Thermoelectric conversion module

Abstract

A thermoelectric conversion module (10) comprises: an insulator (12) that is formed in a sheet shape using an insulating material and can be deformed in the thickness direction thereof; a first conductive part (14N) formed in a thread shape using carbon nanotubes and provided along the insulator (12); and a second conductive part (14P) formed in a thread shape using carbon nanotubes, provided along the insulator (12), and connected to the first conductive part (14N), wherein a temperature difference between terminals of the first conductive part (14N) and the second conductive part (14P) generates a thermoelectromotive force between the terminals of the first conductive part (14N) and the second conductive part (14P), and a voltage applied between the terminals of the first conductive part (14N) and the second conductive part (14P) creates a temperature difference between the terminals of the first conductive part (14N) and the second conductive part (14P).

Description

thermoelectric conversion module

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

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2018-186260 (hereinafter referred to as Patent Document 1) discloses a thermoelectric generation device that enables thermoelectric generation using a carbon nanotube composite yarn. The carbon nanotube composite yarn described in this document is a thermoelectric generation yarn formed by impregnating or coating a natural yarn, a synthetic fiber yarn, or a blend of these yarns with a dispersion liquid containing carbon nanotubes. The thermoelectric generation device is configured such that lead wires for outputting generated power are connected to both ends of the thermoelectric generation yarn.

[0003] Depending on the manner in which a thermoelectric conversion module such as the thermoelectric power generation device described in Patent Document 1 is used, it may be desirable to be able to modify the thermoelectric conversion module for use, but the configuration described in Patent Document 1 leaves room for improvement in this regard.

[0004] The present disclosure provides a thermoelectric conversion module that can be used after modification.

[0005] The thermoelectric conversion module of the first aspect comprises an insulator formed in a sheet shape using an insulating material and capable of being deformed in its thickness direction, a first conductive portion formed in a thread shape using carbon nanotubes and arranged along the insulator, and a second conductive portion formed in a thread shape using carbon nanotubes and arranged along the insulator and connected to the first conductive portion, wherein a temperature difference occurring between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion generates a thermoelectric power between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion, and a voltage being applied between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion generates a temperature difference between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion.

[0006] A thermoelectric conversion module according to a second aspect is the thermoelectric conversion module of the first aspect, wherein the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion are fixed to the insulator by sewing.

[0007] A thermoelectric conversion module according to a third aspect is the thermoelectric conversion module according to the second aspect, wherein the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion are exposed alternately on one surface and the other surface of the insulator.

[0008] A thermoelectric conversion module according to a fourth aspect is the thermoelectric conversion module according to the first aspect, wherein the insulator is bent.

[0009] A thermoelectric conversion module according to a fifth aspect is a thermoelectric conversion module according to the first aspect, wherein the insulator is rolled up into a roll, and a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on the inner periphery of the rolled up insulator and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on the outer periphery of the rolled up insulator, thereby generating a thermoelectromotive force between the two terminals, and a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on the inner periphery of the rolled up insulator and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion arranged on the outer periphery of the rolled up insulator, thereby generating a temperature difference between the two terminals.

[0010] A thermoelectric conversion module according to a sixth aspect is a thermoelectric conversion module according to the first aspect, wherein the insulator is rolled up into a roll, and a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion located on one axial side of the rolled up insulator and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion located on the other axial side of the rolled up insulator, thereby generating a thermoelectromotive force between the two terminals, and a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion located on one axial side of the rolled up insulator and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion located on the other axial side of the rolled up insulator, thereby generating a temperature difference between the two terminals.

[0011] The thermoelectric conversion module of the seventh aspect is a thermoelectric conversion module of the first aspect, wherein the insulator is bent into a ring shape, and a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion located in one part of the bent insulator and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion located in another part of the bent insulator, thereby generating a thermoelectric power between the two terminals, and a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion located in one part of the bent insulator and the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion located in the other part of the bent insulator, thereby generating a temperature difference between the two terminals.

[0012] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the first aspect, when a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion provided along the insulator, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion. Furthermore, when a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion provided along the insulator, a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion. Here, the insulator is formed in a sheet shape and is capable of being deformed in its thickness direction. Additionally, the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion provided along the insulator are formed in a thread shape using carbon nanotubes. In this configuration, the insulator can be deformed together with the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion for use.

[0013] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the second aspect, the first conductive part and the second conductive part are fixed to the insulator by sewing. This configuration can eliminate the need for other members for fixing the first conductive part and the second conductive part to the insulator, or can reduce the amount of other members used for fixing the first conductive part and the second conductive part to the insulator.

[0014] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the third aspect, the first conductive part and the second conductive part are repeatedly exposed on one surface and the other surface of the insulator, which can prevent the first conductive part and the second conductive part from being unevenly arranged on either one surface or the other surface of the insulator.

[0015] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the fourth aspect, the insulator can be used in a bent state.

[0016] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the fifth aspect, when a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged on the inner periphery of the rolled insulator and the terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged on the outer periphery of the rolled insulator, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between the two terminals. Furthermore, when a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged on the inner periphery of the rolled insulator and the terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged on the outer periphery of the rolled insulator, a temperature difference occurs between the two terminals. In this configuration, a thermoelectromotive force can be generated by the temperature difference between the inner and outer peripheries of the rolled insulator. Furthermore, a temperature difference can be generated between the inner and outer peripheries of the rolled insulator by applying a voltage.

[0017] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the sixth aspect, when a temperature difference occurs between terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged on one axial side of the rolled insulator and terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged on the other axial side of the rolled insulator, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between the two terminals. Furthermore, when a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged on one axial side of the rolled insulator and terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged on the other axial side of the rolled insulator, a temperature difference occurs between the two terminals. In this configuration, a thermoelectromotive force can be generated by the temperature difference between the one axial side and the other axial side of the rolled insulator. Furthermore, by applying a voltage, a temperature difference can be generated between the one axial side and the other axial side of the rolled insulator.

[0018] In the thermoelectric conversion module according to the seventh aspect, a temperature difference between terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged in one portion of the annularly bent insulator and terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged in another portion of the annularly bent insulator generates a thermoelectromotive force between the two terminals, and a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged in one portion of the annularly bent insulator and terminals of the first and second conductive parts arranged in another portion of the annularly bent insulator to generate a temperature difference between the two terminals. In this configuration, a thermoelectromotive force can be generated by the temperature difference between the one portion of the annularly bent insulator and the other portion of the annularly bent insulator. Furthermore, a temperature difference can be generated between the one portion of the annularly bent insulator and the other portion of the annularly bent insulator by applying a voltage.

[0019] 1 is a perspective view showing a thermoelectric conversion module according to a first embodiment; FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a thermoelectric conversion module according to a second embodiment; FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a thermoelectric conversion module according to a third embodiment; FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a thermoelectric conversion module according to a fourth embodiment; FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a process of fixing an N-type CNT yarn to a substrate by sewing; FIG. 6 is a plan view illustrating a process of fixing a P-type CNT yarn to a substrate by sewing; FIG. 7 is a plan view illustrating a process of cutting predetermined portions of the N-type CNT yarn and the P-type CNT yarn; FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating a process of connecting predetermined portions of the N-type CNT yarn and the P-type CNT yarn; FIG. 9 is a plan view illustrating a process of coating with an insulating material; FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a process of folding a substrate or the like; FIG. 11 is a plan view showing a folded substrate or the like; FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a process of rolling up a substrate or the like into a roll; FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a thermoelectric conversion module according to a fifth embodiment; FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a thermoelectric conversion module according to a sixth embodiment; FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a thermoelectric conversion module according to a seventh embodiment.

[0020] First Embodiment A thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1 , the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is configured to include a substrate 12 formed into a sheet-like insulator, and N-type CNT yarns 14N serving as first conductive portions and P-type CNT yarns 14P serving as second conductive portions provided along the substrate 12.

