Power generation device

Abstract

A power generation device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a cooling unit, a first thermoelectric module including a first thermoelectric element arranged on a first surface of the cooling unit and a first heat sink arranged on the first thermoelectric element, and a first wiring unit connected to the first thermoelectric element, wherein a fluid containing portion is formed in a first region of the cooling unit, a tunnel is formed in a second region of the cooling unit, and the first wiring unit passes through the tunnel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a power generation device, and more particularly to a power generation device that generates electric power by utilizing the temperature difference between the low-temperature part and the high-temperature part of a thermoelectric element.

Background Art

[0002] The thermoelectric phenomenon is a phenomenon generated by the movement of electrons and holes inside a material, and means a direct energy conversion between heat and electricity.

[0003] A thermoelectric element is a general term for elements that utilize the thermoelectric phenomenon, and has a structure in which a P-type thermoelectric material and an N-type thermoelectric material are joined between metal electrodes to form a PN junction pair.

[0004] Thermoelectric elements can be classified into elements that utilize the temperature change of electrical resistance, elements that utilize the Seebeck effect, which is a phenomenon in which an electromotive force is generated due to a temperature difference, and elements that utilize the Peltier effect, which is a phenomenon in which heat absorption or heat generation occurs due to an electric current.

[0005] Thermoelectric elements are variously applied to home appliances, electronic components, communication components, etc. For example, thermoelectric elements can be applied to cooling devices, heating devices, power generation devices, etc. Along with this, the requirements for the thermoelectric performance of thermoelectric elements are increasing more and more.

[0006] Recently, there has been a need to generate electricity using the high-temperature waste heat generated from engines such as automobiles and ships and thermoelectric elements. At this time, a duct through which a first fluid passes is arranged on the low-temperature part side of the thermoelectric element, a heat dissipation fin is arranged on the high-temperature part side of the thermoelectric element, and a second fluid having a temperature higher than that of the first fluid can pass through the heat dissipation fin. Along with this, electricity can be generated by the temperature difference between the low-temperature part and the high-temperature part of the thermoelectric element, and the power generation performance can vary depending on the structure of the power generation device.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a power generation device that generates electricity by utilizing the temperature difference between the low-temperature part and the high-temperature part of a thermoelectric element.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0008] A power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cooling part, a first thermoelectric module including a first thermoelectric element disposed on a first surface of the cooling part and a first heat sink disposed on the first thermoelectric element, and a first wiring part connected to the first thermoelectric element. A fluid storage part is formed in a first region of the cooling part, a tunnel is formed in a second region of the cooling part, and the first wiring part passes through the tunnel.

[0009] The power generation device further includes a wiring lead-out part disposed on another surface perpendicular to the first surface of the cooling part. The tunnel is connected to the wiring lead-out part, and the first wiring part can be led out to the outside through the wiring lead-out part.

[0010] The first thermoelectric module is disposed in the first region on the first surface, the first wiring part is disposed in the second region on the first surface, and can be extended to the wiring lead-out part through the tunnel.

[0011] The power generation device further includes a fluid inlet part and a fluid outlet part disposed on the other surface of the cooling part and spaced apart from the wiring lead-out part. The fluid inlet part and the fluid outlet part are disposed in the first region, and the wiring lead-out part can be disposed in the second region.

[0012] The distance between the fluid inlet part and the fluid outlet part may be the same as the distance between the fluid inlet part or the fluid outlet part and the wiring lead-out part.

[0013] A second thermoelectric module including a second thermoelectric element disposed on a second surface facing the first surface of the cooling part and a second heat sink disposed on the second thermoelectric element, and a second wiring part connected to the second thermoelectric element. The second wiring part can be led out to the outside through the wiring lead-out part.

[0014] The second thermoelectric module is disposed in the first region on the second surface, the second wiring portion is disposed in the second region on the second surface, and can be extended to the wiring lead-out portion through the tunnel.

[0015] The first wiring portion includes a first-1 wiring and a first-2 wiring, the second wiring portion includes a second-1 wiring and a second-2 wiring, the first-1 wiring and the second-1 wiring are led out to the wiring lead-out portion through the tunnel, and the first-2 wiring and the second-2 wiring can be connected to each other.

[0016] The first wiring portion includes a first-1 wiring and a first-2 wiring, the second wiring portion includes a second-1 wiring and a second-2 wiring, the polarities of the first-1 wiring and the first-2 wiring are different from each other, the polarities of the second-1 wiring and the second-2 wiring are different from each other, and the first-1 wiring, the first-2 wiring, the second-1 wiring and the second-2 wiring can be led out to the wiring lead-out portion through the tunnel.

[0017] The tunnel can include a first tunnel through which the first-1 wiring and the second-1 wiring pass and a second tunnel through which the first-2 wiring and the second-2 wiring pass.

[0018] The fluid passing through the cooling portion is a first fluid, and a second fluid having a temperature higher than that of the first fluid can pass through the first heat sink.

[0019] The cooling portion includes the first surface, the second surface, a third surface between the first surface and the second surface, a fourth surface perpendicular to the third surface and on which the wiring lead-out portion is disposed, a fifth surface facing the third surface, and a sixth surface facing the fourth surface, and the second fluid can pass in a direction from the third surface toward the fifth surface.

[0020] The tunnel may be formed in a direction from the fifth surface toward the fourth surface in the second region between the first surface and the second surface of the cooling unit.

[0021] A power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a first power generation device and a second power generation device disposed on a side surface of the first power generation device. Each of the first power generation device and the second power generation device includes a cooling unit, a first thermoelectric element disposed on a first surface of the cooling unit, a first heat sink disposed on the first thermoelectric element, and a first thermoelectric module including a first wiring portion connected to the first thermoelectric element. A fluid storage portion is formed in a first region of the cooling unit, a tunnel is formed in a second region of the cooling unit, and the first wiring portion passes through the tunnel.

[0022] The power generation system further includes a wiring lead-out portion disposed on another surface perpendicular to the first surface of the cooling unit. The tunnel is connected to the wiring lead-out portion, and the first wiring portion may be led out to the outside through the wiring lead-out portion.

[0023] The first thermoelectric module is disposed in the first region on the first surface, the first wiring portion is disposed in the second region on the first surface, and may be extended to the wiring lead-out portion through the tunnel.

[0024] The power generation system further includes a fluid inlet portion and a fluid outlet portion disposed on the other surface of the cooling unit and spaced apart from the wiring lead-out portion. The fluid inlet portion and the fluid outlet portion are disposed in the first region, the wiring lead-out portion is disposed in the second region, a distance between the fluid inlet portion and the fluid outlet portion of the first power generation device is the same as a distance between the fluid inlet portion or the fluid outlet portion of the first power generation device and the wiring lead-out portion, and the distance between the fluid inlet portion or the fluid outlet portion of the first power generation device and the wiring lead-out portion is the same as a distance between the wiring lead-out portion of the first power generation device and the fluid inlet portion or the fluid outlet portion of the second power generation device.

Advantages of the Invention

[0025] According to the embodiments of the present invention, a power generation device with excellent power generation performance can be obtained. Also, according to the embodiments of the present invention, a power generation device with improved heat transfer efficiency to the thermoelectric element can be obtained.

[0026] Also, according to the embodiments of the present invention, the wiring of the power generation device can be efficiently connected, and the influence of the wiring on the fluid flow can be minimized.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0028] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] However, the technical idea of the present invention is not limited to some of the described embodiments, and can be embodied in various different forms. Within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention, one or more of the components can be selectively combined and replaced between the embodiments and used.

