Thermoelectric conversion module and method for producing the same

Abstract

Thermoelectric conversion module (10; 10'), comprising: a plurality of n-type thermoelectric conversion materials (110; 210) and a plurality of p-type thermoelectric conversion materials (120; 220) arranged alternately, and a plurality of electrodes (131, 132; 231, 232) connecting the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220) arranged alternately on high-temperature sides and low-temperature sides of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220), wherein the plurality of electrodes (131, 132; 231, 232) comprises: a high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) which, relative to high-temperature-side end portions of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220), protrudes toward a tube (20) through which a heat transfer fluid (21) flows and is insertable into a through-hole (20h) formed on the tube (20) through which the heat transfer fluid (21) flows, to receive heat during direct contact with the heat transfer fluid (21) and to transfer the received heat to the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220), wherein the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) is partially inserted between an adjacent n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) of the plurality of n-type thermoelectric conversion materials and an adjacent p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) of the plurality of p-type thermoelectric conversion materials to be fixed, wherein the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) is inserted to a point corresponding to not more than one-third of a length from the high-temperature-side end portions to the low-temperature-side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) to be fixed, wherein the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) has a plate shape, and wherein the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) are arranged on opposite main surfaces of the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a thermoelectric conversion module and a method for producing the same. Description of the technology used

[0002] A thermoelectric module is generally used for a thermoelectric power generation system that utilizes a Seebeck effect of generating an electromotive force by means of a temperature difference between opposite surfaces thereof.

[0003] During thermoelectric power generation by the thermoelectric module, the thermoelectric power generation output can be increased by maintaining a large temperature difference between a high-temperature section and a low-temperature section. In this regard, the heat transfer rate from a heat source to a thermoelectric module significantly affects the power generation output.

[0004] An example of a field utilizing thermoelectric power generation using the thermoelectric module may include the utilization of waste heat of an exhaust system of a vehicle as a representative example.

[0005] Since the conventional thermoelectric module receives heat while contacting a surface of a vehicle's exhaust pipe, heat is lost at the interface between the thermoelectric module and the exhaust pipe. Accordingly, it is difficult to raise the temperature of a high-temperature portion of the thermoelectric module to a certain temperature or higher, thus limiting the ability to improve thermoelectric performance.

[0006] To solve these problems, a thermoelectric module structure is required that can increase the temperature of a high-temperature section of the thermoelectric module by effectively utilizing the heat in the exhaust gas.

[0007] The above information disclosed in this Background of the Invention section is provided merely to enhance the understanding of the general background of the invention and should not be considered as an admission or any suggestion that this information forms part of the prior art as already known to those skilled in the art.

[0008] Furthermore, DE 10 2006 050 048 A1 discloses a thermoelectric conversion module comprising: a plurality of n-type thermoelectric conversion materials and a plurality of p-type thermoelectric conversion materials, which are alternately arranged, and a plurality of electrodes which alternately connect the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials, which are alternately arranged, at high-temperature sides and low-temperature sides of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials, wherein the plurality of electrodes comprises: a high-temperature-side electrode which, with respect to high-temperature-side end portions of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials, protrudes toward a tube through which a heat transfer fluid flows and can be inserted into a through-hole formed on the tube through which the heat transfer fluid flows,To obtain heat during direct contact with the heat transfer fluid and to transfer the obtained heat to the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials.

[0009] Another such thermoelectric conversion module is known from CN 1 06 992 244 A. EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] It is an object of the present invention to provide a structure of a thermoelectric conversion module which can increase the temperature of a high-temperature portion of a thermoelectric conversion module during direct contact or direct contact (hereinafter also referred to as "direct contact") of a high-temperature heat transfer fluid (for example, exhaust gas of a vehicle).

[0011] The present invention is intended to maintain thermoelectric performance by improving the durability of a thermoelectric conversion module exposed to high temperature and vibration.

[0012] It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for manufacturing the above-mentioned thermoelectric conversion module.

[0013] To this end, the present invention provides a thermoelectric conversion module according to claim 1, a method for manufacturing a thermoelectric conversion module according to claim 13 and a vehicle according to claim 17.

[0014] The methods and apparatus of the present invention have additional features and advantages which will be apparent from, or set forth in more detail in, the accompanying drawings incorporated herein and the following detailed description, which together serve to explain certain principles of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a conceptual view illustrating a thermoelectric conversion module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B are views showing some configurations of the thermoelectric conversion module of Fig. 1 represent, Fig. 3 is a view showing some configurations of the thermoelectric conversion module of Fig. 1 represents, Fig. 4 is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a thermoelectric conversion module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 are views illustrating a method of manufacturing a thermoelectric conversion module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 8 is a conceptual view illustrating a thermoelectric conversion module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0015] It should be understood that the attached drawings are not necessarily to scale and represent a somewhat simplified representation of various features in order to illustrate the basic principles of the invention. The specific design features of the present invention, including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes disclosed herein, will be dictated (at least) in part by the particular intended application and usage environment.

[0016] In the figures, like reference numerals refer to like or equivalent components of the present invention throughout numerous figures of the drawing(s). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described below. While the invention will be described in connection with the exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the present description is not intended to limit the invention to these exemplary embodiments.

