Portable Thermoelectric Temperature Control with Phase-Change Material
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermoelectric temperature regulation devices are inefficient due to dependence on ambient temperature fluctuations and lack of precise control, especially in portable applications where sufficient temperature differential is not consistently available.
Innovation Solution
A portable device with a thermoelectric module and a phase change material (PCM) that allows for precise temperature regulation by thermally coupling the module with both the element and the PCM, using the PCM's latent heat to maintain a setpoint temperature, and is controlled by a computer to adjust the supply voltage and manage thermal energy effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If thermoelectric modules are used to regulate temperature by absorbing or rejecting thermal energy to surroundings, then the device structure is simple and portable, but the temperature control efficiency deteriorates due to dependence on ambient temperature fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a phase change material (PCM) as an intermediary thermal energy storage component between the thermoelectric module and the element to be controlled. The PCM absorbs and releases latent heat during phase transitions, mediating the thermal energy transfer and reducing direct dependence on ambient temperature fluctuations, thereby improving temperature control efficiency while maintaining portability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the phase change parameter of the PCM material, which undergoes a phase transition (e.g., solid-liquid) at a specific temperature. This parameter change allows the PCM to absorb or release large amounts of latent heat while maintaining a relatively constant temperature, enabling efficient temperature regulation without relying on ambient conditions
2Device complexity
If thermoelectric modules operate without thermal energy storage, then the device complexity is low, but the temperature regulation precision deteriorates due to ambient temperature dependence
Solution Approach 1:
The PCM acts as a thermal buffer that stabilizes the temperature between the thermoelectric module and the controlled element. By absorbing excess heat during phase change, the PCM prevents temperature overshoot and improves regulation precision without significantly increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent exploits the phase transition phenomenon of the PCM material. During phase change, the material absorbs or releases latent heat while maintaining a constant temperature, providing precise temperature control and reducing sensitivity to ambient temperature variations
3Ease of operation
If thermoelectric modules depend on ambient temperature for heat rejection, then the device portability is maintained, but the temperature control effectiveness deteriorates due to insufficient temperature differential
Solution Approach 1:
The PCM serves as a portable thermal energy reservoir that can be pre-charged in the field. This intermediary allows the thermoelectric module to draw thermal energy from the PCM rather than relying on ambient temperature differences, maintaining portability while significantly improving temperature control effectiveness and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-charging the PCM with thermal energy before actual temperature control is needed. This advance preparation ensures that sufficient temperature differential is available when control is required, improving effectiveness without compromising portability
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 device achieves efficient and precise temperature control with minimal dependence on ambient conditions, maintaining a consistent temperature for extended periods without significant energy transfer to the environment, making it suitable for portable and noise-sensitive applications.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature control unit comprising a thermoelectric module exhibiting a first thermal effect with a first side in thermal contact with the element and a second side in thermal contact with a mass of phase change material (MCP)
Implementation Method 2
a receiving part adapted to receive, in a removable manner, a mass of phase change material (MCP)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a portable device for controlling the temperature of an element. Said device includes: i) an insertion portion capable of being placed in contact with the element; ii) a temperature control unit including a thermoelectric module having two sides, a first side of said thermoelectric module being thermally coupled with the insertion portion; iii) a receiving portion capable of removably receiving a phase-change material; and iv) a second side of the module that is thermally coupled with the receiving portion so that the phase-change material is thermally coupled with the second side of the module.