[0030] In addition, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention can be interpreted in a meaning generally understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention belongs, unless specifically defined and described clearly. Terms generally used like those defined in a dictionary can be interpreted considering their meaning in the context of the related technology.

[0031] Also, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for the purpose of explaining the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0032] In this specification, the singular form can also include the plural form unless otherwise specifically stated in the context, and when described as "at least one (or one or more) of A, B, and C", it can include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B, and C.

[0033] Also, when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. can be used.

[0034] Such terms are merely for distinguishing the components from other components and are not limited to the essence, order, or sequence of the corresponding components by such terms.

[0035] And when a component is described as being "connected", "coupled", or "joined" to another component, it can include not only the case where the component is directly connected, coupled, or joined to the other component, but also the case where it is "connected", "coupled", or "joined" by still another component between the component and the other component.

[0036] Also, when described as being formed or arranged "above or below" each component, above or below includes not only the case where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also the case where one or more additional components are formed or arranged between the two components. Also, when expressed as "above or below", it can include the meaning in both the upper and lower directions with respect to one component as a reference.

[0037] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a power generation device included in the power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a power generation module included in the power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the power generation module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a partially enlarged view of the power generation module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 8-9 are cross-sectional views and perspective views of a thermoelectric element included in the power generation module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 1-2, the power generation system 10 includes a power generation device 1000 and a fluid pipe 2000.

[0039] The fluid flowing into the fluid pipe 2000 can be a heat source generated by engines such as automobiles and ships or in power plants, steel mills, etc., but is not limited thereto. The temperature of the fluid discharged from the fluid pipe 2000 is lower than the temperature of the fluid flowing into the fluid pipe 2000. For example, the temperature of the fluid flowing into the fluid pipe 2000 can be 100 °C or higher, preferably 200 °C or higher, more preferably 220 °C - 250 °C, but is not limited thereto and can be variously applied according to the temperature difference between the low-temperature part and the high-temperature part of the thermoelectric element.

[0040] The fluid pipe 2000 includes a fluid inlet part 2100, a fluid passage part 2200, and a fluid discharge part 2300. The fluid flowing in through the fluid inlet part 2100 passes through the fluid passage part 2200 and is discharged through the fluid discharge part 2300. At this time, the power generation device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention is disposed in the fluid passage part 2200, and the power generation device 1000 generates electricity using the temperature difference between the first fluid passing through the power generation device 1000 and the second fluid passing through the fluid passage part 2200. Here, the first fluid can be a cooling fluid, and the second fluid can be a high-temperature fluid having a higher temperature than the first fluid. The power generation device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention can generate electricity using the temperature difference between the first fluid flowing on one surface of the thermoelectric element and the second fluid flowing on the other surface of the thermoelectric element.

[0041] When the cross-sectional shapes of the fluid inlet portion 2100 and the fluid discharge portion 2300 are different from the cross-sectional shape of the fluid passage portion 2200, the fluid pipe 2000 may further include a first connecting portion 2400 that connects the fluid inlet portion 2100 and the fluid passage portion 2200 and a second connecting portion 2500 that connects the fluid passage portion 2200 and the fluid discharge portion 2300. For example, the general fluid inlet portion 2100 and the fluid discharge portion 2300 may be cylindrical. In contrast, the fluid passage portion 2200 where the power generation device 1000 is disposed may be a square tube or a polygonal tube shape. Accordingly, one end is cylindrical, and the other end is a square tube shape. Through the mediation of the first connecting portion 2400 and the second connecting portion 2500, one end of the fluid inlet portion 2100 and the fluid passage portion 2200 may be connected, and the other end of the fluid discharge portion 2300 and the fluid passage portion 2200 may be connected.

[0042] At this time, the fluid inlet portion 2100 and the first connecting portion 2400, the first connecting portion 2400 and the fluid passage portion 2200, the fluid passage portion 2200 and the second connecting portion 2500, and the second connecting portion 2500 and the fluid discharge portion 2300, etc. may be connected by fastening members.

[0043] As described above, the power generation device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be disposed in the fluid passage portion 2200. In order to facilitate the assembly of the power generation system 10, one surface of the fluid passage portion 2200 may be designed with an openable structure. After opening one surface 2210 of the fluid passage portion 2200, the power generation device 1000 can be accommodated in the fluid passage portion 2200, and the opened one surface 2210 of the fluid passage portion 2200 can be covered with a cover 2220. At this time, the cover 2220 can be fastened to the opened one surface 2210 of the fluid passage portion 2200 by a plurality of fastening members.

[0044] When the first fluid is supplied from the outside to the power generation device 1000 and then discharged to the outside again, and the wiring connected to the power generation device 1000 is drawn out to the outside, a plurality of holes 2222 may be formed in the cover 2220 for the inflow and discharge of the first fluid and the wiring drawing.

[0045] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 7, the power generation device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a duct 1100, a first thermoelectric module 1200, a second thermoelectric module 1300, a branch portion 1400, a separation member 1500, a shield member 1600, and a heat insulating member 1700. And the power generation device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention further includes a guide plate 1800 and a support frame 1900.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 5, the duct 1100, the first thermoelectric module 1200, the second thermoelectric module 1300, the branch portion 1400, the separation member 1500, the shield member 1600, and the heat insulating member 1700 can be assembled as one module.

[0047] The power generation device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention can produce electric power by utilizing the temperature difference between the first fluid flowing through the inside of the duct 1100 and the second fluid passing through the heat sinks 1220 and 1320 of the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 disposed outside the duct 1100.

[0048] In this specification, the temperature of the first fluid flowing through the inside of the duct 1100 may be lower than the temperature of the second fluid passing through the heat sinks 1220 and 1320 of the thermoelectric modules 1200 and 1300 disposed outside the duct 1100. In this specification, the first fluid may be for cooling. For this purpose, the first thermoelectric module 1200 may be disposed on one surface of the duct 1100, and the second thermoelectric module 1300 may be disposed on the other surface of the duct 1100. At this time, among both surfaces of the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 respectively, the surface disposed to face the duct 1100 becomes the low temperature part, and electric power can be produced by utilizing the temperature difference between the low temperature part and the high temperature part. Accordingly, in this specification, the duct 1100 may be referred to as a cooling part.

[0049] The first fluid flowing into the duct 1100 can be water, but is not limited thereto, and can be various types of fluids having cooling performance. The temperature of the first fluid flowing into the duct 1100 can be less than 100°C, preferably less than 50°C, and more preferably less than 40°C, but is not limited thereto. The temperature of the first fluid discharged after passing through the duct 1100 may be higher than the temperature of the first fluid flowing into the duct 1100. Each duct 1100 includes a first surface 1110, a second surface 1120 disposed opposite to the first surface 1110 and parallel to the first surface 1110, a third surface 1130 disposed between the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120, and a fourth surface 1140 disposed perpendicular to the third surface 1130 between the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120, a fifth surface 1150 disposed opposite to the third surface 1130, and a sixth surface 1160 disposed opposite to the fourth surface 1140, and the first fluid passes through the inside of the duct. When the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 are disposed on the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120 of the duct 1100, respectively, the third surface 1130 is a surface disposed in the direction in which the second fluid flows in, and the fourth surface 1140 can be a surface disposed in the direction in which the first fluid flows in and out. For this purpose, a first fluid inlet 1142 and a first fluid outlet 1144 can be formed in the fourth surface 1140 of the duct 1100. The first fluid inlet 1142 and the first fluid outlet 1144 can be connected to a fluid storage portion in the duct 1100. Accordingly, the first fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet 1142 can be discharged from the first fluid outlet 1144 after passing through the fluid storage portion.

[0050] Although not shown, heat dissipation fins may be disposed on the inner wall of the duct 1100. The shape, number, and the area occupying the inner wall of the duct 1100 of the heat dissipation fins can be variously changed depending on the temperature of the first fluid, the temperature of the waste heat, the required power generation module capacity, and the like. The area that the heat dissipation fins occupy on the inner wall of the duct 1100 can be, for example, 1 to 40% of the cross-sectional area of the duct 1100. According to this, it is possible to obtain high thermoelectric conversion efficiency while not hindering the flow of the first fluid. At this time, the heat dissipation fins can have a shape that does not hinder the flow of the first fluid. For example, the heat dissipation fins can be formed along the direction in which the first fluid flows. That is, the heat dissipation fins can be in the shape of a plate extending in the direction from the first fluid inlet to the first fluid outlet, and a plurality of heat dissipation fins can be arranged so as to be separated at a predetermined interval. The heat dissipation fins may be integrally formed with the inner wall of the duct 1100.

[0051] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the direction of the second fluid flowing through the fluid passage portion 2200 and the inflow / discharge direction of the first fluid flowing through the duct 1100 can be different. For example, the inflow / discharge direction of the first fluid and the passage direction of the second fluid can be different by about 90°. According to this, it is possible to obtain uniform heat conversion performance in the entire region.

[0052] On the other hand, the first thermoelectric module 1200 is disposed on the first surface 1110 of the duct 1100, and the second thermoelectric module 1300 can be disposed on the second surface 1120 of the duct 1100 so as to be symmetric with respect to the first thermoelectric module 1200.

[0053] The first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 can be fastened to the duct 1100 using screws or coil springs. Accordingly, the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 can be stably coupled to the surface of the duct 1100. Alternatively, at least one of the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 may be adhered to the surface of the duct 1100 using a thermal interface material (TIM). By using coil springs and / or thermal interface material (TIM) and / or screws, the uniformity of the heat applied to the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 can be uniformly controlled even at high temperatures.

[0054] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 7(a), each of the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 includes thermoelectric elements 1210, 1310 disposed on the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120, respectively, and heat sinks 1220, 1320 disposed on the thermoelectric elements 1210, 1310. In this way, when the duct 1100 through which the first fluid flows is disposed on one side of both sides of the thermoelectric elements 1210, 1310 and the heat sinks 1220, 1320 are disposed on the other side, and the second fluid passes through the heat sinks 1220, 1320, the temperature difference between the heat absorption surface and the heat dissipation surface of the thermoelectric elements 1210, 1310 can be increased, and accordingly, the thermoelectric conversion efficiency can be increased. At this time, when the direction from the first surface 1110 toward the thermoelectric element 1210 and the heat sink 1220 is defined as the first direction, the length of the heat sink 1220 in the first direction may be longer than the length of the thermoelectric element 1210 in the first direction. According to this, since the contact area between the second fluid and the heat sink 1220 increases, the temperature of the heat absorption surface of the thermoelectric element 1210 can be increased.

[0055] At this time, referring to FIG. 7(b), the heat sinks 1220 and 1320 and the thermoelectric elements 1210 and 1310 can be fastened by a plurality of fastening members 1230 and 1330. Here, the fastening members 1230 and 1330 can be coil springs or screws, etc. For this purpose, through holes S through which the fastening members 1230 and 1330 penetrate can be formed in at least a part of the heat dissipation fins 1220 and 1320 and the thermoelectric elements 1210 and 1310. Here, separate insulators 1240 and 1340 can be further arranged between the through holes S and the fastening members 1230 and 1330. The separate insulators 1240 and 1340 can be insulators surrounding the outer peripheral surfaces of the fastening members 1230 and 1330 or insulators surrounding the wall surfaces of the through holes S. For example, the insulators 1240 and 1340 can be ring-shaped. The inner peripheral surfaces of the ring-shaped insulators 1240 and 1340 are arranged on the outer peripheral surfaces of the fastening members 1230 and 1330, and the outer peripheral surfaces of the insulators 1240 and 1340 can be arranged on the inner peripheral surfaces of the through holes S. According to this, the fastening members 1230 and 1330 and the heat sinks 1220 and 1320 and the thermoelectric elements 1210 and 1310 can be insulated from each other.

[0056] At this time, the structures of the thermoelectric elements 1210 and 1310 can have the structure of the thermoelectric element 100 illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 9. Referring to FIGS. 8 to 9, the thermoelectric element 100 includes a lower substrate 110, a lower electrode 120, a P-type thermoelectric leg 130, an N-type thermoelectric leg 140, an upper electrode 150, and an upper substrate 160.

[0057] The lower electrode 120 is arranged between the lower substrate 110 and the lower bottom surfaces of the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140, and the upper electrode 150 is arranged between the upper substrate 160 and the upper bottom surfaces of the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140. Accordingly, the plurality of P-type thermoelectric legs 130 and the plurality of N-type thermoelectric legs 140 are electrically connected by the lower electrode 120 and the upper electrode 150. A pair of P-type thermoelectric legs 130 and N-type thermoelectric legs 140 arranged between the lower electrode 120 and the upper electrode 150 and electrically connected can form a unit cell.

[0058] For example, when a voltage is applied to the lower electrode 120 and the upper electrode 150 through the output lines 181 and 182, a substrate through which current flows from the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 to the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 due to the Peltier effect absorbs heat and acts as a cooling part, and a substrate through which current flows from the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 to the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 can be heated to act as a heat generating part. Or when a temperature difference is applied between the lower electrode 120 and the upper electrode 150, charges in the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 may move due to the Seebeck effect, generating electricity.

[0059] Here, the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be bismuth telluride (Bi-Te)-based thermoelectric legs containing bismuth (Bi) and tellurium (Te) as main raw materials. The P-type thermoelectric leg 130 can be a bismuth telluride (Bi-Te)-based thermoelectric leg containing at least one of antimony (Sb), nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), lead (Pb), boron (B), gallium (Ga), tellurium (Te), bismuth (Bi), and indium (In). For example, the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 contains 99 - 99.999 wt% of Bi-Sb-Te as the main raw material substance with respect to the total weight of 100 wt%, and can contain at least one of nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), lead (Pb), boron (B), gallium (Ga), and indium (In) at 0.001 - 1 wt%. The N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be a bismuth telluride (Bi-Te)-based thermoelectric leg containing at least one of selenium (Se), nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), lead (Pb), boron (B), gallium (Ga), tellurium (Te), bismuth (Bi), and indium (In). For example, the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 contains 99 - 99.999 wt% of Bi-Se-Te as the main raw material substance with respect to the total weight of 100 wt%, and can contain at least one of nickel (Ni), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), lead (Pb), boron (B), gallium (Ga), and indium (In) at 0.001 - 1 wt%.

[0060] The P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be formed in a bulk type or a laminated type. Generally, the bulk type P-type thermoelectric leg 130 or the bulk type N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be obtained through a process of heat-treating a thermoelectric material to produce an ingot, crushing and sieving the ingot to obtain powder for the thermoelectric leg, sintering this, and cutting the sintered body. At this time, the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be polycrystalline thermoelectric legs. Thus, when the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 are polycrystalline thermoelectric legs, the strength of the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be increased. The laminated type P-type thermoelectric leg 130 or the laminated type N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be obtained through a process of applying a paste containing a thermoelectric material onto a sheet-like substrate to form unit members, and then laminating and cutting the unit members.

