Vehicle Thermoelectric Generator Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current thermoelectric generating systems in vehicles have limited efficiency due to fixed configurations that do not account for varying exhaust gas and coolant temperatures, leading to suboptimal energy conversion from exhaust heat.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelectric generating apparatus with a controller that adjusts the flow passages based on coolant and exhaust gas temperatures to optimize energy conversion, including a thermoelectric generation portion, heat exchange portion, and bypass passage, allowing for variable control of the exhaust gas flow to maximize efficiency across different vehicle operating conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed flow passage configuration is used in the thermoelectric generating system, then the device structure is simple, but the energy conversion efficiency is limited and cannot adapt to varying exhaust gas and coolant temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the flow passage configuration adjustable rather than fixed. A valve mechanism is introduced that can dynamically change the flow passage state between open and closed positions based on temperature conditions. The controller receives temperature signals from exhaust gas and coolant, then actuates the valve to optimize the flow path configuration, enabling the system to adapt to varying thermal conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through automated control.
2Productivity
If the thermoelectric generating system operates at all times, then continuous power generation is achieved, but energy conversion efficiency decreases when operating conditions are not optimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the flow passage configuration parameters (open/closed states) based on temperature parameters. The controller monitors exhaust gas temperature and coolant temperature, then changes the flow passage state to optimize heat transfer efficiency. When temperatures are optimal, the system directs exhaust gas through the thermoelectric generator for power generation; when temperatures are suboptimal, the flow passage is reconfigured to improve thermal conditions, thereby maintaining high energy conversion efficiency while ensuring continuous operation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If exhaust gas flows through both the thermoelectric generation portion and heat exchange portion, then maximum energy utilization is achieved, but the device complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the flow passage into distinct segments that can be independently controlled. The flow passage is segmented into multiple routes: one through the thermoelectric generation portion and another through the heat exchange portion. A valve mechanism segments the exhaust gas flow, directing it through different combinations of passages based on temperature conditions. This segmentation enables flexible energy utilization - when both portions are needed, the valve opens to allow flow through both segments; when only one is needed, the valve directs flow through the appropriate segment, simplifying control while maximizing energy use.
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 enhances the efficiency of the thermoelectric generating system by dynamically adjusting the flow of exhaust gas, ensuring maximum energy conversion and power generation across varying vehicle conditions, thereby improving fuel efficiency and reducing thermal energy waste.
Implementation Method 1
a thermoelectric generation portion disposed on a first flow passage and configured to convert the thermal energy of exhaust gas passing through the first flow passage into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
a heat exchange portion disposed on a second flow passage and configured to heat coolant through heat-exchange of the coolant and the exhaust gas passing through the second flow passage
Data Source
AI summary
A thermoelectric generating apparatus may include a thermoelectric generation portion disposed on a first flow passage, and configured to convert thermal energy of exhaust gas passing through the first flow passage into electrical energy; a heat exchange portion disposed on a second flow passage, and configured to heat coolant through heat-exchange of the coolant and exhaust gas passing through the second flow passage; a third flow passage configured to pass through received exhaust gas without change; and a valve configured to selectively open or close the first flow passage, the second flow passage, or the third flow passage, and thus control a flowing route of the exhaust gas.