Power generation device

Abstract

A power generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a duct, a thermoelectric conversion unit including a plurality of thermoelectric modules arranged on one side of the duct, a chamber having a hole formed on one side into which the thermoelectric conversion unit is inserted, wiring connected to the plurality of thermoelectric modules, and a guide member having an accommodation space formed therein to accommodate the wiring, the guide member including a case arranged adjacent to the one side of the chamber and including a wiring hole and a through hole through which the wiring passes; a pipe arranged outside the accommodation space of the case corresponding to the through hole; a molding member arranged in the accommodation space; and a cover arranged on the upper end of the case, the molding member being arranged to surround the wiring.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a power generation device, and more particularly to a power generation device that generates power by utilizing a temperature difference between a low-temperature part and a 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, elements that utilize the Peltier effect, which is a phenomenon in which heat absorption or heat generation occurs due to an electric current, and the like.

[0005] Thermoelectric elements are variously applied to home appliances, electronic components, communication components, and the like. For example, thermoelectric elements can be applied to cooling devices, heating devices, power generation devices, and the like. 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 by utilizing high-temperature waste heat generated from engines of automobiles, ships, etc. and thermoelectric elements. At this time, a fluid flow part through which a first fluid passes is arranged on the low-temperature part side of the thermoelectric element, a heat sink is arranged on the high-temperature part side of the thermoelectric element, and a second fluid can pass through the heat sink. 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] The power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a duct and a thermoelectric conversion unit including a plurality of thermoelectric modules disposed on one surface of the duct; a chamber having a hole formed in one side surface so that the thermoelectric conversion unit is inserted therein; wiring connected to the plurality of thermoelectric modules; and a guide member having a housing space formed therein for housing the wiring, the guide member being disposed adjacent to the one side surface of the chamber and including a case having a wiring hole and a through hole through which the wiring passes; a pipe disposed outside the housing space of the case corresponding to the through hole; a molding member disposed in the housing space; and a cover disposed at the upper end of the case, the molding member being disposed so as to surround the wiring.

[0009] The wiring may be drawn out from the thermoelectric conversion unit and disposed so as to pass through the wiring hole, the through hole, and the pipe.

[0010] The case includes a lower plate; a first side wall disposed on a first edge of the lower plate; and a second side wall facing the first side wall and disposed on a second edge of the lower plate facing the first edge, the wiring hole may be disposed on the lower plate, and the through hole may be disposed on the first side wall.

[0011] The first side wall is disposed adjacent to the one side surface of the chamber, and the lower plate may be disposed adjacent to an upper surface of the thermoelectric conversion unit.

[0012] The molding member may be disposed in a separation space between the wiring and the wiring hole.

[0013] The height of the molding member may be smaller than or the same as the height of the second side wall.

[0014] A gasket can be further included between the one side surface of the chamber and the first side wall of the case.

[0015] The cover includes a main body; and a protrusion disposed on one side of the main body, and the protrusion can be disposed corresponding to a through hole disposed on the first side wall.

[0016] A wiring tube can be further included, which is disposed adjacent to the pipe and has wiring passing through the pipe disposed inside.

[0017] A plurality of conducting wires drawn from a predetermined number of thermoelectric conversion units can be disposed inside the wiring tube.

[0018] A hole can be further formed in the other side surface of the chamber opposite to the one side surface so that the thermoelectric conversion unit is inserted therein.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a power generation device with excellent sealing force can be obtained.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the conducting wires electrically connecting between the thermoelectric module and the junction box can be protected.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ease of assembly of the power generation device can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0022]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0023] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] 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 for use.

[0025] Also, 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 with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains, unless specifically defined and described otherwise. Terms commonly used like those defined in a dictionary can be interpreted considering their meaning in the context of the related technology.

[0026] Also, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for explaining the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0027] In this specification, the singular form can also include the plural form unless specifically mentioned in the text. 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.

[0028] Also, in the description of the components of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. can be used.

[0029] Such terms are only for distinguishing the component from other components and are not limited to the essence, order, or sequence of the corresponding component by such terms.

[0030] When it is described that a certain component is "connected", "coupled", or "attached" to another component, that component can include not only the case where it is directly connected, coupled, or attached to the other component, but also the case where it is "connected", "coupled", or "attached" by still another component existing between that component and the other component.

[0031] Also, when it is described that something is 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. Further, when expressed as "above or below", it can include the meaning not only in the upward direction but also in the downward direction with respect to one component as a reference.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the power generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention can include a thermoelectric conversion unit 100, a chamber 200, a guide member 300, a wiring tube 400, a channel cover 500, and a junction box 600.