[0061] At this time, the pair of P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can have the same shape and volume, or can have different shapes and volumes from each other. For example, since the electrical conduction characteristics of the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 are different, the height or cross-sectional area of the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can be formed to be different from the height or cross-sectional area of the P-type thermoelectric leg 130.

[0062] At this time, the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 or the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 can have a cylindrical shape, a polygonal prism shape, an elliptical prism shape, etc.

[0063] The performance of the thermoelectric element according to an embodiment of the present invention can be represented by a thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT). The thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) can be expressed as in Mathematical Formula 1.

[0064]

Equation

[0065] To obtain the thermoelectric performance index of the thermoelectric element, a Z-meter can be used to measure the Z value (V / K), and the measured Z value can be used to calculate the thermoelectric performance index (ZT).

[0066] Here, the lower electrode 120 disposed between the lower substrate 110 and the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140, and the upper electrode 150 disposed between the upper substrate 160 and the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 140 include at least one of copper (Cu), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), and nickel (Ni), and can have a thickness of 0.01 mm to 0.3 mm. If the thickness of the lower electrode 120 or the upper electrode 150 is less than 0.01 mm, its function as an electrode will fail and the electrical conduction performance may become low. If it exceeds 0.3 mm, the conduction efficiency may become low due to an increase in resistance.

[0067] And the lower substrate 110 and the upper substrate 160 facing each other can be metal substrates, and their thickness can be 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm. If the thickness of the metal substrate is less than 0.1 mm or exceeds 1.5 mm, the heat dissipation characteristics or thermal conductivity may become excessively high, so the reliability of the thermoelectric element may decrease. Also, when the lower substrate 110 and the upper substrate 160 are metal substrates, insulating layers 170 can be further formed between the lower substrate 110 and the lower electrode 120 and between the upper substrate 160 and the upper electrode 150, respectively. The insulating layer 170 can include a material having a thermal conductivity of 1 to 20 W / mK. At this time, the insulating layer 170 can be a resin composition containing at least one of epoxy resin and silicone resin and an inorganic substance, or a layer made of a silicone composite containing silicon and an inorganic substance, or an aluminum oxide layer. Here, the inorganic substance can be at least one of oxides, nitrides, and carbides such as aluminum, boron, and silicon.

[0068] At this time, the lower substrate 110 and the upper substrate 160 may be formed to have different sizes. That is, one of the volume, thickness, or area of the lower substrate 110 and the upper substrate 160 may be formed larger than the other volume, thickness, or area. Here, the thickness may be the thickness in the direction from the lower substrate 110 to the upper substrate 160, and the area may be the area in the direction perpendicular to the direction from the substrate 110 to the upper substrate 160. Accordingly, the heat absorption performance or heat dissipation performance of the thermoelectric element can be enhanced. Preferably, the volume, thickness, or area of the lower substrate 110 may be formed larger than at least one of the volume, thickness, or area of the upper substrate 160. At this time, when the lower substrate 110 is disposed in the high-temperature region due to the Seebeck effect, applied to the heat generation region due to the Peltier effect, or when a sealing member for protecting from the external environment of the thermoelectric element described later is disposed on the lower substrate 110, at least one of the volume, thickness, or area can be made larger than the upper substrate 160. At this time, the area of the lower substrate 110 can be formed in the range of 1.2 to 5 times the area ratio of the upper substrate 160. When the area of the lower substrate 110 is formed less than 1.2 times that of the upper substrate 160, the influence on the improvement of the heat transfer efficiency is not high. When it exceeds 5 times, on the contrary, the heat transfer efficiency drops significantly, and it may be difficult to maintain the basic shape of the thermoelectric module.

[0069] In addition, a heat dissipation pattern, for example, a concavo-convex pattern, may be formed on at least one surface of the lower substrate 110 and the upper substrate 160. Accordingly, the heat dissipation performance of the thermoelectric element can be enhanced. When the concavo-convex pattern is formed on the surface in contact with the P-type thermoelectric leg 130 or the N-type thermoelectric leg 140, the bonding characteristics between the thermoelectric leg and the substrate can also be improved. The thermoelectric element 100 includes a lower substrate 110, a lower electrode 120, a P-type thermoelectric leg 130, an N-type thermoelectric leg 140, an upper electrode 150, and an upper substrate 160.

[0070] Although not shown, a sealing member may be further disposed between the lower substrate 110 and the upper substrate 160. The sealing member may be disposed on the side surfaces of the lower electrode 120, the P-type thermoelectric leg 130, the N-type thermoelectric leg 140, and the upper electrode 150 between the lower substrate 110 and the upper substrate 160. Accordingly, the lower electrode 120, the P-type thermoelectric leg 130, the N-type thermoelectric leg 140, and the upper electrode 150 can be sealed from external moisture, heat, contamination, etc.

[0071] At this time, the lower substrate 110 disposed on the duct 1100 may be an aluminum substrate, and the aluminum substrate may be adhered to the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120 respectively by a thermal interface material (TIM). Since the aluminum substrate has excellent heat transfer performance, heat transfer between one of both surfaces of the thermoelectric elements 1210 and 1310 and the duct 1100 through which the first fluid flows is easy. Also, when the aluminum substrate and the duct 1100 through which the first fluid flows are adhered by a thermal interface material (TIM), heat transfer between the aluminum substrate and the duct 1100 through which the first fluid flows can be prevented from being obstructed. Here, the thermal interface material (TIM) is a material having heat transfer performance and adhesion performance, and may be, for example, a resin composition containing at least one of an epoxy resin and a silicone resin and an inorganic substance. Here, the inorganic substance may be an oxide, carbide, or nitride such as aluminum, boron, or silicon.

[0072] Referring again to FIGS. 3 to 7, in order to enhance the sealing and heat insulation effects between the first thermoelectric module 1200, the duct 1100, and the second thermoelectric module 1300, the power generation module according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a shield member 1600 and a heat insulation member 1700. The heat insulation member 1700 may be disposed, for example, on the surface of the duct 1100 excluding the regions where the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 are disposed. Accordingly, heat loss of the first fluid and the second fluid can be prevented, and the temperature difference between the low-temperature part and the high-temperature part of each of the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 can be increased to enhance the performance of the power generation module. Also, the shield member 1600 may be disposed on the surface of the duct 1100 excluding the regions where the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 are disposed. Wiring and connectors connected to the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 can be protected from external moisture or contamination.

[0073] On the other hand, the guide plate 1800 is a plate that guides the flow of the second fluid within the fluid passage portion 2200, and the second fluid flowing into the fluid passage portion 2200 may flow along the guide plate 1800 and then be discharged.

[0074] The first guide plate 1800-1 may be disposed to face the first thermoelectric module 1200, and the second guide plate 1800-2 may be disposed to face the second thermoelectric module 1300, and the second fluid may pass between the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the first guide plate 1800-1 and between the second thermoelectric module 1300 and the second guide plate 1800-2.

