Thermoelectric power generation module

Abstract

To improve a heat resistance property.SOLUTION: A thermoelectric generation module 1 comprises: a first base material 11 formed in a sheet shape, and having a thermoplastic layer 112; a second base material 12 formed in the sheet shape, and having a thermoplastic layer 122; a plurality of thermoelectric conversion elements 21 arranged between the first base material 11 and the second base material 12; a plurality of first electrodes 22 arranged between the first base material 11 and the thermoelectric conversion element 21; a plurality of second electrodes 23 arranged between the second base material 12 and the thermoelectric conversion element 21; and a joining portion A joining the first base material 11 and the second base material 12 to each other. The thermoelectric conversion element 21, the plurality of first electrodes 22, and the plurality of second electrodes 23 are sealed by the joining portion A.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to thermoelectric power generation modules. [Background technology]

[0002] Thermoelectric power generation modules are used in factories and facilities that perform incineration and heat treatment, and therefore operate in environments exposed to wind and rain, high humidity, high temperature, and dust. Therefore, thermoelectric power generation modules, which generate a potential difference, are prone to short circuits due to the water and dust acting as electrical paths. Therefore, thermoelectric power generation modules are sealed with a sealing member to prevent water and dust from entering the interior.

[0003] A technique is known in which the outside of a thermoelectric power generation module is surrounded by an O-ring, and a biasing member is used to absorb deformation of the heat exchange plate, thereby maintaining good contact with the O-ring and improving sealing performance (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-080883 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] If the sealing member has low heat resistance, it may thermally decompose into smaller molecules in a high-temperature environment. The smaller molecules of the sealing member will have reduced sealing properties. This may allow water and dust to penetrate into the thermoelectric power generation module and form an electrical path. Furthermore, the insulating member disposed inside the thermoelectric power generation module may absorb moisture, reducing its insulating properties.

[0006] The present disclosure aims to improve heat resistance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a thermoelectric power generation module comprising: a first substrate formed in a sheet shape and having a thermoplastic layer; a second substrate formed in a sheet shape and having a thermoplastic layer; a plurality of thermoelectric conversion elements arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate; a plurality of first electrodes arranged between the first substrate and the thermoelectric conversion elements; a plurality of second electrodes arranged between the second substrate and the thermoelectric conversion elements; and a joint joining the first substrate and the second substrate, wherein the thermoelectric conversion elements, the plurality of first electrodes, and the plurality of second electrodes are sealed by the joint. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, heat resistance can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view schematically showing the first base material of the thermoelectric power generation module according to the first embodiment, as viewed from above. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view schematically showing the second base material of the thermoelectric power generation module according to the first embodiment, as viewed from below. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the first base material. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the thermoelectric power generation module according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a plan view schematically showing the first base material of the thermoelectric power generation module according to the first modification, as viewed from above. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a plan view schematically showing the second base material of the thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 1, as viewed from below. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to the first modification. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a plan view schematically showing a first base material of a thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 2, as viewed from above. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view schematically showing the second base material of the thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 2, as viewed from below. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to the second modification. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 3. As shown in FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to the fourth modification. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to the fifth modification. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a conductor. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the conductor. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the conductor. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to the second embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to the third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a plan view schematically showing the first base material and the second base material of the thermoelectric power generation module according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments. Components of the multiple embodiments described below can be combined as appropriate. In addition, some components may not be used.

[0011] In the embodiment, the positional relationship of each part will be described using the terms "left," "right," "front," "rear," "upper," and "lower." These terms indicate relative positions or directions based on the center of the thermoelectric power generation module 1. The left-right direction, the front-rear direction, and the up-down direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0012] (First embodiment) [Thermoelectric power generation module] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view schematically showing a first substrate of the thermoelectric power generation module according to the first embodiment, as viewed from above. FIG. 3 is a plan view schematically showing a second substrate of the thermoelectric power generation module according to the first embodiment, as viewed from below. The thermoelectric power generation module 1 is installed between a high-temperature plate and a low-temperature plate (not shown). The thermoelectric power generation module 1 generates electricity through the Seebeck effect by creating a temperature difference between the two sides (top and bottom in the figure) using the high-temperature plate and the low-temperature plate.

[0013] 1, the thermoelectric power generation module 1 includes a first substrate 11, a second substrate 12, and a thermoelectric conversion element 21 disposed between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. The arrangement of the thermoelectric conversion element 21, the first electrode 22, and the second electrode 23 in each drawing used in the following description is shown schematically.

[0014] Each of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 is made of an electrically insulating material. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, in the embodiment, each of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 is formed in a sheet shape. Each of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 is flexible. In the embodiment, the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are formed in a rectangular shape. The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 face each other with the thermoelectric conversion element 21 interposed therebetween. In the embodiment, the second substrate 12 is disposed above the first substrate 11.

[0015] 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the first substrate 11. In this embodiment, the first substrate 11 has a three-layer structure including a first layer 111, a second layer (metal layer) 114, and a third layer (shield layer) 115. In this embodiment, the first substrate 11 is formed by laminating the third layer 115, the thermoplastic layer 113, the first layer 111, the thermoplastic layer 112, and the second layer 114 in this order from the bottom.

[0016] The first layer 111 is made of a sheet-like polyimide. The thickness of the first layer 111 is, for example, 25 μm. The first layer 111 has a thermoplastic layer 112 on the upper surface side and a thermoplastic layer 113 on the lower surface side.

[0017] The thermoplastic layer 112 and the thermoplastic layer 113 are disposed over the entire surface or at least the peripheral portions of the upper and lower surfaces of the first layer 111. The thermoplastic layer 112 and the thermoplastic layer 113 are softened by heating to, for example, 240°C or higher, and then hardened by cooling. As a result, when the thermoplastic layer 112 or the thermoplastic layer 113 is heated while superimposed on an object, it is bonded to the object by thermoplasticity.

[0018] The second layer 114 is laminated on the upper surface side of the first layer 111. The thickness of the second layer 114 is, for example, 300 μm. The thermoplastic layer 112 is interposed between the second layer 114 and the first layer 111. The second layer 114 is made of a conductive material. The second layer 114 is, for example, copper foil. The second layer 114 is processed by etching or the like, and the remaining portion becomes the second electrode 23. In the embodiment, the second layer 114 is removed from the peripheral edge portion of the first base material 11 to expose the thermoplastic layer 112.

[0019] The third layer 115 is laminated on the lower surface side of the first layer 111. The thickness of the third layer 115 is, for example, 18 μm. A thermoplastic layer 113 is interposed between the third layer 115 and the first layer 111. The third layer 115 is made of a water-blocking material because the polyimide of the first layer 111 is permeable to water. The third layer 115 is, for example, copper foil. Another desirable property of copper foil is its high thermal conductivity. The third layer 115 comes into direct contact with a hot plate of a thermoelectric power generation device (not shown) or comes into contact with it via thermally conductive grease or the like.

[0020] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, bonding portion A is a region in the thermoplastic layer 112 and the thermoplastic layer 113 that is heated and bonded. Bonding portion A is arranged in a frame shape. When viewed from the top-bottom direction, bonding portion A is arranged to surround the periphery of multiple pn element pairs aligned in the planar direction. Bonding portion A is arranged on the peripheral edge of the upper surface of the first substrate 11.

[0021] The second substrate 12 has the same configuration as the first substrate 11, and therefore a cross-sectional view thereof is omitted. In the embodiment, the second substrate 12 is formed by laminating, from above, a third layer (shield layer) 125, a thermoplastic layer 123, a first layer 121, a thermoplastic layer 122, and a second layer (metal layer) 124. In the embodiment, the second substrate 12 is formed in a rectangular shape having a larger area than the first substrate 11. In the embodiment, the length of the second substrate 12 in the left-right direction is the same as that of the first substrate 11. In the embodiment, the length of the second substrate 12 in the front-rear direction is longer than that of the first substrate 11. As a result, the width of the second substrate 12 in front of the joint A is longer than that of the first substrate 11. As a result, when the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are overlapped, the underside of the front portion of the second substrate 12 is exposed.

