Thermoelectric Conversion Module With Curved Release-Sheet Support

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing thermoelectric conversion modules lack a support base material, leading to concerns about deformation and damage during conveyance and handling due to reduced mechanical strength.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a first conductive layer, a first pressure sensitive adhesive layer, and a first release sheet with a specific curvature into the thermoelectric conversion module, which functions as a support base material during manufacturing, while suppressing deformation and damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If a support base material is eliminated to thin the module, then the module thickness is reduced, but mechanical strength and resistance to deformation during conveyance and handling deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodule thicknessVSAvoidmechanical strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The release sheet is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a support base material during manufacturing and conveyance, provides a release surface for the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and maintains the structural integrity of the module. By making the release sheet multi-functional, the need for a separate support base material is eliminated, achieving both thickness reduction and maintained mechanical strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the physical parameters of the release sheet by controlling its curvature (R1000 or greater when cut to 250mm and suspended at center) and material properties. This curvature control allows the release sheet to function as a support structure while maintaining its primary release function, thereby providing mechanical strength without requiring additional support materials.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If a support base material is eliminated to simplify the structure, then the device complexity is reduced, but reliability during conveyance and handling deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidreliability during conveyance and handling

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The release sheet is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a support base material during manufacturing and conveyance, provides a release surface for the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and maintains the structural integrity of the module. By making the release sheet multi-functional, the need for a separate support base material is eliminated, achieving both thickness reduction and maintained mechanical strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces a curved configuration (R1000 or greater) to the release sheet, which provides inherent structural strength and rigidity. This curvature allows the release sheet to bear loads and maintain its shape during handling, thereby improving reliability without adding separate support structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Strength

If the release sheet curvature is increased to improve support function, then mechanical strength is improved, but the release sheet thickness or material requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesupport strengthVSAvoidmaterial quantity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The invention introduces a curved configuration (R1000 or greater) to the release sheet, which provides inherent structural strength and rigidity. This curvature allows the release sheet to bear loads and maintain its shape during handling, thereby improving reliability without adding separate support structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the physical parameters of the release sheet by controlling its curvature (R1000 or greater when cut to 250mm and suspended at center) and material properties. This curvature control allows the release sheet to function as a support structure while maintaining its primary release function, thereby providing mechanical strength without requiring additional support materials.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 a thermoelectric conversion module with enhanced mechanical support, allowing for improved handling and manufacturing processes without compromising thermoelectric performance.

Implementation Method 1

a first pressure sensitive adhesive layer provided on a surface of the first conductive layer on a side opposite to a surface on the thermoelectric element layer side

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure-sensitive adhesive: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS20250311631A1Thermoelectric conversion module

Publication Date: 2025.10.02 LINTEC CORP

AI summary

Provided is a thermoelectric conversion module including a release sheet in which thermoelectric performance is not suppressed, a function as a support base material during a manufacturing process is provided and deformation and damage during conveyance and handling are suppressed. The thermoelectric conversion module includes: a thermoelectric element layer in which a P-type thermoelectric element and an N-type thermoelectric element are arranged alternately and electrically connected in series; a first conductive layer provided on a first surface of the thermoelectric element layer; a first pressure sensitive adhesive layer provided on a surface of the first conductive layer on a side opposite to a surface on the thermoelectric element layer side; and a first release sheet provided on a surface of the first pressure sensitive adhesive layer on a side opposite to a surface on the first conductive layer side. A curvature of the first release sheet is R1000 or greater when the first release sheet is cut to a length of 250 mm and suspended at a center in a length direction.