Peltier Thermal Block Coating for Stable Heat Transfer Without TIM
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thermal interface materials in thermal cyclers are prone to degradation and displacement due to uneven heat expansion between the Peltier element and the thermal block, leading to reduced heat transfer efficiency and potential electrical malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
Coating the surfaces of the thermal block and the Peltier element with a solid film lubricant to reduce friction forces and maintain thermal contact without the need for thermal interface materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If thermal interface materials are used between the Peltier element and thermal block, then heat transfer efficiency is improved, but the materials are prone to degradation and displacement due to uneven heat expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the thermal interface material layer from the system, directly contacting the Peltier element with the thermal block. This extraction eliminates the degradation and displacement problems of interface materials while maintaining reliable thermal contact through precise surface preparation and direct metal-to-metal contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the contacting surfaces by applying specific coatings (such as nickel, chromium, or other metallurgical coatings) to the thermal block and/or Peltier element surfaces. These coating layers modify surface properties to prevent galvanic corrosion, reduce friction, and maintain stable thermal contact under thermal expansion variations.
2Reliability
If high mechanical force is applied to couple the Peltier element to the thermal block, then heat transfer efficiency is improved, but friction increases causing wear and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies surface coatings (nickel, chromium, or other metallurgical coatings) to modify the friction and wear characteristics of the contacting surfaces. These coatings reduce the coefficient of friction and prevent direct metal-to-metal wear while maintaining the necessary mechanical coupling force for efficient heat transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure by applying different material layers (coatings) onto the base metal surfaces of the thermal block and Peltier element. This composite approach combines the thermal conductivity of the base metal with the low-friction, wear-resistant properties of the coating materials.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the dimensions of Peltier element and thermal block are very unequal, then device design flexibility is improved, but divers expansion causes increased friction and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies surface coatings with specific thermal expansion characteristics to one or both components (Peltier element or thermal block). These coatings are selected to have thermal expansion coefficients that match or bridge the gap between the dissimilar base materials, reducing differential expansion stresses and friction during thermal cycling.
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 use of solid film lubricants significantly reduces the risk of damage to the thermal block and Peltier element, while maintaining efficient heat transfer and extending the device's lifespan by minimizing friction and heat transfer resistance.
Implementation Method 1
Coating the surfaces of the thermal block and the Peltier element with a solid film lubricant to reduce friction forces
Implementation Method 2
A Peltier element is a solid-state active heat pump which transfers heat from one side of the device to the other side against the temperature gradient under consumption of electrical energy
Implementation Method 3
raising and lowering the temperature of the block in discrete, pre-programmed steps
Implementation Method 4
thermal cyclers comprise a heat sink for absorbing and dissipating heat from another object using thermal contact
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B~2C
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Subject of the present invention is a device for heating and cooling an object in a controlled manner permitting a good thermal contact between the thermal block (1), the element for heating and cooling (4) and the heat sink (5) without the need for using a thermal interface material, an instrument comprising such a device and a method for conducting a thermal profile using the device, whereby the surface of the thermal block facing the element for heating and cooling (1a) and/or the surface of the element for heating and cooling facing the thermal block (4a) is covered with a solid film lubricant.