Nanofiber Thermoelectric Generator Module Manufacturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manufacturing process of thermoelectric generator modules using nanofibers is complex, limiting the production of large-capacity modules and decreasing the degree of design freedom, which hinders performance and cost-effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A method for manufacturing nanofiber-based thermoelectric generator modules involving electrode formation, nanofiber arrangement, and electrospinning apparatus to simplify the process, allowing for compact structures and various arrangement patterns such as serial connections and vertical stacks, using electrospinning to produce nanofibers with alternating semiconductor types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional nanofiber manufacturing methods are used, then thermoelectric generator modules can be produced, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple manufacturing steps into a single integrated process. Specifically, the electrode formation, nanofiber arrangement, and module assembly are merged into one continuous manufacturing flow, where electrodes are formed on a substrate, nanofibers are directly arranged between electrodes, and the module is completed in sequence, eliminating the need for separate complex processing steps for each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing method serves multiple functions simultaneously: it forms electrodes, arranges nanofibers with correct orientation, creates electrical connections, and assembles the complete module structure all through one process sequence. This multi-functional approach replaces multiple specialized manufacturing steps with a single versatile process.
2Quantity of substance
If conventional manufacturing methods are used, then thermoelectric modules can be produced, but large-capacity module production is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the thermoelectric module into standardized repeating units that can be mass-produced independently. Each module unit consists of electrodes and nanofibers arranged in a consistent pattern, allowing for parallel production and easy scaling to large-capacity modules by simply increasing the number of repeating units rather than redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing process allows for easy adjustment of module capacity by changing key parameters such as the number of electrode pairs, the density of nanofiber arrangement, and the overall module dimensions. This parametric design enables flexible production of different capacity modules using the same base manufacturing process.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional manufacturing methods are used, then thermoelectric modules can be produced, but design freedom is decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic and flexible manufacturing approach where the electrode patterns, nanofiber arrangements, and module configurations can be easily adjusted based on design requirements. The process accommodates various design specifications including different connection patterns (serial/parallel), module sizes, and nanofiber orientations without requiring fundamental process changes, thereby maintaining high design freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing process performs preliminary actions by pre-forming electrodes with integrated connection structures and pre-arranging nanofibers in their final positions during the same process sequence. This preliminary integration of multiple functions into early process steps simplifies subsequent assembly and allows for greater design flexibility in later customization.
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 simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces costs, enables the production of compact modules, and increases design flexibility, enhancing thermoelectric generation efficiency and applicability across different environments.
Implementation Method 1
an electrospinning apparatus for manufacturing the nanofibers
Implementation Method 2
the Seebeck effect which is applied to a power generation field using an electromotive force generated from a temperature difference between both ends of a material
Implementation Method 3
the Peltier effect which is applied to a cooling field using a temperature difference between both ends of a material formed by a current applied from the outside
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a method of manufacturing a nanofiber-based thermoelectric generator module, the method comprising: an electrode formation step of forming a plurality of electrodes and a plurality of second electrodes so as to be spaced apart from and opposite to each other in an alternately staggered arrangement relative to each other; a first nanofiber arrangement step of arranging a first nonofiber including an n-type or p-type semiconductor; and a second nanofiber arrangement step of arranging a second nonofiber including a semiconductor of a type different from the type of the semiconductor forming the first nanofiber, a nanofiber-based thermoelectric generator module manufactured by the method, and an electrospinning apparatus of manufacturing nanofibers for the nanofiber-based thermoelectric generator module.