Stacked Thermoelectric Module With Electron Transmission Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermoelectric devices lack the ability to adjust performance according to specific needs, such as high electromotive force or high output current, which is essential for various applications.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelectric module comprising a stack of thermoelectric elements with electrolyte layers and electron transmission layers, allowing for series or parallel connections to optimize electromotive force and output current based on requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple thermoelectric elements are stacked to improve electromotive force, then the electromotive force increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the thermoelectric conversion system into multiple independent thermoelectric elements (first thermoelectric element, second thermoelectric element, etc.), each capable of converting thermal energy to electrical energy. These segmented elements are then stacked in series to achieve the desired electromotive force without requiring a single complex high-voltage element
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple thermoelectric elements are stacked within a single module, with each element containing its own thermoelectric conversion layer and electrolyte layer. The elements are arranged in series between current collectors, creating a compact nested configuration that increases electromotive force while maintaining a unified module structure
2Power
If multiple thermoelectric elements are connected in series to improve electromotive force, then the electromotive force increases, but the reliability decreases due to potential short circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces electron transmission layers as intermediary components between adjacent thermoelectric elements. These electron transmission layers serve as mediators that selectively conduct electrons while providing electrical isolation between elements, preventing direct contact that could cause short circuits while maintaining the series connection for electromotive force accumulation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the electron conduction function from the electrolyte layer by introducing separate electron transmission layers. This separation allows the electrolyte to focus on ion transport while the electron transmission layer handles electron conduction and provides electrical isolation, thereby improving reliability in series configurations
3Power
If electron transmission layer is added between thermoelectric elements, then the electromotive force is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electron transmission layer is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it conducts electrons between elements, provides electrical isolation to prevent short circuits, and serves as a structural component in the stacked configuration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving improved electromotive force
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 proposed solution enables a thermoelectric module and device that can be tailored to meet specific performance needs, enhancing both electromotive force and output current while preventing short circuits between adjacent modules.
Implementation Method 1
As a heat-utilizing power generation using geothermal heat, exhaust heat of a factory, or the like, a method using the Seebeck effect can be included.
Implementation Method 2
a heat-utilizing power generating element disclosed in Patent Literature 1 below can be included. Patent Literature 1 below discloses that thermal energy is converted into electrical energy by combining an electrolyte and a thermoelectric conversion material that generates a thermal excitation electron and a hole.
Data Source
AI summary
The thermoelectric module includes a first thermoelectric element including a first thermoelectric conversion layer and a first electrolyte layer stacked each other along a stacked direction, a second thermoelectric element stacking the first thermoelectric element in the stacked direction and including a second thermoelectric conversion layer and a second electrolyte layer stacked each other along the stacked direction, a first current collector located on a side of one edge in the stacked direction, a second current collector located on a side of another edge in the stacked direction, and an electron transmission layer located between the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element in the stacked direction.