Sliding Coupler Thermoelectric Module for Vibration-Resistant Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermoelectric generating systems face issues with loose fasteners due to vehicle vibrations, requiring cumbersome disassembly for semiconductor device replacements, and inefficient assembly and disassembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelectric generating system with a first substrate integrated with a cooling module and a second substrate slidably engaged with a heat source, featuring a coupler and heat transmission block for secure and easy attachment and detachment, eliminating the need for fasteners and allowing for efficient assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If fasteners (bolts or nuts) are used to assemble the thermoelectric module, heat source, and cooling module, then the components can be securely connected, but the fasteners may be loosened due to vehicle vibrations, impeding smooth thermoelectric generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical fastener system (bolts and nuts) with a sliding engagement mechanism consisting of a coupler and heat transmission block. The coupler slides along the heat transmission block to secure the thermoelectric module, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners that are susceptible to vibration-induced loosening. This substitution maintains connection strength while significantly improving reliability in vibratory environments.
2Strength
If the thermoelectric generating system is assembled through fasteners, then the components can be securely fixed, but the replacement of semiconductor devices requires overall disassembly, causing the replacement operation to be cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the thermoelectric generating system into modular components: the thermoelectric module can be independently accessed and replaced by sliding the coupler along the heat transmission block, without requiring disassembly of the entire system. This segmentation enables easy replacement of semiconductor devices while maintaining overall structural stability through the sliding engagement mechanism.
3Strength
If traditional fastening methods are used, then the system can be securely assembled, but the assembly and disassembly processes are complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the multi-step fastening process (inserting bolts, threading nuts, tightening fasteners) with a simple sliding engagement operation. The coupler slides along the heat transmission block to secure the thermoelectric module, reducing assembly time significantly while maintaining secure connection through the sliding mechanism's mechanical engagement.
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 system ensures secure and efficient thermoelectric generation by maintaining a stable temperature difference and simplifies the replacement process of semiconductor devices, enhancing durability and assembly efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the thermoelectric module may generate electricity using a Seebeck effect that thermoelectromotive force is generated due to a temperature difference between both surfaces thereof
Implementation Method 2
a cooling module may be installed on the other surface of the thermoelectric module to form a cold side thereon
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a thermoelectric generating system which may be easily installed in a heat source of a vehicle and which is easy to assemble and disassemble overall by eliminating the necessity to be assembled with a cooling module. The thermoelectric generating system includes a first substrate, a second substrate configured to be slidably engageable in contiguity with a heat source of a vehicle, and a thermoelectric module disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate.