Flexible thermoelectric module and unit including same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a flexible thermoelectric module and a unit including same. A flexible thermoelectric module according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: at least one unit pattern including at least one one-surface electrode arranged on one surface of a substrate, at least one other-surface electrode arranged on the other surface of the substrate, and at least one thermoelectric element electrically connecting the one-surface electrode and the other-surface electrode to each other; and at least one electrode line connecting the unit pattern.

Description

Flexible thermoelectric module and unit including same

[0001] The present invention relates to a flexible thermoelectric module and a unit including the same, and more particularly, to a flexible thermoelectric module that can be applied to various shapes or forms with efficient temperature transfer and a unit including the same.

[0002] A thermoelectric element (TE) is a device that generates an exothermic or endothermic reaction by applying electrical energy through the Peltier effect, and is used to provide thermal stimulation to the user.

[0003] Recently, active research has been conducted into thermoelectric power generation and cooling technologies utilizing these thermoelectric devices. However, conventional thermoelectric devices are mostly manufactured on ceramic substrates, so they are only available in flat form, limiting their potential applications.

[0004] As the development of flexible thermoelectric elements (FTEs) has recently reached a successful stage, it is expected that they will be able to overcome the problems of conventional thermoelectric elements and effectively deliver thermal feedback to users.

[0005] One object of the present invention is to provide a flexible thermoelectric module that can be applied to various shapes or forms with efficient temperature transfer, and a unit including the same.

[0006] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a flexible thermoelectric module includes at least one unit pattern including at least one one-sided electrode disposed on one surface of a substrate, at least one other-sided electrode disposed on the other surface of the substrate, and at least one thermoelectric element electrically connecting the one-sided electrode and the other-sided electrode, and may include at least one electrode line connecting the unit pattern.

[0008] Here, the unit pattern may include at least one one-sided electrode arranged in a first direction and a second-sided electrode arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0009] Here, the electrode line can be arranged parallel to the second direction.

[0010] Here, the electrode line can be arranged on the one side.

[0011] Here, at least two of the unit patterns are provided, and each of the unit patterns can be arranged at a predetermined distance from each other.

[0012] Here, the thermoelectric elements are arranged alternately as first thermoelectric elements and second thermoelectric elements according to the direction of the current, so that the one-side electrode and the other-side electrode can be connected in a direction perpendicular to the one side.

[0013] Here, the flexible thermoelectric module may further include a support layer provided in the empty space between the one side and the other side to support the one side electrode, the other side electrode, and the thermoelectric element.

[0014] In a unit including the above-described flexible thermoelectric module, the unit further includes a heat dissipation unit for absorbing heat generated from the one-side electrode or the other-side electrode according to the flow of current, and the heat dissipation unit can be arranged corresponding to the flexible thermoelectric module.

[0015] Here, the heat dissipation unit may include a heat dissipation fin for dissipating waste heat and a support unit that supports the heat dissipation fin and corresponds to each of the unit patterns.

[0016] Here, the heat dissipation member may further include a connecting member made of a flexible material and connecting each of the supporting members.

[0017] Here, the flexible thermoelectric module may further include at least a portion of a penetrating hole, and the unit may further include a connecting means that is inserted through the hole in the direction of the other surface on the one surface and is hook-connectable with the support corresponding to the unit pattern.

[0018] Here, the unit further includes a flow path formed of an air mesh material and having an internal space through which a fluid can pass, and the flow path can be formed such that one surface thereof is exposed.

[0019] Here, the unit may further include a housing made of a flexible material, and may include the flexible thermoelectric module, the heat dissipation unit, and the flow path unit inside the housing.

[0020] Here, the unit further includes a blower capable of forming a flow of fluid within the euro section, and the housing may further include the blower on the inside.

[0021] Here, the housing may include a first opening that is open to allow external fluid to flow in and a second opening that is open to allow internal fluid of the housing to flow out.

[0022] Here, in the flexible thermoelectric module, the other side of the first electrode line and one side of the first single-sided electrode may be connected to a first thermoelectric element, the other side of the first single-sided electrode and one side of the first other-sided electrode may be connected to a second thermoelectric element, the other side of the first other-sided electrode and one side of the second single-sided electrode may be connected to the first thermoelectric element, the other side of the second single-sided electrode and one side of the second other-sided electrode may be connected to the second thermoelectric element, the other side of the second other-sided electrode may be connected to one side of a third single-sided electrode and the first thermoelectric element, and the other side of the third single-sided electrode and one side of the second electrode line may be connected to the second thermoelectric element.

[0023] The solutions to the problems of the present invention are not limited to the solutions described above, and solutions that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0024] According to the present invention, a flexible thermoelectric module and a unit including the same that can be applied to various shapes or forms with efficient temperature transfer can be provided.

[0025] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a drawing of an embodiment of a first example of a unit including a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIGS. 2 and 3 are drawings of a thermoelectric device equipped with a unit including a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings of one embodiment of a first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating the shape of a thermoelectric element used in a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment and the shape of an electrode used in the flexible thermoelectric module.

[0031] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a plan view of an embodiment of a first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line aa' of an embodiment of a first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line b-b' of an embodiment of a first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line aa' of an embodiment of a second example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line b-b' of an embodiment of a second example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line aa' of an embodiment of a third example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0037] Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line bb' of an embodiment of a third example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 15 is a drawing of the arrangement and electrical connection of another embodiment of the first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a plan view of an embodiment of a first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0040] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line dd' of a first embodiment of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a unit including a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a flexible thermoelectric module of a first example of a unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a first example of a unit according to one embodiment.

[0044] FIGS. 21 to 24 are drawings for explaining the connection between a flexible thermoelectric module and a heat dissipation unit according to one embodiment.

[0045] FIGS. 25 and 26 are perspective views of a unit of an embodiment of a second example of a unit according to one embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 27 is a drawing of an implementation example of a second example of a unit according to one embodiment.

[0047] Since the embodiments described in this specification are intended to clearly explain the idea of ​​the present invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in this specification, and the scope of the present invention should be interpreted to include modified or altered examples that do not depart from the idea of ​​the present invention.

[0048] The terms used in this specification have been selected from widely used terms, as much as possible, considering their functions in the present invention. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, customs, or the emergence of new technologies. However, if a specific term is defined and used with an arbitrary meaning, the meaning of that term will be described separately. Therefore, the terms used in this specification should be interpreted based on their actual meaning and the overall content of this specification, rather than simply their names.

[0049] The drawings attached to this specification are intended to facilitate explanation of the present invention, and the shapes depicted in the drawings may be exaggerated as necessary to help understanding of the present invention, and therefore the present invention is not limited by the drawings.