[0018] Hereinafter, various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that throughout the specification, the same or equivalent reference numerals designate the same or equivalent components even though they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, in the following description of the present invention, detailed descriptions of well-known functions and structures are omitted when they would obscure the subject matter of the present invention.

[0019] Fig. 1 is a conceptual view illustrating a thermoelectric conversion module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0020] The thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of n-type thermoelectric conversion materials (e.g., n-type thermoelectric conversion materials) 110 and a plurality of p-type thermoelectric conversion materials (e.g., p-type thermoelectric conversion materials) 120 alternately arranged, and a plurality of electrodes 130 alternately connecting the plurality of alternately arranged thermoelectric conversion materials on a high-temperature side and a low-temperature side thereof.

[0021] The n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 may comprise n-type semiconductor devices (e.g., n-doped semiconductor devices).

[0022] The p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 may comprise p-type semiconductor devices (e.g., p-doped semiconductor devices)

[0023] The plurality of electrodes 130 may be configured to electrically connect the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 in series.

[0024] The plurality of electrodes 130 may include high-temperature side electrodes 131 that electrically connect lower end portions (or high-temperature side end portions) of the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and lower end portions (or high-temperature side end portions) of the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and low-temperature side electrodes 132 that electrically connect upper end portions (or low-temperature side end portions) of the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and upper end portions (or low-temperature side end portions) of the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120.

[0025] Meanwhile, it is more advantageous if the temperature difference between the high-temperature parts and the low-temperature parts of the thermoelectric conversion materials is larger to improve the power generation performance of the thermoelectric conversion module 10. For example, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 can be used to reduce the load on the vehicle's battery by recycling heat from the vehicle's exhaust gas. Conventionally, since the thermoelectric conversion module is mounted on a surface of the vehicle's exhaust pipe, the heat lost at an interface between an exhaust pipe and a thermoelectric conversion module is high, so the power generation efficiency is deteriorated.

[0026] The exemplary embodiment of the present invention relates to a thermoelectric conversion module that directly contacts a heat transfer fluid (hereinafter referred to as "directly contacted") to minimize heat loss when heat is transferred from a heat transfer fluid to the thermoelectric conversion module. In more detail, the basic feature of the thermoelectric conversion module according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is to provide an electrode projecting toward a tube through which a heat transfer fluid flows, such that the electrode is inserted into a through-hole formed in the tube through which the heat transfer fluid flows, to receive heat while directly contacting the heat transfer fluid, and to transfer the received heat to a plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials.

[0027] The heat transfer fluid may be a high temperature heat transfer fluid or may be a low temperature heat transfer fluid (i.e. a coolant / refrigerant).

[0028] When directly contacting the high-temperature heat transfer fluid, the electrode can be inserted into the through-hole formed in the high-temperature through-tube to absorb thermal energy from the high-temperature heat transfer fluid. Furthermore, when directly contacting the low-temperature heat transfer fluid, the electrode can be inserted into the through-hole formed in the low-temperature through-tube to transfer thermal energy to the coolant / refrigerant.

[0029] Although it is described below as an example that the high-temperature side electrode is inserted into the high-temperature passage tube, it will be understood by a person skilled in the art that the low-temperature side electrode may be inserted into the inside of the low-temperature passage tube in the same or equivalent scheme.

[0030] The characteristics of the thermoelectric conversion module according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail below.

[0031] With reference to Fig. 1, a portion of the high-temperature side electrode 131 may be inserted (e.g., inserted) into and welded to the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120.

[0032] The high-temperature-side electrode 131 is of a plate type, and one end portion of the high-temperature-side electrode 131 may be inserted (e.g., inserted) into the high-temperature through-tube 20, and an opposite end portion of the high-temperature-side electrode 131 may be sandwiched between and welded to the n-type thermoelectric conversion material 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material 120. This allows heat absorbed from a heat transfer fluid 21 to be linearly transported along the high-temperature-side electrode 131 and supplied to the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120, and thermal stress can be concentrated at a portion (e.g., a linear portion) of the high-temperature-side electrode 131 to prevent damage from occurring.

[0033] That is, when the electrode is curved or bent, thermal stress is relatively concentrated at the curved or bent portion, so that the electrode may be damaged at a relatively low temperature, and the high-temperature side electrode 131 according to the exemplary embodiment extends long (e.g., lengthwise) upward and downward in the manner of a plate and can maintain its properties even at a relatively high temperature.

[0034] The high-temperature-side electrode 131 may be inserted to a point which is not more than 1 / 3 of a length from the high-temperature-side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion material 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material 120 to the low-temperature-side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion material 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material 120 (e.g., located at a location not more than 1 / 3 of said length from the high-temperature-side end portions) to be welded. That is, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the up / down lengths (e.g.,vertical lengths) of the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 are the same, and the high-temperature side electrodes 131 may be provided so as to be interposed between the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 by not more than 1 / 3 of an up / down length of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120.

[0035] Although the contact areas of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 become larger as the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 are inserted deeper between the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, the heat reaching upper end portions of the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 (which are inserted between the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120) decreases.Further, it is advantageous to linearly form temperature gradients from the high-temperature side end portions to the low-temperature side end portions of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 to generate currents, and radial temperature gradients are formed in the interior of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 if the high-temperature side electrodes 131 are inserted by not less than 1 / 3 of the lengths of the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and consequently, the straightness of the currents in the interior of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 decreases, resulting in the reduction of the power generation performance of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120.

