Thermoelectric conversion module

Abstract

To provide a thermoelectric conversion module which is usable with deformation.SOLUTION: A thermoelectric conversion module 10 comprises: a substrate 12 which is formed in a sheet with an insulative material and deformable in a thickness direction thereof; an N-type CNT yarn 14N which is formed in the shape of filament with a carbon nanotube and provided along the substrate 12; and a P-type CNT yarn 14P which is formed in the shape of filament with a carbon nanotube, provided along the substrate 12 and connected to the N-type CNT yarn 14N. A temperature difference occurs between terminals of the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P, such that a thermal electromotive force is generated between the terminals of the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P, and a voltage is applied between the terminals of the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P, such that a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a thermoelectric conversion module.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 below discloses a thermoelectric power generation device enabling thermoelectric power generation using a carbon nanotube composite yarn. The carbon nanotube composite yarn described in this document is a thermoelectric power generation yarn formed by impregnating or coating a natural-derived yarn, a synthetic fiber yarn, or a mixed yarn thereof with a dispersion containing carbon nanotubes. Further, the thermoelectric power generation device has a configuration in which lead wires for power generation output are connected to both ends of the thermoelectric power generation yarn.

[0003] By the way, depending on the mode in which a thermoelectric conversion module such as the thermoelectric power generation device described in Patent Document 1 below is used, it may be desired that the thermoelectric conversion module can be deformed and used, but the configuration described in Patent Document 1 below has room for improvement in this regard.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In consideration of the above facts, an object of the present invention is to obtain a thermoelectric conversion module that can be deformed and used.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The thermoelectric conversion module according to the first aspect includes an insulator formed in a sheet shape using an insulating material and deformable in its thickness direction, a first conductive portion formed in a thread shape using carbon nanotubes and provided along the insulator, and a second conductive portion formed in a thread shape using carbon nanotubes and provided along the insulator and connected to the first conductive portion. When a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion. When a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion, a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion.

[0007] The thermoelectric conversion module according to the second aspect is the thermoelectric conversion module according to the first aspect, wherein the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion are fixed to the insulator by sewing.

[0008] The thermoelectric conversion module according to the third aspect is the thermoelectric conversion module according to the second aspect, wherein the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion are repeatedly exposed on one surface and the other surface of the insulator.

[0009] The thermoelectric conversion module according to the fourth aspect is the thermoelectric conversion module according to the first aspect, wherein the insulator is bent.

[0010] The thermoelectric conversion module according to the fifth aspect is the thermoelectric conversion module according to the first aspect, wherein the insulator is rolled up. When a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on the inner peripheral portion of the rolled-up insulator and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on the outer peripheral portion of the rolled-up insulator, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between the two terminals. When a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on the inner peripheral portion of the rolled-up insulator and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on the outer peripheral portion of the rolled-up insulator, a temperature difference occurs between the two terminals.

[0011] The thermoelectric conversion module according to the sixth aspect is the thermoelectric conversion module according to the first aspect, wherein the insulator is rolled up, and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on one axial side of the rolled-up insulator and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on the other axial side of the rolled-up insulator generate a temperature difference therebetween, thereby generating a thermoelectromotive force between both terminals. When a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on one axial side of the rolled-up insulator and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on the other axial side of the rolled-up insulator, a temperature difference is generated between both terminals.

[0012] The thermoelectric conversion module according to the seventh aspect is the thermoelectric conversion module according to the first aspect, wherein the insulator is bent in a ring shape, and a temperature difference is generated between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on a part of the insulator bent in a ring shape and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on another part of the insulator bent in a ring shape, thereby generating a thermoelectromotive force between both terminals. When a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on a part of the insulator bent in a ring shape and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on another part of the insulator bent in a ring shape, a temperature difference is generated between both terminals.

Advantages of the Invention

[0013] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the first aspect, when a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part provided along the insulator, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part. Further, when a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part provided along the insulator, a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part. Here, the insulator is formed in a sheet shape and can be deformed in its thickness direction. In addition to this, the first conductive part and the second conductive part provided along the insulator are formed in a filament shape using carbon nanotubes. In this configuration, the insulator can be deformed and used together with the first conductive part and the second conductive part.

