Thermoelectric Module Temperature Detection via Conductive Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

Thermoelectric modules face delays in temperature control and reduced power generation efficiency due to slow detection of temperature changes on the second support substrate, as heat transfer to the temperature detection element on the first support substrate is slow, leading to prolonged response times.

Innovation Solution

A thermoelectric module design where a temperature detection element is mounted on the first support substrate and thermally connected to the second support substrate via a thermally conductive member, allowing for quicker heat transfer and detection of temperature changes on both substrates.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If the temperature detection element is provided on the inner surface of the first support substrate, then the temperature change of the first support substrate can be quickly detected, but the temperature change of the second support substrate takes a long time to detect due to heat transfer through thermoelectric elements and the first support substrate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature detection speedVSAvoidtime to detect temperature change on second support substrate

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the temperature detection function into two separate detection elements: one on the first support substrate and another on the second support substrate. This segmentation allows each detection element to independently and quickly detect temperature changes at its respective location, eliminating the delay caused by heat transfer through the thermoelectric elements and first support substrate.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a thermally conductive member as an intermediary to thermally connect the temperature detection element on the first support substrate to the second support substrate. This intermediary enables rapid heat transfer from the second support substrate to the detection element, allowing quick detection of temperature changes on the second substrate without requiring a separate detection element mounted directly on it.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If the temperature detection element is provided on the inner surface of the first support substrate, then the temperature control response time is reduced, but the power generation efficiency is reduced due to slow heat transfer adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature control efficiencyVSAvoidpower generation efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the temperature monitoring system into two independent detection points, enabling real-time temperature monitoring of both the first and second support substrates. This allows the control system to rapidly respond to temperature changes and adjust heat transfer accordingly, maintaining optimal power generation efficiency while improving temperature control responsiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The thermally conductive member acts as an intermediary that enables rapid heat transfer adjustment. By quickly transmitting temperature changes from the second support substrate to the detection element, it allows the system to rapidly adjust heat transfer conditions, thereby maintaining power generation efficiency while improving temperature control speed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 design reduces the time required for temperature control and maintains power generation efficiency by enabling rapid detection of temperature changes on both substrates, enhancing the module's responsiveness and reliability.

Implementation Method 1

The temperature detection element and the second support substrate are thermally connected to each other by a thermally conductive member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHeat transfer: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 2

Thermoelectric modules are capable of generating a temperature difference between a support substrate and another support substrate when a voltage is applied to a plurality of thermoelectric elements

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPeltier effect: Peltier Effect

Implementation Method 3

The thermoelectric modules are also capable of generating electric power with a plurality of thermoelectric elements when a temperature difference is applied between a support substrate and another support substrate

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSeebeck effect: Seebeck Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10062827B2Thermoelectric module

Publication Date: 2018.08.28 KYOCERA CORP

AI summary

A thermoelectric module according to the present invention includes a first support substrate including a principal surface that includes a first region and a second region that is adjacent to the first region; a second support substrate including a principal surface that faces the first region; a plurality of thermoelectric elements arranged between the first region and the principal surface of the second support substrate; and a temperature detection element mounted in the second region. The temperature detection element and the second support substrate are thermally connected to each other by a thermally conductive member.