[0050] In this specification, if it is determined that a specific description of the configuration or function of a public notice related to the present invention may obscure the gist of the present invention, a detailed description thereof will be omitted as necessary.

[0051]

[0052] According to one aspect of the present invention, a flexible thermoelectric module includes at least one unit pattern including at least one one-sided electrode disposed on one surface of a substrate, at least one other-sided electrode disposed on the other surface of the substrate, and at least one thermoelectric element electrically connecting the one-sided electrode and the other-sided electrode, and may include at least one electrode line connecting the unit pattern.

[0053] Here, the unit pattern may include at least one one-sided electrode arranged in a first direction and a second-sided electrode arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0054] Here, the electrode line can be arranged parallel to the second direction.

[0055] Here, the electrode line can be arranged on the one side.

[0056] Here, at least two of the unit patterns are provided, and each of the unit patterns can be arranged at a predetermined distance from each other.

[0057] Here, the thermoelectric elements are arranged alternately as first thermoelectric elements and second thermoelectric elements according to the direction of the current, so that the one-side electrode and the other-side electrode can be connected in a direction perpendicular to the one side.

[0058] Here, the flexible thermoelectric module may further include a support layer provided in the empty space between the one side and the other side to support the one side electrode, the other side electrode, and the thermoelectric element.

[0059] In a unit including the above-described flexible thermoelectric module, the unit further includes a heat dissipation unit for absorbing heat generated from the one-side electrode or the other-side electrode according to the flow of current, and the heat dissipation unit can be arranged corresponding to the flexible thermoelectric module.

[0060] Here, the heat dissipation unit may include a heat dissipation fin for dissipating waste heat and a support unit that supports the heat dissipation fin and corresponds to each of the unit patterns.

[0061] Here, the heat dissipation member may further include a connecting member made of a flexible material and connecting each of the supporting members.

[0062] Here, the flexible thermoelectric module may further include at least a portion of a penetrating hole, and the unit may further include a connecting means that is inserted through the hole in the direction of the other surface on the one surface and is hook-connectable with the support corresponding to the unit pattern.

[0063] Here, the unit further includes a flow path formed of an air mesh material and having an internal space through which a fluid can pass, and the flow path can be formed such that one surface thereof is exposed.

[0064] Here, the unit may further include a housing made of a flexible material, and may include the flexible thermoelectric module, the heat dissipation unit, and the flow path unit inside the housing.

[0065] Here, the unit further includes a blower capable of forming a flow of fluid within the euro section, and the housing may further include the blower on the inside.

[0066] Here, the housing may include a first opening that is open to allow external fluid to flow in and a second opening that is open to allow internal fluid of the housing to flow out.

[0067] Here, in the flexible thermoelectric module, the other side of the first electrode line and one side of the first single-sided electrode may be connected to a first thermoelectric element, the other side of the first single-sided electrode and one side of the first other-sided electrode may be connected to a second thermoelectric element, the other side of the first other-sided electrode and one side of the second single-sided electrode may be connected to the first thermoelectric element, the other side of the second single-sided electrode and one side of the second other-sided electrode may be connected to the second thermoelectric element, the other side of the second other-sided electrode may be connected to one side of a third single-sided electrode and the first thermoelectric element, and the other side of the third single-sided electrode and one side of the second electrode line may be connected to the second thermoelectric element.

[0068]

[0069] Below, a thermoelectric module and a unit including the same according to one embodiment are described.

[0070]

[0071] A flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention means a thermoelectric module having flexibility.

[0072] Here, a thermoelectric module may refer to a module that performs thermoelectric operations such as power generation using a temperature difference or heating / cooling using electric energy by utilizing a thermoelectric effect such as the Seebeck effect or the Peltier effect.

[0073] Conventional thermoelectric modules typically consist of thermoelectric elements electrically connected to a flat ceramic substrate, typically composed of NP semiconductors. Therefore, conventional thermoelectric modules have inherently been limited to a fixed plate-like form, hindering their application in diverse applications.

[0074]

[0075] FIG. 1 is a drawing of an embodiment of a first example of a unit (hereinafter referred to as “unit (1000)”) including a thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0076] A unit (1000) according to an embodiment of the present invention may mean a device including a flexible thermoelectric module having flexibility.

[0077] Here, a thermoelectric module may refer to a module that performs thermoelectric operations such as power generation using a temperature difference or heating / cooling using electric energy by utilizing a thermoelectric effect such as the Seebeck effect or the Peltier effect.

[0078] Conventional thermoelectric modules typically consist of thermoelectric elements electrically connected to a flat ceramic substrate, typically composed of NP semiconductors. Therefore, conventional thermoelectric modules have inherently been limited to a fixed plate-like form, hindering their application in diverse applications.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 1, a unit (1000) according to one embodiment may include a flexible thermoelectric module (100), a heat dissipation unit (1100), a flow path unit (1200), a blower unit (1300), a housing (1400), a first opening unit (1400-1), a second opening unit (1400-2), and a control unit (not shown). The unit (1000) provides a thermal stimulus to a user by controlling the thermoelectric module (100) to selectively perform a heat generating operation or a heat absorbing operation, and waste heat according to the thermoelectric operation of the thermoelectric module (100) may be released to the outside of the unit (1000) through the heat dissipation unit (1100) and the flow path unit (1200).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the unit (1000) is provided in a plate shape as a basic feature compared to conventional non-flexible thermoelectric modules, but has flexibility that allows for curving and can be transformed into various shapes, including curved shapes. Accordingly, the thermoelectric module (100), heat dissipation unit (1100), flow path unit (1200), and housing (1400), which are components of the unit (1000), can be made of a flexible material so that at least some of them can be flexibly curved.

[0081] A unit (1000) that can be transformed into a curved shape, etc. according to one embodiment can be used in various applications in which it is difficult to employ a conventional non-flexible thermoelectric module.

[0082]

[0083] FIGS. 2 and 3 are drawings of a thermoelectric device equipped with a unit including a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0084] Hereinafter, some examples of various applications in which the unit (1000) according to one embodiment may be utilized will be described with respect to some thermoelectric apparatuses in which the unit (1000) is mounted. Here, the thermoelectric apparatus including at least one unit (1000) may be a device that performs any operation utilizing the thermoelectric effect of the flexible thermoelectric module (100).

[0085] Referring to FIG. 2, according to one embodiment, the thermoelectric device may be mounted on a tactile 4D chair that provides a thermal sensation to a user when outputting video content in a theater or the like, or a massage chair that provides a hot or cold sensation to enhance the effect of a massage. Here, the unit (1000) may include at least one or more units and may be applied to the thermoelectric device in various forms, such as a seating portion on which a user of the thermoelectric device can sit or a seat portion that supports the lower back. Meanwhile, FIG. 2 is an exemplary drawing, and may be applied not only to the seat portion that supports the lower back as illustrated in FIG. 2, but may also be applied to other locations or simultaneously with other locations.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 3, a thermoelectric device according to one embodiment may be provided as a work vest or clothing, providing a sense of warmth or coolness in a user's daily life, or in a form that can be installed when a sense of warmth or coolness is required in an extreme work environment. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the unit (1000) of the thermoelectric device may be installed in a form in which the wearing surface is directed toward the user's skin or toward the user.