[0034] The thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can be arranged inside the chamber 200. There can be a plurality of thermoelectric conversion units 100, and the plurality of thermoelectric conversion units 100 can be arranged inside the chamber 200. A part of the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can be coupled by being inserted into a hole of the chamber 200. A welding member can be arranged between a part of the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 inserted into the hole of the chamber 200 and the chamber 200. The thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can be fixed to the chamber 200 by the welding member, and the inside and the outside of the chamber 200 can be sealed by the welding member.

[0035] The thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can include a duct and a plurality of thermoelectric modules. The duct can include a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a fluid passage pipe. The fluid inlet, the fluid outlet, and the fluid passage pipe can be plural. The fluid inlet can be disposed on at least one surface of the duct, and the fluid outlet can be disposed on at least one surface of the duct. The fluid inlet and the fluid outlet can communicate with the fluid passage pipe. A plurality of thermoelectric modules can be disposed on at least one surface of the duct. A plurality of thermoelectric modules can be disposed on at least one of the first surface of the duct or the second surface facing the first surface. The thermoelectric module can include a plurality of thermoelectric elements disposed on a substrate. The plurality of thermoelectric modules can be electrically connected to each other. The plurality of thermoelectric modules can be electrically connected through wires.

[0036] The chamber 200 can include a plurality of plates. The chamber 200 can include an internal space formed through the plurality of plates. The thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can be disposed in the internal space of the chamber 200.

[0037] The plates can be plural. The plates can include a first plate 210 and a second plate 230. The first plate 210 and the second plate 230 can be disposed opposite to each other. The first plate 210 can be disposed at a predetermined interval from the second plate 230. The separation distance between the first plate 210 and the second plate 230 may be smaller than the total length of the thermoelectric conversion unit 100.

[0038] The first plate 210 and the second plate 230 may include holes. The plates may include first holes 211 and 231 into which the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 is inserted. The first hole 211 formed in the first plate 210 and the first hole 231 formed in the second plate 230 may be arranged to face each other. The number of the first holes 211 formed in the first plate 210 and the number of the first holes 231 formed in the second plate 230 may be the same. One end of the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 may be inserted into the hole formed in the first plate 210, and the other end of the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 may be inserted into the hole of the second plate 230 arranged to face the hole formed in the first plate 210.

[0039] The plates may include a third plate 250 and a fourth plate 270. The third plate 250 and the fourth plate 270 may be arranged to face each other. The third plate 250 may be arranged at a predetermined interval from the fourth plate 270. The third plate 250 may be coupled to the first plate 210 and the second plate 230. The fourth plate 270 may be coupled to the first plate 210 and the second plate 230. An internal space may be formed by coupling the first plate 210, the second plate 230, the third plate 250, and the fourth plate 270. The third plate 250 and the fourth plate 270 may be coupled to the first plate 210 and the second plate 230 after the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 is inserted into the first holes 211 and 231 of the first plate 210 and the second plate 230.

[0040] The guide member 300 may be coupled to the chamber 200. The guide member 300 may be coupled to the second hole 212 formed in the first plate of the chamber 200. The guide member 300 may be arranged on the upper surface of one side of the thermoelectric conversion unit 100.

[0041] The guide member 300 can include a case 310 and a cover 350. A durable space capable of accommodating a molding member can be formed in the case 310. The upper surface of the case 310 can be open. A wiring hole through which wiring extending from the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can pass can be disposed on the lower surface of the case 310. A pipe can be disposed on one side surface of the case 310. The pipe can be inserted into a second hole 212 formed in the first plate. Wiring that has passed through the wiring hole can pass through the inside of the pipe. The cover 350 can be disposed on the upper surface of the case 310. The cover 350 can be coupled to the upper surface of the case 310 after the internal space of the case 310 is filled with a molding member.

[0042] The channel cover 500 can be disposed on the outer surface of the chamber 200. The channel cover 500 can be disposed on the outer surface of the first plate of the chamber 200. A groove in which the pipe of the guide member 300 can be disposed can be formed on one side of the channel cover 500.

[0043] The wiring tube 400 can be disposed between the guide member 300 and the junction box 600. A wire that has passed through the pipe of the guide member 300 can pass through the inside of the wiring tube 400. The wire that has passed through the wiring tube 400 can be connected to the junction box 600.

[0044] The junction box 600 can be disposed on one surface of the channel cover 500. The junction box 600 can be disposed on the outer surface of the channel cover. The junction box 600 can be connected to a wire that has passed through the tube. The junction box 600 can be electrically connected to the thermoelectric module of the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 through the wire.

[0045] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a thermoelectric conversion unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the thermoelectric conversion unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram of a thermoelectric element according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram of the arrangement of the thermoelectric elements according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 includes a duct 110 and a thermoelectric module 120 disposed on the surface of the duct 110. Although not shown, a plurality of thermoelectric conversion units 100 may be arranged in parallel at predetermined intervals to form a power generation system.

[0047] The thermoelectric conversion unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention can produce electric power by utilizing the temperature difference between a first fluid flowing through the inside of the duct 110 and a second fluid passing outside the duct 110.

