Aircraft Propulsion Thermoelectric Generator Between Fluid Flows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power generation systems fail to effectively utilize thermal energy generated by turbine engines for generating electrical energy.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a thermoelectric generator (TEG) between fluid conduits within an aircraft propulsion system to harness thermal energy differences for electrical energy production, utilizing fluids like lubricating oil and fuel or bypass air and core gas for temperature differential generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If thermal energy from turbine engines is not utilized, then the system structure remains simple, but energy efficiency is poor and thermal energy is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the heat exchanger and thermoelectric generator into a single integrated device. The heat exchanger captures thermal energy from engine coolant, and the TEG converts this thermal energy directly into electrical energy, merging two functions (heat exchange and power generation) into one component to reduce energy waste without proportionally increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device serves multiple functions: it acts as both a heat exchanger for engine cooling and a power generation device. By making the system multi-functional, the patent addresses energy efficiency improvement while avoiding the need for separate dedicated components that would increase overall system complexity
2Use of energy by moving object
If traditional power generation systems are used, then electrical energy can be generated, but they fail to effectively utilize thermal energy and have low energy efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical power generation systems with a thermoelectric generator that directly converts thermal energy into electrical energy through the Seebeck effect. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical moving parts and directly utilizes thermal energy that would otherwise be wasted, significantly improving energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters by utilizing the temperature differential across the thermoelectric generator. By optimizing the temperature difference between the hot side (exposed to engine coolant) and cold side (exposed to ambient or cooled air), the system maximizes electrical energy generation from thermal energy, improving overall energy efficiency
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Efficient conversion of thermal energy into electrical energy, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing reliance on traditional power sources.
Implementation Method 1
The TEG generator is configured to produce electrical energy as a function of a temperature difference across the TEG between the first and second sides of the TEG
Data Source
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AI summary
An aircraft (20) propulsion system (26) is provided that includes a thermal engine (36) and an electrical energy generating device (62). The electrical energy generating device (62) has first and second fluid conduits (64, 66) and a thermoelectric generator, TEG (68). The TEG (68) is disposed between the first and second fluid conduits (64, 66). A first side of the TEG (68) is in thermal communication with the first fluid conduit (64), and a second side of the TEG (68) is in thermal communication with the second fluid conduit (66). The TEG (68) is configured to produce electrical energy as a function of a temperature difference across the TEG (68). The first fluid conduit (64) contains a first fluid flow, and the second fluid conduit (66) contains a second fluid flow. During operation of the propulsion system (26), the first fluid flow is at a first higher temperature and the second fluid flow is at a second lower temperature, thereby producing the temperature difference across the TEG (68).