[0087] As previously mentioned, conventional non-flexible thermoelectric elements have a fixed, flat-plate shape, making them highly unusable except for a few special applications. In contrast, the unit (1000) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be transformed into a shape appropriate for various applications, including those illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 .

[0088] Of course, thermoelectric devices can include various forms other than the examples described above, and thus the thermoelectric devices in this specification are not limited to the examples described above.

[0089]

[0090] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings of an embodiment of a first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment. More specifically, FIG. 5 is a drawing of the back surface of the flexible thermoelectric module disclosed in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0091] The flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention can maintain flexibility by the structures described below. However, the structures described below are merely representative examples of structures that enable the flexible thermoelectric module (100) to have flexibility, and therefore, it should be noted in advance that the present invention is not limited by the structures described below.

[0092] In addition, in the examples of structures described below, the substrate (110) and the support layer (160) of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) both serve as substrates that support the thermoelectric element (140) and the electrodes (120, 130), and therefore, they are collectively referred to as the 'substrate (110)'. Accordingly, in this specification, the substrate (110) is an expression that encompasses the upper substrate (or first substrate) (110-1) when the substrate (110) is viewed from the front, the lower substrate (or second substrate) (110-2) when the substrate (110) is viewed from the back, and the support layer (160). In addition, the support layer (160) may be referred to as the 'inner substrate (160)' in contrast to the substrate (110).

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, a thermoelectric module (100) according to one embodiment may include a substrate (110), electrodes (120, 130), electrode lines (150), thermoelectric elements (140), and a support layer (160).

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the thermoelectric module (100) may be provided in a plate shape. In addition, the thermoelectric module (100) may have flexibility (hereinafter referred to as a "flexible thermoelectric module"). Even though the flexible thermoelectric module (100) is basically provided in a plate shape, it has flexibility that allows for curving and may be deformed into various shapes, including a curved shape. In addition, a flexible thermoelectric module (100) that can be deformed between a flat shape and a curved shape may be provided. For example, a flexible thermoelectric module (100) in a flat shape as shown in FIG. 4 may be deformed into a curved shape by applying force, and when the applied force is removed, the flexible thermoelectric module (100) in the curved shape may be restored to a flat shape again.

[0095] A substrate (110) of a flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first substrate (110-1) and a second substrate (110-2) that are spaced apart from each other and face each other. The first substrate (110-1) and the second substrate (110-2) support a thermoelectric element (140) or electrode (120, 130) that is positioned therebetween. In addition, the substrate (110) may perform a function of protecting the thermoelectric element (140) or electrode (120, 130) inside thereof from the outside. The substrate (110) may be made of a material that is easy to conduct heat and is flexible. For example, the substrate (110) may be a thin polyimide (PI) film. Polyimide film not only has excellent flexibility, but can be manufactured with a thin thickness even though its thermal conductivity is not high, so it can be advantageous for heat conduction. Meanwhile, in the above description, it was described that the electrodes (120, 130), the thermoelectric element (140), and the support layer (160) are arranged between the first substrate (110-1) and the second substrate (110-2) to support the internal components, but it is not limited thereto. As will be described in detail in the following embodiments, the substrate (110) may be arranged parallel to the electrodes (120, 130) at the same height (z-direction length), excluding the support layer (160), so that there is no step difference between the electrodes (120, 130) and the substrate (110).

[0096] Fig. 7 (a) is a drawing showing the shape of a thermoelectric element used in a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment, and Fig. 7 (b) is a drawing showing the shape of an electrode used in a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0097] The thermoelectric element (140) may be an element that induces a thermoelectric effect such as the Seebeck effect or the Peltier effect. Basically, the thermoelectric element (140) may include a first thermoelectric element (140-1) and a second thermoelectric element (140-2) of different materials that constitute a thermoelectric pair that induces a thermoelectric effect. The first thermoelectric element (140-1) and the second thermoelectric element (140-2) are electrically connected to form a thermoelectric couple. The thermoelectric pair can generate a temperature difference when electrical energy is applied, and conversely, can produce electrical energy when a temperature difference is applied. A representative example of the thermoelectric element (140) is a pair of bismuth and antimony. In addition, recently, a pair of an N-type semiconductor and a P-type semiconductor is mainly used as the thermoelectric element (140).

[0098] Referring to (a) of FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the thermoelectric element (140) can be provided mainly in the shape of a square column or a circular column. Here, the thermoelectric element (140) has a height dimension (height dimension, D Z ) may be relatively small and may have a shape closer to a plate shape than a column shape overall. In this specification, the expression 'column shape' in relation to the shape of the thermoelectric element (140) should be interpreted in a comprehensive sense that includes even a plate shape.

[0099] Additionally, the column-shaped thermoelectric element (140) has two end surfaces in the height direction. The cross-section of the thermoelectric element (140) may be flat.

[0100] The thermoelectric element (140) of the above-described type is arranged between the first substrate (110-1) and the second substrate (110-2) so that its height direction and the thickness direction of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) are parallel to each other. The thermoelectric element (140) may be supported by the substrate (110) by being directly or indirectly connected to the inner surfaces of the first substrate (110-1) and the second substrate (110-2) at each end surface. Here, the term 'indirect connection' may mean that two objects are connected via an intervening material arranged in the middle of the two objects instead of directly contacting each other. For example, a representative form in which the thermoelectric element (140) and the external substrate (1120) are indirectly connected may include a connection through an electrode (120, 130) arranged between one end surface of the thermoelectric element (140) and the substrate (110).

[0101] The thermoelectric elements (140) may be arranged so that two adjacent thermoelectric elements (140) form a thermoelectric pair by the electrodes (120, 130). For example, when the thermoelectric elements (140) are arranged, the first thermoelectric element (140-1) and the second thermoelectric element (140-2) may be arranged alternately according to the current direction according to the electrical connection. Accordingly, the first thermoelectric element (140-1) and the second thermoelectric element (140-2) are positioned adjacent to each other. In addition, the first thermoelectric elements (140-1) are positioned to be staggered from each other. In addition, the second thermoelectric elements (140-2) are positioned to be staggered from each other.

