Thermoelectric generator

Abstract

Thermoelectric generator (100), comprising: a thermoelectric generator module (10); a fan (41) rotatable about a rotation axis (AX) and arranged on one side of the thermoelectric generator module (10) in a first axial direction parallel to the rotation axis (AX); a cover member (50) comprising a cover plate (51) arranged on one side of the fan (41) in the first axial direction and facing the fan (41), and a side plate (52) arranged around the fan (41) from one side of the fan (41) to the other side of the fan (41); a first suction opening (71) provided in the covering plate (51); a second suction port (72) provided in the side plate (52) and at least a part of which is arranged on one side with respect to the fan (41) in the first axial direction; and an outlet opening (73) provided in the side plate (52) and arranged on the other side in the first axial direction with respect to the fan (41).

Description

Technical FieldThe invention relates to a thermoelectric generator.BackgroundThere is known a thermoelectric generator including a thermoelectric generator module that generates electric power using the Seebeck effect. One end surface of the thermoelectric generation module is heated, the other end surface of the thermoelectric generation module is cooled, and thus the thermoelectric generation module generates electric power.Prior Art DocumentsJP 2015-171 308 A; US 2015 / 0 192 332 A1; JP 2001-36 271 AUS 2015 / 00 0 192 332 A1 and JP 2001-36 271 A each disclose a thermoelectric generator having a thermoelectric generator module and a fan which is rotatable about an axis of rotation and is arranged on one side of the thermoelectric generator module in a first axis direction parallel to the axis of rotation. Further, a cover member is provided with a shroud panel disposed on a side of the fan. In addition, a side plate is provided around the fan from one side of the fan to the other side of the fan, and a first suction port is provided in the shroud plate.SummaryTechnical ProblemIn a case where a fan is used for cooling a thermoelectric generator module, power generation efficiency of a thermoelectric generator decreases as cooling efficiency of the fan decreases.An object of one aspect of the present invention is to suppress a decrease in cooling efficiency of the fan.Solution of the ProblemAccording to the present invention, a thermoelectric generator includes: a thermoelectric generator module; a fan that is rotatable about a rotation axis and disposed on one side of the thermoelectric generator module in a first axis direction parallel to the rotation axis; a cover member that includes a shroud plate disposed on one side of the fan in the first axis direction and facing the fan and a side plate disposed around the fan from the one side of the fan to the other side of the fan; a first suction port provided in the shroud plate; a second suction port provided in the side plate and at least a part of which is disposed on the one side in the first axis direction with respect to the fan; and an exhaust port provided in the side plate and disposed on the other side in the first axis direction with respect to the fan.Preferred embodiments are defined in dependent claims 2 to 9.Advantageous Effects of InventionsAccording to an aspect of the present invention, a decrease in cooling performance of the fan is suppressed.Brief Description of the DrawingsFIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a thermoelectric generator according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the thermoelectric generator according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a thermoelectric generator module according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a view schematically illustrating the thermoelectric generator according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a graph illustrating an experimental result on a cooling effect of the thermoelectric generator according to the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a part of the thermoelectric generator according to the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of a part of the thermoelectric generator according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the thermoelectric generator according to the present embodiment.DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTSHereinafter, an embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Constituent elements of the embodiment described below may be combined as appropriate. In addition, some components can also be dispensed with.In the following description, an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system is set, and a positional relationship of each portion with respect to the XYZ orthogonal coordinate system is described. A direction parallel to an X axis in a predetermined plane is referred to as an X axis direction (second axis direction), a direction parallel to a Y axis orthogonal to the X axis in the predetermined plane is referred to as a Y axis direction (third axis direction), and a direction parallel to a Z axis orthogonal to the predetermined plane is referred to as a Z axis direction (first axis direction). The X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction are orthogonal to each other. An XY plane including the X axis and the Y axis is parallel to the predetermined plane. A YZ plane including the Y axis and the Z axis is orthogonal to the XY plane. An XZ plane including the X axis and the Z axis is orthogonal to the XY plane and the YZ plane.Moreover, in the following descriptions, one side in the Z-axis direction is appropriately referred to as a +Z side, and the other side in the Z-axis direction is appropriately referred to as a -Z side.StructureFIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a thermoelectric power generator 100 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the thermoelectric power generator 100 according to the present embodiment.As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the thermoelectric generator 100 includes a thermoelectric generator module 10, a heat receiving plate 20 connected to a -Z side end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10, a heat sink 30 including a heat radiation plate 31 connected to a +Z side end surface 11 of the thermoelectric generator module 10, a fan unit 40 including a fan 41 rotatable about a rotation axis AX and disposed on the +Z side of the thermoelectric generator module 10, and a cover member 50 forming an internal space IS between the heat receiving plate 20 and the cover member 50.Thermoelectric Generator ModuleThe thermoelectric generator module 10 generates electric power by utilizing the Seebeck effect. The -Z side end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generation module 10 is heated, the +Z side end surface 11 of the thermoelectric generation module 10 is cooled, and thus the thermoelectric generation module 10 generates electric power.The end face 11 faces in the +Z direction. The end face 12 faces in the -Z direction. Both end surfaces 11 and 12 are planar. Both end surfaces 11 and 12 are parallel to the XY plane. In the XY plane, an outer shape of the thermoelectric generator module is substantially rectangular.FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the thermoelectric generator module 10 according to the present embodiment. In addition, in FIG. 3, the end surface 12 faces upward and the end surface 11 faces downward. The thermoelectric generator module 10 includes a p-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 13, an n-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 14, an electrode 15, a first substrate 16, and a second substrate 17. The electrode 15 is connected to each of the p-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 14. The first substrate 16 is disposed on the +Z side of the p-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 13, the n-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 14, and the electrode 15. The second substrate 17 is disposed on the -Z side of the p-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 13, the n-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 14, and the electrode 15.For example, the p-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 14 each include a BiTe-based thermoelectric material. The first substrate 16 and the second substrate 17 are each made of an electrically insulating material such as ceramic or polyimide.The first substrate 16 has the end face 11. The second substrate 17 has the end face 12. The second substrate 17 is heated and the first substrate 16 is cooled. Accordingly, a temperature difference is generated between a +Z-side end and a -Z-side end of the