[0036] Therefore, in order to maximize the power generation performance of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120, in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the high-temperature side electrodes 131 may be inserted to a point which is not more than 1 / 3 of the lengths from the high-temperature side end portions to the low-temperature side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 to be welded.

[0037] However, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the high-temperature side electrodes may be incorporated up to not less than 1 / 3 of the thermoelectric conversion materials according to the properties of the thermoelectric conversion materials and / or the electrodes used in the thermoelectric conversion module 10.

[0038] The high-temperature-side electrode 131 may be made of a material whose properties do not change due to oxidation or the like even if the high-temperature-side electrode 131 directly contacts exhaust gas.

[0039] The high-temperature side electrode 131 may be formed, for example, from an oxide-based thermoelectric conversion material. Since the oxide-based thermoelectric conversion material has excellent thermal and / or electrical conduction properties (e.g., thermal and / or electrical conductivity) and is resistant to oxidation at high temperatures, it can be used for the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which utilizes a direct exhaust gas contacting scheme.

[0040] In the thermoelectric conversion module 10, diffusion prevention layers 192 may be disposed between the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and between the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 to prevent mutual diffusion of the electrode materials and the thermoelectric conversion materials.

[0041] If the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 directly contact each other, their properties change due to the diffusion of the other materials, and thus the thermoelectric efficiencies of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 may deteriorate, or the electrical (or thermal) conductivity of the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 may deteriorate. To prevent this, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 may include diffusion-preventing layers 192 between the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120.

[0042] Connecting layers (e.g., joining layers or bonding layers) for thermal welding may be arranged in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 between the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and between the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120.

[0043] The high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 may be thermally welded together. For example, the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 may be soldered (e.g., brazed) to each other. For soldering (in particular, brazing), in addition to materials (the high-temperature-side electrodes and the thermoelectric conversion materials of the present invention) that are targets for joining, a filler material (e.g., a brazing alloy) that melts with heat and welds the materials that are targets for joining is generally required.

[0044] In the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a solder bonding agent (e.g., a solder adhesive and / or a solder paste, e.g., a brazing adhesive and / or a brazing paste) 191, which is a bonding layer for thermal welding, is disposed between the high-temperature side electrodes 131 and the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120.

[0045] Meanwhile, when the high-temperature side electrodes 131 and the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 are joined to each other by a means other than soldering, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 can be formed without using a solder bonding agent 191.

[0046] The low-temperature side electrode 132 can exchange heat with the low-temperature passage tube 30 through which a coolant / refrigerant 31 flows, and can dissipate thermal energy in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 by means of the coolant / refrigerant 31.

[0047] The thermoelectric conversion module 10 may further include supports (e.g., support members) 140 arranged alternately with the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 so as to insulate the high-temperature-side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 connected to each other at their low-temperature-side end portions.

[0048] With reference to Fig. 1, the supports 140 may be inserted (e.g., inserted) between the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, at least parts of which are joined to each other at the low-temperature side end portions thereof, to be welded.

[0049] The plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 may be connected to each other in series when the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, which are connected to each other (e.g., in pairs) at their low-temperature side end portions, are separated from each other (e.g., in pairs) at their high-temperature side end portions.

[0050] The supports 140 may be arranged on the high-temperature side of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 such that they are arranged alternately with the high-temperature side electrodes 131 to insulate the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, which are adjacent to each other and are not connected to each other by the high-temperature side electrodes 131, from each other.

[0051] The supports 140 may be partially inserted (e.g., inserted) between the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials, which are connected to each other at their low-temperature-side end portions, such that surfaces (e.g., first side surfaces) of the supports 140 are supported on the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and opposite surfaces (e.g., second side surfaces opposite the first surfaces) of the supports 140 are supported on the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120. With reference to Fig. 1, that is, the supports 140 may be partially interposed (e.g., inserted) between the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 which are connected to each other at their low-temperature side end portions, and may support the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 so that the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 are spaced apart from each other by a certain distance.

[0052] The supports 140 may be provided to cover the high-temperature side end portions of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120. That is, the supports 140 may have a shape extending in one direction (the left / right direction of Fig. 1) in which the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 are arranged, extends so as to cover the high-temperature side end portions of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120.

[0053] The beams 140 may have a T-shape. The beams 140 may have sections (e.g., lengths, in particular length pieces) which extend in one direction (the left / right direction of Fig. 1) in which the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 are arranged, so as to simultaneously cover the high-temperature side end portions of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 and support the high-temperature side electrodes 131 adjacent to the high-temperature side end portions of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120.

[0054] The supports 140 may be arranged between the high-temperature side end portions of the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 and the high-temperature through-tube 20 to insulate the thermoelectric conversion materials and the high-temperature through-tube and to support the thermoelectric conversion module and the high-temperature side electrodes.

[0055] Furthermore, the supports 140 can protect the thermoelectric conversion materials from an external shock transmitted from the through-pipe.