[0102] The electrodes (120, 130) electrically connect the thermoelectric elements (140). The thermoelectric elements (140) can generate a thermoelectric effect only when at least a first thermoelectric element (140-1) and a second thermoelectric element (140-2) of different materials are electrically connected to form a thermoelectric pair. Therefore, the electrodes (120, 130) basically connect the first thermoelectric element (140-1) and the second thermoelectric element (140-2) that are adjacent to each other to form a thermoelectric pair. That is, different thermoelectric elements can be arranged at both ends of one electrode (120, 130) to form a thermoelectric pair.

[0103] For convenience of explanation, the electrodes (120, 130) may include a single-sided electrode (120) and a double-sided electrode (130). The single-sided electrode (120) and the double-sided electrode (130) may be completely identical in at least one of shape, form, or material, but are not limited thereto. More specifically, the single-sided electrode (120) may be understood as an electrode disposed on the upper side in the thickness direction of the flexible thermoelectric module (100), and the double-sided electrode (130) may be understood as an electrode disposed on the lower side in the thickness direction of the flexible thermoelectric module (100). In one embodiment, the single-sided electrode (120) may mean an electrode that is close to the user in the thickness direction at an area where the flexible thermoelectric module (100) comes into contact with the user.

[0104] In one embodiment, the one-sided electrode (120) may be directly or indirectly disposed inwardly of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) on one side of the substrate (110) (e.g., the upper substrate (110-1)) and supported by the substrate (110), and the other-sided electrode (130) may be directly or indirectly disposed inwardly of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) on the other side of the substrate (110) (e.g., the lower substrate (110-2)) and supported by the substrate (110).

[0105] That is, the fact that the single-sided electrode (120) is placed on one side of the substrate (110) may mean that it is placed on the lower side of the first substrate (110-1) in the thickness direction of the flexible thermoelectric module (100), or that it is placed so as to be directly or indirectly supported on the side of the first substrate (110-1).

[0106] In addition, the fact that the electrode (130) is placed on the other side of the substrate (110) may mean that it is placed on the upper side of the second substrate (110-2) in the thickness direction of the flexible thermoelectric module (100), or that it is placed so as to be directly or indirectly supported on the side of the second substrate (110-2).

[0107] Electrodes (120, 130) can connect a plurality of thermoelectric elements (140) in series. Thermoelectric elements (140) connected in series by electrodes (120, 130) can form a thermoelectric group that performs the same thermoelectric operation simultaneously.

[0108] In the present invention, the flexible thermoelectric module (100) may include at least one thermoelectric group. For example, since all thermoelectric elements (140) of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) are connected in series, the flexible thermoelectric module (100) may be configured as one thermoelectric group. Alternatively, multiple thermoelectric groups may be formed in the flexible thermoelectric module (100). When the flexible thermoelectric module (100) has multiple thermoelectric groups, the operation of each thermoelectric group can be individually controlled, and thus, operation control for each region of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) can be enabled.

[0109] Referring to (b) of FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the electrodes (120, 130) may be provided primarily in a plate shape. Here, the plate-shaped electrodes (120, 130) have a thickness dimension (thick dimension, D T ), length dimension (D L) and width dimension (D W ) has. In addition, the plate-shaped electrode (120, 130) has two main surfaces defined by the length direction and the width direction.

[0110] The electrode (120, 130) can be fixed to the substrate (110) through one of the two main surfaces. Here, the electrode (120, 130) can be fixed to the external substrate (110) by a screening method, an adhesive method using an adhesive (e.g., silicone, acrylic, urethane, etc.), or various other attachment methods. Hereinafter, among the two main surfaces of the electrode (120, 130), the surface facing the first substrate (110-1) or the second substrate (110-2) is referred to as the outer surface of the electrode (120, 130), and the opposite surface is referred to as the inner surface of the electrode (120, 130).

[0111] The electrodes (120, 130) electrically connect the first thermoelectric element (140-1) and the second thermoelectric element (140-2) through the inner surface.

[0112] The electrodes (120, 130) are arranged so that their longitudinal direction matches the arrangement direction of the first thermoelectric element (140-1) and the second thermoelectric element (140-2) that form a thermoelectric pair, and can connect the first thermoelectric element (140-1) and the second thermoelectric element (140-2) along the longitudinal direction. Structurally, one end region in the longitudinal direction of the inner surface of the electrode (120, 130) and the cross-section of the first thermoelectric element (140-1) can be in direct or indirect contact, and the other end region in the longitudinal direction of the inner surface of the electrode (120, 130) and the cross-section of the second thermoelectric element (140-2) can be in direct or indirect contact. Accordingly, the electrodes (120, 130) can electrically connect the first thermoelectric element (140-1) and the second thermoelectric element (140-2) through their inner surfaces.

[0113] Here, the cross-section of the thermoelectric element (140) and the inner surface of the main surface of the electrode (120, 130) can be joined to each other by soldering, welding, or the like. Accordingly, a material for joining the electrode (120, 130) and the thermoelectric element (140) can be interposed between the cross-section of the thermoelectric element (140) and the end region of the electrode (120, 130).

[0114] The electrodes (120, 130) may be provided mainly with a metal material such as copper or silver, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0115] The electrode line (150) may be an electrode or terminal that is electrically connected to an electrode within the flexible thermoelectric module (100) and can supply current. That is, the electrode line (150) may be composed of the same material as the electrodes (120, 130). In one embodiment, the electrode line (150) may preferably be composed of a material with high thermal conductivity so that the cooling or heating sensation generated by the thermoelectric operation provided according to the direction of the current of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) can be transmitted, thereby optimizing the transmission area of ​​the thermal stimulus.

[0116] The electrode line (150) can supply power for the flexible thermoelectric module (100) to perform heating / cooling operations using the Peltier effect when the flexible thermoelectric module (100) is used as a heat outputting module. In addition, the electrode line (150) can transmit to the outside the power generated by the flexible thermoelectric module (100) using the Seebeck effect when the flexible thermoelectric module (100) is used as a thermoelectric generating module.

[0117] Electrode lines (150) are provided in pairs for each thermoelectric group and can be connected to thermoelectric elements (140) at both ends of the electric circuit among thermoelectric elements (140) connected in series within the thermoelectric group.

[0118] The thermoelectric module (100) may include a support layer (160). The support layer (160) may be positioned (provided) in an empty space between a pair of substrates (110-1, 110-2). The support layer (160) may support the thermoelectric element (140) and the electrodes (120, 130). Therefore, the thermoelectric element (140) and the electrodes (120, 130) may be supported by the support layer (160) together with the substrate (110). In another embodiment, the support layer (160) of the third example of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) to be described below may be provided in an empty space between one side and the other side of the substrate (110), so that it may be applied even when the substrate (110) is omitted. Here, the one side and the other side may refer to one side and the other side of the flexible thermoelectric module.

