Reconfigurable Peltier Modules for Wide-Range Temperature Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dry well calibrators using Peltier cells are limited by the maximum specified temperature differential of the cells, leading to a restricted operating range and reduced useful life, necessitating frequent and costly replacements.
Innovation Solution
A temperature calibration device with a configurable connection system that reconfigures the connections and applies different voltages to Peltier cells for heating and cooling, balancing their temperature differentials to extend their operational range without exceeding their maximum specified differential.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If Peltier cells are operated at or near their maximum specified temperature differential to achieve wide operating range, then the temperature range of the dry well calibrator is extended, but the useful life of the Peltier cells is severely limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the connection configuration of Peltier cells adjustable rather than fixed. The system dynamically reconfigures cells between series and parallel connections based on the desired temperature range, allowing the operating parameters to change adaptively. This enables the system to operate within safe temperature differentials while still achieving wide temperature ranges by switching configurations as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical connection parameter (series vs. parallel) of the Peltier cells to alter their effective temperature differential capability. By switching between series connection (for higher voltage, higher temperature differential) and parallel connection (for lower voltage, lower temperature differential), the system can operate cells within safe limits while achieving wide overall temperature ranges through configuration changes.
2Temperature
If Peltier cells are stacked to provide heating and cooling over a wider temperature range, then the total temperature differential is increased, but the cells at the outside of the stack experience greater temperature differential than cells toward the inside
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically reconfigures the electrical connections of individual Peltier cells within the stack. By switching cells between series and parallel connections based on their position in the stack, the system can equalize the temperature differential across all cells. This dynamic reconfiguration ensures that outer cells (which naturally experience higher differentials) are operated at lower differentials through parallel connection, while inner cells can operate at higher differentials through series connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by treating different Peltier cells in the stack differently based on their position. Rather than applying the same electrical connection to all cells, the system assigns different connection configurations (series or parallel) to different cells depending on their location in the stack. This localized differentiation equalizes the temperature differential experienced by each cell, preventing the unequal heating problem.
3Temperature
If the maximum specified temperature differential of Peltier cells is used to determine the operating range, then the operating range is maximized, but frequent replacement of Peltier cells is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic reconfiguration of Peltier cell connections to extend their operational lifespan. By switching between series and parallel configurations, the system can operate cells at lower, safer temperature differentials for extended periods, reducing degradation and failure rates. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain wide operating ranges while significantly reducing the frequency of cell replacements needed.
4Power
If Peltier cells are connected in series to increase voltage output, then the temperature differential is increased, but the useful life of the cells is reduced due to excessive stress
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between series and parallel connections of Peltier cells based on the required voltage output and temperature differential. Rather than permanently connecting cells in series for high voltage, the system can temporarily configure cells in series when high voltage is needed, then switch to parallel connections when lower voltage is sufficient, allowing cells to rest and reducing cumulative stress. This dynamic approach extends cell lifespan while still providing high voltage capability when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies periodic action by alternately switching Peltier cells between series and parallel configurations over time. This periodic reconfiguration allows cells to experience varying stress levels rather than continuous high-stress operation. By cycling through different connection patterns, the system distributes wear more evenly across all cells, extending their overall useful life while maintaining the capability to deliver high voltage when needed.
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
Enables the dry well calibrator to operate over a wide temperature range while minimizing the stress on Peltier cells, thereby extending their lifespan and reducing replacement costs.
Implementation Method 1
Conventional dry well calibrators use thermoelectric heating/cooling modules generally containing Peltier cells to heat or cool the calibration probes... Electrical power having one polarity is applied between the first and second substrates of the Peltier cells to cause the temperature of the first substrate to rise relative to the temperature of the second substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature calibration device uses Peltier cells for heating and cooling. The Peltier cells are connected to a relay that connects the cells to each other in one configuration for heating and a different configuration for cooling. The Peltier cells also receive supply voltages having different magnitudes and polarities for heating and cooling. By changing the manner in which the Peltier cells are connected to each other and using different supply voltages for heating and cooling, the cells are able to operate closer to their specified maximum temperature differential without sacrificing the useful life of the cells.