[0022] The substrate 12 is formed in a sheet shape using an insulating material and is capable of being deformed in its thickness direction. Here, insulating cloth, paper, or the like can be used as the substrate 12, for example. The substrate 12 of this embodiment is formed in a rectangular shape when viewed in the thickness direction of the substrate 12. Note that one side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12 is indicated by an arrow L, and one side in the lateral direction of the substrate 12 is indicated by an arrow S.

[0023] The N-type CNT yarn 14N is formed into a thread shape using carbon nanotubes. This N-type CNT yarn 14N is manufactured through a process such as immersing the P-type CNT yarn 14P, which will be described later, in an N-type doping solution. The N-type CNT yarn 14N may be fixed to one surface of the substrate 12 by adhesive or the like, or may be fixed to the substrate 12 by sewing.

[0024] P-type CNT yarn 14P is formed into a thread-like shape using carbon nanotubes. Like N-type CNT yarn 14N, P-type CNT yarn 14P may be fixed to one surface of substrate 12 by adhesive or the like, or may be fixed to substrate 12 by sewing or the like.

[0025] More specifically, a first N-type CNT yarn 14N1, a second N-type CNT yarn 14N2, a third N-type CNT yarn 14N3, a fourth N-type CNT yarn 14N4, a fifth N-type CNT yarn 14N5, a sixth N-type CNT yarn 14N6, a seventh N-type CNT yarn 14N7, an eighth N-type CNT yarn 14N8, and a ninth N-type CNT yarn 14N9 are fixed to the substrate 12 in this order from the other side to one side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12. These first to ninth N-type CNT yarns 14N extend linearly along the short side of the substrate 12.

[0026] Additionally, a first P-type CNT yarn 14P1, a second P-type CNT yarn 14P2, a third P-type CNT yarn 14P3, a fourth P-type CNT yarn 14P4, a fifth P-type CNT yarn 14P5, a sixth P-type CNT yarn 14P6, a seventh P-type CNT yarn 14P7, an eighth P-type CNT yarn 14P8, and a ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9 are fixed to the substrate 12 in this order from the other side to one side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12. These first to eighth P-type CNT yarns 14P extend linearly and inclined toward one side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12 as they move from one side to the other in the lateral direction of the substrate 12. Additionally, the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9 extends linearly along the lateral direction of the substrate 12.

[0027] The end of the first P-type CNT yarn 14P1 on one side of the short side of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to the end of the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 on one side of the short side of the substrate 12. The end of the first P-type CNT yarn 14P1 on the other side of the short side of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to the end of the second N-type CNT yarn 14N2 on the other side of the short side of the substrate 12. The end of the second P-type CNT yarn 14P2 on one side of the short side of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to the end of the second N-type CNT yarn 14N2 on one side of the short side of the substrate 12. The end of the second P-type CNT yarn 14P2 on the other side of the short side of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to the end of the third N-type CNT yarn 14N3 on the other side of the short side of the substrate 12. An end of the third P-type CNT yarn 14P3 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to an end of the third N-type CNT yarn 14N3 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12. An end of the third P-type CNT yarn 14P3 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to an end of the fourth N-type CNT yarn 14N4 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12. An end of the fourth P-type CNT yarn 14P4 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to an end of the fourth N-type CNT yarn 14N4 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12. An end of the fourth P-type CNT yarn 14P4 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to an end of the fifth N-type CNT yarn 14N5 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12. An end of the fifth P-type CNT yarn 14P5 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to an end of the fifth N-type CNT yarn 14N5 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12. An end of the fifth P-type CNT yarn 14P5 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to an end of the sixth N-type CNT yarn 14N6 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12. An end of the sixth P-type CNT yarn 14P6 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to an end of the sixth N-type CNT yarn 14N6 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12. An end of the sixth P-type CNT yarn 14P6 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to an end of the seventh N-type CNT yarn 14N7 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12.The end of the seventh P-type CNT yarn 14P7 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to the end of the seventh N-type CNT yarn 14N7 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12. The end of the seventh P-type CNT yarn 14P7 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to the end of the eighth N-type CNT yarn 14N8 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12. The end of the eighth P-type CNT yarn 14P8 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to the end of the eighth N-type CNT yarn 14N8 on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12. The end of the eighth P-type CNT yarn 14P8 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12 is electrically connected to the end of the ninth N-type CNT yarn 14N9 on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12. An end portion of ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9 on one side in the widthwise direction of substrate 12 is electrically connected to an end portion of ninth N-type CNT yarn 14N9 on one side in the widthwise direction of substrate 12.