[0048] The first fluid flowing into the duct 110 may be water, but is not limited thereto, and may be various types of fluids having cooling performance. The temperature of the first fluid flowing into the duct 110 may 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 110 may be higher than the temperature of the first fluid flowing into the duct 110.

[0049] The first fluid flows in from the fluid inlet of the duct 110 and is discharged through the fluid outlet. In order to facilitate the inflow and discharge of the first fluid and support the duct 110, an inlet flange (not shown) and an outlet flange (not shown) may be further disposed on the fluid inlet side and the fluid outlet side of the duct 110, respectively. Alternatively, a plurality of fluid inlets (not shown) are formed on the first surface 111 of the duct 110, the second surface 112 facing the first surface 111, and the fifth surface 115 disposed perpendicular to the third surface 113 between the first surface 111 and the second surface 112, and a plurality of fluid outlets 116-2 are formed on the sixth surface 116 facing the fifth surface 115. The plurality of fluid inlets (not shown) and the plurality of fluid outlets 116-2 may be connected to a plurality of fluid passage pipes (not shown) in the duct 110. Accordingly, the first fluid flowing into each fluid inlet may be discharged from each fluid outlet 116-2 after passing through each fluid passage pipe.

[0050] However, this is exemplary, and the number, position, shape, etc. of the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet are not limited thereto. One fluid inlet, one fluid outlet, and a fluid passage pipe connecting them may be formed in the duct 110.

[0051] On the other hand, the second fluid passes through the outside of the duct 110, for example, through the heat sink 122 of the thermoelectric module 120 disposed outside the duct 110. The second fluid may be waste heat generated from an engine of an automobile, a ship, etc., but is not limited thereto. For example, the temperature of the second fluid may be 100°C or higher, preferably 200°C or higher, more preferably 220°C to 250°C, but is not limited thereto.

[0052] In this specification, the temperature of the first fluid flowing through the inside of the duct 110 will be described by taking as an example that it is lower than the temperature of the second fluid passing through the heat sink 122 of the thermoelectric module 120 disposed outside the duct 110. Accordingly, in this specification, the duct 110 may be referred to as a cooling unit. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the temperature of the first fluid flowing through the inside of the duct 110 may be higher than the temperature of the second fluid passing through the heat sink 122 of the thermoelectric module 120 disposed outside the duct 110.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the thermoelectric module 120 includes a thermoelectric element 121 and a heat sink 122 disposed on the thermoelectric element 121. The thermoelectric element 121 according to the embodiment of the present invention can have the structure of the thermoelectric element 10 illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 6.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 6, the thermoelectric element 10 includes a first substrate 11, a first electrode 12, a P-type thermoelectric leg 13, an N-type thermoelectric leg 14, a second electrode 15, and a second substrate 16.

[0055] The first electrode 12 is disposed between the first substrate 11, the P-type thermoelectric leg 13, and the N-type thermoelectric leg 14, and the second electrode 15 is disposed between the second substrate 16, the P-type thermoelectric leg 13, and the N-type thermoelectric leg 14. Accordingly, the plurality of P-type thermoelectric legs 13 and the plurality of N-type thermoelectric legs 14 are electrically connected by the first electrode 12 and the second electrode 15. A pair of P-type thermoelectric legs 13 and N-type thermoelectric legs 14 disposed between and electrically connected to the first electrode 12 and the second electrode 15 can form a unit cell.

[0056] For example, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 12 and the second electrode 15 through the output lines 18-1 and 18-2, the substrate in which current flows from the P-type thermoelectric leg 13 to the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 due to the Peltier effect absorbs heat and acts as a cooling part, and the substrate in which current flows from the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 to the P-type thermoelectric leg 13 can be heated to act as a heat generating part. Or when a temperature difference is applied between the first electrode 12 and the second electrode 15, charges in the P-type thermoelectric leg 13 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 may move due to the Seebeck effect, generating electricity.

[0057] Here, the P-type thermoelectric leg 13 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 can be bismuth telluride (Bi-Te)-based thermoelectric legs containing bismuth (Bi) and tellurium (Te) as the main raw materials. The P-type thermoelectric leg 13 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 13 can contain 99 to 99.999 wt% of Bi-Sb-Te, which is the main raw material substance, based on 100 wt% of the total weight, 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 to 1 wt%. The N-type thermoelectric leg 14 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 14 can contain 99 to 99.999 wt% of Bi-Se-Te, which is the main raw material substance, based on 100 wt% of the total weight, 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 to 1 wt%.