[0014] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the second aspect, the first conductive part and the second conductive part are fixed to the insulator by sewing. In this configuration, other members for fixing the first conductive part and the second conductive part to the insulator can be made unnecessary, or the amount of other members used for fixing the first conductive part and the second conductive part to the insulator can be reduced.

[0015] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the third aspect, the first conductive part and the second conductive part are repeatedly exposed on one surface and the other surface of the insulator. In this configuration, it is possible to suppress the first conductive part and the second conductive part from being disposed unevenly on either one surface or the other surface of the insulator.

[0016] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the fourth aspect, the insulator can be used in a bent state.

[0017] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the fifth aspect, when a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the inner peripheral part of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape and the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the outer peripheral part of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between both terminals. Further, when a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the inner peripheral part of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape and the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the outer peripheral part of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape, a temperature difference occurs between both terminals. In this configuration, a thermoelectromotive force can be generated by the temperature difference between the inner peripheral part and the outer peripheral part of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape. Further, by applying a voltage, a temperature difference can be generated between the inner peripheral part and the outer peripheral part of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape.

[0018] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the sixth aspect, when a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on one axial side of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape and the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the other axial side of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between both terminals. Further, when a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on one axial side of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape and the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the other axial side of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape, a temperature difference occurs between both terminals. In this configuration, a thermoelectromotive force can be generated by the temperature difference between one axial side and the other axial side of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape. Further, by applying a voltage, a temperature difference can be generated between one axial side and the other axial side of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape.

[0019] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the seventh aspect, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between both terminals due to a temperature difference occurring between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on a part of the annularly bent insulator and the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the other part of the annularly bent insulator, and a temperature difference occurs between both terminals when a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on a part of the annularly bent insulator and the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the other part of the annularly bent insulator. In this configuration, a thermoelectromotive force can be generated by the temperature difference between a part of the annularly bent insulator and the other part of the annularly bent insulator. Further, by applying a voltage, a temperature difference can be generated between a part of the annularly bent insulator and the other part of the annularly bent insulator.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] (First Embodiment) The thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 1, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 includes a base material 12 as an insulator formed in a sheet shape, an N-type CNT yarn 14N as a first conductive portion provided along the base material 12, and a P-type CNT yarn 14P as a second conductive portion.

[0023] The base material 12 is formed in a sheet shape using an insulating material and can be deformed in its thickness direction. Here, as the base material 12, for example, insulating cloth, paper, or the like can be used. Further, the base material 12 of the present embodiment is formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from the thickness direction of the base material 12. Note that one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12 is indicated by an arrow L, and one side in the short transverse direction of the base material 12 is indicated by an arrow S.

[0024] The N-type CNT yarn 14N is formed in a yarn shape using carbon nanotubes. This N-type CNT yarn 14N is manufactured through steps such as immersing the P-type CNT yarn 14P described later in an N-type doping solution. Note that the N-type CNT yarn 14N may be fixed to one surface of the base material 12 by adhesion or the like, or may be fixed to the base material 12 by sewing.

[0025] The P-type CNT yarn 14P is formed in a thread shape using carbon nanotubes. Note that the P-type CNT yarn 14P may be fixed to one surface of the base material 12 by adhesion or the like, or may be fixed to the base material 12 by sewing or the like, similar to the N-type CNT yarn 14N.

[0026] Specifically, on the base material 12, the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1, the second N-type CNT yarn 14N2, the third N-type CNT yarn 14N3, the fourth N-type CNT yarn 14N4, the fifth N-type CNT yarn 14N5, the sixth N-type CNT yarn 14N6, the seventh N-type CNT yarn 14N7, the eighth N-type CNT yarn 14N8, and the ninth N-type CNT yarn 14N9 are fixed in order from the other side to one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. These first to ninth N-type CNT yarns 14N extend linearly along the short side direction of the base material 12.

