Anomalous Nernst Thermoelectric Element With Zero-Field Ferrimagnetism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thermoelectric modules based on the anomalous Nernst effect are sensitive to external magnetic fields, limiting their stability and widespread use.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing materials that can be magnetized in any direction at zero magnetic field, such as ferrimagnets, to create thermoelectric conversion elements that exhibit the anomalous Nernst effect, and arranging these elements in specific configurations to enhance stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If ferromagnetic materials are used to exhibit the anomalous Nernst effect, then thermoelectric conversion can be achieved, but the device becomes sensitive to external magnetic fields
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the magnetic parameter of the material by using ferrimagnetic materials with specific magnetic properties (magnetization saturation Ms and magnetic anisotropy energy Ku) that allow the material to maintain stable thermoelectric conversion capability while being insensitive to external magnetic fields. The specific parameter range (Ku/Ms ratio) is optimized to achieve magnetic field insensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite ferrimagnetic materials composed of multiple elements (e.g., rare earth elements combined with transition metals) to achieve the desired magnetic properties. This composite approach allows tuning of the magnetic characteristics to simultaneously provide strong anomalous Nernst effect and external magnetic field insensitivity.
2Reliability
If ferromagnetic materials are used that are insensitive to external magnetic fields, then stability is improved, but the anomalous Nernst effect is reduced at zero magnetic field
Solution Approach 1:
The invention optimizes specific magnetic parameters (Ms and Ku) of the ferrimagnetic material to achieve a balance where the material remains insensitive to external magnetic fields while maintaining strong anomalous Nernst effect at zero magnetic field. The Ku/Ms ratio is specifically controlled to achieve this dual objective.
3Power
If Seebeck effect-based modules are used, then high figure of merit is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and material availability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention converts the typically harmful effect of external magnetic fields into a beneficial feature by using ferrimagnetic materials that are inherently insensitive to magnetic fields. This allows using versatile materials with simple structures while achieving stable thermoelectric conversion, effectively turning a potential disadvantage into an advantage.
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
Achieves stable thermoelectric conversion that is resistant to external magnetic fields, increasing the efficiency and reliability of the conversion process.
Implementation Method 1
thermoelectric conversion element... configured to exhibit an anomalous Nernst effect
Implementation Method 2
made of a first material that is able to be magnetized in any direction at zero magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
A thermoelectric conversion element is made of a material that is able to be magnetized in any direction at zero magnetic field and configured to exhibit an anomalous Nernst effect. A thermoelectric conversion device includes a substrate and a plurality of thermoelectric conversion elements on the substrate. Each of the plurality of thermoelectric conversion elements having a shape extending in one direction, is made of a material that is able to be magnetized in any direction at zero magnetic field, and is configured to exhibit an anomalous Nernst effect. The plurality of thermoelectric conversion elements are arranged in parallel to one another in a direction perpendicular to the one direction and electrically connected in series.