p-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 14. When the temperature difference is provided between the +Z-side end and the -Z-side end of the p-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 13, holes move from the -Z-side end to the +Z-side end in the p-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 13. When the temperature difference is provided between the +Z-side end and the -Z-side end of the n-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 14, electrons move from the -Z-side end to the +Z-side end in the n-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 14. The p-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric semiconductor element 14 are connected to each other via the electrode 15. A potential difference is generated between the electrodes 15 by the holes and the electrons. When the potential difference occurs between the electrodes 15, the thermoelectric generator module 10 generates electric current. A connection line 18 is connected to the electrode 15. The thermoelectric generator module 10 outputs electric power via the connecting line 18.Heat absorbing plateThe heat receiving plate 20 receives heat from a heat source and transfers the heat to the thermoelectric generator module 10. The heat receiving plate 20 is connected to the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10.The heat receiving plate 20 has a connecting surface 21 connected to the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 and a heat receiving surface 22 facing the heat source. The heat from the heat source is transferred to the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 via the heat receiving plate 20.The connection surface 21 faces in the +Z direction. The heat receiving surface 22 faces in the -Z direction. The joint surface 21 and the heat receiving surface 22 are both planar. The joint surface 21 and the heat receiving surface 22 are both parallel to the XY plane. In the XY plane, an outer shape of the heat receiving plate 20 is substantially rectangular. In the XY plane, the outer shape of the heat receiving plate 20 is larger than the outer shape of the thermoelectric generator module 10, and the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is joined to a central portion of the joint surface 21.Heat sinkThe heat sink 30 receives heat from the thermoelectric generator module 10. The heat sink 30 is formed of a metal material such as aluminum. The heat sink 30 is disposed between the thermoelectric generator module 10 and the fan 41 in the Z-axis direction.The heat sink 30 includes a heat radiating plate 31 connected to the end surface 11 of the thermoelectric generator module 10, and fins 32 supported by the heat radiating plate 31. The rib 32 is a pin rib. In addition, the rib 32 may be a plate rib.The heat radiating plate 31 has a connecting surface 34 connected to the end surface 11 of the thermoelectric generator module 10, and a supporting surface 33 supporting the fins 32. The fins 32 are connected to the support surface 33 of the heat radiating plate 31. The heat sink 30 receives heat from the end face 11 of the thermoelectric generator module 10.The support surface 33 faces in the +Z direction. The connecting surface 34 faces in the -Z direction. The connecting surface 34 is planar. The support surface 33 and the connecting surface 34 are both parallel to the XY plane. In the XY plane, an outer shape of the heat radiating plate 31 is substantially rectangular. In the XY plane, the outer shape of the heat radiating plate 31 is larger than the outer shape of the thermoelectric generator module 10, and the end surface 11 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is joined to a central portion of the joint surface 34.Each of the ribs 32 is elongated in the Z-axis direction. In both the X-axis and Y-axis directions, a plurality of ribs 32 are provided. The ribs 32 are arranged at regular intervals in both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. In the Z-axis direction, each of the tips on the +Z side of the ribs 32 is disposed at the same position.Fan UnitThe fan unit 40 includes the fan 41 rotatable about the rotation axis AX, a fan case 42 disposed around the fan 41, and an electric motor (not shown) that rotates the fan 41. The fan 41 serves for air circulation. The rotation axis AX of the fan 41 is parallel to the direction of the Z axis. The fan 41 is respectively disposed on the +Z side of the thermoelectric generator module 10 and the heat sink 30.The fan 41 is rotatably supported on the fan case 42. The fan case 42 is supported by the heat receiving plate 20 via a support member 43. The support member 43 is a rod-shaped member elongated in the Z-axis direction.The electric motor that rotates the fan 41 is driven by the electric current generated by the thermoelectric generator module 10. That is, the thermoelectric power generator 100 is a self-contained thermoelectric power generator that operates the electric motor (electronic device) provided in the thermoelectric power generator 100 by the electric power generated by the thermoelectric power generator module 10 when the electric motor is operated.Cover memberThe cover member 50 protects the thermoelectric generator module 10, the heat sink 30, and the fan 41. in addition, the cover member 50 suppresses contact between a user (user's finger) of the thermoelectric generator 100 and at least one of the fan 41 and the thermoelectric generator module 10. The cover member 50 forms the internal space IS between the heat receiving plate 20 and the cover member 50. the thermoelectric generator module 10, the heat sink 30, and the fan unit 40 are disposed in the internal space IS.The cover member 50 is disposed on the +Z side of the fan 41, and includes a shroud plate 51 facing the fan 41 and a side plate 52 disposed around the thermoelectric generator module 10, the heat sink 30, and the fan unit 40. The side plate 52 is disposed around the fan 41 so as to surround the rotation axis AX of the fan 41 from the shroud plate 51 toward the joint surface 21. A -Z side end of the side plate 52 faces a peripheral edge portion of the land 21. The trim board 51 is connected to a +Z side end of the side board 52.The trim panel 51 has an outer surface facing an exterior space OS and an inner surface facing the interior space IS. The outer surface of the trim board 51 faces in the +Z direction. The inner surface of the trim panel 51 faces in the -Z direction. The outer surface and the inner surface of the trim panel 51 are both planar. The outer surface and the inner surface of the trim board 51 are both parallel to the XY plane. In the XY plane, an outer shape of the trim board 51 is substantially rectangular.The side plate 52 includes a first side plate 521 disposed on the +X side with respect to a center of the internal space IS, a second side plate 522 disposed on the -X side with respect to the center of the internal space IS, a third side plate 523 disposed on the +Y side with respect to the center of the internal space IS, and a fourth side plate 524 disposed on the -Y side with respect to the center of the internal space IS.The first side plate 521 has an outer surface facing the exterior space OS and an inner surface facing the interior space IS. The outer surface of the first side plate 521 faces in the +X direction. The inner surface of the first side plate 521 faces in the -X direction. The outer surface and the inner surface of the first side plate 521 are both planar. The outer surface and the inner surface of the first side plate 521 are both parallel to the YZ plane. In the YZ plane, an outer shape of the first side plate 521 is substantially rectangular.The second side plate 522 is disposed with a gap with respect to the first side plate 521 in the X-axis direction. The second side plate 522 has an outer surface facing the exterior space OS and an inner surface facing the interior space IS. The outer surface of the second side plate 522 faces in the -X direction. The inner surface of the second side plate 522 faces in the +X direction. The outer surface and the inner surface of the second side plate 522 are both planar. The outer surface and the inner surface of the second side plate 522 are both parallel to the YZ plane. In the YZ plane, an outer shape of the second side plate 522 is substantially rectangular.The third side plate 523 is disposed between the first side plate 521 and the second side plate 522. The third side plate 523 has an outer surface facing the exterior space OS and an inner surface facing the interior space IS. The outer surface of the third side plate 523 faces in the +Y direction. The inner surface of the third side plate 523 faces in the -Y direction. The outer surface and the