Thermoelectric module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermoelectric modules require alternating arrangements of N-type and P-type thermoelectric components, which complicates the manufacturing process and can lead to inconsistent performance due to different semiconductor materials.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelectric module comprising thermoelectric components made of the same semiconductor material, connected in parallel through electrodes with integral parallel and serial connection parts, allowing for simplified manufacturing and consistent performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If alternating N-type and P-type thermoelectric components are used, then thermoelectric performance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses thermoelectric components made of the same semiconductor material (all N-type or all P-type) instead of alternating between different material types. This homogenizes the manufacturing process while maintaining thermoelectric functionality through proper electrical connection configuration (parallel and serial connection parts).
2Reliability
If alternating N-type and P-type thermoelectric components are used, then thermoelectric performance is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By using components of the same material type, the patent eliminates the need for precise alternating arrangement of different materials. The homogeneous components can be arranged more flexibly while achieving the same thermoelectric effect, thereby reducing manufacturing precision requirements.
3Ease of manufacture
If same material thermoelectric components are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but electrical connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrical connection system into distinct functional parts: parallel connection parts for connecting same-polarity components and serial connection parts for connecting opposite-polarity components. This segmentation manages electrical connection complexity while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate connection structures (parallel connection parts and serial connection parts) that mediate between the homogeneous thermoelectric components and the external circuit. These intermediaries simplify the overall connection scheme by providing standardized interfaces.
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 design simplifies the manufacturing process and ensures consistent thermoelectric performance by eliminating the need for alternating material arrangements and reduces the complexity of electrical connections.
Implementation Method 1
when two ends of its thermoelectric component have a temperature difference, these two ends generate direct current
Implementation Method 2
two ends of its thermoelectric component are connected with direct current (DC), and then a temperature difference occurs between these two ends
Data Source
AI summary
A thermoelectric module includes a plurality of thermoelectric components, a first electrode and a second electrode. The thermoelectric components have the same type of semiconductor material. The first electrode includes a first parallel connection part and a first serial connection part. The plurality of thermoelectric components is electrically connected to the first parallel connection part and each of the plurality of thermoelectric components is separated from one another. The first serial connection part is configured for being electrically connected to other electrical components. The plurality of thermoelectric components is electrically connected to the second electrode and located between the first parallel connection part and the second electrode.