Thermoelectric Generator Array with Dynamic Switch Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuits in portable and implanted devices face challenges with unstable ambient energy sources, such as varying light intensity and temperature, which can lead to unstable voltage and current, necessitating the use of batteries for consistent power delivery despite the presence of energy harvesting systems like solar cells and thermoelectric generators.
Innovation Solution
A dynamically reconfigurable thermoelectric generator array is integrated with the integrated circuit, allowing for simultaneous formation with circuit elements using semiconductor fabrication processes, enabling dynamic control of series and parallel connections of thermoelectric generator elements to provide stable voltage and current through switch logic circuits, adjusting the number of generators connected in response to changes in ambient energy and circuit demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If ambient energy sources (solar cells, thermoelectric generators) are used to power integrated circuits, then energy harvesting capability is improved, but voltage and current stability deteriorates due to varying ambient conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamically reconfigurable thermoelectric generator array where the number of generators connected in series and parallel can be varied dynamically through switch logic circuits. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to changing ambient temperature conditions and circuit demand, maintaining stable voltage and current output despite variations in the ambient energy source.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical configuration parameters of the thermoelectric generator array by adjusting the number of generators in series and parallel connections. This parameter adjustment enables the system to compensate for variations in ambient temperature and energy availability, maintaining stable power delivery to the integrated circuit.
2Device complexity
If a fixed configuration of thermoelectric generators is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to changing ambient conditions and circuit demand deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamically reconfigurable array with switch logic circuits that can adjust the number of thermoelectric generators in series and parallel based on ambient conditions and circuit demand, enhancing adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity through systematic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermoelectric generator array is divided into multiple individual generator elements that can be independently connected in series or parallel through switch logic circuits. This segmentation allows flexible reconfiguration to match varying power requirements and ambient conditions while keeping each individual element simple in structure.
3Reliability
If battery is used as primary power source, then stable power delivery is improved, but device portability and energy autonomy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The thermoelectric generator array harvests ambient thermal energy directly from the environment to generate electrical power, eliminating or reducing the need for external batteries. This self-service energy harvesting approach maintains power delivery stability through dynamic reconfiguration while improving device portability by removing heavy battery components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts ambient temperature variations, which were previously problematic for power stability, into a beneficial energy source. By harvesting thermal energy from the ambient environment and dynamically adjusting the thermoelectric generator configuration, the system transforms environmental fluctuations into stable power delivery, reducing or eliminating battery requirements.
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 solution ensures a stable power supply to integrated circuits by dynamically adjusting the thermoelectric generator array, maintaining optimal power delivery and voltage/current stability despite fluctuations in ambient conditions, thereby reducing the reliance on batteries for consistent energy delivery.
Implementation Method 1
thermoelectric devices that convert thermal energy to electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
Thermoelectric generator elements and associated circuit elements are simultaneously formed using a common semiconductor device fabrication process to provide an integrated circuit including a dynamically reconfigurable thermoelectric generator array on a common chip or die substrate. A switch logic circuit formed together with the thermoelectric generator elements is configured to control series and parallel connections of the thermoelectric generator elements is the array in response to changes in circuit demand or changes in the available ambient energy source. In an example implementation, the number of generators connected in series may be varied dynamically to provide a stable voltage source, and the number of generators connected in parallel may be varied dynamically to provide a stable current source.