inner surface of the third side plate 523 are both planar. The outer surface and the inner surface of the third side plate 523 are both parallel to the XZ plane. In the XZ plane, an outer shape of the third side plate 523 is substantially rectangular.The fourth side plate 524 is disposed between the first side plate 521 and the second side plate 522. The fourth side plate 524 is disposed with a gap with respect to the third side plate 523 in the Y-axis direction. The fourth side plate 524 has an outer surface facing the exterior space OS and an inner surface facing the interior space IS. The outer surface of the fourth side plate 524 faces in the -Y direction. The inner surface of the fourth side plate 524 faces in the +Y direction. The outer surface and the inner surface of the fourth side plate 524 are both planar. The outer surface and the inner surface of the fourth side plate 524 are both parallel to the XZ plane. In the XZ plane, an outer shape of the fourth side plate 524 is substantially rectangular.A peripheral edge portion of the trim panel 51, a +Z-side end of the first side panel 521, a +Z-side end of the second side panel 522, a +Z-side end of the third side panel 523, and a +Z-side end of the fourth side panel 524 are connected to each other. A +Y side end of the first side plate 521 and a +X side end of the third side plate 523 are connected to each other. A -Y side end of the first side plate 521 and a +X side end of the fourth side plate 524 are connected to each other. A +Y side end of the second side plate 522 and a -X side end of the third side plate 523 are connected to each other. A -Y side end of the second side plate 522 and a -X side end of the fourth side plate 524 are connected to each other.Fixed StructureThe heat receiving plate 20 and the heat sink 30 are fastened to each other with screws 62. The heat receiving plate 20 and the fan unit 40 are fixed to each other via the support members 43. The heat sink 30 and the cover member 50 are fastened to each other with screws 61.The side plate 52 is fixed to the heat radiating plate 31 by the bolts 61. The bolts 61 fix the third side plate 523 to a +Y side side surface of the heat radiating plate 31. the bolts 61 fix the fourth side plate 524 to a -Y side side surface of the heat radiating plate 31.The heat radiating plate 31 is fixed to the heat receiving plate 20 by the bolts 62. On a +X side surface of the heat radiating plate 31, a flange 35 is provided. On an -X side surface of the heat radiating plate 31, a flange 36 is provided. The flange 35 and the flange 36 are both made of a part of an angle material fixed to a side surface of the heat radiating plate 31. The angle material is an L-shaped element in the XZ plane. A part of the angle material is fixed to the +X side surface and the -X side surface of the heat radiating plate 31, respectively, with bolts 64. A part of the angle material that is not in contact with the heat radiating plate 31 forms the flange 35 and the flange 36.The flange 35 protrudes from the +X side surface of the heat radiating plate 31 in the +X direction. The flange 36 protrudes in the -X direction from the -X side surface of the heat radiating plate 31. The flanges 35 and 36 and the joint surface 21 of the heat receiving plate 20 are opposed to each other, respectively.The flange 35 is fixed to the heat receiving plate 20 by the bolts 62. The flange 36 is fixed to the heat receiving plate 20 by the bolts 62. The flanges 35 and 36 and the heat receiving plate 20 are fastened to each other by the bolts 62, so that the heat radiating plate 31 is fastened to the heat receiving plate 20.Two screws 62 for fixing the flange 35 and the heat receiving plate 20 to each other are arranged in the Y-axis direction. Two screws 62 for fastening the flange 36 and the heat receiving plate 20 to each other are arranged in the Y-axis direction. The heat radiating plate 31 is fixed to the heat receiving plate 20 by four screws 62.Coil springs 63 are disposed between a head of the bolt 62 and the flange 35 and between a head of the bolt 62 and the flange 36. The screw 62 is screwed into the heat receiving plate 20 so that the coil spring 63 is compressed. By an elastic force of the coil spring 63, the thermoelectric generator module 10 can be interposed between the heat radiating plate 31 and the heat receiving plate 20 with a constant force. In addition, thermal deformation generated in at least one of the heat receiving plate 20 and the heat radiating plate 31 is absorbed by elastic deformation of the coil spring 63. In this way, it is possible to prevent an excessive force from acting on the thermoelectric generator module 10, prevent a contact between the thermoelectric generator module 10 and at least one of the heat receiving plate 20 and the heat radiating plate 31 from being insufficient, and prevent a force acting on the thermoelectric generator module 10 from being deflected.In the XY plane, the screws 62 and the coil springs 63 are disposed between the first side plate 521 and the heat sink 30, and between the second side plate 522 and the heat sink 30. A distance W 1 between the inner surface of the first side plate 521 and the heat sink 30 is substantially equal to a distance W 2 between the inner surface of the second side plate 522 and the heat sink 30, a distance W 3 between the inner surface of the third side plate 523 and the heat sink 30 is substantially equal to a distance W 4 between the inner surface of the fourth side plate 524 and the heat sink 30, the distance W 3 and the distance W 4 are shorter than the distance W 1 and the distance W 2. That is, the third side plate 523 and the fourth side plate 524 are closer to the heat sink 30 than the first side plate 521 and the second side plate 522.First Suction PortThe trim panel 51 has a first suction port 71. A plurality of first suction ports 71 are provided in the trim panel 51. Each of the first suction ports 71 has a through hole penetrating the inner surface and the outer surface of the trim panel 51.The first suction port 71 is disposed on the +Z side with respect to the fan 41. The first suction port 71 is disposed at a position facing the fan 41. The first suction port 71 draws air in the exterior space OS. When the fan 41 rotates, the air in the exterior space OS flows into the interior space IS via the first suction ports 71.The plurality of first suction ports 71 are provided in the X-axis and Y-axis directions, respectively. Each of the plurality of first suction ports 71 is an elongated hole extending in the X-axis or Y-axis direction. The first suction port 71 is defined by a pair of straight edges, a bent edge connecting one end of the pair of straight edges, and a bent edge connecting the other end of the pair of straight edges. The two straight edges are parallel to each other. The length and orientation of the plurality of first suction ports 71 may be the same as or different from each other.At least some of the plurality of first suction ports 71 may be circular.Second Suction PortThe side plate 52 has a second suction port 72. A plurality of second suction ports 72 are provided in the side plate 52. Each of the second suction ports 72 has a through hole penetrating the inner surface and the outer surface of the side plate 52.In the Z-axis direction, at least a part of the second suction duct 72 is disposed on the +Z side with respect to the fan 41. The second suction port 72 draws in the air in the exterior space OS. When the fan 41 rotates, the air in the exterior space OS flows into the interior space IS via the second suction ports 72.The second suction port 72 is provided in at least one of the first side plate 521, the second side plate 522, the third side plate 523, and the fourth side plate 524. In the present embodiment, the second suction port 72 is provided in each of the second side plate 522, the third side plate 523, and the fourth side plate 524. The second suction port 72 may also be provided in the first side plate 521.The second suction port 72 has a +Z-side end 72A and a - Z-side end 72B.In a case where only one second suction port 72 is provided in the Z-axis direction, the +Z-side end 72A of the second suction port 72 refers to the most +Z-side part of one second suction port 72. In a case where only one second suction port 72 is provided in the Z-axis direction, the -Z-side end 72B of the second suction port 72 refers to the most -Z-side portion of the one second suction port 72.In a case where the plurality of second suction ports 72 are provided in the Z-axis direction, the +Z-side end 72A of the second suction port 72 refers to the most +Z-side part of the second suction port 72 that is located on the most +Z-side of the plurality of second suction