[0058] The P-type thermoelectric leg 13 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 can be formed in a bulk type or a laminated type. Generally, the bulk type P-type thermoelectric leg 13 or the bulk type N-type thermoelectric leg 14 can be obtained through a process of manufacturing an ingot by heat-treating a thermoelectric material, pulverizing the ingot and sieving it to obtain powder for the thermoelectric leg, and then sintering the powder and cutting the sintered body. At this time, the P-type thermoelectric leg 13 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 can be polycrystalline thermoelectric legs. Thus, when the P-type thermoelectric leg 13 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 are polycrystalline thermoelectric legs, the strength of the P-type thermoelectric leg 13 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 can be increased. The laminated type P-type thermoelectric leg 13 or the laminated type N-type thermoelectric leg 14 can be obtained through a process of applying a paste containing a thermoelectric material onto a sheet-like base material to form a unit member, and then laminating and cutting the unit members.

[0059] At this time, the pair of P-type thermoelectric leg 13 and N-type thermoelectric leg 14 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 13 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 are different, the height or cross-sectional area of the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 may be formed to be different from the height or cross-sectional area of the P-type thermoelectric leg 13.

[0060] At this time, the P-type thermoelectric leg 13 or the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 can have a cylindrical shape, a polygonal column shape, an elliptical column shape, or the like.

[0061] In this specification, the thermoelectric leg may be referred to as a thermoelectric structure, a semiconductor element, a semiconductor structure, or the like.

[0062] The performance of the thermoelectric element according to an embodiment of the present invention can be indicated by a thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT). The thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) can be expressed as in Mathematical Formula 1.

[0063]

Equation

[0064] Here, α is the Seebeck coefficient [V / K], σ is the electrical conductivity [S / m], and α 2 σ is the power factor (Power Factor, [W / mK 2 )). And T is the temperature, k is the thermal conductivity [W / mK]. k can be expressed as a·cp·ρ, where a is the thermal diffusivity [cm 2 / S], cp is the specific heat [J / gK], and ρ is the density [g / cm 3 .

[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 first electrode 12 disposed between the first substrate 11 and the P-type thermoelectric leg 13 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 14, and the second electrode 15 disposed between the second substrate 16 and the P-type thermoelectric leg 13 and the N-type thermoelectric leg 14 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. When the thickness of the first electrode 12 or the second electrode 15 is less than 0.01 mm, the function as an electrode may fail and the electrical conduction performance may be low. When it exceeds 0.3 mm, the conduction efficiency may be low due to the increase in resistance.

[0067] The opposing first substrate 11 and second substrate 16 can be metal substrates, and their thickness can be from 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, and thus the reliability of the thermoelectric element may decrease. Further, when the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 16 are metal substrates, an insulating layer 170 can be further formed between the first substrate 11 and the first electrode 12 and between the second substrate 16 and the second electrode 15, 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, a layer made of a silicon 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 sizes of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 16 may be formed differently. That is, the volume, thickness, or area of one of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 16 may be formed larger than the volume, thickness, or area of the other one. Here, the thickness may be the thickness in the direction from the first substrate 11 to the second substrate 16, and the area may be the area in the direction perpendicular to the direction from the first substrate 11 to the second substrate 16. Accordingly, the heat absorption performance or heat dissipation performance of the thermoelectric element can be enhanced. Preferably, the volume, thickness, or area of the first substrate 11 may be formed larger than at least one of the volume, thickness, or area of the second substrate 16. At this time, when the first substrate 11 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 first substrate 11, at least one of the volume, thickness, or area can be made even larger than that of the second substrate 16. At this time, the area of the first substrate 11 can be formed in the range of 1.2 to 5 times the area of the second substrate 16. When the area of the first substrate 11 is formed less than 1.2 times that of the second substrate 16, 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 significantly drops, and it may be difficult to maintain the basic shape of the thermoelectric module.

[0069] Further, a heat dissipation pattern, for example, a concavo-convex pattern, may be formed on at least one surface of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 16. 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 13 or the N-type thermoelectric leg 14, the bonding characteristics between the thermoelectric leg and the substrate can also be improved.

[0070] Although not shown, a sealing member may be further disposed between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 16. The sealing member can be disposed on the side surfaces of the first electrode 12, the P-type thermoelectric leg 13, the N-type thermoelectric leg 14, and the second electrode 15 between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 16. Accordingly, the first electrode 12, the P-type thermoelectric leg 13, the N-type thermoelectric leg 14, and the second electrode 15 can be sealed from external moisture, heat, contamination, etc.

[0071] Referring again to FIGS. 3 to 4, the thermoelectric module 120 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a thermoelectric element 121 and a heat sink 122 disposed on the thermoelectric element 121. Although FIGS. 3 to 4 illustrate that two thermoelectric modules 120-1 and 120-2 are disposed on the first surface 111 of the duct 110 and two thermoelectric modules 120-3 and 120-4 are also disposed on the second surface 112, the present invention is not limited thereto, and two or more thermoelectric modules may be disposed on one surface.