[0056] The thermoelectric conversion module 10 may be electrically connected to a load 170 that consumes electrical power generated by the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120. An (electrical) current 11 generated by the thermoelectric conversion module 10 may be in the Fig. 1.

[0057] The thermoelectric conversion module 10 may further include a clamping member (e.g., clamping member) 150 that clamps (e.g., clamps / clamps together) the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120, the high-temperature side electrodes 131, and the supports 140.

[0058] The clamping member 150 may be configured such that two C-shaped members are connected to each other while facing each other. That is, the clamping member 150 may have a shape in which any side surface of a rectangular box with an open top and bottom is not provided. The clamping member 150 can fix the plurality of stacked thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120, the high-temperature-side electrodes 131, and the supports 140 while surrounding them.

[0059] An inner surface of the clamping element 150, which contacts the thermoelectric conversion materials or the electrodes, may be coated with an insulating layer for insulation (e.g., particularly electrical insulation). An inner surface of the clamping element 150 may be coated with an insulating layer of ceramics to prevent a short circuit from occurring inside the thermoelectric conversion module 10.

[0060] The thermoelectric conversion module 10 further includes a casing 160 which defines an interior space in which the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120, the plurality of electrodes 131, and the like are housed, and which protects components of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 from external impact or foreign substances.

[0061] The housing 160 may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which a surface of the housing 160 facing the high-temperature passage tube 20 is open.

[0062] The thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120, the plurality of electrodes 131, the supports 140 and the clamping members 150 may be fixed to the interior of the housing 160 (e.g., to the inside thereof).

[0063] The housing 160 may be connected to the high-temperature passage tube 20 and the low-temperature passage tube 30. For example, the housing 160 may be soldered (e.g., brazed) to the high-temperature passage tube 20. The interior of the housing 160 may be evacuated or filled with an inert gas.

[0064] Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B are views showing some configurations of the thermoelectric conversion module of Fig. 1 represent. Fig. 3 is a view showing some configurations of the thermoelectric conversion module of Fig. 1 represents.

[0065] With reference to Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 may further include a gasket 180 disposed between the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120 and the high-temperature passage tube 20 to prevent an internal fluid from leaking through the through-hole 20h formed in the high-temperature passage tube 20 through which the heat transfer fluid 21 flows.

[0066] The gasket 180 may have gasket through-holes whose number corresponds to the number of the high-temperature-side electrodes 131, so that the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 pass through the gasket through-holes. The gasket 180 may have gasket through-holes in a shape corresponding to the shape of the through-holes 20h of the high-temperature through-tube 20.

[0067] An insulating layer for insulation may additionally be disposed between the gasket 180 and the thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and 120. For example, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 may be configured to prevent leakage of the heat transfer fluid 21 from the high-temperature passage tube 20 and, at the same time, insulate the high-temperature passage tube 20 by disposing glass wool between the gasket 180 and the supports 140.

[0068] The high-temperature side electrodes 131 may be inserted into the through holes 20h formed in the high-temperature through-pipe 20 through the gasket 180.

[0069] An insulating layer 23 for insulating the high-temperature side electrode 131 may be provided on an inner surface of the through-hole 20h. Since, when the high-temperature through-tube 20 is formed of a conductor such as metal, an electric current flows between the high-temperature side electrode 131 and the high-temperature through-tube 20 when the high-temperature through-tube 20 contacts the high-temperature side electrode 131, the performance of the thermoelectric conversion module may deteriorate. To prevent this, the insulating layer 23 may be provided on a portion of an inner surface of the through-hole 20h that contacts the high-temperature side electrode 131.

[0070] Meanwhile, although not shown, a portion of the high-temperature-side electrode 131 that contacts the high-temperature passage tube 20 may be coated with insulation. However, since heat transfer from the heat transfer fluid 21 to the high-temperature-side electrode 131 may decrease if an entire portion of the high-temperature-side electrode 131 inserted into the high-temperature passage tube 20 is coated with insulation, the insulation coating is limited to a portion that contacts the high-temperature passage tube 20 (in this case, a (safety) margin of a certain length may be provided taking a tolerance into account).

[0071] With reference to Fig. 3, in order to reduce a flow resistance of the heat transfer fluid 21, a through hole 131h may be formed at a portion of the high-temperature side electrode 131 which is inserted into the high-temperature through pipe 20.

[0072] A plurality of through holes 131h may be formed vertically and horizontally in the high-temperature side electrode 131. The through holes 131h may have a circular shape or other various shapes.

[0073] As a result, a flow resistance applied to the heat transfer fluid 21 by the high-temperature side electrode 131 inserted into the high-temperature passage tube 20 can be reduced, and heat can be efficiently transferred from the heat transfer fluid 21 to the high-temperature side electrode 131. That is, since the heat transfer fluid 21 flows smoothly, the high-temperature side electrode 131 can efficiently receive heat from the high-temperature heat transfer fluid 21 introduced from an upper (e.g., upstream) side of the high-temperature passage tube 20.

[0074] Further, according to the thermoelectric conversion module 10, it is easy to manufacture the thermoelectric conversion module 10, varying the number of thermoelectric conversion materials as necessary.

