Embedded Thermoelectric Generators for Interface Energy Harvesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermoelectric generators are limited by the need for direct access to counter temperature environments, preventing the utilization of temperature differences across interfaces like windows and doors for energy generation, and face challenges in scaling up low-temperature gradient power output and load variation.
Innovation Solution
Embedding p-type and n-type thermoelectric materials through interfaces, such as windows or walls, to harness ambient temperature differences and generate electricity, with output structures to collect the voltage, using materials like copper and nickel wires or Bi2Te3, allowing for mass-scale energy harvesting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If thermoelectric generators are embedded in interfaces to utilize ambient temperature differences, then energy generation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple thermoelectric material legs (p-type and n-type) into a single integrated generator unit that is embedded directly in the interface structure (window, wall, or door). This merging approach allows the system to harvest energy from ambient temperature differences across the interface while maintaining structural integrity and reducing overall device complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface structure (window, wall, or door) serves as an intermediary that provides both structural support and thermal pathway for the embedded thermoelectric generator. The interface mediates between the indoor and outdoor environments, allowing temperature differences to drive energy generation while blocking direct environmental access to the thermoelectric materials.
2Use of energy by moving object
If thermoelectric materials are embedded through interfaces, then temperature difference utilization is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermoelectric generator is segmented into multiple discrete legs (p-type and n-type materials) that are individually embedded through the interface structure. This segmentation allows for modular manufacturing and assembly, where each leg can be independently fabricated and then integrated into the interface, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining effective thermal contact.
Solution Approach 2:
Different thermoelectric materials (p-type and n-type) are strategically positioned at different locations within the interface structure to optimize thermal and electrical performance. The local arrangement of alternating p-type and n-type legs creates efficient thermal pathways while maintaining electrical isolation, addressing manufacturing considerations through localized material placement.
3Power
If multiple thermoelectric materials are used to increase power output, then energy generation is improved, but loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The embedded thermoelectric generator maintains continuous operation by utilizing the persistent temperature difference between indoor and outdoor environments across the interface. The direct embedding eliminates energy losses associated with heat transfer through multiple intermediate layers, allowing continuous conversion of thermal energy to electrical energy as long as the temperature gradient exists.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the previously harmful waste heat that was blocked by the interface into a useful energy resource. By embedding thermoelectric materials directly in the interface, the system captures the thermal energy that would otherwise be wasted, transforming the interface from a thermal barrier into an energy generation asset.
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
This approach enables efficient energy generation from ambient temperature differences across interfaces, overcoming limitations of low output voltage and load variation, and potentially eliminating the need for voltage boosters or energy storage, while maintaining thermal stability and scalability.
Implementation Method 1
the first thermoelectric material may be electrically coupled to the second thermoelectric material. A voltage may be output from the first and second thermoelectric materials when the ambient temperatures on the first and second sides of the interface are different
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a system for embedded thermoelectric generators are disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus is embedded in an interface where the ambient temperatures on two sides of the interface are different. In one embodiment, the apparatus is fabricated with the interface in integrity as a unitary piece. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first thermoelectric material embedded through the interface. The apparatus further includes a second thermoelectric material embedded through the interface. The first thermoelectric material is electrically coupled to the second thermoelectric material. In one embodiment, the apparatus further includes an output structure coupled to the first thermoelectric material and the second thermoelectric material and configured to output a voltage.