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, by heating the joint A while the first substrate 11 and second substrate 12 configured in this manner are stacked on top of each other, the peripheral edge of the upper surface of the first substrate 11 and the peripheral edge of the lower surface of the second substrate 12 are joined and sealed.

[0023] One or more thermoelectric conversion elements 21 are arranged between the upper surface side of the first substrate 11 and the lower surface side of the second substrate 12. The multiple thermoelectric conversion elements 21 are connected by multiple first electrodes 22 and second electrodes 23.

[0024] The thermoelectric conversion element 21 is formed of a thermoelectric material. Examples of thermoelectric materials that form the thermoelectric conversion element 21 include manganese silicide compounds (Mn—Si), magnesium silicide compounds (Mg—Si—Sn), skutterudite compounds (Co—Sb), half-Heusler compounds (Zr—Ni—Sn), and bismuth telluride compounds (Bi—Te). The thermoelectric conversion element 21 may be formed of one compound selected from the manganese silicide compounds, magnesium silicide compounds, skutterudite compounds, half-Heusler compounds, and bismuth telluride compounds, or may be formed of a combination of at least two compounds.

[0025] The thermoelectric conversion elements 21 include p-type elements 21P and n-type elements 21N. A plurality of the p-type elements 21P and a plurality of the n-type elements 21N are arranged in a predetermined plane. In the front-rear direction, the p-type elements 21P and the n-type elements 21N are arranged alternately. In the left-right direction, the p-type elements 21P and the n-type elements 21N are arranged alternately.

[0026] The first electrode 22 and the second electrode 23 are made of a conductive metal. The first electrode 22 is disposed between the first substrate 11 and the thermoelectric conversion element 21. The first electrode 22 is provided on the upper surface of the first substrate 11. A plurality of first electrodes 22 are provided in a predetermined plane parallel to the upper surface of the first substrate 11. The second electrode 23 is disposed between the second substrate 12 and the thermoelectric conversion element 21. The second electrode 23 is provided on the lower surface of the second substrate 12. A plurality of second electrodes 23 are provided in a predetermined plane parallel to the lower surface of the second substrate 12. In the embodiment, the first electrode 22 is formed by processing the second layer 114 of the first substrate 11. In the embodiment, the second electrode 23 is formed by processing the second layer 124 of the second substrate 12.

[0027] The first electrode 22 and the second electrode 23 are connected to each of a pair of adjacent p-type element 21P and n-type element 21N. The first electrode 22 and the second electrode 23 connect the plurality of thermoelectric conversion elements 21 in series. The first electrode 22 and the second electrode 23 form a series circuit in which the plurality of thermoelectric conversion elements 21 are connected in series. The p-type element 21P and the n-type element 21N are electrically connected via the first electrode 22 and the second electrode 23 to form a pn element pair. The plurality of pn element pairs are connected in series via the first electrode 22 and the second electrode 23 to form a series circuit including the plurality of thermoelectric conversion elements 21.

[0028] When a current is supplied to the thermoelectric conversion element 21, the thermoelectric power generation module 1 absorbs or generates heat due to the Peltier effect. When a temperature difference is created between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12, the thermoelectric power generation module 1 generates electricity due to the Seebeck effect.

[0029] The lower surface of the first electrode 22 disposed on the first substrate 11 is the heating surface of the thermoelectric power generation module 1. The upper surface of the second electrode 23 disposed on the second substrate 12 is the cooling surface of the thermoelectric power generation module 1.