[0075] Furthermore, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention can be used in a high-temperature environment, and in this case, high thermoelectric performance can be exhibited. Manufacturing process

[0076] Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method of manufacturing a thermoelectric conversion module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5, Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 are views illustrating a method of manufacturing a thermoelectric conversion module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] With reference to Fig. 4, the method for manufacturing a thermoelectric conversion module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include a process S1100 of alternately sequentially arranging (e.g., alternately arranging in order) the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110, the high-temperature side electrodes 131, the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and the supports 140, the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110, the high-temperature side electrodes 131, the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and the supports 140 overlapping each other.

[0078] With reference to Fig. 5, in process S1100, the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110, the high-temperature-side electrodes 131, the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and the supports 140 may be arranged alternately in order (e.g., alternately in the order: n-type thermoelectric conversion materials, high-temperature-side electrode, p-type thermoelectric conversion materials, support) so as to overlap each other.

[0079] In process S1100, for ease of manufacture and effective welding, the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110, the high-temperature side electrodes 131, the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and the supports 140 may be stacked sequentially from the lower side to the upper side with respect to their gravitational direction, as shown by the arrow D of Fig. 5 is specified.

[0080] Furthermore, in the process S1100, the high-temperature-side electrode 131 may be inserted to a point which is not more than 1 / 3 of a length from the high-temperature-side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 to the low-temperature-side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 to be arranged.

[0081] Operation S1100 may include disposing thermal bonding layers, which may be disposed between the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110, and between the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120. Hereinafter, the thermal bonding layer may be a solder bonding agent (or filler metal) 191 in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] That is, in process S1100, the solder bonding agent 191 may be disposed first before the high-temperature side electrode 131 is disposed after the n-type thermoelectric conversion material 110 is disposed, and the solder bonding agent 191 may be disposed first before the p-type thermoelectric conversion material 120 is disposed after the high-temperature side electrode 131 is disposed.

[0083] Process S1100 may include disposing diffusion prevention layers, which may be disposed between the high-temperature side electrodes 131 and the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the high-temperature side electrodes 131 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120.

[0084] That is, in process S1100, the diffusion prevention layer 192 may be disposed first, before the high-temperature side electrode 131 is disposed, after the n-type thermoelectric conversion material 110 is disposed, and the diffusion prevention layer 192 may be disposed first, before the p-type thermoelectric conversion material 120 is disposed, after the high-temperature side electrode 131 is disposed.

[0085] That is, in process S1100, the diffusion preventing layer 192 may be disposed first, before the solder bonding agent 191 is disposed, after the n-type thermoelectric conversion material 110 is disposed, and the diffusion preventing layer 192 may be disposed first, before the p-type thermoelectric conversion material 120 is disposed, after the solder bonding agent 191 is disposed.

[0086] Unlike the one in Fig. 5, the arrangement order of the interconnection layer (or solder bonding agent) and the diffusion prevention layer 192 may be reversed. Accordingly, the interconnection layer and the diffusion prevention layer 192 may be arranged so that the diffusion prevention and bonding effects can be enhanced, taking into account the properties of the materials for the electrodes, interconnection layers, diffusion prevention layers, and thermoelectric conversion materials.

[0087] Next, the method for manufacturing the thermoelectric conversion module 10 may include a process S1200 of heating (e.g., heating) end portions of the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 whose opposite end portions are sandwiched between the thermoelectric materials 110 and 120 while compressing the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110, the high-temperature-side electrodes 131, the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and the supports 140 to weld the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110, the high-temperature-side electrodes 131, the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and the supports 140.

[0088] In a state in which the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110, the high-temperature side electrodes 131, the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and the supports 140 are stacked, referring to Fig. 6 the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110, the high-temperature side electrodes 131, the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and the supports 140 are welded together by heating (e.g., heating) outer end portions of the high-temperature side electrodes 131 while applying forces to the opposite sides of the stack.

[0089] The high-temperature-side electrodes 131 may be formed of a heat-resistant material, which allows the properties of the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 to remain unchanged even by the high temperature of the exhaust gas. Accordingly, the end portions of the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 may be heated and brazed by melting the brazing compound 191 using conduction heat.

[0090] Conventionally, even the thermoelectric conversion materials are exposed to high temperatures when welding the thermoelectric conversion module, so the materials may be oxidized or their properties may deteriorate. According to the manufacturing method of the present invention, the high-temperature side electrodes 131 can be heated and welded by means of a high-temperature heater or by irradiating laser beams through conduction heat. This can prevent the properties of the thermoelectric conversion materials from deteriorating due to heat during the manufacturing process.

[0091] Furthermore, since it is easy to apply heat to the outer end portions of the high-temperature side electrodes 131 because the outer end portions of the high-temperature side electrodes 131 protrude side by side toward one side, manufacturing can be made easier, and, compared with an existing welding method of directly heating the bonding layer, a possibility of other members being exposed to high temperatures due to manufacturing tolerances is low.

[0092] The method of manufacturing the thermoelectric conversion module may next include a process S1300 of clamping the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110, the high-temperature side electrodes 131, the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and the supports 140.

[0093] With reference to Fig. 7, after welding, the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110, the high-temperature side electrodes 131, the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, and the supports 140 can be clamped so that they are securely fixed.

[0094] Next, the method of manufacturing the thermoelectric conversion module 10 may include a process S1400 of covering with the casing 160.