[0119] The support layer (160) may be provided with a flexible material so that the thermoelectric module (100) can maintain flexibility. For example, the support layer (160) may be a foam layer having internal pores like a sponge. Here, the foam layer may be formed by filling a foaming agent between a pair of substrates (110-1, 110-2). As the foaming agent, organic foaming agents, inorganic foaming agents, physical foaming agents, polyurethane, and silicone foam may be used.

[0120] When the thermoelectric module (100) includes a support layer (160), the thermoelectric element (140) and the electrodes (120, 130) can be supported by the support layer (160), so the substrate (110) may not necessarily be required. One of the pair of substrates (110-1, 110-2) illustrated in FIG. 6 may be removed. Alternatively, both of the pair of substrates (110-1, 110-2) may be removed. When the substrate (110) is removed, the flexibility of the thermoelectric module (100) may be improved.

[0121] FIG. 8 is a plan view of an embodiment of a first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line aa' of an embodiment of a first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line b-b' of an embodiment of a first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0122] Meanwhile, a flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be composed of electrodes (120, 130) and thermoelectric elements (140) arranged in the shape of at least one unit pattern. That is, the flexible thermoelectric module (100) includes electrodes and thermoelectric elements configured in at least one unit pattern, and each of the unit patterns may be connected via an electrode line (150).

[0123] More specifically, referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the flexible thermoelectric module (100) may include at least one unit pattern composed of electrodes (120, 130) and thermoelectric elements (140) arranged in a specific shape and order, and at least one electrode line (150) connecting the unit pattern. Meanwhile, it can be understood that the size of the unit pattern (10) can be adjusted according to the size (height or area) of the electrodes (120, 130) and thermoelectric elements (140) described above, and the radius of curvature of the flexible thermoelectric module (100).

[0124] Referring to Fig. 8, the thermoelectric element (140) is not illustrated, but since this is a drawing viewed from a planar view, it may be omitted. That is, the thermoelectric element (140) may be interposed between the one-side electrode (120) and the other-side electrode (130). Similarly, the other-side electrode (130) illustrated in Fig. 8 is not limited to being illustrated larger than the width range of the one-side electrode (120). That is, the other-side electrode (130) and the one-side electrode (120) may be arranged in the same manner in the overlapping area of ​​the one-side electrode (120) and the other-side electrode (130) when viewed from a planar view.

[0125] A unit pattern (10) according to one embodiment may include a first electrode (120) arranged in a first longitudinal direction, a second electrode (130) arranged in a second longitudinal direction, and a thermoelectric element (140) connecting the first electrode (120) and the second electrode (130). Here, the first direction is a direction on a plane (XY) perpendicular to the thickness direction (Z) of the flexible thermoelectric module (100), and the second direction may mean a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0126] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 8, the electrode line (150) within the unit pattern (10) may be arranged in a direction in which the longitudinal direction of the electrode line (150) is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electrode (130). In addition, the electrode line (150) may be arranged so that the height in the thickness direction of the one-sided electrode (120) and the flexible thermoelectric module (100) are the same. This may be to provide a thermal experience of a wider area by conducting thermal stimulation to the user by conducting thermally along the electrode line (150) since the one-sided electrode (120) of the unit pattern (10) according to one embodiment is an electrode in the direction that contacts the user side in the flexible thermoelectric module (100).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 8, a unit pattern (10) according to an embodiment may include four electrode lines (150-1, 150-2, 150-3, 150-4), four one-sided electrodes (120-1, 120-4, 120-5, 120-8) connected to each of the electrode lines (150), four one-sided electrodes (120-2, 120-3, 120-6, 120-7) not connected to the electrode lines (150), six other-sided electrodes (130-1, 130-2, 130-3, 130-4, 130-5, 130-6), and a thermoelectric element (140).

[0128] More specifically, one side (or one end) of the first electrode line (150-1) and the first one-sided electrode (120-1) of the unit pattern (10) according to one embodiment are electrically connected in a direction perpendicular to each other in the longitudinal direction, and the first electrode line (150-1) and the first one-sided electrode (120-1) can be electrically connected so that the height in the thickness direction of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) is the same.

[0129] In addition, the other side (or other end region) of the first one-side electrode (120-1) of the unit pattern (10) and one side (or one end region) of the first other-side electrode (130-1) may be indirectly connected by a thermoelectric element (140). Here, the longitudinal direction of each of the first one-side electrode (120-1) and the first other-side electrode (130-1) may be arranged vertically when viewed from a plane. In addition, the other side of the first one-side electrode (120-1) and one side of the first other-side electrode (130-1) may be electrically connected by the thermoelectric element (140) in the thickness length direction of the flexible thermoelectric module (100).

[0130] In addition, the other side (or other end region) of the first one-sided electrode of the unit pattern (10) and one side (or one end region) of the second one-sided electrode may be indirectly connected by a thermoelectric element (140) interposed. More specifically, when the thermoelectric element (140) interposed between the other side of the first one-sided electrode and one side of the first one-sided electrode is the first thermoelectric element (140-1), the thermoelectric element (140) interposed between the other side of the first one-sided electrode and one side of the second one-sided electrode may be the second thermoelectric element (140-2). That is, the first thermoelectric element (140-1) and the second thermoelectric element (140-2) are electrically connected and interposed alternately depending on the direction of the current to indirectly connect the one-sided electrode (120) and the other-sided electrode (130).

[0131] That is, if the thermoelectric element (140) interposed between the other side of the first one-sided electrode and one side of the first other-sided electrode is a first thermoelectric element (140-1), it can be understood that the thermoelectric element (140) interposed between the other side of the second other-sided electrode and one side of the second one-sided electrode is a second thermoelectric element (140-2). In the following description, the description that thermoelectric elements (140) are arranged can be understood to mean that thermoelectric elements (140) of different types (140-1, 140-2) are interposed by alternating the thermoelectric elements (140).

[0132] In addition, the other side (or other end region) of the second one-sided electrode of the unit pattern (10) and one side (or one end region) of the second other-sided electrode can be indirectly connected by introducing a thermoelectric element (140). Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line aa' of a flexible thermoelectric module according to an embodiment of Fig. 8. Referring to Fig. 9, the other side of the second one-sided electrode and one side of the second other-sided electrode can be electrically connected in a vertical direction by the thermoelectric element (140).

[0133] In addition, the other side (or other end region) of the second electrode of the unit pattern (10) and one side (or one end region) of the third electrode may be indirectly connected by introducing a thermoelectric element (140). Similarly, the other side (or other end region) of the third electrode of the unit pattern (10) and one side (or one end region) of the third electrode may be indirectly connected by introducing a thermoelectric element (140). In addition, the other side (or other end region) of the third electrode of the unit pattern (10) and one side (or one end region) of the fourth electrode may be indirectly connected by introducing a thermoelectric element (140).

