Modular Thermoelectric Heat Exchanger for Scalable Coolant Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heat exchanging devices using thermoelectric elements face limitations in cooling performance due to the inability to multiply stack assemblies of heat sinks, thermoelectric elements, and cooling channels, leading to reduced cooling capacity and increased coolant temperature over time, requiring association with complex cooling air conditioning systems.
Innovation Solution
A heat exchanging device utilizing a thermoelectric element with a P-type and N-type semiconductor structure, where heat generation and absorption occur on different surfaces, combined with a heat sink and cooling channel, allowing for the formation of unit modules that can be stacked to adjust cooling performance based on battery heating values, and incorporating a water cooling system independent from air conditioning systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single heat sink and thermoelectric element assembly is used, then the device structure is simple, but the cooling capacity is insufficient and coolant temperature increases over time
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanging device is divided into multiple independent unit modules, each comprising a heat sink, thermoelectric element, and cooling channel. These modular units can be stacked in series to increase total cooling capacity while maintaining a standardized, simple structural design for each module.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple unit modules are stacked in a nested configuration where each module contains the complete set of components (heat sink, thermoelectric element, cooling channel). This nested stacking allows scalable cooling capacity while reusing the same structural template across all modules.
2Device complexity
If heat sink is cooled by another coolant in a coolant tank, then the heat sink can be cooled, but the system becomes complex and requires association with air conditioning systems
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchanging device is extracted as an independent unit from the air conditioning system. Each unit module contains all necessary cooling components and can operate autonomously, eliminating the need for complex associations with external air conditioning systems while maintaining reliable cooling function.
3Reliability
If thermoelectric element stack assemblies cannot be multiplied, then the device structure remains simple, but cooling performance deteriorates with prolonged use
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates dynamic scalability through modular stacking, allowing the number of thermoelectric element assemblies to be adjusted based on cooling demands. This dynamic configuration enables the system to maintain optimal cooling performance under varying operational conditions while preserving structural simplicity through standardized module design.
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 configuration enhances cooling performance, simplifies system structure, reduces weight, and allows for independent operation from air conditioning systems, while enabling flexible adjustment of cooling capacity and potential use as a temperature raising system, improving efficiency and marketability.
Implementation Method 1
a thermoelectric element for producing heat absorption and heat generation on different surfaces thereof when a voltage is applied thereto
Data Source
AI summary
A heat exchanging device using a thermoelectric element includes a thermoelectric element for generating heat absorption or heat generation on different surfaces thereof when a voltage is applied thereto, a heat sink for cooling the thermoelectric element, and a cooling channel for cooling a coolant through the heat absorption of the thermoelectric element.