[0028] Here, the connection between the P-type CNT yarn 14P and the N-type CNT yarn 14N on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12 will be referred to as the first connection 16A. The connection between the P-type CNT yarn 14P and the N-type CNT yarn 14N on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12 will be referred to as the second connection 16B. In this embodiment, nine first connection parts 16A are arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12 at an end 12A on one side in the short direction of the substrate 12. Eight second connection parts 16B are arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12 at an end 12B on the other side in the short direction of the substrate 12. A pair of wires 18A, 18B drawn from the substrate 12 side are wires connected to the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9, respectively. This pair of wires 18A, 18B may be the same as the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9, respectively, or may be copper wire or the like.

[0029] Next, the operation and effects of this embodiment will be described.

[0030] In the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the present embodiment described above, when a voltage is applied between the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9, a temperature difference occurs between the multiple first connection parts 16A and the multiple second connection parts 16B. This is the so-called "Peltier effect." For example, the multiple first connection parts 16A become colder, and the multiple second connection parts 16B become hotter. This allows the thermoelectric conversion module 10 to cool the vicinity of the end part 12A on one side in the lateral direction of the substrate 12, and to heat the vicinity of the end part 12B on the other side in the lateral direction of the substrate 12.

[0031] Furthermore, in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of this embodiment, when a temperature difference occurs between the multiple first connection portions 16A and the multiple second connection portions 16B, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9. This is the so-called "Seebeck effect." For example, when the vicinity of end portion 12A on one side of the short side of the substrate 12 in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is cooled and the vicinity of end portion 12B on the other side of the short side of the substrate 12 in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is heated, a thermoelectromotive force is generated between the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the ninth P-type CNT yarn 14P9.

[0032] The substrate 12 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of this embodiment is formed in a sheet shape and is capable of being deformed in its thickness direction. In addition, the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P provided along the substrate 12 are formed in a thread-like shape using carbon nanotubes. In this configuration, the substrate 12 can be deformed and used together with the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P.

[0033] Furthermore, in a configuration in which the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P are fixed to the substrate 12 by sewing, other members for fixing the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P to the substrate 12 are not necessary, or the amount of other members used for fixing the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P to the substrate 12 can be reduced.

[0034] Furthermore, in a configuration in which the N-type CNT yarns 14N and the P-type CNT yarns 14P are fixed to the substrate 12 by sewing, and in which the N-type CNT yarns 14N and the P-type CNT yarns 14P are repeatedly exposed on one surface and the other surface of the substrate 12, it is possible to prevent the N-type CNT yarns 14N and the P-type CNT yarns 14P from being unevenly arranged on either one surface or the other surface of the substrate 12.