ports 72. In a case where the plurality of second suction ports 72 are provided in the Z-axis direction, the -Z-side end 72B of the second suction port 72 refers to the -Z-side most part of the second suction port 72 that is located on the -Z-side most side of the plurality of second suction ports 72.The fan 41 has a +Z-side end 41A and a -Z-side end 41B.The +Z-side end 41A of the fan 41 refers to the most +Z-side part of the fan 41. the -Z-side end 41B of the fan 41 refers to the most -Z-side part of the fan 41.In the Z-axis direction, the +Z-side end 72A of the second suction port 72 is disposed on the +Z side with respect to the +Z-side end 41A of the fan 41. In the Z-axis direction, the -Z-side end 72B of the second suction port 72 is located at the same position as the +Z-side end 41A of the fan 41.In the Z-axis direction, the +Z-side end 41A of the fan 41 is disposed at the same position as the +Z-side end 42A of the fan case 42. In the Z-axis direction, the -Z-side end 41B of the fan 41 is disposed at the same position as the -Z-side end 42B of the fan case 42.In the direction parallel to the XY plane, a dimension of the second suction port 72 is larger than a dimension (diameter) of the fan 41. in the direction parallel to the XY plane, the dimension of the second suction port 72 is equal to or larger than the dimension of the heat sink 30.The second suction hole 72 provided in the second side plate 522 is an elongated hole extending in the Y-axis direction. In the Y-axis direction, a dimension of the second suction port 72 provided in the second side plate 522 is larger than the dimension of the fan 41 and equal to or larger than the dimension of the heat sink 30.The second suction hole 72 provided in each of the third side plate 523 and the fourth side plate 524 is an elongated hole extending in the X-axis direction. In the X-axis direction, the dimension of the second suction port 72 provided in the third side plate 523 and the fourth side plate 524 is larger than the dimension of the fan 41 and equal to or larger than the dimension of the heat sink 30.In the present embodiment, only one second suction port 72 is provided in each of the second side plate 522, the third side plate 523, and the fourth side plate 524 in the Z-axis direction.The second suction port 72 is defined by a straight edge 721, a straight edge 722 located on the -Z side with respect to the straight edge 721, a bent edge 723 connecting one end of the straight edge 721 and one end of the straight edge 722 to each other, and a bent edge 724 connecting the other end of the straight edge 721 and the other end of the straight edge 722 to each other. The straight edge 721 and the straight edge 722 are parallel to each other. The straight edge 721 and the straight edge 722 are both parallel to the XY plane.In the present embodiment, the end 72A includes the straight edge 721. The end 72B includes the straight edge 722.In the Z-axis direction, a plurality of second suction ports 72 may be provided. Further, the plurality of second suction ports 72 may be provided in the second side plate 522 in the Y-axis direction. The plurality of second suction ports 72 may be provided in the third side plate 523 and the fourth side plate 524, respectively, in the X-axis direction.Outlet openingThe side plate 52 has an outlet port 73. A plurality of exhaust ports 73 are provided in the side plate 52. Each of the outlet ports 73 has a through hole penetrating the inner surface and the outer surface of the side plate 52.In the Z-axis direction, the outlet port 73 is disposed on the -Z side with respect to the first suction port 71 and the second suction port 72. In the Z-axis direction, the outlet opening 73 is disposed on the -Z side with respect to the fan 41. When the fan 41 rotates, at least a part of the air in the interior space IS flows out into the exterior space OS via the exhaust ports 73.The discharge port 73 is provided in at least one of the first side plate 521, the second side plate 522, the third side plate 523, and the fourth side plate 524. In the present embodiment, the discharge port 73 is provided in each of the first side plate 521, the second side plate 522, the third side plate 523, and the fourth side plate 524.The outlet port 73 has a +Z-side end 73A and a -Z-side end 73B.In a case where only one outlet port 73 is provided in the Z-axis direction, the +Z-side end 73A of the outlet port 73 refers to the most +Z-side part of the one outlet port 73.In a case where a plurality of discharge ports 73 are provided in the Z-axis direction, the +Z-side end 73A of the discharge ports 73 refers to the most +Z-side portion of the discharge port 73 located most +Z-side of the plurality of discharge ports 73. In a case where the plurality of discharge ports 73 are provided in the Z-axis direction, the -Z-side end 73B of the discharge ports 73 refers to the -Z-most side portion of the discharge port 73 located at the -Z-most side of the plurality of discharge ports 73.The heat sink 30 has a +Z-side end 30A and a -Z-side end 30B.The +Z-side end 30A of the heat sink 30 refers to the most +Z-side part of the heat sink 30. the -Z-side end 30B of the heat sink 30 refers to the most -Z-side part of the heat sink 30.In the present embodiment, the +Z-side end 30A of the heat sink 30 has a +Z-side tip of the fin 32. The -Z-side end 30B of the heat sink 30 has the pad 34 of the heat radiating plate 31.As illustrated in FIG. 2, the +Z-side end 73A of the outlet port 73 is disposed on the -Z side from the +Z-side end 30A of the heat sink 30 in the Z-axis direction.Further, the -Z side end 73B of the outlet port 73 is disposed on the -Z side from the support surface 33 of the heat radiating plate 31 in the Z axis direction.In the present embodiment, the discharge port 73 includes a first discharge port 731 provided in each of the first side plate 521 and the second side plate 522 and elongated in the Y-axis direction, and a second discharge port 732 provided in each of the third side plate 523 and the fourth side plate 524 and elongated in the Z-axis direction.The first outlet port 731 provided in each of the first side plate 521 and the second side plate 522 is an elongated hole extending in the Y-axis direction. In the Y-axis direction, the dimension of the first discharge opening 731 is larger than the dimension of the fan 41 and substantially corresponds to the dimension of the heat sink 30.In each of the first side plate 521 and the second side plate 522, a plurality of first discharge ports 731 are provided in the Z-axis direction.The first outlet opening 731 is defined by a straight edge 7311, a straight edge 7312 located on the -Z side with respect to the straight edge 7311, a bent edge 7313 connecting one end of the straight edge 7311 and one end of the straight edge 7312, and a bent edge 7314 connecting the other end of the straight edge 7311 and the other end of the straight edge 7312. The straight edge 7311 and the straight edge 7312 are parallel to each other. The straight edge 7311 and the straight edge 7312 are both parallel to the XY plane.In the present embodiment, the end 73A includes the straight edge 7311 of the first discharge port 731 that is disposed furthest on the +Z side among the plurality of first discharge ports 731 arranged in the Z-axis direction. The end 73B includes the straight edge 7312 of the first outlet port 731 located on the most -Z side among the plurality of first outlet ports 731 arranged in the Z-axis direction.Only a first outlet opening 731 in the direction of the Z axis may also be provided. The plurality of first discharge ports 731 may be provided in the Y-axis direction.The second outlet port 732 provided in each of the third side plate 523 and the fourth side plate 524 is an elongated hole extending in the Z-axis direction. In the Z-axis direction, the dimension of the second outlet port 732 is smaller than the dimension of the heat sink 30.A plurality of second discharge ports 732 are respectively provided in the third side plate 523 and the fourth side plate 524 in the X-axis direction.The second outlet port 732 is defined by a straight edge 7321, a straight edge 7322 located on the -X side with respect to the straight edge 7321, a bent edge 7323 connecting a +Z side end of the straight edge 7321 and a +Z side end of the straight edge 7322 to each other, and a bent edge 7324 connecting a -Z side end of the straight edge 7321 and a -Z side end of the straight edge 7322 to each other. The straight edge 7321 and the straight edge 7322 are parallel to each other. The straight edge 7321 and the straight edge 7322 are each parallel to the Z axis.In the present embodiment, the end 73A includes the bent edge 7323. End 73B includes curved edge 