[0027] Also, on the base material 12, the first P-type CNT yarn 14P1, the second P-type CNT yarn 14P2, the third P-type CNT yarn 14P3, the fourth P-type CNT yarn 14P4, the fifth P-type CNT yarn 14P5, the sixth P-type CNT yarn 14P6, the seventh P-type CNT yarn 14P7, the eighth P-type CNT yarn 14P8, and the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9 are fixed in order from the other side to one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. These first to eighth P-type CNT yarns 14P extend linearly and inclined toward one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12 as they go from one side to the other side in the short side direction of the base material 12. Also, the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9 extends linearly along the short side direction of the base material 12.

[0028] And one end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the first P-type CNT yarn 14P1 is electrically connected to one end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1. The other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the first P-type CNT yarn 14P1 is electrically connected to the other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the second N-type CNT yarn 14N2. One end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the second P-type CNT yarn 14P2 is electrically connected to one end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the second N-type CNT yarn 14N2. The other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the second P-type CNT yarn 14P2 is electrically connected to the other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the third N-type CNT yarn 14N3. One end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the third P-type CNT yarn 14P3 is electrically connected to one end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the third N-type CNT yarn 14N3. The other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the third P-type CNT yarn 14P3 is electrically connected to the other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the fourth N-type CNT yarn 14N4. One end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the fourth P-type CNT yarn 14P4 is electrically connected to one end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the fourth N-type CNT yarn 14N4. The other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the fourth P-type CNT yarn 14P4 is electrically connected to the other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the fifth N-type CNT yarn 14N5. One end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the fifth P-type CNT yarn 14P5 is electrically connected to one end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the fifth N-type CNT yarn 14N5. The other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the fifth P-type CNT yarn 14P5 is electrically connected to the other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the sixth N-type CNT yarn 14N6. One end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the sixth P-type CNT yarn 14P6 is electrically connected to one end of the base material 12 on one side in the short side direction of the sixth N-type CNT yarn 14N6. The other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the sixth P-type CNT yarn 14P6 is electrically connected to the other end of the base material 12 on the other side in the short side direction of the seventh N-type CNT yarn 14N7.One end of the substrate 12 on one side in the short direction of the seventh P-type CNT yarn 14P7 is electrically connected to one end of the substrate 12 on one side in the short direction of the seventh N-type CNT yarn 14N7. One end of the substrate 12 on the other side in the short direction of the seventh P-type CNT yarn 14P7 is electrically connected to one end of the substrate 12 on the other side in the short direction of the eighth N-type CNT yarn 14N8. One end of the substrate 12 on one side in the short direction of the eighth P-type CNT yarn 14P8 is electrically connected to one end of the substrate 12 on one side in the short direction of the eighth N-type CNT yarn 14N8. One end of the substrate 12 on the other side in the short direction of the eighth P-type CNT yarn 14P8 is electrically connected to one end of the substrate 12 on the other side in the short direction of the ninth N-type CNT yarn 14N9. One end of the substrate 12 on one side in the short direction of the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9 is electrically connected to one end of the substrate 12 on one side in the short direction of the ninth N-type CNT yarn 14N9.

[0029] Here, the connection part between the P-type CNT yarn 14P and the N-type CNT yarn 14N on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is referred to as the first connection part 16A. Also, the connection part between the P-type CNT yarn 14P and the N-type CNT yarn 14N on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is referred to as the second connection part 16B. And in this embodiment, nine first connection parts 16A are arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12 at one end 12A of the substrate 12 on one side in the short direction. Also, nine second connection parts 16B are arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12 at one end 12B of the substrate 12 on the other side in the short direction. Note that the pair of wires 18A and 18B drawn from the substrate 12 side are wires connected to the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9 respectively. These pair of wires 18A and 18B may be the same yarn as the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9 respectively, or may be copper wires or the like.

[0030] (Operations and Effects of this Embodiment) Next, the operations and effects of this embodiment will be described.

[0031] In the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the present embodiment described above, when a voltage is applied between the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9, a temperature difference occurs between the plurality of first connection portions 16A and the plurality of second connection portions 16B. This is the so-called "Peltier effect". For example, the plurality of first connection portions 16A become low temperature, and the plurality of second connection portions 16B become high temperature. Thereby, it is possible to cool the vicinity of the end portion 12A on one side in the short side direction of the base material 12 in the thermoelectric conversion module 10, and it is possible to warm the vicinity of the end portion 12B on the other side in the short side direction of the base material 12 in the thermoelectric conversion module 10.