[0035] Next, thermoelectric conversion modules 20, 22, and 24 according to second to fourth embodiments of the present disclosure will be described using Figures 2 to 4. Note that in the thermoelectric conversion modules 20, 22, and 24 according to the second to fourth embodiments, members and parts corresponding to those in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals as those corresponding to those in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment, and descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0036] As shown in Fig. 2, the thermoelectric conversion module 20 of the second embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the first embodiment, except that the substrate 12 is folded in an accordion-like shape along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12. More specifically, the substrate 12 is folded in a V-shape along the lateral direction of the substrate 12 and toward one side in the thickness direction of the substrate 12 between the first N-type CNT yarn 14N1 and the second N-type CNT yarn 14N2. Furthermore, the substrate 12 is folded in a V-shape along the lateral direction of the substrate 12 and toward the other side in the thickness direction of the substrate 12 between the second N-type CNT yarn 14N2 and the third N-type CNT yarn 14N3. Furthermore, the substrate 12 is folded in a V-shape along the lateral direction of the substrate 12 and toward one side in the thickness direction of the substrate 12 between the third N-type CNT yarn 14N3 and the fourth N-type CNT yarn 14N4. Furthermore, the substrate 12 is bent in a V-shape along the short side of the substrate 12 and toward the other side in the thickness direction of the substrate 12 between the fourth N-type CNT yarn 14N4 and the fifth N-type CNT yarn 14N5. The substrate 12 is bent in a V-shape along the short side of the substrate 12 and toward one side in the thickness direction of the substrate 12 between the fifth N-type CNT yarn 14N5 and the sixth N-type CNT yarn 14N6. The substrate 12 is bent in a V-shape along the short side of the substrate 12 and toward the other side in the thickness direction of the substrate 12 between the sixth N-type CNT yarn 14N6 and the seventh N-type CNT yarn 14N7. The substrate 12 is bent in a V-shape along the short side of the substrate 12 and toward one side in the thickness direction of the substrate 12 between the seventh N-type CNT yarn 14N7 and the eighth N-type CNT yarn 14N8. Furthermore, the substrate 12 is bent in a V-shape between the eighth N-type CNT yarn 14N8 and the ninth N-type CNT yarn 14N9 along the short direction of the substrate 12 and toward the other side in the thickness direction of the substrate 12. In this way, in the thermoelectric conversion module 20 of the second embodiment, the substrate 12 can be used by being bent in an accordion-like shape along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 3 , the thermoelectric conversion module 22 of the third embodiment has a configuration similar to the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the first embodiment, except that the substrate 12 is rolled into a roll. Specifically, the substrate 12 is rolled into a roll so that the multiple first connection portions 16A (see FIG. 1 ) are located on the inner periphery and the multiple second connection portions 16B are located on the outer periphery. In the thermoelectric conversion module 22 of this configuration, a thermoelectromotive force can be generated by the temperature difference between the inner periphery and the outer periphery of the rolled substrate 12. Furthermore, by applying a voltage, a temperature difference can be generated between the inner periphery and the outer periphery of the rolled substrate 12.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 4 , the thermoelectric conversion module 24 of the fourth embodiment has a similar configuration to the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the first embodiment, except that multiple N-type CNT yarns 14N and multiple P-type CNT yarns 14P are provided along the circumferential direction (direction of arrow C) of the substrate 12, which is formed in a ring shape when viewed from the thickness direction. In the thermoelectric conversion module 24 of this embodiment, the circumferential spacing between the multiple second connection portions 16B is wider than the circumferential spacing between the multiple first connection portions 16A. A portion of the circumferential direction of the substrate 12 is cut out along the radial direction (direction of arrow R) of the substrate 12. In the thermoelectric conversion module 24 of this embodiment described above, the substrate 12 can be used by deforming it, for example, so as to cover the outer surface of a cone-shaped member. The shape of the substrate 12 when viewed from the thickness direction can be appropriately set taking into account the manner in which the thermoelectric conversion module 24 will be used. For example, the shape of the substrate 12 when viewed from the thickness direction may be formed into a circular or rectangular shape.

[0039] Next, the configurations of thermoelectric conversion modules 26, 28 according to fifth and sixth embodiments of the present disclosure will be described together with manufacturing methods using Figures 5 to 14. Note that in the thermoelectric conversion modules 26, 28 according to the fifth and sixth embodiments, components and parts corresponding to those in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as those corresponding to those in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment, and descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0040] First, as shown in FIG. 5 , an N-type CNT yarn 14N is fixed to the substrate 12 by sewing. The N-type CNT yarn 14N fixed to the substrate 12 by sewing has an inclined portion 30N that slopes toward one side of the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12 and toward the other side of the lateral direction of the substrate 12, and a straight portion 32N that extends toward one side of the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12. The inclined portions 30N and the straight portions 32N are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12 and connected to each other. Note that the multiple inclined portions 30N and the multiple straight portions 32N that are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12 and connected to each other will be referred to as an N-type CNT yarn array 34N. In this embodiment, multiple N-type CNT yarn arrays 34N are arranged at intervals along the lateral direction of the substrate 12. The N-type CNT yarn 14N may be sewn to the base material 12 for multiple N-type CNT yarn rows 34N at a time, or for multiple N-type CNT yarn rows 34N collectively. When multiple N-type CNT yarn rows 34N are sewn together, unnecessary portions may be removed.