7314.The plurality of first discharge ports 731 may be provided in the Z-axis direction.As illustrated in FIG. 2, the ribs 32 are arranged at a regular interval G 2 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions, respectively. The second discharge ports 732 provided in each of the third side plate 523 and the fourth side plate 524 are arranged at a regular interval G 1 in the X-axis direction. In the X-axis direction, the dimension of the second discharge port 732 is equal to or smaller than the dimension of the rib 32. That is, in the X-axis direction, a center line of the side plate 52 between the adjacent second discharge ports 732 coincides with a center line of the rib 32. The distance G 1 between the second outlet ports 732 adjacent in the X-axis direction is an integer multiple of the distance G 2 between the ribs 32 adjacent in the X-axis direction. In the present embodiment, the distance G 1 between the second outlet ports 732 adjacent in the X-axis direction is twice as large as the distance G 2 between the ribs 32 adjacent in the X-axis direction.The distance G 1 between the second discharge ports 732 may be an integer multiple of three times or more the distance G 2 between the ribs 32. The distance G 1 between the second outlet ports 732 may be the same as the distance G 2 between the ribs 32.Width of the Elongated HoleAs described above, each of the first suction port 71, the second suction port 72, and the discharge port 73 is an elongated hole. For example, the width of the long hole is 10 mm or less. This prevents, for example, a finger of the user from passing through the long hole, and prevents contact between the finger of the user and at least one of the fan 41 and the thermoelectric generator module 10. The cover member 50 functions as a so-called finger guard.Room SpaceThe inner surface of the shroud plate 51 and the +Z-side end surface of the fan unit 40 face each other across a gap. Between the inner surface of the shroud panel 51 and the fan 41, a first space SP is formed. The first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72 respectively face the first space SP. At least a part of the air sucked from the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72 flows into the first space SP.In the present embodiment, at least one first suction port 71S among the plurality of first suction ports 71 is provided at a position coincident with the rotation axis AX in the XY plane. Since the first space SP is formed between the shroud plate 51 and the fan unit 40, when the fan 41 is rotated, a sufficient amount of air flows into the first space SP not only from the first suction ports 71 provided at positions different from the rotation axis AX in the XY plane but also, as illustrated by an arrow Fa, from the first suction port 71S provided at the position coincident with the rotation axis AX in the XY plane.Further, the inner surface of the side plate 52 faces the fan 41 (fan unit 40) and the heat sink 30 across a gap. A second space TP is formed between the inner surface of the side plate 52 and the fan 41 and between the inner surface of the side plate 52 and the heat sink 30. The second suction ports 72 face the second space TP. The second suction ports 72 are located closer to the second space TP than the first suction ports 71.Terminal TerminalThe thermoelectric generator 100 has a terminal 80 connectable to an external electrical device. For example, the terminal 80 includes a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal. A part of the electric current generated by the thermoelectric generator module 10 is supplied to the electric motor that rotates the fan 41. A portion of the electric current generated by the thermoelectric generator module 10 is supplied to the electric device connected to the terminal 80.OperationNext, an example of the operation of the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. When the heat receiving plate 20 of the thermoelectric generator 100 is heated by the heat source, the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 that is in contact with the heat receiving plate 20 is heated, and the thermoelectric generator module 10 generates electric power. At least a part of the electric current generated by the thermoelectric generator module 10 is supplied to the electric motor to rotate the fan 41. The electric motor is operated with electric power supplied from the thermoelectric generator module 10. The fan 41 is rotated by the operation of the electric motor.When the fan 41 rotates, air in the exterior space OS is sucked into the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72, respectively. The air in the exterior space OS flows into the interior space IS via the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72.At least a part of the air that has flown into the interior space IS and has flown through the fan 41 is supplied to the heat sink 30. The air supplied from the fan 41 to the heat sink 30 comes into contact with the surface of the fin 32 and the surface of the heat sink 30 including the support surface 33 of the heat radiating plate 31. The air in contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 receives heat from the heat sink 30. By extracting the heat from the heat sink 30, the end surface 11 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 that is in contact with the heat sink 30 is cooled. Accordingly, there is a sufficient temperature difference between the end surface 11 and the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10. Since there is a sufficient temperature difference between the end surface 11 and the end surface 12, the thermoelectric generator module 10 can generate electric power efficiently.The air, the temperature of which rises by removing the heat from the heat sink 30, flows from the outlet openings 73 into the exterior space OS. The air flowing out from the outlet ports 73 into the exterior space OS flows in the direction parallel to the XY plane. That is, the air flowing out from the exhaust ports 73 flows away from the cover member 50. This prevents the high-temperature air flowing out of the exhaust ports 73 from flowing back into the internal space IS via the first intake ports 71 and the second intake ports 72.In the present embodiment, the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72 are located at positions far from the heat receiving plate 20 (heat source). Therefore, the temperature of the air in the exterior space OS in the vicinity of the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72 is lower than the temperature of the air in the exterior space OS in the vicinity of the heat receiving plate 20. The air that has flowed into the internal space IS comes into contact with the surface of the heat sink 30, and receives heat from the heat sink 30. The air whose temperature rises by receiving the heat from the heat sink 30 flows out from the exhaust ports 73 that are closer to the heat receiving plate 20 (heat source) than the first intake ports 71 and the second intake ports 72 into the exterior space OS.In the present embodiment, at least a part of the air that has flowed into the internal space IS via the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72 flows into the first space SP between the shroud panel 51 and the fan unit 40. Further, at least a part of the air that has flown into the internal space IS via the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72 flows between the inner surface of the side plate 52 and the fan unit 40 and the heat sink 30 into the second space TP. The air that has flowed into the second space TP flows into the second space TP in the -Z direction. At least a part of the low temperature air that has flown into the internal space IS via the first suction port 71 and the second suction port 72 flows into the second space TP in the -Z direction. Accordingly, the air that comes into contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 and the temperature thereof rises is prevented from flowing into the second space TP in the +Z direction.That is, the air that comes into contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 and the temperature thereof rises tends to flow in the +Z direction in the second space TP, as indicated by an arrow Fb in FIG. 2. In the present embodiment, at least a part of the low-temperature air that has flowed into the internal space IS via the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72 flows into the second space TP in the -Z direction. Therefore, the high temperature air in contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 is prevented from flowing into the second space TP in the +Z direction. Accordingly, the high-temperature air in contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 