[0032] Further, in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the present embodiment, when a temperature difference occurs between the plurality of first connection portions 16A and the plurality of second connection portions 16B, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9. This is the so-called "Seebeck effect". For example, when cooling the vicinity of the end portion 12A on one side in the short side direction of the base material 12 in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and warming the vicinity of the end portion 12B on the other side in the short side direction of the base material 12 in the thermoelectric conversion module 10, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9.

[0033] By the way, the base material 12 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the present embodiment is formed in a sheet shape and can be deformed in its thickness direction. In addition to this, the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P provided along the base material 12 are formed in a yarn shape using carbon nanotubes. In this configuration, the base material 12 can be deformed and used together with the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P.

[0034] Further, in the configuration in which the N-type CNT yarns 14N and the P-type CNT yarns 14P are fixed to the base material 12 by sewing, other members for fixing the N-type CNT yarns 14N and the P-type CNT yarns 14P to the base material 12 can be made unnecessary, or the amount of other members used for fixing the N-type CNT yarns 14N and the P-type CNT yarns 14P to the base material 12 can be reduced.

[0035] In addition, in a configuration where the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P are sewn and fixed to the base material 12, and the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P are repeatedly exposed on one surface and the other surface of the base material 12, it is possible to suppress the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P from being disposed unevenly on either one surface or the other surface of the base material 12.

[0036] (Second Embodiment to Fourth Embodiment) Next, the thermoelectric conversion modules 20, 22, and 24 according to the second to fourth embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4. In the thermoelectric conversion modules 20, 22, and 24 according to the second to fourth embodiments, members and portions corresponding to those of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment may be denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the members and portions corresponding to the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 2, the thermoelectric conversion module 20 of the second embodiment has the same configuration as the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the first embodiment, except that the base material 12 is bent in a bellows shape along the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. Specifically, the base material 12 is bent in a V shape along the short side direction of the base material 12 and toward one side in the thickness direction of the base material 12 between the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the second N-type CNT yarn 14N2. Further, the base material 12 is bent in a V shape along the short side direction of the base material 12 and toward the other side in the thickness direction of the base material 12 between the second N-type CNT yarn 14N2 and the third N-type CNT yarn 14N3. Further, the base material 12 is bent in a V shape along the short side direction of the base material 12 and toward one side in the thickness direction of the base material 12 between the third N-type CNT yarn 14N3 and the fourth N-type CNT yarn 14N4. Further, the base material 12 is bent in a V shape along the short side direction of the base material 12 and toward the other side in the thickness direction of the base material 12 between the fourth N-type CNT yarn 14N4 and the fifth N-type CNT yarn 14N5. Further, the base material 12 is bent in a V shape along the short side direction of the base material 12 and toward one side in the thickness direction of the base material 12 between the fifth N-type CNT yarn 14N5 and the sixth N-type CNT yarn 14N6. Further, the base material 12 is bent in a V shape along the short side direction of the base material 12 and toward the other side in the thickness direction of the base material 12 between the sixth N-type CNT yarn 14N6 and the seventh N-type CNT yarn 14N7. Further, the base material 12 is bent in a V shape along the short side direction of the base material 12 and toward one side in the thickness direction of the base material 12 between the seventh N-type CNT yarn 14N7 and the eighth N-type CNT yarn 14N8. Further, the base material 12 is bent in a V shape along the short side direction of the base material 12 and toward the other side in the thickness direction of the base material 12 between the eighth N-type CNT yarn 14N8 and the ninth N-type CNT yarn 14N9. Thus, in the thermoelectric conversion module 20 of the second embodiment, the base material 12 can be bent in a bellows shape along the longitudinal direction of the base material 12 for use.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 3, the thermoelectric conversion module 22 of the third embodiment has the same configuration as the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the first embodiment, except that the base material 12 is rolled up in a roll shape. Specifically, the base material 12 is rolled up in a roll shape such that a plurality of first connection portions 16A (see FIG. 1) are arranged on the inner peripheral portion and a plurality of second connection portions 16B are arranged on the outer peripheral portion. In the thermoelectric conversion module 22 having this configuration, a thermoelectromotive force can be generated by the temperature difference between the inner peripheral portion of the base material 12 rolled up in a roll shape and the outer peripheral portion of the base material 12 rolled up in a roll shape. Further, by applying a voltage, a temperature difference can be generated between the inner peripheral portion of the base material 12 rolled up in a roll shape and the outer peripheral portion of the base material 12 rolled up in a roll shape.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 4, the thermoelectric conversion module 24 of the fourth embodiment has the same configuration as the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the first embodiment, except that a plurality of N-type CNT yarns 14N and a plurality of P-type CNT yarns 14P are provided along the circumferential direction (arrow C direction) of the base material 12 formed in an annular shape when viewed from the thickness direction. In the thermoelectric conversion module 24 of the present embodiment, the circumferential interval between the plurality of second connection portions 16B is wider than the circumferential interval between the plurality of first connection portions 16A. A part of the circumferential direction of the base material 12 is cut along the radial direction (arrow R direction) of the base material 12. In the thermoelectric conversion module 24 of the present embodiment described above, for example, the base material 12 can be deformed and used in such a manner as to cover the outer surface of a member formed in a conical shape. The shape of the base material 12 when viewed from the thickness direction may be appropriately set in consideration of the mode of using the thermoelectric conversion module 24. For example, the shape of the base material 12 when viewed from the thickness direction may be formed into a circular shape or a square shape.