[0041] Next, as shown in FIG. 6 , the P-type CNT yarn 14P is fixed to the substrate 12 by sewing. The P-type CNT yarn 14P fixed to the substrate 12 by sewing has an inclined portion 30P that slopes toward one side of the width of the substrate 12 as it extends toward one side of the length of the substrate 12, and a straight portion 32P that extends toward one side of the length of the substrate 12. The inclined portions 30P and the straight portions 32P are alternately arranged along the length of the substrate 12 and are connected to each other. The multiple inclined portions 30P and multiple straight portions 32P that are alternately arranged along the length of the substrate 12 and connected to each other will be referred to as a P-type CNT yarn array 34P. In this embodiment, multiple P-type CNT yarn arrays 34P are arranged at intervals along the width of the substrate 12. The P-type CNT yarns 14P may be sewn to the substrate 12 in groups of multiple P-type CNT yarn rows 34P, or multiple P-type CNT yarn rows 34P may be sewn together. When multiple P-type CNT yarn rows 34P are sewn together, unnecessary portions can be removed. Furthermore, the straight portions 32N of the N-type CNT yarns 14N and the straight portions 32P of the P-type CNT yarns 14P, which are arranged at the same positions in the longitudinal and lateral directions of the substrate 12, overlap in the thickness direction of the substrate 12.

[0042] Next, as shown in Fig. 7, unnecessary portions of the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P fixed to the substrate 12 are cut. As an example, unnecessary portions of the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P fixed to the substrate 12 are cut by irradiating them with a laser or the like. Here, straight portions 32N of the N-type CNT yarn 14N and straight portions 32P of the P-type CNT yarn 14P arranged at predetermined positions are cut. Note that the cut locations of the straight portions 32N of the N-type CNT yarn 14N and straight portions 32P of the P-type CNT yarn 14P are indicated by the symbol P1. Through the above steps, the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P are formed into a predetermined pattern.

[0043] Next, as shown in Fig. 8, to ensure electrical connection between a predetermined location on N-type CNT yarn 14N and a predetermined location on P-type CNT yarn 14P, a conductive paste or the like is used to securely connect the two. The location where the conductive paste or other conductive material is used is indicated by the symbol P2. Here, if the electrical connection between the predetermined location on N-type CNT yarn 14N and the predetermined location on P-type CNT yarn 14P is secure after the sewing step shown in Fig. 6, the step shown in Fig. 8 may be omitted.

[0044] Next, as shown in Fig. 9, the surface of the substrate 12, together with the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P, is coated with an insulating coating layer 36. The coating layer 36 is a thin film formed using, for example, silicone. This coating layer 36 can also be used in the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 of the above-described embodiments. By providing this coating layer 36, short circuits are further suppressed.

[0045] Next, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the base material 12 is folded in an accordion-like manner along the longitudinal direction of the base material 12. Here, the base material 12 will be described as being divided into six parts along the longitudinal direction, with the folded parts being the boundary lines. The six parts of the base material 12 will be referred to in order from the other side to one side in the longitudinal direction as a first layer part 12C1, a second layer part 12C2, a third layer part 12C3, a fourth layer part 12C4, a fifth layer part 12C5, and a sixth layer part 12C6. Note that in Figure 9, the boundary lines indicated by two-dot chain lines indicate parts that are folded in a mountain fold, and the boundary lines indicated by dashed lines indicate parts that are folded in a valley fold.