[0030] [Power extraction section] In the embodiment, the description will be given assuming that the power of the circuit is extracted to the outside outside the junction A. The thermoelectric power generation module 1 includes an end electrode 31 and an end electrode 32. The end electrodes 31 and 32 are electrodes for extracting the power of the circuit to the outside. The end electrodes 31 and 32 are formed of a conductive metal. The end electrodes 31 and 32 are disposed on the first substrate 11 or the second substrate 12 and extend from the inside to the outside of the junction A. As shown in FIG. 3 , in the embodiment, the end electrodes 31 and 32 are provided on the lower surface of the second substrate 12. In the embodiment, the end electrodes 31 and 32 are exposed on the lower surface at the peripheral edge of the second substrate 12. In the embodiment, the end electrodes 31 and 32 are formed by processing the second layer 124 of the second substrate 12. The end electrode 31 is connected to the thermoelectric conversion element 21 at one end of the circuit. The end electrode 32 is connected to the thermoelectric conversion element 21 at the other end of the circuit. 5 is connected to the end electrode 31 on the outside of the joint A. A lead wire (conductor) 41 (not shown) is connected to the end electrode 32 in the same manner.

[0031] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a thermoelectric power generation module according to the first embodiment. The lead wire 41 shown in FIG. 5 is electrically connected to the end electrode 31 exposed on the underside of the second substrate 12. The lead wire 41 includes a conductor 42 and a terminal 43 disposed at the tip of the conductor 42. The conductor 42 is a heat-resistant conductor. The terminal 43 is made of a conductive material. The terminal 43 is fixed in contact with the end electrode 31, for example, by soldering. The connection between the end electrode 31 and the lead wire 41 is covered by a cover 44. The cover 44 seals the connection between the end electrode 31 and the lead wire 41. The cover 44 is, for example, a heat-shrinkable tube. The cover 44 is made of, for example, polyimide. The cover 44 has a thermoplastic layer on its inner circumferential surface. The inner circumferential surface of the cover 44 is bonded to the third layer 115 of the first substrate 11 and the third layer 125 of the second substrate 12. The cover 44 is joined in a state in which the first substrate 11, the end electrode 31, the lead wire 41, and the second substrate 12 are sandwiched between them. The lead wire (not shown) connected to the end electrode 32 is also configured in the same manner as the lead wire 41.

[0032] The thermoelectric power generation module 1 configured in this manner is sandwiched between a high-temperature plate and a low-temperature plate (not shown).

[0033] [Sealing method and action] With the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 stacked on top of each other, the thermoplastic layer 112 of the first substrate 11 and the thermoplastic layer 122 of the second substrate 12 are bonded together by heating the bonding area A, which is the peripheral portion. As a result, the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are bonded together and sealed at the bonding area A, which is the peripheral portion.

[0034] Furthermore, the power of the circuit is taken out from the outside of the joint A. The connection portion between the end electrode 31 and the lead wire 41 is entirely covered and sealed with a cover 44.

[0035] [effect] In the embodiment, the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 can be bonded by the thermoplastic layer 112 and the thermoplastic layer 122 without using a sealing member such as a sealing material or a frame member made of an adhesive or a resin material. In the embodiment, the adhesive or sealing member does not deteriorate over time. According to the embodiment, sealing performance can be maintained for a long period of time in an environment exposed to wind and rain, in a high-humidity and high-temperature environment, and in dusty environments. In this way, the embodiment does not use an adhesive or a resin material with a low heat resistance temperature, thereby improving heat resistance.

[0036] The embodiment can prevent water and dust, which can cause short circuits, from entering the thermoelectric power generation module 1 for a long period of time in an environment exposed to wind and rain, in a high-humidity and high-temperature environment, and in dusty environments. The embodiment can generate thermoelectric power while maintaining insulation for a long period of time in a high-temperature environment. In this way, the embodiment can suppress the occurrence of failures due to moisture intrusion and can generate power stably.

[0037] In the embodiment, a sealing member made of a resin material or a metal material is not used, and since the sealing member does not form a heat transfer path, the efficiency of thermoelectric power generation can be improved.

[0038] In this embodiment, the power of the circuit is taken out to the outside of the joint A. According to this embodiment, after sealing at the joint A, a lead wire 41 can be connected.

[0039] In this embodiment, the connection portions between the end electrodes 31 and 32 and the lead wires, which extract power from the circuit to the outside, are sealed by the cover 44. This embodiment can prevent water and dust from entering the inside of the thermoelectric power generation module 1 from the outside.

[0040] In the embodiment, the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are formed in the shape of a sheet with a three-layer structure. According to the embodiment, the configuration can be simplified.