[0075] At this time, both sides of the guide plates 1800-1 and 1800-2 can extend to the fluid collection plates 1810-1 and 1810-2 and the fluid diffusion plates 1820-1 and 1820-2. The fluid collection plates 1810-1 and 1810-2 are plates that extend toward the inlet of the fluid passage portion 2200, that is, the first connection portion 2400, and the fluid diffusion plates 1820-1 and 1820-2 can mean plates that extend toward the outlet of the fluid passage portion 2200, that is, the second connection portion 2500. At this time, the fluid collection plates 1810-1 and 1810-2, the guide plates 1800-1 and 1800-2, and the fluid diffusion plates 1820-1 and 1820-2 can be integrally connected plates. The first guide plate 1800-1 arranged opposite to the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second guide plate 1800-2 arranged opposite to the second thermoelectric module 1300 can maintain a certain distance and be symmetrically arranged. Here, the distance between the first guide plate 1800-1 and the second guide plate 1800-2 can be the horizontal distance from the first guide plate 1800-1 to the second guide plate 1800-2. According to this, since the second fluid can pass between the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the first guide plate 1800-1 and between the second thermoelectric module 1300 and the second guide plate 1800-2 at a constant flow rate, uniform thermoelectric performance can be obtained. On the contrary, the distance between the first fluid collection plate 1810-1 extending from the first guide plate 1800-1 and the second fluid collection plate 1810-2 extending from the second guide plate 1800-2 can be symmetrically arranged so as to be farther away as it approaches the inlet of the fluid passage portion 2200. Here, the distance between the first fluid collection plate 1810-1 and the second fluid collection plate 1810-2 can be the horizontal distance from the first fluid collection plate 1810-1 to the second fluid collection plate 1810-2. Similarly, the distance between the first fluid diffusion plate 1820-1 extending from the first guide plate 1800-1 and the second fluid diffusion plate 1820-2 extending from the second guide plate 1800-2 can also be symmetrically arranged so as to be farther away as it approaches the outlet of the fluid passage portion 2200.Accordingly, the second fluid flowing in through the inlet of the fluid passage portion 2200 can be collected by the fluid collection plates 1810-1 and 1810-2, then pass between the thermoelectric modules 1200 and 1300 and the guide plate 1800, diffuse through the fluid diffusion plates 1820-1 and 1820-2, and then be discharged through the outlet of the fluid passage portion 2200. According to this, since the pressure difference of the second fluid before and after passing between the thermoelectric modules 1200 and 1300 and the guide plate 1800 can be minimized, the problem of the second fluid flowing backward in the inlet direction of the fluid passage portion 2200 can be prevented.

[0076] At this time, the support frame 1900 supports the first to second guide plates 1800-1 and 1800-2, the first to second fluid collection plates 1810-1 and 1810-2, and the first to second fluid diffusion plates 1820-1 and 1820-2. That is, the support frame 1900 includes a first support frame 1900-1 and a second support frame 1900-2, and the first to second guide plates 1800-1 and 1800-2, the first to second fluid collection plates 1810-1 and 1810-2, and the first to second fluid diffusion plates 1820-1 and 1820-2 can be fixed between the first support frame 1900-1 and the second support frame 1900-2.

[0077] On the other hand, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the branch portion 1400 can branch the second fluid flowing into the fluid passage portion 2200. The second fluid branched by the branch portion 1400 can pass between the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the first guide plate 1800-1 and between the second thermoelectric module 1300 and the second guide plate 1800-2.

[0078] The branch portion 1400 can be disposed between the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120 of the duct 1100. For example, when the third surface 1130 of the duct 1100 is arranged to face the direction in which the second fluid flows in, the branch portion 1400 can be disposed on the third surface 1130 side of the duct 1100. Or the branch portion 1400 can also be disposed on the fifth surface 1150 side facing the third surface 1130 of the duct 1100 according to the principle of aerodynamics.

[0079] The branch portion 1400 can have a shape in which the distance from both ends of the third surface 1130 to the center between both ends of the third surface 1130 increases on the third surface 1130 of the duct 1100. That is, the third surface 1130 on which the branch portion 1400 is disposed is substantially perpendicular to the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120, and the branch portion 1400 can be disposed so as to be inclined with respect to the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120 of the duct 1100. For example, the branch portion 1400 can have an umbrella shape or a roof shape. Accordingly, the second fluid, for example, waste heat, can be branched through the branch portion 1400 and guided to contact the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 disposed on both sides of the power generation device. That is, the second fluid can be branched through the branch portion 1400 and pass between the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the first guide plate 1800-1 and between the second thermoelectric module 1300 and the second guide plate 1800-2.

[0080] On the one hand, the width W1 between the outside of the first heat sink 1220 of the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the outside of the second heat sink 1320 of the second thermoelectric module 1300 may be larger than the width W2 of the branch portion 1400. Here, the outside of each of the first heat sink 1220 and the second heat sink 1320 may mean the side opposite to the side facing the duct 1100. Here, each of the first heat sink 1220 and the second heat sink 1320 can include a plurality of heat dissipation fins, and the plurality of heat dissipation fins can be formed in a direction that does not impede the flow of gas. For example, the plurality of heat dissipation fins can have a plate shape extending along the second direction in which the gas flows. Or the plurality of heat dissipation fins may have a shape that is folded so that a flow path is formed along the second direction in which the gas flows. At this time, the maximum width W1 between the first heat sink 1220 of the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second heat sink 1320 of the second thermoelectric module 1300 may mean the distance from the farthest point of the first heat sink 1220 to the farthest point of the second heat sink 1320 with reference to the duct 1100, and the maximum width W2 of the branch portion 1400 may mean the width of the branch portion 1400 in the region closest to the third surface 1130 of the duct 1100. According to this, the flow of the second fluid can be directly transmitted to the first heat sink 1220 and the second heat sink 1320 without being blocked by the branch portion 1400. Along with this, the contact area between the second fluid and the first heat sink 1220 and the second heat sink 1320 will increase, so that the amount of heat received by the first heat sink 1220 and the second heat sink 1320 from the second fluid will increase, and the efficiency of the power generation module can be increased.

[0081] On the other hand, the first guide plate 1800-1 may be symmetrically arranged so as to be separated from the first heat sink 1220 of the first thermoelectric module 1200 by a predetermined distance, and the second guide plate 1800-2 may be symmetrically arranged so as to be separated from the second heat sink 1320 of the second thermoelectric module 1300 by a predetermined distance. Here, the distance between the guide plates 1800-1 and 1800-2 and the heat sinks of each thermoelectric module can affect the flow rate of the second fluid in contact with the heat sinks of each thermoelectric module and the differential pressure of the second fluid, and accordingly, can affect the performance of the power generation module.

[0082] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in a power generation device in which a thermoelectric module is disposed on the surface of a duct, an attempt is made to generate electricity by utilizing a temperature difference between a first fluid passing through the inside of the duct and a second fluid passing through a heat sink of the thermoelectric module. At this time, a wiring portion is connected to the thermoelectric element of the thermoelectric module, and the wiring portion needs to be drawn out to the outside and connected to an external power source.

[0083] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an attempt is made to propose a wiring portion extraction structure for minimizing the flow resistance of the second fluid and minimizing damage to the wiring portion by the high-temperature second fluid.

[0084] FIG. 10 is a top view of a power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a top view of the power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention with a shield member removed, FIG. 12 is an example of a cross-sectional view of a cooling unit included in the power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is another example of a cross-sectional view of the cooling unit included in the power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 13, a power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cooling unit 1100 and a first thermoelectric module 1200 disposed on a first surface 1110 of the cooling unit 1100. As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9, the cooling unit 1100 may be referred to as a duct 1100 in this specification. Although not shown in FIGS. 10 to 13, referring to FIGS. 1 to 9, a second thermoelectric module 1300 may be further disposed on a second surface 1120 facing the first surface 1110 of the cooling unit 1100.