[0072] As described above, each thermoelectric element 121 includes a first substrate 11 disposed to contact the surface of the duct 110, a plurality of first electrodes 12 disposed on the first substrate 11, a plurality of thermoelectric legs 13 and 14 disposed on the plurality of first electrodes 12, a plurality of second electrodes 15 disposed on the plurality of thermoelectric legs 13 and 14, and a second substrate 16 disposed on the plurality of second electrodes 15, and the heat sink 122 is disposed on the second substrate 16. And an insulating layer 17 may be further disposed between the first substrate 11 and the plurality of first electrodes 12 and between the plurality of second electrodes 15 and the second substrate 16, respectively.

[0073] At this time, the first substrate of the thermoelectric element 121 disposed on the duct 110 may be a metal substrate, and the metal substrate may be adhered to the surface of the duct 110 by a thermal interface material (TIM, not shown) or coupled by a separate fastening member. Here, the metal substrate may be one of a copper substrate, an aluminum substrate, and a copper-aluminum substrate, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0074] As described above, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of thermoelectric modules 120 are disposed on the surface of the duct 110. According to an embodiment of the present invention, an attempt is made to uniformly maintain the bonding force between the thermoelectric module 120 and the duct 110 using a support portion.

[0075] Hereinafter, the configuration of the guide member will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 7 to 14.

[0076] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a guide member according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a plan view of a case and a pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a rear view of a case and a pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a side view of a case and a pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a plan view of a cover according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a front view of a cover according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 7, a guide member 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention can include a case 310, a pipe 330, a cover 350, and a molding member 370. The guide member 300 can be formed by sequentially laminating the case 310, the molding member 370, and the cover 350.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 10, the case 310 can include a first side wall 311, a second side wall 312, a third side wall 313, a fourth side wall 314, and a lower plate 315.

[0079] The lower plate 315 can be square-shaped. The first side wall 311, the second side wall 312, the third side wall 313, and the fourth side wall 314 can be respectively arranged at each edge portion of the lower plate 315. Accordingly, an accommodation space can be arranged inside the case 310. Since the case 310 may not have an upper plate facing the lower plate 315, one side can be open. The molding member 370 can be arranged in the accommodation space of the case 310.

[0080] The lower plate 315 can include wiring holes 315-1. There can be a plurality of wiring holes 315-1. The plurality of wiring holes 315-1 can be arranged spaced apart from each other. The wiring holes 315-1 can be arranged on one side of the lower surface of the case 310. The wiring holes 315-1 can be arranged adjacent to the second side wall 312. The wiring holes 315-1 can be arranged corresponding to a thermoelectric conversion unit arranged in a chamber.

[0081] The first side wall 311 can be arranged at the first edge of the lower plate 315. The first side wall 311 can have a first height h1. The first height h1 may be higher than the second height h2 of the second side wall 312. The first side wall 311 can include a screw hole 311-2 and a through hole 311-1.

[0082] There can be a plurality of through holes 311-1. The plurality of through holes 311-1 can be arranged at a predetermined interval. The through holes 311-1 can communicate with a pipe 330 arranged outside the first side wall 311. The pipe 330 includes a first opening (open1) and a second opening (open2), and the through holes 311-1 can communicate with the second opening (open2) of the pipe 330. The width of the through holes 311-1 may be the same as the width of the second opening (open2) of the pipe 330.

[0083] There can be a plurality of screw holes 311-2. The plurality of screw holes 311-2 can be arranged at a predetermined interval. The screw holes 311-2 can be formed at a position higher than the second height h2 on the first side wall 311. Accordingly, screw fastening through the screw holes 311-2 can be easy, and the assembly convenience of the power generation device can be improved.

[0084] The second side wall 312 can be arranged at the second edge of the lower plate 315. The second edge of the lower plate 315 can face the first edge of the lower plate 315. Accordingly, the second side wall 312 can be arranged opposite to the first side wall 311. The second side wall 312 can have a second height h2. The height of the second side wall 312 may be smaller than the height of the first side wall 311.

[0085] The third side wall 313 can be arranged at the third edge of the lower plate 315. The third edge of the lower plate 315 can be arranged between the first edge and the second edge of the lower plate 315. Accordingly, the third side wall 313 can be arranged between the first side wall 311 and the second side wall 312. The third side wall 313 can have a second height h2. The height of the third side wall 313 may be the same as the height of the second side wall 312.

[0086] The fourth side wall 314 can be disposed at the fourth edge of the lower plate 315. The fourth edge of the lower plate 315 can be disposed between the first edge and the second edge of the lower plate 315. The fourth edge of the lower plate 315 can face the third edge of the lower plate 315. Accordingly, the third side wall 313 can be disposed between the first side wall 311 and the second side wall 312. The fourth side wall 314 can be disposed opposite to the third side wall 313. The second side wall 312 can have the second height h2. The height of the fourth side wall 314 may be the same as the height of the second side wall 312. The height of the fourth side wall 314 may be the same as the height of the third side wall 313.

