Thermoelectric Heat Pump Assembly With Thermal Capacitance Layers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a robust, efficient, and self-sufficient thermo-electric device that does not require external power for multiple days, capable of maintaining a stable thermal environment for temperature-sensitive goods during transport and storage, and can self-regulate temperature over adjustable cooling or heating profiles, while being shock-proof and cost-effective.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelectric heat pump assembly with multiple thermoelectric unit layers using the Peltier effect, capacitance spacer blocks for delayed thermal reaction, and a microcontroller for temperature control, along with a heat sink and fan assembly for efficient heat management, and a portable energy source for extended operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional refrigeration systems are used for transporting temperature-sensitive goods, then cooling capability is achieved, but the systems are fragile, require external power, and cannot operate independently for extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the refrigeration function into multiple independent thermoelectric modules that can operate autonomously. Each module contains its own heating element, temperature sensor, and control circuitry, allowing the system to function without external power or centralized control, thereby improving reliability and self-sufficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The thermoelectric modules are designed to self-regulate their operation based on internal temperature sensors and control circuits. The system automatically adjusts heating and cooling without external intervention, and the phase change material self-regulates temperature by absorbing or releasing heat as needed, eliminating dependency on external power sources
2Use of energy by moving object
If thermoelectric modules are used for temperature control, then energy efficiency is improved, but the modules generate heat on one side that requires effective dissipation
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates phase change material in thermal communication with the heat-generating side of the thermoelectric modules. As the hot side of the modules generates heat, the phase change material absorbs this heat through phase transition (melting), effectively dissipating heat without requiring active cooling systems, thus maintaining energy efficiency while solving the heat dissipation problem
Solution Approach 2:
The phase change material acts as an intermediary between the heat-generating thermoelectric modules and the surrounding environment. It absorbs excess heat from the modules during phase transition and releases it gradually, mediating the temperature management and allowing the efficient thermoelectric modules to operate without overheating
3Temperature
If active cooling systems are used to maintain temperature, then temperature stability is achieved, but the systems cannot withstand shock and rough handling
Solution Approach 1:
The phase change material provides passive temperature stabilization through its phase transition properties. As the material melts or solidifies, it absorbs or releases heat at a constant temperature, maintaining thermal stability without moving parts or active components that could be damaged by shock or rough handling
Solution Approach 2:
The design extracts the vulnerable active cooling components (compressors, condensers, expansion valves) from the system and replaces them with passive thermoelectric modules and phase change material. This removal of fragile components while retaining temperature control functionality through solid-state thermoelectric effects and phase change physics provides both temperature stability and shock resistance
4Power
If multiple thermoelectric modules are stacked to increase cooling capacity, then cooling power is improved, but the thermal response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The phase change material is positioned in thermal communication with the thermoelectric modules before operation begins. When the modules are activated, the phase change material is already in place to immediately absorb heat, reducing the thermal response time. The material pre-positioned in the thermal pathway enables faster thermal reaction despite the stacked configuration of multiple modules
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 solution provides efficient temperature regulation with reduced power consumption, maintaining temperature stability for sensitive goods during transport and storage, and is capable of self-regulating temperature profiles, ensuring the integrity of goods over extended periods.
Implementation Method 1
two or more thermoelectric unit layers (i.e., thermoelectric modules) capable of active use of the Peltier effect, each thermoelectric unit layer having a cold side and a hot side
Implementation Method 2
at least one capacitance spacer block suitable for storing heat and providing a delayed thermal reaction time of the assembly
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is directed to an energy efficient thermal protection assembly. The thermal protection assembly can include three or more thermoelectric unit layers capable of active use of the Peltier effect; and at least one capacitance spacer block suitable for storing heat and providing a delayed thermal reaction time of the assembly. The capacitance spacer block is thermally connected between the thermoelectric unit layers. The present disclosure further relates to a thermoelectric transport and storage devices for transporting or storing temperature sensitive goods, for example, vaccines, chemicals, biologicals, and other temperature sensitive goods. The transport or storage device can be configured and provide on-board energy storage for sustaining, for multiple days, at a constant-temperature, with an acceptable temperature variation band.