[0086] On the other surface perpendicular to the first surface 1110 of the cooling unit 1100, that is, the fourth surface 1140, a fluid inlet 1142 and a fluid outlet 1144 are arranged at intervals, and inside the cooling unit 1100, a fluid storage unit 300 connected to the fluid inlet 1142 and the fluid outlet 1144 is arranged. In this specification, since the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 are arranged on the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120 of the cooling unit 1100, the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120 of the cooling unit 1100 can be referred to as one side and the other side of the cooling unit 1100. Also, the third to sixth surfaces 1130 to 1160 between the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120 of the cooling unit 1100 can be referred to as the side surfaces or outer surfaces of the cooling unit 1100. Or in this specification, the first surface 1110 to the sixth surface 1160 of the cooling unit 1100 may be referred to as the first surface 1110 to the sixth surface 1160 respectively. In this specification, the first to sixth surfaces are arbitrarily named for convenience of explanation and are not limited thereto.

[0087] The first fluid flowing into the fluid inlet 1142 can be discharged through the fluid outlet 1144 after passing through the fluid storage unit 300. Here, the arrangement order of the fluid inlet 1142 and the fluid outlet 1144 is not limited as shown in the figure, and the positions of the fluid inlet 1142 and the fluid outlet 1144 may be opposite. The fluid inlet 1142, the fluid outlet 1144, and the wiring lead-out part 1146 are formed to protrude from the fourth surface 1140 of the cooling unit 1100. Accordingly, in this specification, the fluid inlet 1142, the fluid outlet 1144, and the wiring lead-out part 1146 can be referred to as protruding parts.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 12, the fluid storage unit 300 can be in the shape of a flow path pipe connected from the fluid inlet 1142 to the fluid outlet 1144 and arranged to circulate through the cooling unit 1100. Or as shown in FIG. 13, the fluid storage unit 300 may be connected to the fluid inlet 1142 and the fluid outlet 1144 and have the form of a water tank whose internal region is filled with the first fluid. Or the fluid storage unit 300 may have various forms of flow path pipe shapes.

[0089] The area occupied by the fluid containing portion 300, the diameter of the flow path tube, the length of the flow path tube, the arrangement shape of the flow path tube, etc. can be variously changed according to the flow velocity, flow rate, etc. of the first fluid flowing into the fluid containing portion 300.

[0090] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the fluid containing portion 300 can be arranged in the first region A1 of the cooling portion 1100. A first thermoelectric module 1200 is arranged on the first surface 1110 of the first region A1 of the cooling portion 1100, and a second thermoelectric module 1300 can be arranged on the second surface 1120 of the first region A1 of the cooling portion 1100. In this way, the region through which the first fluid in the cooling portion 1100 passes and the region where the thermoelectric legs of the first thermoelectric module 1200 are arranged can overlap. On the other hand, the second fluid having a temperature higher than that of the first fluid passing through the inside of the cooling portion 1100 can pass through the first heat sink 1220 of the first thermoelectric module 1200 in the direction from the third surface 1130 to the fifth surface 1150 facing the cooling portion 1100. Accordingly, electricity can be generated by the temperature difference between the low-temperature part and the high-temperature part of the first thermoelectric module 1200.

[0091] On the other hand, a coupling member 400 can be used for coupling between the cooling portion 1100 and the first thermoelectric module 1200. In order to symmetrically arrange the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 on the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120 of the cooling portion 1100, the coupling member 400 can be arranged so as to pass through the first thermoelectric module 1200, the cooling portion 1100, and the second thermoelectric module 1300. For this purpose, a plurality of through holes S1 to S4 for the coupling member 400 to pass through can be formed in the cooling portion 1100. The plurality of through holes S1 to S4 can be arranged so as to penetrate both surfaces of the cooling portion 1100 where the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 are arranged.

[0092] At this time, the plurality of through-holes S1 to S4 may be arranged separately from the fluid accommodating part 300 within the first region A1 of the cooling part 1100. That is, the plurality of through-holes S1 to S4 may be formed independently of the fluid accommodating part 300, and accordingly, it is possible to prevent the problem that the first fluid passing through the fluid accommodating part 300 flows out to the outside through the plurality of through-holes S1 to S4.

[0093] The first wiring part 1300 may be connected to the first thermoelectric element 1210 of the first thermoelectric module 1200, and the first wiring part 1300 may be drawn out to the outside and connected to an external power source.

[0094] When the first thermoelectric module 1200 is arranged in the first region A1 on the first surface 1110 of the cooling part 1100, the first wiring part 1300 may be arranged in the second region A2 on the first surface 1110 of the cooling part 1100, and a shield member 1600 covering the first wiring part 1300 may be further arranged in the second region A2 on the first surface 1110 of the cooling part 1100. At this time, the second region A2 may be a region arranged on the side surface of the first region A1.

[0095] At this time, a coupling member 500 may be used for the coupling between the cooling part 1100 and the shield member 1600, and a plurality of through-holes S5 to S8 through which the coupling member 500 for the coupling between the cooling part 1100 and the shield member 1600 passes may be formed in the second region A2 of the cooling part 1100. At this time, the plurality of through-holes S5 to S6 may be arranged in consideration of the position of the wiring. That is, the wiring connected to the thermoelectric module may include a connection electrode connected to the thermoelectric element of the thermoelectric module, a connector arranged on the connection electrode, and an electric wire connected to the connector. At this time, the plurality of through-holes S5 to S6 may be arranged avoiding the position of the connector. Accordingly, the through-hole S5 may be arranged to be further adjacent to the fourth surface 1140 than the plurality of through-holes S1, S2, and the through-hole S6 may be arranged to be further adjacent to the sixth surface 1160 than the plurality of through-holes S3, S4.

[0096] Here, the positions and numbers of the plurality of through-holes S1 to S8 are exemplary, and the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0097] As described above, the first wiring portion 1300 can be connected to the first thermoelectric element 1210 of the first thermoelectric module 1200, and the first wiring portion 1300 can be drawn out to the outside and connected to an external power source. Here, the first wiring portion 3000 can be connected to a connector (not shown) disposed on the connection electrode 600 connected to the first thermoelectric element 1210.

[0098] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a tunnel 4000 for the first wiring portion 3000 to pass through is formed inside the cooling unit 1100. The tunnel 4000 can be formed in the second region A2 of the cooling unit 1100. And, a wiring lead-out portion 1146 is further disposed on another surface perpendicular to the first surface 1110 of the cooling unit 1100, that is, the fourth surface 1140, and the tunnel 4000 can be connected to the wiring lead-out portion 1146. Accordingly, the first wiring portion 3000 connected to the first thermoelectric element 1220 is disposed on the second region A2 on the first surface 1110 of the cooling unit 1100, passes through the tunnel 4000, and can be drawn out to the outside through the wiring lead-out portion 1146.

[0099] At this time, the wiring lead-out portion 1146 can be disposed so as to be separated from each other on the same surface as the fluid inlet portion 1142 and the fluid outlet portion 1144. The fluid inlet portion 1142 and the fluid outlet portion 1144 are disposed in the first region A1 of the cooling unit 1100, and the wiring lead-out portion 1146 can be disposed in the second region A2 of the cooling unit 1100.

[0100] In this way, when the first wiring portion 3000 connected to the first thermoelectric module 1200 is drawn out to the outside through the tunnel 4000 in the cooling unit 1100, the flow resistance of the second fluid by the first wiring portion 3000 can be minimized. Further, since the area of the first wiring portion 3000 in contact with the second fluid can be minimized, damage to the first wiring portion 3000 by the high-temperature second fluid can be prevented.