is prevented from being sucked into the fan 41 again. The air that comes into contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 and the temperature of which increases is discharged uniformly into the exterior space OS via the outlet opening 73. The low-temperature air that has flown into the interior space IS from the exterior space OS via the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72 is sucked into the fan 41, and the high-temperature air that is in contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 is prevented from being sucked into the fan 41. Accordingly, low-temperature air is supplied from the fan 41 to the heat sink 30. Thereby, the heat sinks 30 are sufficiently cooled, and a decrease in cooling performance of the fan 41 is suppressed. Since the heat sink 30 is sufficiently cooled, a sufficient temperature difference is provided between the end surface 11 and the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10. Since the sufficient temperature difference is given between the end surface 11 and the end surface 12, the thermoelectric generator module 10 can efficiently generate electric power.In the present embodiment, the +Z-side end 73A of the discharge port 73 is disposed on the -Z side with respect to the +Z-side end 30A (the tip of the fin 32) of the heat sink 30. Thus, the air supplied from the fan 41 to the fins 32 comes into sufficient contact with the surface of the fin 32 and thereafter can flow out into the exterior space OS via the exhaust ports 73.Moreover, in the present embodiment, the -Z-side end 73B of the discharge port 73 is disposed on the -Z side with respect to the support surface 33 of the heat radiating plate 31. Accordingly, the air supplied from the fan 41 to the fins 32 flows to the -Z side end of the fins 32, comes into sufficient contact with the surface of the fins 32, and further comes into sufficient contact with the support surface 33 of the heat radiating plate 31. Thereafter, the air can flow out into the exterior space OS via the outlet openings 73.Moreover, in the present embodiment, the distance G 1 between the second exhaust ports 732 adjacent in the X-axis direction is an integer multiple of the distance G 2 between the ribs 32 adjacent in the X-axis direction. Accordingly, the air flowing into the internal space IS from the first intake ports 71 and the second intake ports 72 by the rotation of the fan 41 and supplied to the heat sink 30 flows between the adjacent ribs 32 and thereafter uniformly from the second exhaust ports 732.Each of the first outlet ports 731 is elongated in the Y-axis direction. Accordingly, the total area of the first discharge ports 731 may increase. Therefore, the air in the internal space IS is discharged uniformly via the first discharge ports 731.Application ExampleFIG. 4 is a view illustrating an application example of the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the present embodiment. The thermoelectric generator 100 is installed on a cassette furnace 200. The cassette furnace 200 is a heat source of the thermoelectric generator 100. When the heat receiving plate 20 of the thermoelectric generator 100 is heated by the cassette furnace 200, the thermoelectric generator 100 generates electric power. In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the terminal 80 of the thermoelectric generator 100 and an electric device 300 are connected by a cable 90. The cable 90 is, for example, a USB cable. In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the electrical device 300 is a mobile device such as a smartphone or a tablet computer. The thermoelectric generator 100 may function as a charger for the electric device 300. For example, in an emergency or outdoor activity, the electric device 300 may be charged with the thermoelectric generator 100 and the cassette furnace 200.Moreover, the heat source is not limited to the cassette furnace 200. An example of the heat source is a chimney furnace, a warehouse fire, a charcoal fire, and waste heat from industrial facilities. In addition, the electric device 300 using the electric power of the thermoelectric generator 100 is not limited to a mobile device. An example of an electric device that uses the electric power of the thermoelectric power generator 100 is a fan, a radio, a humidifier, and a thermo hygrometer. The electric device such as a fan, a radio, a humidifier, and a thermo hygrometer is operated with the electric power supplied from the thermoelectric generator 100. Thus, even in a situation where wiring and power supply are difficult, electric power can be obtained by using the thermoelectric generator 100 and the heat source.Effect: EffectAs described above, according to the present embodiment, the first suction ports 71 are provided in the trim panel 51 and the second suction ports 72 are provided in the side panel 52. As a result, an overall area of the suction openings increases. Therefore, the low-temperature air in the exterior space OS sufficiently flows into the interior space IS. When the low-temperature air sufficiently flows into the interior space IS from the exterior space OS, a decrease in cooling performance of the fan 41 is suppressed, and the end surface 11 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is sufficiently cooled. Accordingly, there is a sufficient temperature difference between the end surface 11 and the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10. Since there is a sufficient temperature difference between the end surface 11 and the end surface 12, a decrease in power generation efficiency of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is suppressed.As described above, the cover member 50 functions as a finger guard that suppresses contact between the user's finger of the thermoelectric generator 100 and the fan 41 or the thermoelectric generator module 10. Therefore, the width of the first suction port 71 is limited. That is, it is necessary to reduce the width of the first suction port 71 so that the finger of the user does not pass through the first suction port 71. As the width of the first suction port 71 decreases, the flow path resistance of the air flowing through the first suction port 71 increases. In addition, even when the plurality of first suction ports 71 are provided in the trim panel 51, it is difficult to sufficiently increase the total area of the first suction ports 71. Therefore, by disposing the first suction ports 71 in the trim panel 51 alone, it may be difficult to sufficiently flow low-temperature air into the internal space IS.Further, since the shroud panel 51 and the fan 41 face each other, the fan 41 is an obstacle to the air flowing into the interior space IS via the first suction ports 71. Therefore, the pressure loss of the air that has flown into the internal space IS via the first suction port 71 increases, and there is a possibility that the air is not sufficiently supplied to the heat sink 30 provided on the -Z side of the fan 41. As a result, the cooling efficiency of the heat sink 30 may be lowered.In the present embodiment, the second suction ports 72 are provided in the side plate 52. Thus, the low-temperature air in the exterior space OS sufficiently flows into the interior space IS via the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72. Thereby, a decrease in cooling performance of the fan 41 is suppressed.In the present embodiment, the first space SP is formed between the shroud panel 51 and the fan 41. Accordingly, the pressure of the first space SP is increased by the air flowing into the internal space IS from the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72. Therefore, the air that comes into contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 and the temperature thereof rises is prevented from flowing in the +Z direction into the second space TP. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the air, which comes into contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 and the temperature of which rises, from being sucked into the fan 41 again. The low-temperature air that has flown into the internal space IS from the exterior space OS via the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72 is sucked into the fan 41, and the air that comes into contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 and the temperature rise thereof is prevented is sucked into the fan 41. Therefore, low temperature air is supplied from the fan 41 to the heat sink 30. Thereby, the heat sink 30 is sufficiently cooled, and a decrease in cooling efficiency of the fan 41 is suppressed.FIG. 5 is a graph illustrating an experimental result on a cooling effect of the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the present embodiment. In the experiment, a thermoelectric generator (Reference Example) having no cover member and a thermoelectric generator (Comparative Example 1, Comparative Example 2 and Embodiment) having a cover member were prepared, and after heating the heat receiving plate under the same conditions, the amounts of power generation performance of each of the thermoelectric generators were measured. In the thermoelectric generator according to Reference Example that does not have a cover member, sufficient low-temperature air is supplied to the heat sink 30 by the rotation of the fan 41. The low-temperature air is sufficiently supplied to the heat sink 30, and the end surface 11 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is sufficiently cooled so that a sufficient temperature difference is given between the end surface 11 and the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10. Therefore, the amount of power generation performance of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is large.The cover member of the thermoelectric generator according to Comparative Example 1 has the first suction ports 71 but does not have the second suction ports 72. In the thermoelectric generator according to Comparative Example 1, the first space SP between the shroud plate 51 and the fan 41 is small. Since the shroud plate 51 and the fan 41 are close to each other, inflow of air from the first suction port 71S provided among the plurality of first suction ports 71 at the position coincident with the rotation axis AX in the XY plane into the internal space IS is greatly restricted.The cover member of the thermoelectric generator according to Comparative Example 2 has the first suction ports 71 but does not have the second suction ports 72. In the thermoelectric generator according to Comparative Example 2, the first space SP between the shroud plate 51 and the fan 41 is large. Since the first space SP is large, the restriction of inflow of air from the first suction port 71S provided among the plurality of first suction ports 71 at the position coincident with the rotation axis AX in the XY plane into the internal space IS is small. However, an overall opening area is not sufficient.The cover member of the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the embodiment includes the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72, as described in the embodiment. In addition, in the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the embodiment, the first space SP between the shroud plate 51 and the fan 41 is large. Sufficient low-temperature air is supplied to the internal space IS via the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72. In addition, since the air that has flown into the interior space IS from the second suction ports 72 flows in a direction parallel to the XY plane, an air curtain effect that prevents the air that comes into contact with the heat sink 30 and whose temperature rises from flowing into the fan 41 is obtained.In FIG. 5, a vertical axis indicates a proportion of an amount of power generation performance of the thermoelectric generator according to Comparative Example 1, Comparative Example 2, and Embodiment when the amount of power generation performance of the thermoelectric generator according to Reference Example is 100%.As illustrated in FIG. 5, the amount of power generation performance of the thermoelectric generator according to Comparative Example 1 is 43% of the amount of power generation performance of the thermoelectric generator according to Reference Example. In the thermoelectric generator according to Comparative Example 1, the second suction ports 72 are not present, and air flows into the internal space IS only from the first suction ports 71. Therefore, even when the fan 41 rotates, it is difficult for enough air to flow from the exterior space OS into the interior space IS. Moreover, the first space SP is small, and it is difficult for the air that has flown into the internal space IS via the first suction ports 71 to flow through the second space TP in the -Z direction. Accordingly, there is a high possibility that the air, which comes into contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 and whose temperature rises, flows through the second space TP in the +Z direction and is sucked into the fan 41 again. Therefore, the end surface 11 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is not sufficiently cooled. As a result, the temperature difference between the end surface 11 and the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is small, and the amount of power generation performance of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is small.The amount of power generation output from the thermoelectric generator according to Comparative Example 2 is 78 % of the amount of power generation output from the thermoelectric generator according to Reference Example. In the thermoelectric generator according to Comparative Example 2, although the second suction ports 72 are not present, the first space SP is sufficiently present. Accordingly, the air that has flown into the internal space IS via the first suction port 71 can flow through the second space TP in the - Z direction. Therefore, the air that comes into contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 and the temperature thereof rises is prevented from flowing through the second space TP in the +Z direction and being sucked into the fan 41 again. Therefore, in the thermoelectric generator according to Comparative Example 2, the end surface 11 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is cooled as compared with the thermoelectric generator according to Comparative Example 1, and thus the temperature difference between the end surface 11 and the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is larger than the temperature difference according to Comparative Example 1.The amount of power generation performance of the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the embodiment is 94% of the amount of power generation performance of the thermoelectric generator 100 according to Reference Example. In the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the embodiment, sufficient low-temperature air is supplied to the internal space IS via both the first suction port 71 and the second suction port 72. In addition, since a first space SP is sufficiently present, the air that has flown into the internal space IS via the first suction ports 71 and the second suction ports 72 can flow through the second space TP in the -Z direction. Therefore, the air that comes into contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 and the temperature thereof rises is prevented from flowing through the second space TP in the +Z direction and being sucked into the fan 41 again. Therefore, in the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the embodiment, the end surface 11 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is sufficiently cooled, as compared with the thermoelectric generators according to Comparative Example 1 and Comparative Example 2, and thus the temperature difference between the end surface 11 and the end surface 12 of the thermoelectric generator module 10 is larger than the temperature differences according to Comparative Example 1 and Comparative Example 2.When a pressure of the first space SP according to the embodiment is represented by P, a pressure of the first space SP according to Comparative Example 1 is represented by P 1, a pressure of the first space SP according to Comparative Example 2 is represented by P 2, and a pressure between the discharge port 73 and the side plate 52 is represented by Ps, the relationship "P 1<P 2<P<PS" is satisfied. Accordingly, in the present embodiment, the air that comes into contact with the surface of the heat sink 30 and the temperature of which increases is prevented from being sucked into the fan 41. In the present embodiment, since the air currents in the first space SP and the second space TP act as an air curtain, the suction of the air, the temperature of which increases, into the fan 41 is more effectively prevented.Further EmbodimentsFIGS. 6 and 7 each show an enlarged view of a part of the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the present embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the -Z-side end 72B of the second suction port 72 is located at the same position as the +Z-side end 41A of the fan 41 in the Z-axis direction. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the -Z-side end 72B of the second suction port 72 may be disposed on the +Z side in the Z-axis direction with respect to the +Z-side end 41A of the fan 41. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the -Z-side end 72B of the second suction port 72 may be disposed on the -Z side in the Z-axis direction with respect to the +Z-side end 41A of the fan 41.That is, the +Z-side end 72A of the second suction port 72 may be disposed on the +Z-side in the Z-axis direction with respect to the +Z-side end 41A of the fan 41. The +Z-side end 72A of the second suction port 72A is disposed on the +Z-side in the Z-axis direction with respect to the +Z-side end 41A of the fan 41, and thus, as described in the embodiment, it is possible to suppress the decrease in the cooling performance of the fan 41.Moreover, in the Z-axis direction, the +Z-side end 73A of the outlet port 73 may be disposed at the same position as the +Z-side end 30A (the +Z-side tip of the fin 32) of the heat sink 30, or may be disposed on the +Z side with respect to the +Z-side end 30A of the heat sink 30.Moreover, in the Z-axis direction, the -Z-side end 73B of the discharge port 73B may be disposed at the same position as the support surface 33 of the heat radiating plate 31, or may be disposed on the +Z side with respect to the support surface 33 of the heat radiating plate 31.In the above-described embodiment, the first discharge port 731 provided in the first side plate 521 and the second side plate 522 is formed to be elongated in the Y-axis direction. However, similar to the second outlet port 732, the first outlet port 731 may be elongated in the Z-axis direction. Moreover, in a case where the first outlet ports 731 are elongated in the Z-axis direction, the distance between the first outlet ports 731 adjacent in the Y-axis direction may be an integer multiple of the distance between the ribs 32 adjacent in the Y-axis direction.FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the present embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 8, a guide plate 400 may be disposed in at least a part of the second space TP between the inner surface of the side plate 52 and the fan unit 40 and the heat sink 30. The guide plate 400 is an annular member and divides the second space TP into a +Z-side space and a -Z-side space with respect to the guide plate 400. In the example illustrated in FIG. 8, the guide plate 400 is disposed to connect the end 42B of the fan case 42 of the fan unit 40 and the inner surface of the side plate 52 to each other. The guide plate 400 is disposed so as to be able to sufficiently prevent heated air flowing out of the heat sink 30 (between the fins 32) from flowing upward through the second space TP as indicated by the arrow Fb.List of reference characters10 Thermoelectric generator module 11 End face 12 End face 13 Semiconductor thermoelectric element, p-type 14 Semiconductor thermoelectric element, n-type 15 electrode 16 first substrate 17 second substrate 18 connection pipe 20 heat receiving plate 21 connection surface 22 heat receiving surface 30 heat sink 30A end 30B end 31 heat radiating plate 32 fin 33 support surface 34 connection surface 35 flange 36 flange 40 fan unit 41 fan 41A end 41B end 42 fan case 42A end 42B end 43 support member 50 cover member 51 trim plate 52 side plate 61 screw 62 screw 63 coil spring 64 screw 71 first suction port 72 second suction port 72A end 72B end 73 discharge port 73A end 73B end 80 terminal 90 cable 100 thermoelectric generator 200 cassette furnace 300 electric device 400 guide plate 521 first side plate 522 second side plate 523 third side plate 524 fourth side plate 721 straight edge 722 Straight edge 723 Bent edge 724 Bent edge 731 First outlet opening 732 Second outlet opening 7311 Straight edge 7312 Straight edge 7313 Bent edge 7314 Bent edge 7321 Straight edge 7322 Straight edge 7323 Bent edge 7324 Bent edge AX Rotation axis IS Inner space OS Outer space SP First space TP Second space

Claims

A thermoelectric generator (100) comprising: a thermoelectric generator module (10); a fan (41) rotatable about a rotation axis (AX) and disposed on one side of the thermoelectric generator module (10) in a first axis direction parallel to the rotation axis (AX); a cover member (50) having a shroud plate (51) disposed on one side of the fan (41) in the first axis direction and facing the fan (41), and a side plate (52) disposed around the fan (41) from the one side of the fan (41) toward the other side of the fan (41); a first suction port (71) provided in the shroud plate (51); a second suction port (72) provided in the side plate (52) and at least a part of which is disposed on one side with respect to the fan (41) in the first axis direction; and a discharge port (73) provided in the side plate (52) and disposed on the other side with respect to the fan (41) in the first axis direction.The thermoelectric generator (100) according to claim 1, wherein the second suction port (72) faces a first space (SP) between an inner surface of the shroud plate (51) and the fan (41), respectively, and a second space (TP) between an inner surface of the side plate (52) and the fan (41), respectively.The thermoelectric generator (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second suction port (72) has one side end (72A) and the other side end (72B) in the first axis direction, the fan (41) has one side end (41A) and another side end (41B) in the first axis direction, and the other side end (72B) of the second suction port (72) is disposed at the same position as the side end (41A) of the fan (41) or is disposed on the one side with respect to the one side end (41A) of the fan (41) in the first axis direction.The thermoelectric generator (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a heat sink (30) disposed between the thermoelectric generator module (10) and the fan (41) in the first axis direction and having a heat radiating plate (31) connected to one side end surface (11) of the thermoelectric generator module (10); and a heat receiving plate (20) connected to another side end surface (12) of the thermoelectric generator module (10) in the first axis direction.The thermoelectric generator (100) according to claim 4, wherein a dimension of the second suction port (72) is equal to or larger than a dimension of the heat sink (30) in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis (AX).The thermoelectric generator (100) according to claim 5, wherein the side plate (52) includes a first side plate (521) and a second side plate (522) disposed with a gap with respect to the first side plate (521) in a second axis direction orthogonal to the rotation axis (AX), a third side plate (523) disposed between the first side plate (521) and the second side plate (522) and connected to the first side plate (521) and the second side plate (522), and a fourth side plate (524) disposed with a gap with respect to the third side plate (523) in a third axis direction orthogonal to the first axis direction and the second axis direction and connected to the first side plate (521) and the second side plate (522), and the second suction port (72) is provided in at least one of the first side plate (521), the second side plate (522), the third side plate (523) and the fourth side plate (524).The thermoelectric generator (100) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the outlet opening (73) has one side end (73A) and another side end (73B) in the first axis direction, the heat sink (30) has one side end (30A) and another side end (30B) in the first axis direction, and the one side end (73A) of the outlet opening (73) is disposed on the other side with respect to the one side end (30A) of the heat sink (30) in the first axis direction.The thermoelectric generator (100) according to claim 7, wherein the heat sink (30) includes a rib (32) connected to a support surface (33) of the heat radiating plate (31), one side end (30A) of the heat sink (30) includes a tip of the rib (32), and the other side end (73B) of the discharge port (73) is disposed on the other side in the first axis direction with respect to the support surface (33) of the heat radiating plate (31).The thermoelectric generator (100) according to claim 8, wherein the outlet opening (73) is long in the first axis direction and a plurality of outlet openings (73) are provided in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis (AX), the rib (32) is long in the first axis direction and a plurality of the ribs (32) are provided in the direction orthogonal to the rotation axis (AX), and wherein a center line of the cover member (50) between the adjacent outlet openings (73) and a center line of the rib (32) coincide in the direction orthogonal to the rotation axis (AX), and a distance between the outlet openings (73) is an integer multiple of a distance between the ribs (32).

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