Thermoelectric Generator Stack for Compact Power Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current portable power systems for electronic devices, especially for military and rescue personnel, are limited by their weight, size, and inability to provide continuous power without frequent recharging or additional backup supplies.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelectric generator system comprising a heat source, a cold source, and a thermoelectric generator stack with thermal elements, which creates a thermal gradient to generate electrical power, allowing for a compact and lightweight power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If battery supplied power is used to power electronic devices, then power can be provided portably, but the weight increases as power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/chemical battery system with a thermoelectric generator system that converts thermal energy directly to electrical energy. The thermoelectric generator uses the Seebeck effect to generate electricity from a temperature differential, eliminating the need for heavy chemical batteries while providing continuous power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameter from chemical energy storage (batteries) to thermal energy conversion (thermoelectric generators). By maintaining a continuous temperature differential across the thermoelectric material, the system generates electricity continuously rather than depleting stored energy, thereby reducing weight for sustained power requirements.
2Duration of action of moving object
If battery capacity is increased to provide extended power supply, then power duration increases, but the size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the chemical energy storage system with a thermal energy conversion system. The thermoelectric generator continuously converts heat flow into electrical energy, providing extended power supply duration without the weight penalty of larger battery capacities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous power generation through the thermoelectric generator that operates as long as a temperature differential is maintained. This continuous action eliminates the need for periodic recharging or carrying multiple battery packs, providing sustained power output with reduced weight.
3Reliability
If multiple backup power supplies are carried, then power availability increases, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal power generation system that can replace multiple specialized battery packs. The thermoelectric generator serves as a single multi-functional power source that can provide continuous electricity for various electronic devices without requiring separate backup power supplies for different scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the function of multiple backup power supplies into a single thermoelectric generator system. By combining heat source, thermoelectric conversion element, and heat sink into one integrated device, the system provides reliable power availability while reducing overall complexity compared to managing multiple separate battery packs.
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
The system effectively generates a significant amount of electrical power while reducing the size and weight of the device, providing a sustainable and continuous power solution for electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
Heat flux across the thermoelectric generating plate causes electrical power to be generated
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for generating electricity. The device includes a heat source, a cold source, and a thermoelectric generating plate, having a first side and an opposed side. When heat is introduced to the heat source, heat flows across the thermoelectric generating plate and electricity is generated. In the present arrangement, because the hot and cold sources are in thermal communication with opposed sides of the thermoelectric generating plate, the thermal gradient or rate of heat flow across the thermoelectric generating plate is maximized. Thus, because the rate of heat flow is increased, the rate at which electricity is generated is also increased, and the size of the device is maintained, or minimized.