[0134] The other side (or other end) of the fourth one-sided electrode of the unit pattern (10) is electrically connected in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the second electrode line (150-2), and the second electrode line (150-2) and the fourth one-sided electrode can be electrically connected so that the height in the thickness direction of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) is the same.

[0135] Likewise, referring to FIG. 8, it can be understood that the unit pattern (10) is arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane formed by the vertical direction of the plan view and the longitudinal direction of the electrode lines, such that the third to fourth electrode lines (150-3, 150-4), the fifth to eighth one-side electrodes, and the fourth to sixth other-side electrodes and the thermoelectric element (140) and the thermoelectric element (140) can be arranged in the first to second electrode lines (150-1, 150-2), the first to fourth one-side electrodes (120-1, 120-2, 120-3, 120-4) and the first to third other-side electrodes (130-1, 130-2, 130-3) of the above-described description. More specifically, FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line bb' of a flexible thermoelectric module according to an embodiment of FIG. 8. Referring to Figure 10, it can be understood that when looking at the drawing, they are arranged symmetrically with respect to each other around the vertical axis.

[0136] Meanwhile, the unit pattern (10) is not limited to the arrangement described above.

[0137] Below, a second example of a flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0138] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line aa' of an embodiment of a second example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line b-b' of an embodiment of a second example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 11, in this example, the flexible thermoelectric module (100) may include one external substrate (110-2), one-sided electrode (120), the other-sided electrode (130), a thermoelectric element (140), and a support layer (160).

[0140] This example has a major difference from the first example of the structure of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention described above in that it includes only one external substrate (110-2).

[0141] When a support layer (160) is included in a flexible thermoelectric module (100), the thermoelectric element (140) and electrodes (120, 130) can be supported by the support layer (160), so an external substrate (110-1) may not necessarily be required.

[0142] The flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to the second example can be manufactured by removing one of the external substrates (110-1, 110-2) from the flexible thermoelectric module (100) in the same state as the first example of the structure of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention. Here, the removal of the external substrate (110) can be performed through physical, chemical, or mechanical peeling.

[0143] A flexible thermoelectric module (100) having an external substrate (110) on only one side has the advantage of improved flexibility compared to a flexible thermoelectric module (100) having an external substrate (110) on both sides. This is because the external substrate (110) has some resistance to curving, etc., even if it is provided with a flexible material such as a PI film.

[0144] In addition, in a flexible thermoelectric module (100) having an external substrate (110) on only one side, an electrode (120) placed on a side without an external substrate (110) has a characteristic in that the thermal conductivity of the contact surface is directly transferred, thereby providing a more efficient thermal experience.

[0145] Below, a third example of a flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0146] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line aa' of an embodiment of a third example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line bb' of an embodiment of a third example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0147] Referring to FIG. 13, in this example, the flexible thermoelectric module (100) may include a single-sided electrode (120), a double-sided electrode (130), a thermoelectric element (140), and a support layer (160).

[0148] The main difference between this example and the second example of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention described above is that there is no external substrate (110).

[0149] As described above, when the flexible thermoelectric module (100) includes a support layer (160), the thermoelectric element (140) and electrodes (120, 130) can be supported by the support layer (160), so an external substrate (110) may not necessarily be required.

[0150] The flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to the present example can be manufactured by removing the entire external substrate (110) from the flexible thermoelectric module (100) in the same state as the second example of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention. Here, the removal of the external substrate (110) can be performed through physical, chemical, or mechanical peeling.

[0151] A flexible thermoelectric module (100) having only a support layer (160) without an external substrate (110) has improved flexibility compared to a flexible thermoelectric module (100) having an external substrate (110) on both sides or an external substrate (110) on only one side.

[0152]

[0153] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement and electrical connection of another embodiment of the first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a plan view of one embodiment of the first example of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line dd' of the first embodiment of a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 15, a flexible thermoelectric module (100) according to one embodiment may have at least one unit pattern (10) connected via an electrode line (150) to form at least one thermoelectric group. In one embodiment, when the flexible thermoelectric module (100) includes N unit patterns (10), the second electrode line (150-2) of the first unit pattern may be electrically connected to the first electrode line (150-1) of the second unit pattern, and the second electrode line (150-2) of the (M-1)th unit pattern may be electrically connected to the first electrode line (150-1) of the Mth unit pattern (M is 2 or more and N or less). Meanwhile, in the above-described example, the Nth unit pattern (10) may not include the second electrode line (150-2) and the third electrode line (150-3).

[0155] That is, in order for the thermoelectric module (100) to form a thermoelectric group that performs one thermoelectric operation depending on the direction of the current, the unit pattern placed last needs to be configured differently from the other unit patterns.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 16, the Nth unit pattern, which is the last unit pattern constituting the flexible thermoelectric module (100), may further include two thermoelectric elements (140) and a surface electrode (130-7) compared to the unit pattern (10) described in FIG. 8.

[0157] More specifically, referring to FIG. 16, the other side (or other end region) of the fourth one-sided electrode (120-4) of the Nth unit pattern and one side (or one end region) of the seventh one-sided electrode (130-7) may be indirectly connected by introducing a thermoelectric element (140), and the other side (or other end region) of the seventh one-sided electrode (130-7) and one side (or one end region) of the fifth one-sided electrode (120-5) may be indirectly connected by introducing a thermoelectric element. Here, the seventh one-sided electrode (130-7) may be arranged longitudinally parallel to the fourth one-sided electrode (120-4) and the fifth one-sided electrode (120-5).

[0158] That is, referring to FIG. 17, it can be understood that the Nth unit pattern does not further include the second electrode line (150-2) and the third electrode line (150-3), and can be electrically connected through the thermoelectric element (140) and the other electrode (130). Meanwhile, although FIG. 17 is illustrated as an implementation example including the substrate (110-1, 110-2), it can be understood that it can be implemented as an implementation example of the second and third examples according to FIGS. 11 to 14.

[0159] Meanwhile, in another embodiment, the Nth unit pattern does not further include the second electrode line (150-2) and the third electrode line (150-3), and the other side (or other end) of the fourth one-sided electrode (120-4) and one side (or one end) of the fifth one-sided electrode (120-5) are electrically connected, thereby forming a thermoelectric group in which the thermal thermoelectric module (100) performs one thermoelectric operation depending on the direction of the current. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0160] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a unit including a flexible thermoelectric module according to one embodiment.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 18, the flexible thermoelectric module (100) includes at least two unit patterns (10), and each of the unit patterns (10) can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance (18). Here, the predetermined distance (18) can be designed experimentally or empirically depending on the required flexibility of the unit (1000) including the flexible thermoelectric module.