[0040] (Fifth Embodiment and Sixth Embodiment) Next, the configurations of the thermoelectric conversion modules 26 and 28 according to the fifth and sixth embodiments of the present invention will be described together with the manufacturing method with reference to FIGS. 5 to 14. In the thermoelectric conversion modules 26 and 28 according to the fifth and sixth embodiments, members and parts corresponding to those of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment may be denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0041] First, as shown in FIG. 5, the N-type CNT yarn 14N is fixed to the base material 12 by sewing. The N-type CNT yarn 14N fixed to the base material 12 by sewing has an inclined portion 30N that is inclined toward the other side in the short-side direction of the base material 12 as it goes toward one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12, and a straight portion 32N that extends toward one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The inclined portion 30N and the straight portion 32N are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the base material 12 and are connected to each other. Hereinafter, a plurality of inclined portions 30N and a plurality of straight portions 32N that are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the base material 12 and are connected to each other will be referred to as an N-type CNT yarn row 34N. In the present embodiment, a plurality of N-type CNT yarn rows 34N are arranged at intervals along the short-side direction of the base material 12. Note that the sewing of the N-type CNT yarn 14N to the base material 12 may be performed for each of the plurality of N-type CNT yarn rows 34N, or may be performed for the plurality of N-type CNT yarn rows 34N at once. In the case of sewing the plurality of N-type CNT yarn rows 34N at once, unnecessary portions may be removed.

[0042] Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the P-type CNT yarn 14P is fixed to the base material 12 by sewing. The P-type CNT yarn 14P in the state of being fixed to the base material 12 by sewing has an inclined portion 30P that inclines toward one side in the short-side direction of the base material 12 as it goes toward one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12, and a straight portion 32P that extends toward one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The inclined portion 30P and the straight portion 32P are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the base material 12 and are connected to each other. A plurality of inclined portions 30P and a plurality of straight portions 32P that are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the base material 12 and are connected to each other are hereinafter referred to as a P-type CNT yarn row 34P. In the present embodiment, a plurality of P-type CNT yarn rows 34P are arranged at intervals along the short-side direction of the base material 12. Note that the sewing of the P-type CNT yarn 14P to the base material 12 may be performed for each of the plurality of P-type CNT yarn rows 34P, or may be performed for the plurality of P-type CNT yarn rows 34P at once. In the case of sewing the plurality of P-type CNT yarn rows 34P at once, unnecessary portions may be removed. Also, the straight portion 32N of the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the straight portion 32P of the P-type CNT yarn 14P arranged at the same positions in the longitudinal and short-side directions of the base material 12 overlap in the thickness direction of the base material 12.

