Vehicle Thermoelectric Generator Modular Coolant Tubes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current thermoelectric generators for vehicles face inefficiencies in electric power generation due to limited temperature differences between exhaust gas and coolant, and have complex assembly and replacement processes.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelectric generator design featuring a pipe-shaped housing with penetratively mounted exhaust pipes, thermoelectric modules along its circumference, and modular coolant tubes with elastic connecting members, allowing focused heat exchange and easy assembly/replacement, utilizing a thermal conductive porous mesh structure for enhanced heat absorption and efficient power generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If thermoelectric modules are mounted at an exhaust pipe to generate electricity using exhaust heat, then electric power generation is achieved, but the temperature difference between heat source and cooling source is limited, reducing power generation efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The exhaust pipe is divided into multiple sections with thermoelectric modules mounted at different positions along the longitudinal direction. Each module experiences different temperature gradients, and the segmented arrangement allows optimization of each module's operating conditions to maximize overall power generation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Coolant tubes are positioned to make selective contact with specific regions of the exhaust pipe where optimal temperature differences exist. The coolant flow path is designed to target high-temperature zones, creating localized heat exchange regions that maximize the temperature differential across thermoelectric modules.
2Power
If thermoelectric modules are mounted at the exhaust pipe, then electricity is generated from waste heat, but the assembly and replacement of components becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular units where thermoelectric modules are independently mounted on the exhaust pipe surface. Each module can be accessed, removed, and replaced without disassembling the entire exhaust system, significantly simplifying maintenance and repair operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Thermoelectric modules are mounted on the outer surface of the exhaust pipe, utilizing the existing exhaust pipe structure as a substrate. This nested arrangement allows the thermoelectric generation system to be integrated into the existing exhaust system without requiring separate mounting structures or complex assembly procedures.
3Loss of energy
If thermoelectric modules are mounted at the exhaust pipe to utilize exhaust heat, then waste heat recovery is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and component replacement is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The exhaust pipe serves multiple functions: it continues to exhaust gases from the engine while simultaneously serving as a mounting substrate for thermoelectric modules. The coolant tubes perform dual roles of cooling the exhaust gas and providing heat transfer surfaces for thermoelectric power generation, eliminating the need for separate cooling and power generation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling system and power generation system are merged into a single integrated structure. Coolant tubes that would traditionally only serve cooling purposes are designed to also function as heat transfer surfaces for thermoelectric modules, combining two functions into one component to reduce overall system complexity.
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 maximizes temperature differences for improved electric power generation efficiency, simplifies component assembly and replacement, and prevents overheating by ensuring appropriate exhaust gas flow, thereby enhancing fuel economy and reducing engine output losses.
Implementation Method 1
thermoelectric generation is a technology that generates electricity using an electric potential difference between a heating element and a cooling element
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a thermal conductive porous mesh structure for enhanced heat absorption
Data Source
AI summary
A thermoelectric generator for a vehicle is mounted at an exhaust pipe and produces electricity using a temperature difference between the exhaust gas and coolant. The generator includes: a housing; thermoelectric modules mounted at an outer circumferential surface of the housing; a plurality of coolant tubes mounted so as to closely attach the thermoelectric module to the housing; first coolant containers mounted at both ends of the coolant tubes, respectively; and second coolant containers mounted at both ends of the coolant tubes, respectively. The coolant tubes are assembled to the first and second coolant containers as a modularized type, and thus assemblability may be improved and partial replacement of components in case of breakdown may be easily performed. In the coolant tube of the present invention, heat exchange is concentratedly performed at a portion in contact with the thermoelectric module, and thus generation efficiency may be more improved.