Fluid-Channel Thermoelectric Assembly for Temperature Difference Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermoelectric devices face challenges in efficiently utilizing temperature differences between high-temperature and low-temperature parts for power generation and cooling/heating applications, particularly in integrating thermoelectric elements with fluid flow systems.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelectric device design featuring a fluid flow part with spaced surfaces, first and second thermoelectric elements, through holes, guide members, and coupling holes for wire connection, along with insulating and shield members to enhance assembly and thermoelectric performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If thermoelectric elements are integrated with fluid flow systems for power generation, then temperature difference utilization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fluid flow channel with the thermoelectric element structure by integrating the fluid flow part directly with the first and second thermoelectric elements. The fluid flow part includes first and second fluid flow channels formed on opposite surfaces, allowing thermal coupling between the fluid and thermoelectric elements without requiring separate heat exchanger components, thus improving temperature difference utilization while controlling device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid flow part serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a thermal management component for heat exchange, a structural support for mounting thermoelectric elements, and a flow distribution system. The first and second fluid flow channels are integrated into the same component that also provides mounting surfaces for thermoelectric elements, reducing the number of separate components needed
2Productivity
If multiple thermoelectric elements are disposed on fluid flow part surfaces, then power generation efficiency is improved, but assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the thermoelectric system into modular first and second thermoelectric elements that can be independently manufactured and then assembled onto the fluid flow part. Each thermoelectric element can be separately optimized and tested before integration, allowing for easier assembly and replacement while maintaining high power generation efficiency through the use of multiple elements
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid flow part is designed with pre-formed first and second fluid flow channels and mounting surfaces before the thermoelectric elements are attached. This preliminary structuring of the fluid flow path and mounting interfaces simplifies the subsequent assembly process, as the thermoelectric elements can be directly mounted onto the pre-prepared surfaces without requiring complex alignment or modification during assembly
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
The design allows for a simple, easily assembled thermoelectric device with increased temperature difference utilization, enabling efficient power generation and effective cooling/heating capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
elements using the Seebeck effect, which is a phenomenon in which an electromotive force is generated due to a temperature difference
Implementation Method 2
elements using the Peltier effect, which is a phenomenon in which heat absorption or heat generation occurs due to a current
Data Source
AI summary
A thermoelectric device according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a fluid flow part including one surface and the other surface spaced apart from the one surface in a first direction; a first thermoelectric element arranged on one surface of the fluid flow part; and a second thermoelectric element arranged on the other surface of the fluid flow part, wherein a first through-hole penetrating from the one surface to the other surface thereof is arranged in the fluid flow part, and a wire electrically connected to the first thermoelectric element is electrically connected to the second thermoelectric element through the first through-hole.