[0095] This allows all the components of the thermoelectric conversion module to be manufactured in one package (e.g. in an encapsulated manner, also called “packaged” or “in a package”).

[0096] Meanwhile, process S1400 may include a process of evacuating the interior of the housing 160 or filling an inert gas.

[0097] If a surface of the housing 160 is open and the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is attached to the pipe through which the heat transfer fluid flows by welding (e.g., attached by the housing), then process S1400 may include a process of welding the housing 160 to the pipe through which the heat transfer fluid flows in a state in which the components of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 are fixed to the interior of the housing 160. The housing 160 may be welded to the pipe through which the heat transfer fluid flows by a thermal welding scheme, for example, it may be brazed and welded.

[0098] Meanwhile, although not shown, the positions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 may be reversed, and the same scheme may be applied even in this case, except that the positions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials 110 and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120 are reversed.

[0099] Fig. 8 is a conceptual view illustrating a thermoelectric conversion module 10' according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0100] Hereinafter, points of the thermoelectric conversion module 10' according to the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, which are different from the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, will be mainly explained with reference to Fig. 8. Hereinafter, the structures that are the same as, or can be understood by those skilled in the art as equivalents to, the structures of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the various exemplary embodiments will have the same reference numerals.

[0101] Fig. 8 shows a cross section of the high temperature passage tube 20 of Fig. 1 viewed from a different angle, and the flow direction of the heat transfer fluid 21 is a direction from the front to the back of Fig. 8.

[0102] According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials 210 and 220 may be arranged in (e.g., along) a circumferential direction of the high-temperature through-tube 20. The high-temperature side electrode(s) 231 may be arranged such that inner end portions of the plurality of high-temperature side electrodes inserted into the tube are curved in a direction in which the tube is curved (e.g., the inner end portions of the plurality of high-temperature side electrodes may be located on a curved line following the curvature of the tube).

[0103] The conventional thermoelectric conversion module absorbs thermal energy through heat conduction while a substrate contacts a surface of a pipe through which a high-temperature fluid flows, in a state where a high-temperature side electrode is positioned on the substrate. Therefore, if the shape of the pipe is curved, thermal energy cannot be well transmitted through the flat substrate.

[0104] The thermoelectric conversion module 10' according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention adopts a scheme in which the high-temperature side electrode 231 is directly inserted into the inside of the pipe through which a high-temperature fluid flows, whereby thermal energy can be effectively absorbed even when the thermoelectric conversion module 10' is arranged on a curved pipe if the length of the high-temperature side electrode 231 is changed.

[0105] Therefore, the high-temperature-side electrodes 231 may be arranged such that end portions of the plurality of high-temperature-side electrodes 231 inserted into the tube are curved in a direction in which the tube is curved. That is, the length of a portion of the high-temperature-side electrodes 231 inserted into the tube may be a certain value or more.

[0106] To achieve this, the plurality of high-temperature-side electrodes 231 may be different (e.g., in particular, have a different length along the insertion direction into the tube).

[0107] Furthermore, as described below, the heights (e.g., the height positions) of the thermoelectric conversion materials 210 and 220 may be different.

[0108] A low-temperature-side electrode and an n-type thermoelectric conversion material and a p-type thermoelectric conversion material connected to each other through the low-temperature-side electrode are referred to as a thermoelectric element set.

[0109] With reference to Fig. 8, a plurality of pi-shaped thermoelectric element sets may be arranged so as to be arranged in a circumferential direction of a high-temperature through-pipe 20 through which a heat transfer fluid 21 flows, and so that high-temperature side end portions of the thermoelectric element sets adjacent to the pipe are curved in a direction in which the pipe is curved.

[0110] That is, the heights (e.g., height positions) of the pi-shaped thermoelectric element sets relative to the pi-shaped thermoelectric element set arranged on the upper side of the high-temperature through-tube (e.g., the central thermoelectric element set) become lower as they go from the left side to the right side.

[0111] In other words, the heights of the plurality of pi-shaped thermoelectric element sets may be different such that the high-temperature side end portions of the thermoelectric element sets are arranged within a certain distance from the tube.

[0112] The thermoelectric conversion module configured in the present manner can effectively absorb thermal energy since its high-temperature side electrodes are incorporated into the tube, even if the thermoelectric conversion module is arranged on a cylindrical tube.

[0113] This allows electrical energy to be effectively generated by attaching a thermoelectric conversion module to a high-temperature side through-pipe having a circular cross-section, such as an exhaust pipe of a vehicle.

[0114] The thermoelectric conversion module 10 and 10' according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention may be arranged in a vehicle to generate electrical energy using heat of the exhaust gas.

[0115] In the present case, the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and 231 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10' may be inserted into the through holes formed in the exhaust pipe to receive heat while directly contacting the exhaust gas. The high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and 231 may transfer the received heat to the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials 110, 120, 210, and 220. To achieve this, the high-temperature-side electrodes 131 and 231 may have a shape that protrudes toward the exhaust pipe relative to the high-temperature-side end portions of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials 110, 120, 210, and 220.

[0116] Since the vehicle having the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and 10' configured in this manner generates electric power by utilizing the waste heat in the exhaust gas, the fuel efficiency of the vehicle can be improved by reducing a load imposed on the power supply device (a battery or a fuel cell) of the vehicle.