[0046] 9 , first layer 12C1 is provided with a first inclined portion 30N1, a second inclined portion 30N2, a third inclined portion 30N3, a fourth inclined portion 30N4, a fifth inclined portion 30N5, and a sixth inclined portion 30N6 of N-type CNT yarn 14N, in that order from one side to the other in the short direction of substrate 12. Also, first layer 12C1 is provided with a first inclined portion 30P1, a second inclined portion 30P2, a third inclined portion 30P3, a fourth inclined portion 30P4, and a fifth inclined portion 30P5 of P-type CNT yarn 14P, in that order from one side to the other in the short direction of substrate 12. First inclined portion 30N1 and first inclined portion 30P1 are connected on one side of substrate 12 in the long direction. The first inclined portion 30P1 and the second inclined portion 30N2 are connected on the other longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The second inclined portion 30N2 and the second inclined portion 30P2 are connected on one longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The second inclined portion 30P2 and the third inclined portion 30N3 are connected on the other longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The third inclined portion 30N3 and the third inclined portion 30P3 are connected on one longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The third inclined portion 30P3 and the fourth inclined portion 30N4 are connected on the other longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The fourth inclined portion 30N4 and the fourth inclined portion 30P4 are connected on one longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The fourth inclined portion 30P4 and the fifth inclined portion 30N5 are connected on the other longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The fifth inclined portion 30N5 and the fifth inclined portion 30P5 are connected to one side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12. The fifth inclined portion 30P5 and the sixth inclined portion 30N6 are connected to the other side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 12.

[0047] In second layer 12C2, a first inclined portion 30N1, a second inclined portion 30N2, a third inclined portion 30N3, a fourth inclined portion 30N4, and a fifth inclined portion 30N5 of N-type CNT yarn 14N are provided in order from one side to the other in the short direction of substrate 12. In addition, in second layer 12C2, a first inclined portion 30P1, a second inclined portion 30P2, a third inclined portion 30P3, a fourth inclined portion 30P4, a fifth inclined portion 30P5, and a sixth inclined portion 30P6 of P-type CNT yarn 14P are provided in order from one side to the other in the short direction of substrate 12. First inclined portion 30P1 and first inclined portion 30N1 are connected on the other side in the longitudinal direction of substrate 12. The first inclined portion 30N1 and the second inclined portion 30P2 are connected on one longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The second inclined portion 30P2 and the second inclined portion 30N2 are connected on the other longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The second inclined portion 30N2 and the third inclined portion 30P3 are connected on one longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The third inclined portion 30P3 and the third inclined portion 30N3 are connected on the other longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The third inclined portion 30N3 and the fourth inclined portion 30P4 are connected on one longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The fourth inclined portion 30P4 and the fourth inclined portion 30N4 are connected on the other longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The fourth inclined portion 30N4 and the fifth inclined portion 30P5 are connected on one longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The fifth inclined portion 30P5 and the fifth inclined portion 30N5 are connected on the other longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The fifth inclined portion 30N5 and the sixth inclined portion 30P6 are connected on one longitudinal side of the substrate 12. The sixth inclined portion 30P6 of the second layer 12C2 and the sixth inclined portion 30N6 of the first layer 12C1 are connected via straight portions 32N and 32P.

[0048] The third layer 12C3 and the fourth layer 12C4 have the same configurations as the first layer 12C1 and the second layer 12C2, respectively. The first inclined portion 30N1 of the third layer 12C3 and the first inclined portion 30P1 of the second layer 12C2 are connected via linear portions 32N and 32P. The sixth inclined portion 30P6 of the fourth layer 12C4 and the sixth inclined portion 30N6 of the third layer 12C3 are connected via linear portions 32N and 32P.

[0049] The fifth layer 12C5 and the sixth layer 12C6 have the same configurations as the first layer 12C1 and the second layer 12C2, respectively. The first inclined portion 30N1 of the fifth layer 12C5 and the first inclined portion 30P1 of the fourth layer 12C4 are connected via linear portions 32N and 32P. The sixth inclined portion 30P6 of the sixth layer 12C6 and the sixth inclined portion 30N6 of the fifth layer 12C5 are connected via linear portions 32N and 32P.

[0050] 10 and 11 , the first layer 12C1, the second layer 12C2, the third layer 12C3, the fourth layer 12C4, the fifth layer 12C5, and the sixth layer 12C6 of the accordion-folded base material 12 are stacked on top of each other, so that the plurality of inclined portions 30N and the plurality of inclined portions 30P arranged in the first layer 12C1, the second layer 12C2, the third layer 12C3, the fourth layer 12C4, the fifth layer 12C5, and the sixth layer 12C6, respectively, are stacked on top of each other.

[0051] Next, as shown in Figures 12 and 13, the substrate 12, in which the first layer portion 12C1, the second layer portion 12C2, the third layer portion 12C3, the fourth layer portion 12C4, the fifth layer portion 12C5, and the sixth layer portion 12C6 are stacked, is rolled up along the short direction of the first layer portion 12C1, the second layer portion 12C2, the third layer portion 12C3, the fourth layer portion 12C4, the fifth layer portion 12C5, and the sixth layer portion 12C6. This forms the thermoelectric conversion module 26 of this embodiment. In the thermoelectric conversion module 26 of this embodiment, multiple second connection portions 16B are arranged at an end portion 12D on one axial side of the rolled substrate 12, and multiple first connection portions 16A are arranged at an end portion 12E on the other axial side of the rolled substrate 12. In the thermoelectric conversion module 26 having this configuration, a thermoelectromotive force can be generated by a temperature difference between the end 12D on one axial side of the rolled substrate 12 and the end 12E on the other axial side of the rolled substrate 12. Furthermore, by applying a voltage, a temperature difference can be generated between the end 12D on one axial side of the rolled substrate 12 and the end 12E on the other axial side of the rolled substrate 12.

[0052] 14 has a configuration in which a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules 26 are arranged and connected in series with each other. The thermoelectric conversion module 28 of the sixth embodiment can accommodate higher output than a configuration using a single thermoelectric conversion module 26.

[0053] Note that, in the thermoelectric conversion module 28 of the sixth embodiment, an example has been described in which the surface of the substrate 12 is coated with the insulating coating layer 36 along with the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the surfaces of the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P may each be coated with the insulating coating layer 36, and the N-type CNT yarns 14N and P-type CNT yarns 14P coated with the coating layer 36 may be sewn to the substrate 12. In other words, a configuration in which the substrate 12 is not coated with the coating layer 36 is also possible.

[0054] Next, a thermoelectric conversion module 38 according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Note that in the thermoelectric conversion module 38 according to the seventh embodiment, components and parts corresponding to those in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those corresponding to those in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 according to the first embodiment, and descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 15 , the thermoelectric conversion module 38 of this embodiment has a configuration in which a strip-shaped substrate 12 or a folded strip-shaped substrate 12 is bent into a ring shape. In this thermoelectric conversion module 38, first connection portions 16A (see FIG. 1 ) are concentrated on a portion 12F of the substrate 12, and second connection portions 16B (see FIG. 1 ) are concentrated on another portion 12G of the substrate 12. In this configuration, a thermoelectric power can be generated by the temperature difference between the portion 12F of the bent substrate 12 and the other portion 12G of the bent substrate 12. Furthermore, a temperature difference can be generated between the portion 12F of the bent substrate 12 and the other portion 12G of the bent substrate 12 by applying a voltage.

[0056] The above describes one embodiment of the present disclosure, but the present disclosure is not limited to the above, and it goes without saying that it can be implemented in various other modified forms within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present disclosure.

[0057] Furthermore, the configurations of the above-described embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0058] The disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-004111, filed on January 15, 2024, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. All documents, patent applications, and technical standards mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if each individual document, patent application, and technical standard was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

Claims

1. An insulator formed in a sheet shape using an insulating material and capable of being deformed in its thickness direction, a first conductive part formed in a filament shape using carbon nanotubes and provided along the insulator, and a second conductive part formed in a filament shape using carbon nanotubes and provided along the insulator and connected to the first conductive part. When a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part, a thermoelectric power is generated between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part. When a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part, a temperature difference occurs between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part. A thermoelectric conversion module.

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

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

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

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

6. The insulator is rolled up, and a thermoelectromotive force is generated between both terminals due to a temperature difference between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on one axial side of the rolled-up insulator and the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the other axial side of the rolled-up insulator. When a voltage is applied between the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on one axial side of the rolled-up insulator and the terminals of the first conductive part and the second conductive part arranged on the other axial side of the rolled-up insulator, a temperature difference is generated between both terminals. The thermoelectric conversion module according to claim 1.

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

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