Peltier Element Thermal Bridge for Drivetrain Energy Harvesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for generating electrical energy using temperature differences, such as those employing Peltier elements, often lack versatility, require additional cooling, and occupy excessive installation space, limiting their application and power output.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus utilizing a Peltier element as a thermal bridge between components with different thermal conductivities, such as a motor and gear mechanism, with an insulating layer to channel heat flow and generate electrical energy through the Seebeck effect, allowing for compact and versatile energy harvesting without additional installation requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a Peltier element is used to generate electrical energy from temperature difference, then electrical energy can be provided for consumers, but the system requires additional cooling elements and installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The Peltier element is integrated directly into the adapter plate between the motor and gear mechanism, merging the energy generation function with the existing drivetrain structure. This eliminates the need for separate cooling elements and reduces installation space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter plate serves multiple functions: it mechanically connects the motor to the gear mechanism and simultaneously houses the Peltier element for electrical energy generation. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system volume by eliminating dedicated cooling components.
2Power
If a Peltier element is used to generate electrical energy, then power can be supplied to electronic circuits, but the system has limited variability of use
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to power multiple types of electronic consumers including sensors, microcontrollers, and radio modules for data transmission. The adapter plate can accommodate various electronic components, enabling diverse applications in different drivetrain configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides dynamic adaptability by supporting different types of electronic consumers and allowing flexible configuration of the adapter plate. The Peltier element can operate with varying temperature gradients to accommodate different power requirements and environmental conditions.
3Power
If insulation layer is added to channel heat flow through Peltier element, then temperature difference increases for better energy generation, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insulation layer is integrated directly into the adapter plate structure, merging the thermal management function with the mechanical mounting structure. This combination approach increases temperature difference for better Peltier element performance while avoiding additional complex components.
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 solution enables reliable and efficient electrical energy generation from heat flows within drivetrains, providing power for sensors and electronics while maintaining a compact design and independence from environmental conditions, with energy stores capable of sustaining operations for extended periods.
Implementation Method 1
Owing to the Seebeck effect, an electrical voltage is generated in the Peltier element which can be used for supplying power to sensors or other electronics
Implementation Method 2
the Peltier element forms a thermal bridge between the first and the second component parts
Implementation Method 3
a layer of insulation with a lower thermal conductivity than the surrounding metal between the motor and the gear mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for providing electrical energy, in particular for providing electrical energy from a heat flow originating from an electric motor, including a first component part, a second component part, wherein a Peltier element is arranged between the first component part and the second component part, said Peltier element being at least partially surrounded by a layer of insulation provided between the first component part and the second component part, with the result that the Peltier element forms a thermal bridge between the first and the second component parts, and wherein the first and the second component parts are selected from the following group: gear mechanism, motor and adapter plate.