[0043] Next, as shown in FIG. 7, unnecessary portions are cut from the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P fixed to the base material 12. As an example, unnecessary portions are cut from the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P fixed to the base material 12 by irradiating with a laser or the like. Here, the straight portion 32N of the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the straight portion 32P of the P-type CNT yarn 14P arranged at the determined positions are cut. Note that the cut portions in the straight portion 32N of the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the straight portion 32P of the P-type CNT yarn 14P are indicated by reference sign P1. By going through the above steps, the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P are formed into a determined pattern.

[0044] Next, as shown in FIG. 8, in order to ensure electrical connection between a defined location on the N-type CNT yarn 14N and a defined location on the P-type CNT yarn 14P, both are securely connected using a conductive paste or the like. Note that the location where a conductive member such as a conductive paste is used is indicated by reference numeral P2. Here, in a state after the sewing process shown in FIG. 6, if the electrical connection between the defined location on the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the defined location on the P-type CNT yarn 14P is securely made, the process shown in FIG. 8 may be omitted.

[0045] Next, as shown in FIG. 9, the surface of the base material 12 is coated with an insulating coating layer 36 together with the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P. Note that the coating layer 36 is a thin film formed using, for example, silicone or the like. Here, this coating layer 36 can also be adopted for the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and the like of each of the above-described embodiments. By providing this coating layer 36, short-circuiting of the circuit is further suppressed.

[0046] Next, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the base material 12 is bent in a bellows shape along the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. Here, the base material 12 will be described as being divided into six parts along the longitudinal direction with the bent portion as a boundary line. Then, each of the six divided parts of the base material 12 will be referred to as a first layer portion 12C1, a second layer portion 12C2, a third layer portion 12C3, a fourth layer portion 12C4, a fifth layer portion 12C5, and a sixth layer portion 12C6 in order from the other side to one side in the longitudinal direction. Note that the boundary line indicated by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 9 is a portion bent in a mountain fold, and the boundary line indicated by a broken line is a portion bent in a valley fold.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 9, in the first layer portion 12C1, a first inclined portion 30N1, a second inclined portion 30N2, a third inclined portion 30N3, a fourth inclined portion 30N4, a fifth inclined portion 30N5, and a sixth inclined portion 30N6 are provided in order from one side to the other side in the short side direction of the base material 12. Further, in the first layer portion 12C1, a first inclined portion 30P1, a second inclined portion 30P2, a third inclined portion 30P3, a fourth inclined portion 30P4, and a fifth inclined portion 30P5 are provided in order from one side to the other side in the short side direction of the base material 12. The first inclined portion 30N1 and the first inclined portion 30P1 are connected on one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The first inclined portion 30P1 and the second inclined portion 30N2 are connected on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The second inclined portion 30N2 and the second inclined portion 30P2 are connected on one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The second inclined portion 30P2 and the third inclined portion 30N3 are connected on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The third inclined portion 30N3 and the third inclined portion 30P3 are connected on one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The third inclined portion 30P3 and the fourth inclined portion 30N4 are connected on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The fourth inclined portion 30N4 and the fourth inclined portion 30P4 are connected on one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The fourth inclined portion 30P4 and the fifth inclined portion 30N5 are connected on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The fifth inclined portion 30N5 and the fifth inclined portion 30P5 are connected on one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The fifth inclined portion 30P5 and the sixth inclined portion 30N6 are connected on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12.

