Thermoelectric Measurement Device with Detachable Fixing Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a device capable of measuring the thermoelectric performance of small-sized thermoelectric materials, which is essential for research in energy harvesting at low temperature differences, particularly for applications in wearable devices, as existing devices are not suited for such small materials.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a support module to generate temperature differences, a detachable fixing module with heat sinks and a stress maintaining member to apply pressure, and measurement units for temperature and electromotive force, allowing for precise measurement of thermoelectric performance in a vacuum environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed mounting structure is used for thermoelectric materials, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to different sized materials deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure is divided into a fixing module that can be detached and replaced. The fixing module includes a fixing body with a through hole and a fixing groove, allowing different thermoelectric material samples to be mounted by replacing the fixing module rather than redesigning the entire structure. This segmentation enables both structural stability during measurement and adaptability to different material sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure transitions from a fixed, static design to a dynamic, detachable system. The fixing module can be removed and reattached, and the thermoelectric material can be inserted and removed from the fixing groove. This dynamic capability allows the structure to adapt to different measurement needs while maintaining stability during each specific measurement process.
2Measurement precision
If complex mounting procedures are used to secure small thermoelectric materials, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing module is designed to automatically secure the thermoelectric material through its structure. The through hole accommodates the material, and the fixing groove holds it in place without requiring complex external fastening mechanisms. The stress maintaining member further ensures stable contact between the material and measurement probes, achieving precise measurements through the inherent design rather than complex procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing module acts as an intermediary between the thermoelectric material and the measurement system. It provides a standardized interface that simplifies mounting while ensuring precise positioning. The fixing body with its specific geometry mediates between the need for easy insertion and the requirement for measurement accuracy, eliminating the need for complex mounting procedures.
3Ease of operation
If pressure is not applied to thermoelectric materials during measurement, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to physical changes
Solution Approach 1:
The function of applying pressure to maintain contact is merged into the fixing module structure itself. The stress maintaining member is integrated with the fixing body, combining the mounting function with the pressure application function. This allows pressure to be applied automatically through the design rather than requiring separate operations, maintaining both ease of operation and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The stress maintaining member automatically provides the necessary pressure to keep the thermoelectric material in stable contact with measurement probes. This self-service pressure application eliminates the need for manual adjustment or complex pressure control systems, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring measurement precision through consistent contact pressure.
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 reliable measurement of thermoelectric performance for small-sized materials by maintaining constant pressure and preventing heat transfer, improving the accuracy and reliability of the measurement process.
Implementation Method 1
a support module configured to generate temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric material
Implementation Method 2
a temperature measuring unit electrically connected to the fixing module to measure temperature of each of the both ends of the thermoelectric material
Implementation Method 3
the Seebeck effect applied in a power generation field using an electromotive force generated from temperature difference between both ends of a material
Implementation Method 4
an electromotive force measuring unit electrically connected to the fixing module to measure thermoelectromotive force generated between the both ends of the thermoelectric material
Implementation Method 5
the first heat sink part and the second heat sink part may apply pressure to the both ends of the thermoelectric material to support the thermoelectric material
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure herein relates to a device for measuring a thermoelectric performance. The device for measuring a thermoelectric performance of a thermoelectric material, which includes a support module configured to generate temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric material, a fixing module detachably coupled to the support module to support the thermoelectric material, a temperature measuring unit electrically connected to the fixing module to measure temperature of each of the both ends of the thermoelectric material, and an electromotive force measuring unit electrically connected to the fixing module to measure thermoelectromotive force generated between the both ends of the thermoelectric material. Here, the fixing module includes a first heat sink part and a second heat sink part, which respectively support the both ends of the thermoelectric material.