[0087] The case 310 can include support members 316-1 and 316-2. There can be a plurality of the support members 316-1 and 316-2. According to one embodiment, there can be two support members 316-1 and 316-2, but it is not limited thereto. The first support member 316-1 can be disposed adjacent to the third side wall 313, and the second support member 316-2 can be disposed adjacent to the fourth side wall 314. The height of the support members 316-1 and 316-2 may be smaller than the second height h2.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 7, 11, and 12, the cover 350 can include a main body 352 and a protrusion 354. The main body 352 can be square-shaped. The protrusion 354 can be disposed on one side of the main body 352. The protrusion 354 can be disposed on one side of the main body 352 adjacent to the first side wall 311 of the case 310. There can be a plurality of the protrusions 354. The number of the protrusions 354 may be the same as the number of the through holes 311-1. The number of the protrusions 354 may be the same as the number of the pipes 330. The protrusion 354 can be disposed toward the upper surface of the main body 352. The shape of the protrusion 354 may be the same as a part of the shape of the through hole 311-1. For example, when the through hole 311-1 is circular, the protrusion 354 can be semi-circular. The protrusion 354 can form a space inside. For example, the protrusion 354 can be formed inside a semi-circular space.

[0089] FIG. 13 is an assembled perspective view of a guide member according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a guide member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a guide member 300 to which a case 310, a pipe 330, a cover 350, and a molding member 370 are coupled. FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the guide member 300 of FIG. 13 cut along the A-A' direction.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, a molding member 370 can be disposed in the accommodation space inside the case 310. The molding member 370 can be formed by disposing a resin having fluidity in the internal accommodation space of the case 310 and then curing it. After the molding member 370 is disposed in the internal accommodation space of the case 310, a cover 350 can be coupled to the upper surface of the molding member 370. After the molding member 370 is disposed in the internal accommodation space of the case 310, the cover 350 can be coupled to the upper surface of the case 310. Therefore, the molding member 370 can be prevented from being exposed outside the guide member 300. By disposing the molding member 370 in the internal accommodation space of the case 310, the molding member 370 can cover the wiring hole. In the case where there is no molding member 370, the internal space of the chamber can communicate with the outside of the power generation device through the wiring hole, the accommodation space of the case 310, and the pipe 330. In this case, foreign substances (such as dust, moisture, water, etc.) can be introduced into the internal space of the chamber from the outside of the power generation device. Also, the high-temperature gas inside the power generation device can flow out to the outside of the power generation device. However, the guide member 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention can prevent foreign substances from flowing into the inside of the power generation device by disposing the molding member 370 in the accommodation space of the case 310, and can prevent the high-temperature gas inside the power generation device from flowing out to the outside of the power generation device. When the cover 350 is coupled to the upper part of the molding member 370, the cover 350 can cover the through hole disposed in the first side wall of the case 310. Since the molding member 370 cannot be higher than the second side wall, the molding member 370 can only prevent a part of the through hole. Therefore, a part of the through hole can be opened. However, by the protruding portion of the cover 350 covering the open area of the through hole, it is possible to prevent foreign substances (such as dust, moisture, water, etc.) from being introduced into the inside of the power generation device through the through hole, and to prevent the high-temperature gas inside the power generation device from flowing out to the outside of the power generation device.

[0092] The molding member 370 can be arranged to surround the wiring disposed in the accommodation space. Accordingly, the molding member 370 can prevent the shaking of the wiring to improve the connection safety of the power generation device and can protect the wiring from external impact and heat.

[0093] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a power generation module including a case and a pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the power generation module including the case and the pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the power generation module of FIG. 15 along the A-A' direction.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the power generation device can include a thermoelectric conversion unit 100, a chamber 200, a guide member 300, a wiring tube 400, a channel cover 500, and a junction box 600. The power generation device can include a wiring 700 and a gasket 390. The guide member 300 can include a case 310 and a pipe 330.

[0095] A part of the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can be coupled by being inserted into a hole formed on one side of the chamber. The case 310 can be disposed on one side of the chamber. The case 310 can be disposed on a plate 210 on which a hole into which the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 is inserted is disposed among one side of the chamber.

[0096] A gasket 390 may be disposed between the case 310 and the chamber. The gasket may be disposed between the plate 210 with holes and the first side wall of the case 310. The gasket 390 may be embodied with a material that can seal between the chamber and the case 310. The gasket 390 may be a rubber-like material, but is not limited thereto. The gasket 390 may be a material such as cloth with rubber, asbestos, or copper. A channel cover 500 may be disposed on the outer surface of the chamber. A junction box 600 may be disposed on the outer surface of the channel cover 500. A wiring tube may be disposed between the case 310 and the junction box 600. After the gasket 390 is disposed between the case 310 and the chamber, it can be fastened through screws or the like to prevent foreign matter outside the power generation device from flowing into the power generation device. Moreover, it can prevent the high-temperature gas inside the power generation device from flowing out to the outside of the power generation device.

