Thermoelectric Device Cooling Laser Photodiode Array

Solution Overview

Problem

Laser systems face challenges in efficiently cooling photodiode arrays, which requires energy and results in downtime due to temperature regulation, and fail to harness thermoelectric energy for power augmentation.

Innovation Solution

A thermoelectric device system that engages a photodiode array to generate electricity from heat, while also cooling the laser device, using thermally conductive materials and microchannel plates to manage temperature differences and power the laser system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If active cooling channels are used to cool the photodiode array, then the photodiode array temperature is controlled, but energy is consumed and downtime occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephotodiode array temperatureVSAvoidenergy consumption for cooling

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the waste heat generated by the photodiode array during laser operation into useful electrical energy through thermoelectric generators. The thermoelectric devices are coupled to the photodiode array to capture the temperature differential between the hot photodiode array and the cooler environment, generating electricity that powers the laser system. This transforms the harmful heat waste into a beneficial power source, eliminating the need for separate cooling energy input.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The laser system becomes self-powered through the integration of thermoelectric generators that harvest energy from the photodiode array's operating heat. The system uses its own waste heat to generate the electricity needed for operation, creating a self-sustaining energy cycle that reduces external power requirements and eliminates downtime for cooling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Temperature

If active cooling is applied to the photodiode array, then temperature regulation is achieved, but system downtime increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephotodiode array temperatureVSAvoiddowntime for cooling

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the waste heat generated by the photodiode array during laser operation into useful electrical energy through thermoelectric generators. The thermoelectric devices are coupled to the photodiode array to capture the temperature differential between the hot photodiode array and the cooler environment, generating electricity that powers the laser system. This transforms the harmful heat waste into a beneficial power source, eliminating the need for separate cooling energy input.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The thermoelectric generators operate continuously as long as the photodiode array is generating heat during laser operation. This continuous energy harvesting eliminates the need for periodic cooling downtime, allowing the laser system to operate continuously without interruption for temperature management, thereby maintaining uninterrupted useful action.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Temperature

If conventional cooling systems are used, then the photodiode array is cooled, but thermoelectric energy is not harnessed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephotodiode array temperatureVSAvoidthermoelectric energy not utilized

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the waste heat generated by the photodiode array during laser operation into useful electrical energy through thermoelectric generators. The thermoelectric devices are coupled to the photodiode array to capture the temperature differential between the hot photodiode array and the cooler environment, generating electricity that powers the laser system. This transforms the harmful heat waste into a beneficial power source, eliminating the need for separate cooling energy input.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The thermoelectric devices serve multiple functions simultaneously: they act as temperature sensors to monitor the photodiode array temperature and as power generators to produce electricity from the temperature differential. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cooling and power management systems, capturing otherwise wasted thermoelectric energy for productive use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 reduces energy consumption for cooling, shortens downtime by actively managing heat, and harnesses thermoelectric energy to power the laser device, enhancing efficiency and performance.

Implementation Method 1

one or more thermoelectric devices, each defining a first side and a second side... configured to receive heat therefrom... generating electricity at the thermoelectric device via the heat received at the first side

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSeebeck effect: Seebeck Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20230099138A1Seebeck device in a laser system

Publication Date: 2023.03.30 APPLIED RESEARCH ASSOCIATES INC

AI summary

A thermoelectric device and method of use thereof are provided for cooling and powering a laser device. The thermoelectric device comprises a first side, a second side, and a plurality of thermoelectric elements disposed therebetween. The thermoelectric device engages a photodiode array of the laser device, such that when heat is generated by the photodiode array, the thermoelectric device passively cools the photodiode array by receiving the heat and converts the heat generated to electricity to power the laser device.