[0162]

[0163] Hereinafter, a unit (1000) including the above-described flexible thermoelectric module (100) will be described. Since the unit (1000) includes the flexible thermoelectric module (100), the description of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) can be equally applied to the description of the unit (1000).

[0164] A unit (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a flexible thermoelectric module (100), a heat dissipation unit (1100), a flow path unit (1200), a blower unit (1300), a housing (1400), a first opening unit (1400-1), a second opening unit (1400-2), and a control unit (not shown).

[0165] According to one embodiment, a heat dissipation unit (1100) is arranged corresponding to a flexible thermoelectric module (100) and can absorb waste heat generated from one electrode or the other electrode according to the flow of current. For example, waste heat generated as the flexible thermoelectric module (100) operates is transferred to the heat dissipation unit, and the heat dissipation unit can release the transferred waste heat to the outside.

[0166] The heat dissipation unit (1100) may be implemented using a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat dissipation module may be implemented using a metal and / or alloy material such as aluminum or magnesium. As another example, the heat dissipation module may be implemented using a thermally conductive polymer. In addition, the heat dissipation module may be implemented using various materials such as ceramics, carbon composite materials, polymer / metal composite materials, and polymer / ceramic composite materials.

[0167] One area of ​​the heat dissipation unit (1100) corresponds to a high-temperature area, and the other area corresponds to a low-temperature area. The heat dissipation unit (1100) may be formed in a structure that can increase the area in contact with the low-temperature area. For example, one area of ​​the heat dissipation module may be provided in a plate shape, and the other area may be provided in a fin shape. Alternatively, the other area may be formed to have protrusions and recesses. Of course, both the one area and the other area of ​​the heat dissipation module may be provided in a plate shape.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 18, a heat dissipation unit (1100) according to one embodiment may include a support unit (1120) corresponding to each unit pattern (10) of a flexible thermoelectric module (100) in a plate shape in one area, and a heat dissipation fin (1110) extending from the support unit (1120) and having an increased contact area in the form of a pin.

[0169] The heat dissipation unit (1100) may further include a connecting portion (1130) made of a flexible material and connecting each of the supporting portions (1120). The connecting portion (1130) may be made of a material having elasticity and low hardness, such as urethane or silicone, and may connect or fix the supporting portion (1120) corresponding to each unit pattern (10) of the flexible thermoelectric module (100). Meanwhile, the connecting portion (1130) of the heat dissipation unit (1100) may be arranged so that at least a portion of the supporting portion (1120) is locked and can surround at least a portion of the supporting portion (1120). In another embodiment, the connecting portion (1130) of the heat dissipation unit (1100) may be arranged so that at least a portion of the heat dissipation fin (1110) is locked and can completely surround the supporting portion (1120). Accordingly, the unit (1000) can adjust flexibility by adjusting the distance between the unit patterns (10) of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) and the island-shaped heat dissipation unit (1100) arranged corresponding to the unit patterns.

[0170] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a flexible thermoelectric module of an embodiment of a first example of a unit according to one embodiment, omitting the flexible thermoelectric module. Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a first example of a unit according to one embodiment.

[0171] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, a unit (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing (1400) made of a flexible material. The housing (1400) may include an opening provided so that one surface of the housing exposes and places a contact surface (or one surface electrode) of a flexible thermoelectric module (100), and may include a flow path (1200) provided on the inside with an internal space through which a fluid can flow. In addition, the housing (1400) may further include a blower (1300) capable of forming a fluid flow within the flow path (1200), and may include a first opening (1400-1) provided at one end so that external air can be introduced into the inside or internal air can be discharged according to the fluid flow formed by the blower (1300), and a second opening (1400-2) provided at the other end so that internal air can be discharged or external air can be introduced into the inside according to the fluid flow formed by the blower (1300).

[0172] In one embodiment, the euro unit (1200) may be composed of an airmesh material. Accordingly, even when the unit (1000) is under pressure or in a curving state, the flow of internal fluid can be maintained smoothly.

[0173] Meanwhile, in another embodiment, the housing (1400) may be replaced with a flow path (1200). That is, the flow path (1200) made of airmesh material may be provided, and may include a flexible thermoelectric module (100), a heat dissipation unit (1100), and a blower unit (1300) inside. In this case, the flow path (1200) may include an opening so that one surface of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) may be exposed.

[0174] FIGS. 21 to 24 are drawings for explaining the connection between a flexible thermoelectric module and a heat dissipation unit according to one embodiment.

[0175] Referring to FIG. 21, (a) of FIG. 21 is a one-sided perspective view for explaining the connection between a flexible thermoelectric module (100) and a heat dissipation unit (1100), and (b) of FIG. 21 is a other-sided perspective view for explaining the connection between a flexible thermoelectric module (100) and a heat dissipation unit (1100).

[0176] Referring to FIG. 21, a heat dissipation unit (1100) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a heat dissipation fin (1110) for dissipating waste heat, and a support unit (1120) that supports the heat dissipation fin and corresponds to each unit pattern constituting the flexible thermoelectric module (100). That is, it can be seen that there is a difference in the presence or absence of a connection unit (1130) from the example of the heat dissipation unit (1100) of FIG. 18.

[0177] More specifically, referring to FIG. 22, the heat dissipation unit (1100) of another embodiment may further include a coupling means (1500-1) to ensure coupling with the flexible thermoelectric module (100) and flexibility. The coupling means (1500-1) is inserted through a hole provided in the flexible thermoelectric module (100) from one side of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) toward the other side, and may be hook-coupled to a plate-shaped support corresponding to each of the unit patterns (10) of the flexible thermoelectric module (100). For this purpose, the coupling means (1500-1) may include a hook-shaped end. Meanwhile, the hole (111) may be formed on the outer surface of the unit pattern of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) and the electrode line (150) connecting each of the unit patterns, and at least a portion of the hole may be formed to penetrate therethrough.

[0178] That is, referring to FIG. 23, the coupling means (1500-1) is inserted through at least a partially penetrated hole (111) on the flexible thermoelectric module (100), and hook-coupled with a support (1120) corresponding to a unit pattern on the other surface, thereby fixing the support (1120) and the heat dissipation part (1100) including the heat dissipation fin (1110).

[0179] In another embodiment, referring to FIG. 24, the coupling means (1500-2) may be hook-joined to both ends of the support member (1120) corresponding to the unit pattern so as to pass through and avoid the electrode line for connecting between the unit patterns of the flexible thermoelectric module (100).

[0180] According to one embodiment, the blower (1300) may be configured as a slim fan or slim blower having a thin thickness in the thickness direction of the unit (1000). More specifically, the blower (1300) may be configured to form a fluid flow in the longitudinal direction of the unit (1000) rather than in the thickness direction. Accordingly, the blower (1300) may be a porous blower or a blower to be developed in the future.