[0097] The wiring 700 may be connected to the thermoelectric conversion unit 100. The wiring 700 may be drawn out from the upper surface adjacent to the region inserted into the chamber of the thermoelectric conversion unit 100. According to an embodiment, two wirings 700 may be drawn out from one thermoelectric conversion unit 100. The wiring 700 drawn out from the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can pass through the lower plate of the case 310. The wiring 700 drawn out from the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can pass through the wiring hole in the lower plate. The width of the wiring hole formed in the lower plate may be larger than the width of the wiring 700. Therefore, even if the wiring 700 passes through the wiring hole, a part of the wiring hole can be open. The wiring 700 that has passed through the wiring hole in the lower plate can pass through the through hole formed in the first measuring plate of the case 310. The wiring 700 that has passed through the through hole formed in the first measuring plate can pass through the pipe 330 communicating with the through hole. There may be a plurality of wirings 700 passing through the through hole and the pipe 330. As an example, two wirings 700 drawn out from one thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can pass through the same through hole and pipe 330. As an example, a plurality of wirings 700 drawn out from a plurality of adjacent thermoelectric conversion units 100 can pass through the same through hole and pipe 330.

[0098] The wiring 700 that has passed through the through-hole and the pipe 330 can pass through the wiring tube 400. A plurality of wirings 700 drawn from a predetermined number of thermoelectric conversion units 100 can pass through the same through-hole and pipe 330 and then pass through the same wiring tube 400. The wiring 700 tube can not only protect the plurality of conducting wires arranged inside from external impacts and the environment, but also improve the assembly convenience. The wiring 700 that has passed through the wiring tube 400 can be connected to the junction box 600. The wiring 700 that has passed through the wiring tube 400 can be connected to the electric circuit in the junction box 600.

[0099] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a power generation module including a case and a molding member according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a power generation module including a case and a molding member according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the power generation module of FIG. 17 along the A-A' direction.

[0100] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the power generation device can include a thermoelectric conversion unit 100, a chamber 200, a guide member 300, a wiring tube 400, a channel cover 500, and a junction box 600. The power generation device can include a wiring 700 and a gasket 390. The guide member 300 can include a case 310, a pipe 330, and a molding member 370.

[0101] As described in FIGS. 15 and 16, the case 310 can be disposed on the inner side of the chamber and the upper surface of the thermoelectric conversion unit 100. The wiring 700 drawn from the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can pass through the wiring hole and the through-hole of the case 310, the wiring tube 400, and be connected to the junction box 600.

[0102] With the wiring 700 arranged, the molding member 370 can be arranged in the accommodation space of the case 310. By arranging the molding member 370 in the accommodation space of the case 310, the molding member 370 can prevent a gap between the wiring hole formed in the lower plate and the wiring 700. The molding member 370 can be arranged up to the height of the maximum second side wall in the accommodation space of the case 310. According to one embodiment, the molding member 370 can be arranged so that the wiring 700 is not exposed within the accommodation space of the case 310. By arranging the molding member 370 so that the wiring 700 is not exposed within the accommodation space of the case 310, the wires can be protected from the heat inside the power generation device and the vibration of the power generation device. The molding member 370 can be made of a material including a resin composition such as an epoxy-based or silicon-based composition. On the other hand, since the molding member 370 can be arranged up to the height of the maximum second side wall, at least a part of the through holes of the case 310 can be opened.

[0103] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a power generation module including a case, a pipe, a molding member, and a cover according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a power generation module including a case, a pipe, a molding member, and a cover according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the power generation module of FIG. 19 along the A-A' direction.

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the power generation device can include a thermoelectric conversion unit 100, a chamber 200, a guide member 300, a wiring tube 400, a channel cover 500, and a junction box 600. The power generation device can include a wiring 700 and a gasket 390. The guide member 300 can include a case 310, a pipe 330, a molding member 370, and a cover 350.

[0105] As described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 18, the case 310 can be disposed inside the chamber and on the upper surface of the thermoelectric conversion unit 100. The wiring 700 drawn from the thermoelectric conversion unit 100 can pass through the wiring holes and through holes of the case 310 and the wiring tube 400 and be connected to the junction box 600. With the wiring 700 disposed, the molding member 370 can be disposed in the accommodation space of the case 310.

[0106] With the molding member 370 disposed in the accommodation space of the case 310, the cover 350 can be disposed on the upper part of the case 310. The cover 350 can be disposed on the upper part of the molding member 370. The protruding portion of the cover 350 can be disposed in a region of the through hole disposed in the case that is not closed by the molding member 370 and is open. By closing the open region of the through hole after the molding member 370 is disposed, the protruding portion of the cover 350 can prevent foreign matter outside the power generation device from flowing into the power generation device. Moreover, it can prevent the high-temperature gas flowing into the power generation device from flowing out to the outside of the power generation device.