[0048] In the second layer portion 12C2, a first inclined portion 30N1, a second inclined portion 30N2, a third inclined portion 30N3, a fourth inclined portion 30N4, and a fifth inclined portion 30N5 are provided in order from one side to the other side in the short side direction of the base material 12. In the first layer portion 12C1, a first inclined portion 30P1, a second inclined portion 30P2, a third inclined portion 30P3, a fourth inclined portion 30P4, a fifth inclined portion 30P5, and a sixth inclined portion 30P6 are provided in order from one side to the other side in the short side direction of the base material 12. The first inclined portion 30P1 and the first inclined portion 30N1 are connected on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The first inclined portion 30N1 and the second inclined portion 30P2 are connected on one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The second inclined portion 30P2 and the second inclined portion 30N2 are connected on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The second inclined portion 30N2 and the third inclined portion 30P3 are connected on one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The third inclined portion 30P3 and the third inclined portion 30N3 are connected on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The third inclined portion 30N3 and the fourth inclined portion 30P4 are connected on one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The fourth inclined portion 30P4 and the fourth inclined portion 30N4 are connected on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The fourth inclined portion 30N4 and the fifth inclined portion 30P5 are connected on one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The fifth inclined portion 30P5 and the fifth inclined portion 30N5 are connected on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The fifth inclined portion 30N5 and the sixth inclined portion 30P6 are connected on one side in the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. The sixth inclined portion 30P6 of the second layer portion 12C2 and the sixth inclined portion 30N6 of the first layer portion 12C1 are connected via the straight portions 32N and 32P.

[0049] The configurations of the third layer portion 12C3 and the fourth layer portion 12C4 are the same as the configurations of the first layer portion 12C1 and the second layer portion 12C2, respectively. The first inclined portion 30N1 of the third layer portion 12C3 and the first inclined portion 30P1 of the second layer portion 12C2 are connected via the straight portions 32N and 32P. Further, the sixth inclined portion 30P6 of the fourth layer portion 12C4 and the sixth inclined portion 30N6 of the third layer portion 12C3 are connected via the straight portions 32N and 32P.

[0050] The structures of the fifth layer portion 12C5 and the sixth layer portion 12C6 are the same as the structures of the first layer portion 12C1 and the second layer portion 12C2, respectively. Also, the first inclined portion 30N1 of the fifth layer portion 12C5 and the first inclined portion 30P1 of the fourth layer portion 12C4 are connected via the straight portions 32N and 32P. Further, the sixth inclined portion 30P6 of the sixth layer portion 12C6 and the sixth inclined portion 30N6 of the fifth layer portion 12C5 are connected via the straight portions 32N and 32P.

[0051] Next, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the first layer portion 12C1, the second layer portion 12C2, the third layer portion 12C3, the fourth layer portion 12C4, the fifth layer portion 12C5, and the sixth layer portion 12C6 of the base material 12 bent in a bellows shape are overlapped with each other. As a result, a plurality of inclined portions 30N and a plurality of inclined portions 30P arranged in the first layer portion 12C1, the second layer portion 12C2, the third layer portion 12C3, the fourth layer portion 12C4, the fifth layer portion 12C5, and the sixth layer portion 12C6 overlap each other.

[0052] Next, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the base material 12 in which the first layer portion 12C1, the second layer portion 12C2, the third layer portion 12C3, the fourth layer portion 12C4, the fifth layer portion 12C5, and the sixth layer portion 12C6 are overlapped is rolled along the short side direction of the first layer portion 12C1, the second layer portion 12C2, the third layer portion 12C3, the fourth layer portion 12C4, the fifth layer portion 12C5, and the sixth layer portion 12C6. Thereby, the thermoelectric conversion module 26 of the present embodiment is formed. Here, in the thermoelectric conversion module 26 of the present embodiment, a plurality of second connection portions 16B are arranged at one end portion 12D in the axial direction of the base material 12 rolled in a roll shape, and a plurality of first connection portions 16A are arranged at the other end portion 12E in the axial direction of the base material 12 rolled in a roll shape. In the thermoelectric conversion module 26 having this configuration, a thermoelectromotive force can be generated by the temperature difference between one end portion 12D in the axial direction of the base material 12 rolled in a roll shape and the other end portion 12E in the axial direction of the base material 12 rolled in a roll shape. Also, by applying a voltage, a temperature difference can be generated between one end portion 12D in the axial direction of the base material 12 rolled in a roll shape and the other end portion 12E in the axial direction of the base material 12 rolled in a roll shape.

[0053] Also, the thermoelectric conversion module 28 of the sixth embodiment shown in FIG. 14 has a configuration in which a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules 26 are arranged and are connected in series with each other. In the thermoelectric conversion module 28 of the sixth embodiment, it is possible to cope with higher output compared with the configuration using a single thermoelectric conversion module 26.

