applied between the housing 42 and the segmented thermoelectric generator 3. Before installing the segmented thermoelectric generator 3, the surface of the segmented thermoelectric generator 3 can be wiped clean with an alcohol swab and then a layer of thermally conductive silicone grease can be applied, which can improve heat dissipation efficiency, reduce contact thermal resistance, reduce vibration and noise, and extend the service life of the segmented thermoelectric generator 3.

[0044] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 As shown, the housing 42 is provided with an exhaust pipe 47, an intake pipe 41, an igniter 45, and a blower 44. The intake pipe 41 is located at the bottom of the housing 42 and is used to supply hydrocarbon fuel into the housing 42. The blower 44 is located on the side of the housing 42 and is used to supply air into the housing 42. The igniter 45 is an electronic igniter and is used to ignite the hydrocarbon fuel. The exhaust pipe 47 is located at the top of the housing 42 and is used to exhaust exhaust gas.

[0045] Preferably, the inner wall surface of the shell 42 has a corrugated structure. Figure 2 The text is not indicated.

[0046] Understandably, the corrugated structure not only enhances heat exchange between the flame and the wall, but also makes fuller use of the heat generated by combustion.

[0047] Preferably, such as Figure 3As shown, the air inlet pipe 41 includes a porous flame stabilizer pipe 43, which is located near the bottom of the housing 42. Multiple air outlets are vertically opened on the porous flame stabilizer pipe 43, which can make the flame burn stably within a wider operating range and make the temperature distribution in the combustion chamber 46 uniform, thereby improving the power generation efficiency of the segmented thermoelectric generator 3.

[0048] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the liquid cooling plate 1 is connected to an inlet pipe 11 and an outlet pipe 12. The radiator 5 includes a water pump 51 and a heat exchange tube bank 52. The inlet end of the water pump 51 is connected to the outlet pipe 12, and the outlet end of the water pump 51 is connected to the inlet of the heat exchange tube bank 52. The inlet pipe 11 is connected to the outlet of the heat exchange tube bank 52. A fan 53 is fixedly installed on the heat exchange tube bank 52. It should be noted that... Figure 4 This is only used to illustrate the connection between the liquid cooling plate 1 and the heat exchanger, and does not indicate their positional relationship.

[0049] Furthermore, the heat exchange tube array 52 includes a hollow plate and fins. One end of the fins is inserted into the hollow plate, forming a flow channel between two adjacent fins, and the other end of the fins extends out of the hollow plate. By incorporating fins, the heat dissipation efficiency for the liquid cooling medium can be further improved.

[0050] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 As shown, two radiators 5 are symmetrically arranged, each radiator 5 used to dissipate heat from the two liquid cooling plates 1. A space is provided between the two radiators 5, and they are fixedly connected by bolts 54. Two fans 53 are arranged on the outermost side, and the two fans drive airflow to form forced convection, thereby quickly removing heat from the radiators and achieving a cooling effect.

[0051] Furthermore, the heat sink 5 includes an independent power supply for powering the fan 53 and the igniter 45.

[0052] The portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system of this utility model has the advantages of quiet and reliable operation, simple and compact structure, long service life, no pollutant emissions, wide applicability, and low requirements for heat source quality.

[0053] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and should all be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for use in extremely cold and high-altitude regions, characterized in that: The device includes a hydrocarbon fuel burner (4), with segmented thermoelectric generators (3) arranged on both sides of the hydrocarbon fuel burner (4). A liquid cooling plate (1) is arranged on the side of the segmented thermoelectric generator (3) away from the hydrocarbon fuel burner (4). The hydrocarbon fuel burner (4), the segmented thermoelectric generator (3), and the liquid cooling plate (1) are fixedly connected by a fixing device (2). The hydrocarbon fuel burner (4) is used to transfer the heat of combustion to the hot end of the segmented thermoelectric generator (3). The liquid cooling plate (1) is used to cool the cold end of the segmented thermoelectric generator (3). The segmented thermoelectric generator (3) generates electricity by generating voltage based on the temperature difference between the hot end and the cold end. A radiator (5) is connected to the liquid cooling plate (1). The radiator (5) is used to cool the cooling medium in the liquid cooling plate (1).

2. The portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hydrocarbon fuel burner (4) includes a housing (42), the side of which is not in contact with the segmented thermoelectric generator (3) is configured as a hollow sidewall (48).

3. The portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions according to claim 2, characterized in that: Thermal grease is applied between the housing (42) and the segmented thermoelectric generator (3).

4. The portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions according to claim 2, characterized in that: The housing (42) is provided with an exhaust pipe (47), an air intake pipe (41), an igniter (45), and a blower (44). The air intake pipe (41) is used to deliver hydrocarbon fuel into the housing (42), the blower (44) is used to deliver air into the housing (42), the igniter (45) is used to ignite the hydrocarbon fuel, and the exhaust pipe (47) is used to exhaust exhaust gas.

5. The portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions according to claim 2, characterized in that: The inner wall of the shell (42) has a corrugated structure.

6. The portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions according to claim 4, characterized in that: The air intake pipe (41) includes a porous flame stabilizer pipe (43), on which multiple air outlets are vertically opened.

7. The portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions according to claim 1, characterized in that: The liquid cooling plate (1) is connected to an inlet pipe (11) and an outlet pipe (12). The radiator (5) includes a water pump (51) and a heat exchange tube bank (52). The inlet end of the water pump (51) is connected to the outlet pipe (12), and the outlet end of the water pump (51) is connected to the inlet of the heat exchange tube bank (52). The inlet pipe (11) is connected to the outlet of the heat exchange tube bank (52). A fan (53) is fixedly installed on the heat exchange tube bank (52).

8. The portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions according to claim 7, characterized in that: The heat exchange tube bank (52) includes a hollow plate and fins. One end of the fins is inserted into the hollow plate, and a flow channel is formed between two adjacent fins. The other end of the fins extends out of the hollow plate.

9. The portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions according to claim 7, characterized in that: Two radiators (5) are symmetrically arranged, and the two radiators (5) are used to dissipate heat from the two liquid cooling plates (1).

10. The portable medium-temperature thermoelectric power generation system for extremely cold and high-altitude regions according to claim 7, characterized in that: The radiator (5) includes an independent power supply for supplying power to the fan (53) and the igniter (45).

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