[0107] 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 collect heat sources. At this time, each power generation device can improve the bonding force between the thermoelectric module and the fluid flow part to improve the cooling performance of the low-temperature part of the thermoelectric element. Along with this, since the efficiency and reliability of the power generation device can be improved, 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.

[0108] In the above, the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the relevant technical field 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 thermoelectric conversion unit including a duct and a thermoelectric module disposed on one surface of the duct; A chamber having a hole formed in one side surface so that one end of the thermoelectric conversion unit is inserted therein; Wiring connected to the thermoelectric module; and A guide member having an accommodation space formed therein to accommodate the wiring, The guide member is A case disposed adjacent to the one side surface of the chamber and including a wiring hole and a through hole through which the wiring passes; A pipe disposed outside the accommodation space of the case corresponding to the through hole; A molding member disposed in the accommodation space; and A cover disposed at the upper end of the case; including The molding member is disposed so as to surround the wiring, The wiring is drawn out from the thermoelectric conversion unit and disposed so as to pass through the wiring hole, the through hole, and the pipe, The case is A lower plate; A first side wall disposed at a first edge of the lower plate; A second side wall disposed opposite to the first side wall and at a second edge of the lower plate opposite to the first edge; including The wiring hole is disposed in the lower plate, The through hole is disposed in the first side wall, The cover is A main body; and a protrusion disposed on one side of the main body; including The protrusion is A power generation device disposed corresponding to the through hole disposed in the first side wall.

2. The power generation device according to claim 1, wherein the first side wall is disposed adjacent to the one side surface of the chamber, and the lower plate is disposed adjacent to an upper surface of the thermoelectric conversion unit.

3. The power generation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the molding member is disposed in a separation space between the wiring and the wiring hole.

4. The height of the molding member is Less than or equal to the height of the second side wall, the power generation device according to claim 3.

5. The power generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further including a gasket disposed between the one side surface of the chamber and the first side wall of the case.

6. Further including a wiring tube disposed adjacent to the pipe and having the wiring passing through the pipe disposed therein, The power generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a plurality of conducting wires drawn out from a predetermined number of thermoelectric conversion units are disposed inside the wiring tube.

7. The chamber is The power generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a hole is further formed in the other side surface facing the one side surface so that the other end of the thermoelectric conversion unit is inserted therein.

8. The power generation device according to claim 2, wherein the wiring hole is disposed closer to the second side wall than the first side wall.

9. The power generation device according to claim 2, wherein the height of the first side wall is higher than the height of the second side wall.

10. The power generation device according to claim 9, wherein a screw hole is further disposed in the first side wall, and the screw hole is disposed at a position higher than the height of the second side wall.

11. The power generation device according to claim 1, wherein the protruding portion is semicircular with a space formed inside.

12. The power generation device according to claim 7, wherein the holes on one side surface of the chamber and the holes on the other side surface of the chamber are arranged to face each other.

13. A plurality of thermoelectric conversion units; A first plate in which a plurality of holes are formed so that one ends of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion units are inserted therein; A second plate in which a plurality of holes are formed so that the other ends of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion units are inserted therein; A plurality of wirings connected to the plurality of thermoelectric conversion units; and A guide member for guiding the plurality of wirings, The guide member is disposed above one end of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion units, The guide member is A case including a plurality of wiring holes and a plurality of through holes in which the plurality of wirings penetrate, disposed adjacent to the first plate; A plurality of pipes disposed outside the accommodation space of the case corresponding to the plurality of through holes; A molding member disposed in the accommodation space; and A cover disposed at the upper end of the case; including The molding member is disposed so as to surround the plurality of wirings, The plurality of wirings are drawn out from the plurality of thermoelectric conversion units and are arranged to pass through the plurality of wiring holes, the plurality of through holes, and the plurality of pipes, The case is A lower plate; A first side wall disposed at a first edge of the lower plate; A second side wall disposed opposite to the first side wall and at a second edge of the lower plate opposite to the first edge; including The wiring hole is disposed on the lower plate, The through hole is disposed on the first side wall, The cover is A main body; and a plurality of protruding portions disposed on one side of the main body; including The plurality of protruding portions are The power generation device disposed corresponding to the plurality of through holes disposed on the first side wall.

14. Each of the plurality of wiring holes corresponds to each of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion units, The power generation device according to claim 13, wherein the number of the plurality of through holes is smaller than the number of the plurality of wiring holes.

15. The power generation device according to claim 14, wherein the plurality of wiring holes are arranged further adjacent to the second side wall from the first side wall.

16. The power generation device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the plurality of holes formed in the first plate and the plurality of holes formed in the second plate are arranged to face each other.

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