[0041] (Variation 1) Fig. 6 is a plan view schematically showing a first substrate of a thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 1, as viewed from above. Fig. 7 is a plan view schematically showing a second substrate of a thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 1, as viewed from below. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 1. Modification 1 differs from the embodiment in the configuration of the power extraction section of the circuit.

[0042] The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are formed in rectangular shapes having the same area. As a result, when the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are stacked, the upper surface of the first substrate 11 and the lower surface of the second substrate 12 are not exposed. Hole portions 35 and 36, which are through holes, are formed outside the joint portion A of the first substrate 11 or the second substrate 12. In the embodiment, hole portions 35 and 36, which are through holes, are formed outside the joint portion A of the second substrate 12.

[0043] The end electrode 33 and the end electrode 34 are provided on the upper surface of the first substrate 11 or the second substrate 12. In the embodiment, the end electrode 33 and the end electrode 34 are provided on the upper surface of the first substrate 11. In the embodiment, the end electrode 33 and the end electrode 34 are formed by processing the second layer 114 of the first substrate 11.

[0044] The holes 35 and 36 are formed to penetrate the first substrate 11 or the second substrate 12. In the embodiment, the holes 35 and 36 are formed to penetrate the second substrate 12. The holes 35 and 36 are arranged outside the joint A. The holes 35 and 36 are arranged in positions facing the end electrodes 33 and 34 when the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are overlapped.

[0045] The lead wire (conductor) 45 is electrically connected to the end electrode 33 exposed on the upper surface side of the first substrate 11. The lead wire 45 has a conductive wire 46 and a terminal 47 arranged at the tip of the conductive wire 46. The conductive wire 46 is a heat-resistant conductive wire. The terminal 47 is a T-shaped terminal. The terminal 47 is inserted into the hole portion 35. The terminal 47 contacts the end electrode 33. The lead wire (not shown) connected to the end electrode 34 is also configured in the same manner as the lead wire 45. The connection portion between the end electrode 33 and the lead wire 45 and the connection portion between the end electrode 34 and the lead wire (not shown) are covered with an insulating coating 48.

[0046] According to this modification, T-shaped terminals can be used to easily connect the end electrode 33 to the lead wire 45 and the end electrode 34 to the lead wire (not shown). The connection portion between the end electrode 33 and the lead wire 45 and the connection portion between the end electrode 34 and the lead wire (not shown) can be sealed with an insulating coating 48.

[0047] (Variation 2) Fig. 9 is a plan view, seen from above, schematically showing a first substrate of a thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 2. Fig. 10 is a plan view, seen from below, schematically showing a second substrate of a thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 2. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view, seen from below, schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 2. Modification 2 differs from Modification 1 in the configuration of the power extraction section of the circuit.

[0048] Holes 37 and 38 are formed on the outside of the joint A of the first base material 11, and holes 35 and 36 are formed on the outside of the joint A of the second base material 12.

[0049] A hole 37 is formed in the end electrode 33, and a hole 38 is formed in the end electrode 34. The hole 37 and the hole 38 are formed by penetrating the first substrate 11. The hole 37 and the hole 38 are arranged outside the joint A. The diameters of the hole 37 and the hole 38 are smaller than the diameters of the hole 35 and the hole 36.

[0050] The holes 35 and 36 are formed to penetrate the second substrate 12. The holes 35 and 36 are arranged at positions facing the holes 37 and 38 when the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are stacked on top of each other.

[0051] The lead wire (conductor) 51 is electrically connected to the end electrode 33 exposed on the upper surface of the first substrate 11. The lead wire 51 has a conductive wire 52 and a terminal 53 arranged at the tip of the conductive wire 52. The conductive wire 52 is a heat-resistant conductive wire. The terminal 53 is an O-shaped or U-shaped terminal. The terminal 53 contacts the end electrode 33. The terminal 53 is fixed by an insulating screw 54 inserted through the hole 35 and the hole 37. The insulating screw 54 is inserted through the hole 35, the hole 37, and the terminal 53. The lead wire (not shown) connected to the end electrode 34 is configured in the same manner as the lead wire 51. The connection portion between the end electrode 33 and the lead wire 51 and the connection portion between the end electrode 34 and the lead wire (not shown) are covered with an insulating coating 55.