[0101] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the tunnel 4000 may be formed to penetrate through the second region A2 between the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120 of the cooling unit 1100. The tunnel 4000 may be formed to extend from the fifth surface 1150 to the wiring lead-out portion 1146 in the direction from the fourth surface 1140 in the second region A2 between the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120 of the cooling unit 1100.

[0102] When the first wiring portion 3000 is connected to the first thermoelectric element 1210 and includes two wirings arranged to be spaced apart from each other, the tunnel 4000 may include a first inlet 4010 into which one wiring flows and a second inlet 4020 into which the other wiring flows. The first inlet 4010 and the second inlet 4020 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other, and a first tunnel 4030 extending in the second region A2 in the direction from the first inlet 4010 toward the third surface 1130 of the cooling unit 1100 and a second tunnel 4040 extending in the second region A2 in the direction from the second inlet 4020 toward the third surface 1130 of the cooling unit 1100 may join at a third tunnel 4050, and the third tunnel 4050 may extend in the direction toward the fourth surface 1140 and be connected to the wiring lead-out portion 1146.

[0103] At this time, the first inlet 4010 and the second inlet 4020 may be formed in the first groove G1 and the second groove G2 formed at the edge of the second region A2 of the cooling unit 1100, that is, on the fifth surface 1150 side. According to this, it is possible to prevent the first wiring portion 3000 from protruding onto the fifth surface 1150 in the process of flowing into the tunnel 4000 in the cooling unit 1100.

[0104] On the other hand, as described above, the first thermoelectric module 1200 may be disposed on the first surface 1110 of the cooling unit 1100, and the second thermoelectric module 1300 may be disposed on the second surface 1120 of the cooling unit 1100. At this time, the first wiring portion 3000 connected to the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second wiring portion 3100 connected to the second thermoelectric module 1300 may be drawn out together to the outside through the tunnel 4000 and the wiring lead-out portion 1146.

[0105] FIG. 14 is a drawing for explaining the wiring connection of the first thermoelectric module and the second thermoelectric module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 15 is a plan view and a perspective view of a power generation device according to the embodiment of FIG. 14.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 15, the first thermoelectric module 1200 is disposed on the first surface 1110 of the cooling unit 1100, and the second thermoelectric module 1300 is disposed on the second surface 1120 of the cooling unit 1100 so as to be symmetric with the first thermoelectric module 1200. That is, the second thermoelectric module 1300 is disposed in the first region A1 on the second surface 1120, and the second wiring portion 3100 may be disposed on the second region A2 of the second surface 1120.

[0107] At this time, the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 can be connected in series.

[0108] That is, when the first wiring portion 3000 includes a first-1 wiring 3010 and a first-2 wiring 3020, and the second wiring portion 3100 includes a second-1 wiring 3110 and a second-2 wiring 3120, the first-1 wiring 3010 and the second-1 wiring 3110 have different polarities from each other, the first-2 wiring 3020 and the second-2 wiring 3120 have the same polarities as each other, and the first-1 wiring 3010 or the second-1 wiring 3110 can have the same polarity.

[0109] At this time, the first-1 wiring 3010 and the second-1 wiring 3110 are led out to the wiring lead-out portion 1146 through the tunnel 4000, and the first-2 wiring 3020 and the second-2 wiring 3120 can be connected to each other. Accordingly, the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 can be connected in series.

[0110] FIG. 16 is a drawing for explaining the wiring connection of the first thermoelectric module and the second thermoelectric module according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 17 is a plan view and a perspective view of a power generation device according to the embodiment of FIG. 16.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 16 to 17, the first thermoelectric module 1200 is disposed on the first surface 1110 of the cooling unit 1100, and the second thermoelectric module 1300 is disposed on the second surface 1120 of the cooling unit 1100 symmetrically with respect to the first thermoelectric module 1200. That is, the second thermoelectric module 1300 is disposed in the first region A1 on the second surface 1120, and the second wiring portion 3100 may be disposed on the second region A2 of the second surface 1120.

[0112] At this time, the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 can be connected in parallel.

[0113] That is, when the first wiring portion 3000 includes the first-1 wiring 3010 and the first-2 wiring 3020, and the second wiring portion 3100 includes the second-1 wiring 3110 and the second-2 wiring 3120, the first-1 wiring 3010 and the first-2 wiring 3020 have different polarities from each other, and the second-1 wiring 3110 and the second-2 wiring 3120 may have different polarities from each other.

[0114] The first-1 wiring 3010 and the first-2 wiring 3020 are respectively led out to the wiring lead-out portion 1146 through the tunnel 4000, and the second-1 wiring 3110 and the second-2 wiring 3120 may be respectively led out to the wiring lead-out portion 1146 through the tunnel 4000.

[0115] Accordingly, the first thermoelectric module 1200 and the second thermoelectric module 1300 can be connected in parallel.

[0116] In this way, when the first wiring portion 3000 and the second wiring portion 3100 are led out to the outside through the tunnel 4000 inside the cooling unit 1100, the problem of the flow path resistance of the second fluid generated by the first wiring portion 3000 and the second wiring portion 3100 can be minimized, and the problem that the first wiring portion 3000 and the second wiring portion 3100 are damaged due to being disposed close to the high-temperature second fluid can be prevented.

[0117] FIG. 18 is a perspective view for explaining the cross section of FIG. 10, and FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the cross section of FIG. 10. Here, the first thermoelectric module and the second thermoelectric module are described by taking as an example those connected in parallel as in the embodiments of FIGS. 16 to 17, and a cross section based on the fluid discharge portion 1146 of FIG. 10 is illustrated.

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 18 to 19, the first wiring portion 3000 and the second wiring portion 3000 are each covered by the shield member 1600 on the first surface 1110 and the second surface 1120 of the cooling portion 1100, and are drawn out to the wiring lead-out portion 1146 through the tunnel 4000 formed in the cooling portion 1100. The shield member 1600 may have a step formed in the region where the first wiring portion 3000 and the second wiring portion 3000 are arranged in order to cover the first wiring portion 3000 and the second wiring portion 3000. According to this, it can be seen that the first wiring portion 3000 and the second wiring portion 3000 do not obstruct the flow path of the second fluid, and the first wiring portion 3000 and the second wiring portion 3000 are not affected by the high-temperature second fluid.

[0119] On the other hand, although one power generation device has been described as the center above, it is not limited thereto. A plurality of power generation devices may be arranged in one fluid passage portion 2200.

[0120] FIG. 20 shows a power generation system according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 21 shows two power generation devices included in the power generation system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 20 to 21, the power generation system can include a plurality of power generation devices, and each power generation device may be the same as the power generation device described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 19.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 20, the plurality of power generation devices 1000-11 and 1000-21 may be arranged along the direction in which the second fluid flows in the fluid passage portion 2200.

[0123] Moreover, the plurality of power generation devices 1000-11, 1000-12, 1000-13 may be arranged in parallel and spaced apart from each other within the fluid passage portion 2200.

[0124] The arrangement structure and number of the plurality of power generation devices may vary depending on the power generation amount and the like.

[0125] On the other hand, referring to FIG. 21, the distance D between the fluid inlet portion 1142 and the fluid outlet portion 1144 of each power generation device may be the same as the distance D between the fluid outlet portion 1144 and the wiring extraction portion 1146. When the positions of the fluid inlet portion 1142 and the fluid outlet portion 1144 are opposite to those shown in the figure, the distance D between the fluid inlet portion 1142 and the fluid outlet portion 1144 may be the same as the distance D between the fluid inlet portion 1142 and the wiring extraction portion 1146.