[0181] A unit (1000) according to one embodiment may include a control unit (not shown).

[0182] The control unit can control the overall operation of the flexible thermoelectric module (100). For example, the control unit can be connected to the electrode lines of the thermoelectric module to apply power to the thermoelectric element and control the thermoelectric module to perform a heat-generating operation or a heat-absorbing operation.

[0183] In one embodiment, the unit (1000) further includes a temperature sensor (not shown), and the control unit can control the operation of the blower unit (1300) based on obtaining and processing the temperature inside the unit (1000) (e.g., the temperature of the heat dissipation unit (1100)) from the temperature sensor.

[0184] To this end, the control module performs calculations and processing of various types of information and outputs electrical signals to the thermoelectric module based on the processing results, thereby controlling the operation of the thermoelectric module. Therefore, the control module may be implemented as a computer or similar device, using hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In terms of hardware, the control module may be provided in the form of an electronic circuit that processes electrical signals to perform control functions, and in terms of software, it may be provided in the form of a program or code that drives the hardware circuit. Unless otherwise specified in the following description, the operation of the thermoelectric module may be interpreted as being performed under the control of the control module.

[0185] Figures 25 and 26 are perspective views of a unit of one embodiment of a second example of a unit according to one embodiment. Figure 27 is a drawing of one embodiment of a second example of a unit according to one embodiment.

[0186] Referring to FIG. 25, a unit (2000) of an embodiment of the second example can be formed by combining at least two units (1000) of an embodiment of the first example. More specifically, referring to FIGS. 25 and 26, the unit (2000) of the present example can include two flexible thermoelectric modules (100) and a heat dissipation unit (1100) and a blower unit (1300) arranged to correspond to each of the flexible thermoelectric modules (100). As illustrated, the unit (2000) can be configured in a form in which the blower unit (1300) is combined to protrude in the thickness direction of the unit (2000), but is not limited thereto.

[0187] A unit (2000) according to one embodiment may include a housing (1400) having an internal space through which a fluid can flow, including at least two flexible thermoelectric modules (100), and at least two openings on one surface of the housing (1400) that are open so that one surface of the flexible thermoelectric module (100) can be exposed.

[0188] Referring to Fig. 27, (a) of Fig. 27 is a drawing of the second opening (1400-2) of the unit (2000) viewed from the front, and (b) of Fig. 27 is a drawing of the first opening (1400-1) of the unit (2000) viewed from the front. More specifically, referring to (a) of Fig. 27, the blower (1300) of the unit (2000) is arranged to protrude downward in the thickness direction of the unit (2000), thereby forming a flow of fluid in the thickness direction. Accordingly, the flow of fluid inside the unit (2000) can form a flow of fluid greater than that of the blower (1300) arranged in the length direction of the unit (2000).

[0189] In addition, referring to (b) of FIG. 27, the first opening (1400-1) of the unit (2000) is formed in the longitudinal direction of each flexible thermoelectric module (100), thereby allowing external air to flow in and more effectively release waste heat from the heat dissipation unit (1100) corresponding to each flexible thermoelectric module (100).

[0190] Although the configuration and features of the present invention have been described above based on examples, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes or modifications can be made within the spirit and scope of the present invention, and therefore, it is made clear that such changes or modifications fall within the scope of the appended patent claims.

[0191] 10: Unit Pattern

[0192] 100: Flexible thermoelectric module

[0193] 110: substrate 111: hole

[0194] 120: One-sided electrode 130: Other-sided electrode

[0195] 140: Thermoelectric element 150: Electrode line

[0196] 1000: Unit

[0197] 1100: Heat sink 1110: Heat sink fin

[0198] 1120: Support 1130: Connection

[0199] 1200: Eurozone

[0200] 1300: Blower

[0201] 1400: Housing

[0202] 1400-1: First opening

[0203] 1400-2: Second opening

Claims

1. In flexible thermoelectric modules, At least one single-sided electrode disposed on one side of the substrate; At least one surface electrode disposed on the other surface of the substrate; and At least one unit pattern including at least one thermoelectric element electrically connecting the one-sided electrode and the other-sided electrode; comprising at least one electrode line connecting the above unit patterns; Flexible thermoelectric module.

2. In paragraph 1, The above unit pattern is, At least one single-sided electrode arranged in a first direction; and including a second electrode disposed in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; Flexible thermoelectric module.

3. In paragraph 2, The above electrode line is, arranged parallel to the second direction, Flexible thermoelectric module.

4. In paragraph 2, The above electrode line is, Placed on the above surface, Flexible thermoelectric module.

5. In paragraph 1, At least two of the above unit patterns are provided, Each of the above unit patterns is arranged at a predetermined distance from each other. Flexible thermoelectric module.

6. In paragraph 1, The above thermoelectric element, The first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element are arranged alternately according to the direction of the current. Connecting the one-side electrode and the other-side electrode in a direction perpendicular to the one-side electrode, Flexible thermoelectric module.

7. In paragraph 1, The above flexible thermoelectric module, Further comprising a support layer provided in the empty space between the one side and the other side, which supports the one side electrode, the other side electrode, and the thermoelectric element; Flexible thermoelectric module.

8. In a unit including a flexible thermoelectric module according to paragraph 1, The above unit, Further comprising a heat dissipation unit for absorbing heat generated from the one-sided electrode or the other-sided electrode according to the flow of current; The above heat dissipation unit is arranged to correspond to the flexible thermoelectric module. Unit.

9. In paragraph 8, The above heat dissipation part, Radiating fins for heat dissipation; and Supporting the above heat dissipation fins and including a support corresponding to each of the unit patterns; Unit 10. In paragraph 9, The above heat dissipation part Further comprising a connecting member made of a flexible material and connecting each of the above supporting members; Unit.

11. In paragraph 9, The above flexible thermoelectric module further comprises at least some penetrating holes, The above unit, Further comprising a connecting means that is inserted through the hole in the direction of the other side on the one side and is hook-connectable with the support corresponding to the unit pattern; Unit.

12. In paragraph 8, The above unit, It further includes a duct portion made of air mesh material and having an internal space for fluid passage; The above euro portion is formed so that one side is exposed, Unit.

13. In paragraph 12, The above unit, further comprising a housing made of flexible material; Including the flexible thermoelectric module, the heat dissipation part and the flow path part inside the housing, Unit.

14. In paragraph 13, The above unit, Further comprising a blower capable of forming a flow of fluid within the above-mentioned euro section; The above housing further includes the blower on the inside, Unit.

15. In paragraph 13, The above housing, a first opening open to allow external fluid to flow in; and a second opening that is open so that the internal fluid of the housing can be discharged; Unit.

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