Thermal Energy Conversion Module for Wireless Field Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing industrial process control systems face challenges in powering wireless field devices, particularly in areas with unreliable solar power due to varying energy demands and environmental conditions such as shade or low solar insolation.
Innovation Solution
A wireless field device equipped with a thermal energy conversion module that harnesses electricity from temperature differentials, using thermopile devices, thermoelectric diodes, or semiconductor thermoelectric generators to generate power, enabling reliable operation independent of solar power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If internal batteries are used to power wireless field devices, then the devices can operate without external power sources, but the power supply becomes unreliable due to varying energy demands and environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The field device generates its own power through a thermoelectric generator that converts thermal energy from the process environment into electrical energy. This self-powering mechanism eliminates dependence on external batteries or power sources, allowing the device to operate autonomously and reliably in harsh industrial conditions.
2Ease of operation
If solar power is used to charge internal batteries, then wireless operation is enabled, but power generation becomes unreliable in shaded or low-insolation areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces solar-powered battery systems with a thermoelectric generator that directly converts thermal energy into electrical energy. This substitution eliminates the need for solar panels and batteries, enabling the device to operate reliably in environments with limited sunlight or constant shade by harnessing thermal energy from the process environment instead.
3Reliability
If thermoelectric generators are used to generate power from thermal energy, then reliable power is provided in diverse environmental conditions, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermoelectric generator serves multiple functions: it generates electrical power from thermal energy, operates autonomously without external power sources, and adapts to diverse environmental conditions. By integrating this multi-functional component, the device achieves reliable power generation while minimizing the need for separate power management systems, batteries, and solar panels.
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 solution provides a reliable and renewable power source for wireless field devices, ensuring consistent operation even in environments with limited solar insolation, by converting thermal energy into electricity, thus addressing the variability in energy demands and environmental constraints.
Implementation Method 1
A wireless field device is disclosed. The field device includes a wireless communications module and an energy conversion module. The energy conversion module is coupled to the wireless communications module. The energy conversion module is configured to couple to a thermal source, and to generate electricity from thermal potential energy in the thermal source.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless field device is disclosed. The field device includes a wireless communications module and an energy conversion module. The wireless communications module is configured to wirelessly communicate process-related information with another device. The energy conversion module is coupled to the wireless communications module. The energy conversion module is configured to couple to a thermal source, and to generate electricity from thermal potential energy in the thermal source.