[0052] According to this modification, O-shaped or U-shaped terminals can be used to easily connect the end electrode 33 to the lead wire 45 and the end electrode 34 to a lead wire (not shown).

[0053] (Variation 3) 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 3. Modification 3 differs from Modification 2 in that the connection portion between an end electrode (not shown) and a lead wire 51 is sandwiched between a high-temperature plate 56 and a low-temperature plate 57, and the insulating coating 55 is pressed vertically to seal it. In Modification 3, insulating pins 54 are not used.

[0054] The insulating coating 55 is applied so as to fill the gap between the hot plate 56 and the cold plate 57 at the connection between the end electrode 33 and the lead wire 51 and at the connection between the end electrode 34 and the lead wire (not shown).

[0055] The high-temperature plate 56 is in surface contact with the third layer 115 located on the underside of the first electrode 22 arranged on the first substrate 11. The high-temperature plate 56 is installed in the equipment. The high-temperature plate 56 is a rectangular plate-shaped member. The high-temperature plate 56 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity. The high-temperature plate 56 is made of a metal such as steel or an aluminum alloy. The high-temperature plate 56 receives heat from the equipment. The heat of the high-temperature plate 56 is conducted to the thermoelectric power generation module 1 via a heat transfer member (not shown).

[0056] The low-temperature plate 57 is in surface contact with the third layer 125 located on the upper surface side of the second electrode 23 arranged on the second substrate 12. The low-temperature plate 57 is installed facing the high-temperature plate 56 in the vertical direction, but spaced apart. The low-temperature plate 57 is a rectangular plate-shaped member. The low-temperature plate 57 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity. The low-temperature plate 57 is made of a metal such as steel or an aluminum alloy. The low-temperature plate 57 receives heat from the thermoelectric power generation module 1. The heat of the low-temperature plate 57 is dissipated to the surroundings of the thermoelectric power generation device or is water-cooled.

[0057] According to this modification, the connection between the end electrode 33 and the lead wire 51 and the connection between the end electrode 34 and the lead wire (not shown) can be sealed by pressing with the high-temperature plate and low-temperature plate of the thermoelectric generator.

[0058] (Variation 4) 13 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 4. Modification 4 differs from the embodiment in the configuration of the power extraction section of the circuit. Inside joint A, a lead wire (conductor) 61 connected to the first electrode 22 or the second electrode 23 is provided.

[0059] The lead wire 61 has a conductor 62, a terminal 63 arranged at the tip of the conductor 62, and a covering 64 that covers the conductor 62. The conductor 62 is a heat-resistant conductor. The conductor 62 extends to the outside of the joint A. The terminal 63 is connected to the first electrode 22 or the second electrode 23. In the fourth modification, the terminal 63 is connected to the end electrode 39 arranged on the first substrate 11 inside the joint A.

[0060] A case where the covering portion 64 is cylindrical, in other words, a hollow member, will be described. The conducting wire 62 is inserted into the hollow of the covering portion 64.

[0061] The conductor 62 is difficult to bond to polyimide. Therefore, the conductor 62 is covered with a coating 64 that is easily bonded to polyimide, for example. The coating 64 is formed, for example, in a hollow cylindrical shape or a ribbon shape in which the lead wire is sandwiched between insulating sheets. The coating 64 is made of a material that can bond to the thermoplastic layer 112 of the first substrate 11 and the thermoplastic layer 122 of the second substrate 12 in order to bond the thermoplastic layer 112 and the thermoplastic layer 122. The outer circumferential surface of the coating 64 is formed of a material that has thermoplastic properties. The coating 64 is interposed between the thermoplastic layer 112 and the thermoplastic layer 122 at the joint A. The coating 64 is bonded to and seal the thermoplastic layer 112 and the thermoplastic layer 122 at the joint A.

[0062] The covering 64 has electrical insulation properties. The covering 64 is made of a rigid material to protect the internal conductor 62. By using a rigid material for the covering 64, the conductor 62 is bent, and stress on the thermoelectric conversion element 21 is suppressed. The covering 64 is sealed by providing a lid (not shown) at the power extraction portion of the circuit, or by filling the inside of the covering 64 with a moisture-impermeable material such as fluororesin.

[0063] According to this modification, the power of the circuit can be extracted from inside the joint A. According to this modification, by using a rigid material for the covering portion 64, the conducting wire 62 can be bent, and stress on the thermoelectric conversion element 21 can be suppressed.

[0064] (Variation 5) Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to Modification 5. Fig. 15 is a schematic view schematically showing an example of a conductor. Fig. 16 is a schematic view schematically showing another example of a conductor. Fig. 17 is a schematic view schematically showing another example of a conductor. Modification 5 differs from the embodiment in the configuration of the power extraction section of the circuit.

[0065] The conductor 65 has a shaft portion 66 and a tip portion 67. The shaft portion 66 and the tip portion 67 are integrally formed from a conductive material. The tip portion 67 is connected to the end electrode 39.

[0066] The conductor 65 is coated with an insulating coating 68 on at least a portion of its outer periphery. The insulating coating 68 is made of a thermoplastic material. In FIGS. 15 to 17, the insulating coating 68 is colored for ease of explanation. As shown in FIG. 15, the conductor 65 may have the insulating coating 68 applied only to the shaft portion 66. As shown in FIG. 16, the conductor 65 may have the insulating coating 68 applied to the shaft portion 66 and part of the tip portion 67. As shown in FIG. 17, the conductor 65 may have the insulating coating 68 applied to part of the shaft portion 66.

[0067] According to this modification, power can be extracted to the outside of the circuit without bending the conductor 65. According to this modification, unnecessary stress is not applied to the power extraction portion of the circuit, so durability can be maintained.

[0068] (Second embodiment) 18 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to a second embodiment, which differs from the first embodiment in that it has a sealing frame 70.

[0069] The sealing frame 70 is a liquid gasket made of, for example, ultra-high heat-resistant silicone. The sealing frame 70 is disposed at the joint A. The sealing frame 70 is formed in a rectangular frame shape. When viewed from the top and bottom, the sealing frame 70 is disposed at the peripheral portion between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. The sealing frame 70 is interposed between the thermoplastic layer 112 of the first substrate 11 and the thermoplastic layer 122 of the second substrate 12 at the joint A. The sealing frame 70 has a thickness approximately equal to that of the stacked thermoelectric conversion elements 21, first electrodes 22, and second electrodes 23.

[0070] The sealing frame 70 is made of a material that has lower thermal conductivity than the high-temperature plate and the low-temperature plate, thereby suppressing heat leakage through the sealing frame 70.

[0071] The sealing frame 70 is made of a heat-resistant material. More specifically, the sealing frame 70 is made of a material that can withstand temperatures of about 250°C and condensation for a long period of time.

[0072] In the embodiment, the use of a liquid gasket can improve sealing performance.

[0073] (Third embodiment) Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a thermoelectric power generation module according to a third embodiment. Fig. 20 is a plan view schematically showing a first base material and a second base material of a thermoelectric power generation module according to the third embodiment. The thermoelectric power generation module according to the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it has a sealing frame 70.

[0074] The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are formed by folding a single sheet-like substrate 10. In the embodiment, the lower side of the bent portion 10a is the first substrate 11, and the upper side is the second substrate 12.

[0075] The joints A are arranged on the periphery of the substrate 10 excluding the bent portions 10a. In the rectangular substrate 10, three sides are joints A and one side is the bent portion 10a.

[0076] The embodiment can reduce the area of ​​the joint A. The embodiment can improve the sealing performance.