[0126] And the distance D between the fluid outlet portion 1144 and the wiring extraction portion 1146 may be the same as the distance between the wiring extraction portion 1146 and the fluid inlet portion 1142 of the adjacent power generation device. When the positions of the fluid inlet portion 1142 and the fluid outlet portion 1144 are opposite to those shown in the figure, the distance D between the fluid inlet portion 1142 and the wiring extraction portion 1144 may be the same as the distance D between the wiring extraction portion 1144 and the fluid outlet portion 1146 of the adjacent power generation device.

[0127] According to this, it is possible to variably design the number and position of the plurality of power generation devices in the power generation system as shown in FIGS. 20(a) to (d).

[0128] The power generation system can generate electricity through heat sources generated in ships, automobiles, power plants, geothermal energy, etc., and a plurality of power generation devices can be arranged to efficiently converge the heat sources. At this time, when the wiring connected to each thermoelectric element is drawn out to the outside through the tunnel in the cooling section, the protruding region on the flow path of the second fluid can be minimized, so that the flow resistance of the second fluid can be reduced. Accordingly, the efficiency and reliability of the power generation device can be improved, and thus the fuel efficiency of transportation devices such as ships and vehicles can be improved. Therefore, in the shipping industry and the transportation industry, it is possible to reduce transportation costs and create an environmentally friendly industrial environment. When applied to manufacturing industries such as steel mills, material costs and the like can be saved.

[0129] In the foregoing, the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments thereof. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains that the present invention can be variously modified and changed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention described in the following claims.

Claims

1. A cooling unit including a first surface, a second surface facing the first surface, a third surface between the first surface and the second surface, a fourth surface perpendicular to the third surface between the first surface and the second surface, a fifth surface facing the third surface, and a sixth surface facing the fourth surface, a first thermoelectric module disposed on the first surface of the cooling unit, a second thermoelectric module disposed on the second surface of the cooling unit, a first wiring portion connected to the first thermoelectric module, and including a fluid inlet portion, a fluid outlet portion, and a wiring lead-out portion disposed on the fourth surface of the cooling unit so as to be separated from each other, a fluid storage portion is formed in a first region of the cooling unit, a tunnel is formed in a second region of the cooling unit, penetrating between the first surface and the second surface in a direction from the fifth surface to the fourth surface and connected to the wiring lead-out portion, The first wiring portion is disposed in the second region on the first surface and extends in a direction from the fifth surface to the fourth surface through the tunnel, a power generation device.

2. The power generation device according to claim 1, wherein the distance between the fluid inlet portion and the fluid outlet portion is the same as the distance between the fluid inlet portion or the fluid outlet portion and the wiring lead-out portion.

3. Further including a second wiring portion connected to the second thermoelectric module, The power generation device according to claim 1, wherein the second wiring portion is led out to the outside through the wiring lead-out portion.

4. The second thermoelectric module is disposed in the first region on the second surface, The power generation device according to claim 3, wherein the second wiring portion is disposed in the second region on the second surface and extends to the wiring lead-out portion through the tunnel.

5. The first wiring portion includes a first-1 wiring and a first-2 wiring, The second wiring portion includes a second-1 wiring and a second-2 wiring, The first-1 wiring and the second-1 wiring are led out to the wiring lead-out portion through the tunnel, The power generation device according to claim 4, wherein the first-2 wiring and the second-2 wiring are connected to each other.

6. The first wiring portion includes a first-1 wiring and a first-2 wiring, The second wiring portion includes a second-1 wiring and a second-2 wiring, The first-1 wiring and the first-2 wiring have different polarities from each other, and the second-1 wiring and the second-2 wiring have different polarities from each other, The power generation device according to claim 4, wherein the first - 1 wiring, the first - 2 wiring, the second - 1 wiring, and the second - 2 wiring are led out to the wiring lead - out portion through the tunnel.

7. The power generation device according to claim 6, wherein the tunnel includes a first tunnel through which the first - 1 wiring and the second - 1 wiring pass and a second tunnel through which the first - 2 wiring and the second - 2 wiring pass.

8. The first thermoelectric module and the second thermoelectric module each include a thermoelectric element disposed on the first surface and the second surface respectively, and a heat sink disposed on the thermoelectric element. The fluid passing through the cooling portion is a first fluid. The power generation device according to claim 4, wherein a second fluid having a temperature higher than that of the first fluid passes through the heat sink.

9. The power generation device according to claim 8, wherein the second fluid passes in a direction from the third surface toward the fifth surface.

10. The first wiring portion and the second wiring portion each include a connection electrode connected to the first thermoelectric module and the second thermoelectric module respectively, a connector disposed on the connection electrode, and a wiring connected to the connector.

11. The power generation device according to claim 10, wherein the tunnel includes a first inlet and a second inlet disposed apart from each other on the fifth surface.

12. The power generation device according to claim 11, wherein the tunnel further includes a first tunnel extending in a direction from the first inlet toward the third surface and a second tunnel extending in a direction from the second inlet toward the third surface.

13. The power generation device according to claim 12, wherein the tunnel further includes a third tunnel in which the first tunnel and the second tunnel are combined and extend in a direction toward the fourth surface and are connected to the wiring lead - out portion.

14. The power generation device according to claim 11, wherein the first inlet and the second inlet are formed in a first groove and a second groove on the fifth surface.

15. The power generation device according to claim 9, further including a branch portion disposed on the third surface for branching the second fluid.

16. The power generation device further includes a first guide plate disposed apart from the first thermoelectric module and a second guide plate disposed apart from the second thermoelectric module. The power generation device according to claim 15, wherein the second fluid branched by the branch portion passes between the first thermoelectric module and the first guide plate and between the second thermoelectric module and the second guide plate.

17. A first power generation device and a second power generation device arranged separately from the first power generation device, The first power generation device and the second power generation device each include a cooling unit having a first surface, a second surface facing the first surface, a third surface between the first surface and the second surface, a fourth surface perpendicular to the third surface between the first surface and the second surface, a fifth surface facing the third surface, and a sixth surface facing the fourth surface; a first thermoelectric module disposed on the first surface of the cooling unit; a second thermoelectric module disposed on the second surface of the cooling unit; a first wiring portion connected to the first thermoelectric module; and include a fluid inlet portion, a fluid discharge portion, and a wiring lead-out portion disposed on the fourth surface of the cooling unit so as to be separated from each other, a fluid storage portion is formed in a first region of the cooling unit; a tunnel is formed in a second region of the cooling unit, penetrating between the first surface and the second surface in a direction from the fifth surface to the fourth surface and connected to the wiring lead-out portion; The first wiring portion is disposed in the second region on the first surface and extends in a direction from the fifth surface to the fourth surface through the tunnel, a power generation system.

18. The power generation system according to claim 17, wherein the distance between the fluid inlet portion and the fluid discharge portion in each of the first power generation device and the second power generation device is the same as the distance between the fluid inlet portion or the fluid discharge portion and the wiring lead-out portion.

19. The power generation system according to claim 18, wherein the distance between the fluid inlet portion or the fluid discharge portion of the first power generation device and the wiring lead-out portion is the same as the distance between the wiring lead-out portion of the first power generation device and the fluid inlet portion or the fluid discharge portion of the second power generation device.

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