[0117] Since, in the thermoelectric conversion module of the present invention configured in this manner, thermal energy is supplied to the thermoelectric conversion materials via the high-temperature side electrodes while the high-temperature heat transfer fluid (vehicle exhaust gas or the like) and the high-temperature side electrodes directly contact each other, the thermoelectric performance can be improved compared with a conventional technology by raising the high-temperature parts of the thermoelectric conversion module to a high (particularly, comparatively higher) temperature.

[0118] Furthermore, since the components of the thermoelectric conversion module can be supported and fixed by the supports and the clamping member and can be packaged (e.g., encapsulated) into a module by means of the housing, the thermoelectric performance can be maintained by improving the durability of the thermoelectric conversion module exposed to high temperature and vibration.

[0119] By using the method for manufacturing the thermoelectric conversion module of the present invention having the above-mentioned configuration, the properties of the thermoelectric conversion materials can be prevented from deteriorating due to high temperature, and the thermoelectric conversion module can be easily manufactured.

[0120] For ease of explanation and accurate definition in the appended claims, the terms "upper...", "lower...", "inner...", "outer...", "high", "down", "upward", "downward", "front...", "backward...", "front", "rear", "inward / inward", "outward / outward", "inside", "outside", "inside", "outside", "forward / forward" and "backward / rearward" are used to describe features of the exemplary embodiments with reference to their positions as shown in the drawings. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 10, 10' thermoelectric conversion module 11 Electricity 20 High-temperature through-pipe 20h through hole 21 Heat transfer fluid 23 Insulation layer 30 Low-temperature passage pipe 31 Coolant / Refrigerant 110, 210 N-type thermoelectric conversion materials 120, 220 p-type thermoelectric conversion materials 130, 230 A plurality of electrodes 131, 231 High-temperature electrodes 131h passage opening 132, 232 Low-temperature side electrodes 140, 240 carriers 150 clamping element 160, 260 housing 170 load 180 Seal 191 soldering compounds 192 Diffusion prevention layer