[0077] (Other variations) The cover 44 that covers the connection portion between the end electrode 31 and the lead wire 41 is not limited to a heat-shrinkable tube, but may be a resin mold or an insulating coating. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 1...thermoelectric power generation module, 11...first substrate, 111...first layer, 112...thermoplastic layer, 113...thermoplastic layer, 114...second layer (metal layer), 115...third layer (shield layer), 12...second substrate, 121...first layer, 122...thermoplastic layer, 123...thermoplastic layer, 124...second layer (metal layer), 125...third layer (shield layer), 21...thermoelectric conversion element, 21P...p-type element, 21N...n-type element, 22...first electrode, 23...second electrode, 31...end electrode, 32...end electrode, 41...lead wire (conductor), 42...conductor, 43...terminal, 44...cover, A...junction.

Claims

1. a first substrate formed in a sheet shape and having a three-layer structure with thermoplastic layers on the top and bottom of the substrate; a second substrate formed in a sheet shape and having a three-layer structure with thermoplastic layers on the top and bottom of the substrate; a plurality of thermoelectric conversion elements disposed between the first base material and the second base material; a plurality of first electrodes disposed between the first substrate and the thermoelectric conversion element; a plurality of second electrodes disposed between the second substrate and the thermoelectric conversion element; a joining portion that joins the first base material and the second base material; Equipped with the thermoelectric conversion element, the plurality of first electrodes, and the plurality of second electrodes are sealed by a joint; Thermoelectric power generation module.

2. a liquid gasket interposed between the thermoplastic layer of the first base material and the thermoplastic layer of the second base material at the joint; The thermoelectric power generation module of claim 1 .

3. The first base material and the second base material are formed by folding a single sheet-like base material, and one side of the bent portion of the base material is the first base material and the other side is the second base material. The thermoelectric power generation module according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the first substrate has a metal layer laminated to the thermoplastic layer; the second substrate has a metal layer laminated to the thermoplastic layer; the first electrode is formed by processing the metal layer of the first base material, the second electrode is formed by processing the metal layer of the second base material; The thermoelectric power generation module according to claim 1 .

5. the first substrate has a shielding layer laminated on the thermoplastic layer, the second substrate has a shielding layer laminated to the thermoplastic layer; The thermoelectric power generation module according to claim 1 .

6. an end electrode disposed on the first substrate or the second substrate and extending from the inside to the outside of the joint; a conductor connected to the end electrode outside the joint; The thermoelectric power generation module according to claim 1 , comprising:

7. a hole portion penetrating the outside of the joint portion of the first base material or the second base material; Equipped with The conductor includes a lead wire and a T-shaped terminal disposed at a tip end of the lead wire, The terminal is inserted into the hole. The thermoelectric power generation module according to claim 6 .

8. a hole portion penetrating the outer side of the joint portion of the first base material; a hole portion penetrating the second base material outside the joint portion; an insulating screw inserted through the hole of the first base material and the hole of the second base material; Equipped with The conductor includes a lead wire and an O-shaped or U-shaped terminal disposed at a tip end of the lead wire, the insulating screw is inserted through the hole of the first base material, the hole of the second base material, and the terminal; The thermoelectric power generation module according to claim 6 .

9. The connection portion between the end electrode and the conductor is covered and sealed with a heat shrink tube, a resin mold, or an insulating coating. The thermoelectric power generation module according to any one of claims 6 to 8.

10. The connection portion between the end electrode and the conductor is sandwiched between a high-temperature plate and a low-temperature plate, and is pressed in the thickness direction to be sealed. The thermoelectric power generation module according to any one of claims 6 to 8.

11. a conductor connected to the first electrode or the second electrode inside the joint; Equipped with The conductor extends to the outside of the joint. The thermoelectric power generation module according to claim 1 .

12. The conductor includes a lead wire, a terminal disposed at a tip end of the lead wire, and a covering portion covering the lead wire, the terminal is connected to the first electrode or the second electrode, the covering portion has an outer peripheral surface formed of a material having thermoplasticity, and is interposed between the thermoplastic layer of the first base material and the thermoplastic layer of the second base material at the joint portion; The thermoelectric power generation module according to claim 11 .

13. At least a portion of the conductor is insulated and coated with a thermoplastic material. The thermoelectric power generation module according to claim 11 .

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