Passive Thermoelectric Generator Layout for Stable Temperature Differential
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of reliable and portable thermoelectric power generators that can efficiently generate electricity in various scenarios, especially for areas without access to electrical grids or in remote outdoor settings, where traditional power sources like solar panels and batteries are inadequate due to fragility, cost, or performance limitations in weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
A portable thermoelectric power generator system utilizing a vessel with a phase change material, a thermoelectric generator module, thermal interface enhancers, and a DC to DC voltage regulator, which maintains a temperature differential to convert heat into electrical power, optimized with materials like bismuth telluride and aluminum for efficient thermal conductivity and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels are used for portable power generation, then electrical power can be generated when sunlight is present, but the device becomes fragile and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical system of solar panels with a thermoelectric generator that converts thermal energy directly to electrical energy through the Seebeck effect. This substitution eliminates the fragility of solar panels while maintaining portable power generation capability in various environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the energy conversion parameter from photovoltaic (solar) to thermoelectric (thermal). By utilizing temperature differentials instead of sunlight, the system achieves reliable power generation in conditions where solar panels fail, such as nighttime, indoor environments, or cloudy weather.
2Use of energy by moving object
If batteries are used as portable power source, then electrical power can be stored and provided, but significant weight is added to the system
Solution Approach 1:
The thermoelectric generator system generates electrical power on-demand from ambient thermal sources (such as body heat or environmental temperature differences) rather than carrying heavy battery storage. The system serves itself by converting available thermal energy directly into electrical energy, eliminating the need for heavy battery packs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the heavy battery component from the portable power system and replaces it with a lightweight thermoelectric generator. By taking out the energy storage element and replacing it with an energy conversion element, the system achieves portability without significant weight penalty.
3Use of energy by moving object
If batteries are used for portable power, then electrical energy can be provided, but performance suffers in cold and hot weather and shelf-life is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes battery-based chemical energy storage with thermoelectric thermal-to-electrical energy conversion. This replacement eliminates weather-related performance degradation and shelf-life limitations inherent in battery systems, as thermoelectric generators have no moving parts or chemical degradation issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental energy parameter from chemical storage (batteries with limited shelf-life and temperature-sensitive performance) to thermal conversion (thermoelectric generators with indefinite operational life). The system's performance actually improves in extreme temperatures as larger temperature differentials generate more power.
4Adaptability or versatility
If thermoelectric generators are used for power generation, then power can be generated under any scenario with heating and cooling source, but portable and reliable systems are noticeably absent from marketplace
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the thermoelectric power generation system into modular components: a thermoelectric generator module, a phase change material vessel for thermal management, and integrated mounting structures. This segmentation enables portable deployment while maintaining the versatility of thermoelectric power generation across different scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs composite material structures, including phase change materials combined with thermal interface materials and integrated with the thermoelectric module housing. These composite structures enable compact, portable design while preserving the adaptability of thermoelectric generation across various thermal environments.
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 system effectively generates electricity in diverse conditions, providing a reliable and portable power solution for devices, with improved thermal efficiency and durability, capable of powering multiple devices with adjustable voltage outputs.
Implementation Method 1
Thermoelectric generators harness the offset from equilibrium created by a temperature differential across dissimilar conductors, and convert this temperature difference directly into usable electrical power.
Implementation Method 2
a vessel configured to retain a phase change material
Implementation Method 3
The first thermal interface enhancer is configured to improve thermal linkage between the bottom portion of the vessel and the top side of the module
Implementation Method 4
a thermal interface inhibitor that comprises a material having a lower thermal conductivity than the material of the bottom plate
Data Source
AI summary
A portable device for generating electrical power comprises a vessel and a thermoelectric generator module. A gasket having an opening is included, along with a bottom plate that comprises a material having a higher a higher thermal conductivity than a material comprising the gasket. A thermal interface enhancer is adjacent one of the top side of the module and the bottom side of the module. A thermal interface inhibitor is also included. The bottom plate is secured to the bottom portion of the vessel with a fastener such that an area is formed between them. The gasket is secured to the bottom plate within the area, and the spacer is configured around the fastener. The thermal interface inhibitor is configured to aid in the maintenance of a temperature differential between the vessel and the bottom plate when the bottom plate is heated.