Pyroelectric Power Generation via Dual-Side Thermal Cycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power-generating methods using pyroelectric elements for waste heat recovery are not efficient enough in converting thermal energy into electrical energy.
Innovation Solution
A power-generating system where a sheet-like first device, undergoing polarization by piezoelectric or pyroelectric effects, is heated and/or cooled on both sides by a heat source with temporal temperature variations, allowing for efficient energy conversion through periodic temperature changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a pyroelectric element is used with periodic heating and cooling to generate electricity, then waste heat recovery is achieved, but power generation efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The pyroelectric element is divided into multiple independent heating regions and cooling regions. Each region can be independently controlled to create localized temperature differences, increasing the overall temperature variation amplitude and improving power generation efficiency while effectively recovering waste heat.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic switching between heating and cooling modes for different regions of the pyroelectric element. This periodic action creates continuous temperature variations that drive sustained electrical generation, converting waste heat into useful electricity with higher efficiency.
2Area of stationary object
If both front and reverse faces of the device are heated and cooled, then surface area for heat transfer is maximized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating and cooling system is designed to serve dual purposes: it heats and cools both the front and reverse faces of the device simultaneously, maximizing heat transfer surface area. The same control system manages multiple regions, reducing overall system complexity while achieving comprehensive thermal coverage.
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 system significantly improves power generation efficiency by utilizing a high percentage of the device's surface area for heat transfer, resulting in a higher output voltage and efficient energy conversion.
Implementation Method 1
the first device undergoes polarization by the piezoelectric effect
Implementation Method 2
the first device undergoes polarization by the pyroelectric effect
Data Source
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AI summary
A power-generating system includes a heat source which is able to produce temporal temperature variation, a first device in which polarization occurs based on the temperature change of the heat source, and a second device for taking out a net generating power from the first device, wherein 80% or higher of the total surface area of the first device is heated and/or cooled with the heat source.