Thermoelectric Module for Thermal Grill Illusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermoelectric modules do not effectively provide a thermal grill illusion, which is a sensation of alternating warm and cold temperatures perceived as a single sensation rather than individual warmth or coldness.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelectric device comprising multiple thermoelectric groups connected in series, with each group consisting of N-type and P-type semiconductors, and electrodes that alternately connect these semiconductors to create a thermal gradient, allowing for the simultaneous provision of warmth and coldness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single thermoelectric group is used, then the structure is simple, but only a single thermal sensation (warmth or coldness) can be provided, not the thermal grill illusion
Solution Approach 1:
The thermoelectric module is divided into multiple thermoelectric groups (first thermoelectric group and second thermoelectric group) that can be independently controlled. Each group contains N-type and P-type semiconductors connected through electrodes, allowing separate control of warm and cold thermal stimuli to create the thermal grill illusion sensation
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the thermoelectric module provide different thermal qualities - the first thermoelectric group provides one type of thermal sensation (warmth or coldness) while the second thermoelectric group provides the opposite sensation. This local differentiation enables the complex thermal grill illusion effect that cannot be achieved with a uniform single group structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple thermoelectric groups are used to provide thermal grill illusion, then the thermal sensation capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple thermoelectric groups are combined within a single module structure with shared terminals (first terminal and second terminal). The groups are electrically connected in parallel between the terminals, allowing independent control of each group while maintaining a unified device architecture that reduces overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The thermoelectric module structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it can provide warmth sensation, coldness sensation, and the thermal grill illusion sensation by controlling different thermoelectric groups. The same basic structure with N-type and P-type semiconductors and electrodes is reused across multiple groups, achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing complexity
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 device achieves a thermal grill illusion by creating a complex thermal stimulus that mimics the sensation of alternating warm and cold temperatures, enhancing user experience in VR/AR environments and other applications.
Implementation Method 1
A thermoelectric element (TE) is an element which causes an exothermic reaction or an endothermic reaction by receiving electrical energy due to the Peltier effect
Data Source
AI summary
A thermoelectric device includes thermoelectric groups connected in series between first and second terminals provided in a plate shape deformable to a curved surface, having a first surface and an opposite second surface as a main surface, and configured to receive power from the outside. The thermoelectric groups include a first thermoelectric group configured to provide any one of a feeling of coldness and a feeling of warmth toward the first surface when the power is applied, an N-type semiconductor and a P-type semiconductor disposed between the first surface and the second surface, and an electrode configured to alternately connect an N-type semiconductor and a P-type semiconductor and disposed adjacent to any one surface of the main surface. The thermoelectric filters also include a second thermoelectric group providing the other of the feeling of coldness and the feeling of warmth toward the first surface when the power is applied.