[0054] Note that, in the thermoelectric conversion module 28 of the sixth embodiment, an example in which the surface of the base material 12 is coated with the insulating coating layer 36 together with the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the surfaces of the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P may be coated with the insulating coating layer 36 respectively, and the N-type CNT yarn 14N and the P-type CNT yarn 14P coated with the coating layer 36 may be sewn to the base material 12. That is, the base material 12 may not be coated with the coating layer 36.

[0055] (Seventh Embodiment) Next, the thermoelectric conversion module 38 according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 15. In the thermoelectric conversion module 38 according to the seventh embodiment, members and parts corresponding to those of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment may be denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 15, in the thermoelectric conversion module 38 of the present embodiment, the base material 12 formed in a strip shape or the base material 12 that becomes strip-shaped by being folded is bent into a ring shape. In this thermoelectric conversion module 38, the first connection portion 16A (see FIG. 1) is concentrated and arranged on a part 12F of the base material 12, and the second connection portion 16B (see FIG. 1) is concentrated and arranged on another part 12G of the base material 12. In this configuration, a thermoelectromotive force can be generated by the temperature difference between a part 12F of the base material 12 bent into a ring shape and another part 12G of the base material 12 bent into a ring shape. Further, by applying a voltage, a temperature difference can be generated between a part 12F of the base material 12 bent into a ring shape and another part 12G of the base material 12 bent into a ring shape.

[0057] As described above, an embodiment of the present invention has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the above, and it goes without saying that various modifications can be made and implemented within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention.

[0058] In addition, the configurations of the embodiments described above can also be combined with each other.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0059] 10 Thermoelectric conversion module 12 Base material (insulator) 14N N-type CNT yarn (first conductive portion) 14P P-type CNT yarn (second conductive portion) 20 Thermoelectric conversion module 22 Thermoelectric conversion module 24 Thermoelectric conversion module 26 Thermoelectric conversion module 28 Thermoelectric conversion module 38 Thermoelectric conversion module

Claims

1. An insulator formed in a sheet shape using an insulating material and deformable in its thickness direction, A first conductive part formed in a thread shape using carbon nanotubes and provided along the insulator, A second conductive part formed in a thread shape using carbon nanotubes, provided along the insulator and connected to the first conductive part, comprising: A thermoelectric conversion module in which a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part, thereby generating a thermoelectromotive force between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part, and a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part when a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part.

2. The thermoelectric conversion module according to claim 1, wherein the first conductive part and the second conductive part are fixed to the insulator by sewing.

3. The thermoelectric conversion module according to claim 2, wherein the first conductive part and the second conductive part are repeatedly exposed on one surface and the other surface of the insulator.

4. The thermoelectric conversion module according to claim 1, wherein the insulator is bent.

5. The insulator is rolled into a roll shape, A thermoelectromotive force is generated between the terminals by a temperature difference between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the inner peripheral part of the insulator rolled into a roll shape and the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the outer peripheral part of the insulator rolled into a roll shape, The thermoelectric conversion module according to claim 1, wherein a temperature difference occurs between the terminals when a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the inner peripheral part of the insulator rolled into a roll shape and the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the outer peripheral part of the insulator rolled into a roll shape.

6. The insulator is rolled into a roll shape, A thermoelectromotive force is generated between the terminals by a temperature difference between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on one axial side of the insulator rolled into a roll shape and the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the other axial side of the insulator rolled into a roll shape, A thermoelectric conversion module according to claim 1, wherein a temperature difference is generated between both terminals by applying a voltage between terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on one axial side of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape and terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the other axial side of the insulator rolled up in a roll shape.

7. the insulator is bent in an annular shape, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between both terminals due to a temperature difference generated between terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on a part of the insulator bent in an annular shape and terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on another part of the insulator bent in an annular shape, a thermoelectric conversion module according to claim 1, wherein a temperature difference is generated between both terminals by applying a voltage between terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on a part of the insulator bent in an annular shape and terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on another part of the insulator bent in an annular shape.

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