Claims

[1] Thermoelectric conversion module (10; 10'), comprising: a plurality of n-type thermoelectric conversion materials (110; 210) and a plurality of p-type thermoelectric conversion materials (120; 220) arranged alternately, and a plurality of electrodes (131, 132; 231, 232) connecting the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220) arranged alternately at high-temperature sides and low-temperature sides of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220), wherein the plurality of electrodes (131, 132; 231, 232) comprises: a high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) which, relative to high-temperature-side end portions of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220), protrudes toward a tube (20) through which a heat transfer fluid (21) flows and is insertable into a through-hole (20h) formed on the tube (20) through which the heat transfer fluid (21) flows, to receive heat during direct contact with the heat transfer fluid (21) and to transfer the received heat to the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220), wherein the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) is partially inserted between an adjacent n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) of the plurality of n-type thermoelectric conversion materials and an adjacent p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) of the plurality of p-type thermoelectric conversion materials to be fixed, wherein the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) is inserted to a point corresponding to not more than one-third of a length from the high-temperature-side end portions to the low-temperature-side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) to be fixed, wherein the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) has a plate shape, and wherein the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) are arranged on opposite main surfaces of the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231). [2] Thermoelectric conversion module (10, 10') according to claim 1, further comprising: Diffusion prevention layers (192) arranged between the high-temperature side electrode (131; 231) and the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and between the high-temperature side electrode (131; 231) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) to prevent mutual diffusion of an electrode material and a thermoelectric material. [3] Thermoelectric conversion module (10, 10') according to any one of claims 1 and 2, further comprising: Connection layers (191) arranged for thermal welding between the high-temperature side electrode (131; 231) and the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and between the high-temperature side electrode (131; 231) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220). [4] The thermoelectric conversion module (10, 10') according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the high-temperature-side electrode (131) is further provided with a through-hole (131h) at a portion of the high-temperature-side electrode (131) inserted into the pipe (20) through which the heat transfer fluid (21) flows, in order to reduce a flow resistance caused by the portion of the high-temperature-side electrode (131) to the heat transfer fluid (21). [5] Thermoelectric conversion module (10, 10') according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: a support (140; 240) arranged alternately with the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) to insulate the high-temperature-side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) which are connected to each other at low-temperature-side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220). [6] Thermoelectric conversion module (10, 10') according to claim 5, wherein the carrier (140; 240) is partially inserted between the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) of the plurality of n-type thermoelectric conversion materials and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) of the plurality of p-type thermoelectric conversion materials, wherein the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) are bonded to each other at the low-temperature side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) to be fixed, and wherein a first lateral surface of the carrier (140; 240) is supported by the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and a second surface of the carrier (140; 240) is supported by the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220). [7] The thermoelectric conversion module (10, 10') according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) has the plate shape which is partially inserted between the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) which are adjacent to each other and not connected to each other at the low-temperature-side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220), and wherein the support (140; 240) supports the high-temperature-side end portions of the thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220) which are adjacent to each other and not connected to each other at the low-temperature-side end portions of the thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220) and supports the high-temperature side electrode (131; 231) on one side thereof. [8] Thermoelectric conversion module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: one or the support (140) which is arranged alternately with the high-temperature-side electrode (131) to insulate the high-temperature-side end portions of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120) which are not connected to each other by the high-temperature-side electrode (131), and a clamping element (150) which clamps the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120), the high-temperature side electrode (131) and the carrier (140), wherein the high-temperature side electrode (131) is partially inserted between the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120) to be fixed therebetween. [9] Thermoelectric conversion module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: a seal (180) arranged between the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120) and the tube (20) to prevent an internal fluid from escaping through the through-hole (20h) formed on the tube (20), wherein the high-temperature side electrode (131) penetrates the seal (180) to be inserted into the tube (20). [10] The thermoelectric conversion module (10') according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (210, 220) are arranged in a circumferential direction of the tube (20), and wherein the plurality of high-temperature side electrodes (231) are arranged such that inner end portions of the plurality of high-temperature side electrodes (231) inserted into the tube (20) form a curve curved in a direction in which the tube (20) is curved. [11] The thermoelectric conversion module (10') according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, when a set comprising a low-temperature-side electrode (232) and an n-type thermoelectric conversion material (210) of the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials and a p-type thermoelectric conversion material (220) of the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials, the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (220) being connected to each other by the low-temperature-side electrode (232), is defined as a pi-type thermoelectric element set, a plurality of pi-type thermoelectric element sets are arranged in a circumferential direction of the tube (20) such that high-temperature-side end portions of the plurality of pi-type thermoelectric element sets, which are adjacent to the tube (20), form a curve which in one direction,in which the tube (20) is curved, [12] The thermoelectric conversion module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising an insulation layer (23) between portions of the high-temperature side electrodes (131) passing through the tube (20) and the tube (20) for insulating the high-temperature side electrodes (131) and the tube (20). [13] A method for manufacturing a thermoelectric conversion module (10; 10') comprising a plurality of n-type thermoelectric conversion materials (110; 210) and a plurality of p-type thermoelectric conversion materials (120; 220) arranged alternately, and plate-like high-temperature-side electrodes (131; 231) interposed between the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials (120; 220), the method comprising: sequentially arranging (S1100) an n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) from the plurality of n-type thermoelectric conversion materials, a high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) from the plate-like high-temperature-side electrodes, a p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) from the plurality of p-type thermoelectric conversion materials, and a support (140; 240) from a plurality of supports alternately such that the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials (110; 210), the high-temperature-side electrodes (131; 231), the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials (120; 220), and the supports (140; 240) overlap each other, and Heating (S1200) certain end portions of the high-temperature-side electrodes (131; 231) when the certain end portions oppose end portions inserted between the thermoelectric materials (110, 120; 210, 220) while pressing together the n-type conversion materials (110; 210), the high-temperature-side electrodes (131; 231), the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials (120; 220), and the supports (140; 240) to weld the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials (110; 210), the high-temperature-side electrodes (131; 231), the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials (120; 220), and the supports (140; 240). [14] The method of claim 13, wherein the step of sequentially arranging (S1100) comprises: Disposing diffusion prevention layers (192) between the high-temperature-side electrodes (131; 231) and the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials (110; 210) and between the high-temperature-side electrodes (131; 231) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials (120; 220). [15] The method of claim 13 or 14, wherein the step of sequentially arranging (S1100) comprises: Arranging connecting layers (191) for thermal welding between the high-temperature side electrodes (131; 231) and the n-type thermoelectric conversion materials (110; 210) and between the high-temperature side electrodes (131; 231) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion materials (120; 220). [16] The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the high-temperature side electrode (131; 231) is inserted to a point corresponding to not more than one-third of a length from the high-temperature side end portions to the low-temperature side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) to be fixed. [17] A vehicle comprising a thermoelectric conversion module (10, 10') arranged at an exhaust pipe through which exhaust gas flows, for generating electrical energy using the heat of the exhaust gas, the thermoelectric conversion module (10, 10') comprising: a plurality of n-type thermoelectric conversion materials (110; 210) and a plurality of p-type thermoelectric conversion materials (120; 220) arranged alternately, and a plurality of electrodes (131, 132; 231, 232) connecting the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220) arranged alternately at high-temperature sides and low-temperature sides of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220), wherein the plurality of electrodes (131, 132; 231, 232) comprises: a high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) which, relative to high-temperature-side end portions of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220), protrudes toward a tube (20) through which a heat transfer fluid (21) flows and is insertable into a through-hole (20h) formed in the tube (20) through which the heat transfer fluid (21) flows, to receive heat during direct contact with the heat transfer fluid (21) and to transfer the received heat to the plurality of thermoelectric conversion materials (110, 120; 210, 220), wherein the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) is partially inserted between an adjacent n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) of the plurality of n-type thermoelectric conversion materials and an adjacent p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) of the plurality of p-type thermoelectric conversion materials to be fixed, wherein the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) is inserted to a point corresponding to not more than one-third of a length from the high-temperature-side end portions to the low-temperature-side end portions of the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) to be fixed, wherein the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231) has a plate shape, and wherein the n-type thermoelectric conversion material (110; 210) and the p-type thermoelectric conversion material (120; 220) are arranged on opposite main surfaces of the high-temperature-side electrode (131; 231).

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