Thermoelectric Module with Pivot Units for Uneven Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermoelectric modules with flat structures struggle when mounted on uneven surfaces, leading to increased thermal resistance and reduced temperature differences, which in turn decrease the efficiency of thermoelectric power generation.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelectric module design featuring alternating n-type and p-type elements with pivot units, including upper and lower electrode plates and pivot bearings, allows for flexible positioning and mounting on uneven surfaces, reducing thermal boundary resistance and enhancing temperature differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a conventional flat thermoelectric module is mounted on an uneven surface using heat spreader or thermal paste, then the surface is planarized, but thermal resistance increases and temperature difference decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode plates are designed to be movable relative to each other through pivot units, allowing the module to dynamically adapt its shape to match uneven surfaces. This dynamic adjustment eliminates the need for static planarization layers, directly reducing thermal resistance while maintaining surface contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The module changes its geometric parameters by allowing electrode plates to pivot and adjust their positions. This parameter change enables the module to conform to various surface profiles without introducing additional thermal resistance layers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the thermoelectric module is configured to correspond to the uneven surface by adjusting element positions, then mounting on uneven surfaces is enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The module is segmented into multiple independent electrode plates that can move relative to each other. This segmentation allows each plate to be manufactured separately using standard processes, then assembled with simple pivot connections, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while enabling adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
By introducing movable pivot connections between electrode plates, the module gains adaptability to uneven surfaces without requiring complex custom manufacturing. The dynamic adjustment capability is achieved through simple mechanical pivots rather than complex positioning mechanisms.
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 effectively increases the output of thermoelectric power generation by allowing the module to be closely adhered to and mounted on uneven surfaces, thereby reducing thermal boundary resistance and increasing temperature differences between the high and low temperature sides.
Implementation Method 1
a thermoelectric module used in a thermoelectric power generation system utilizes the Seebeck effect that uses a difference in temperatures of both surfaces of the thermoelectric module to generate an electromotive force
Data Source
AI summary
A thermoelectric module mounted on an uneven surface (a curved surface or an irregular surface) to reduce thermal boundary resistance and significantly improve thermoelectric power generation efficiency is provided. The thermoelectric module includes one or more first thermoelectric elements, one or more second thermoelectric elements having opposite polarity to that of the first thermoelectric elements and alternating with the first thermoelectric element. An electrode unit in provided and includes upper and lower electrodes configured to electrically connect the first and second thermoelectric elements. A connection member is configured to connect the first and second thermoelectric elements to vary the relative positions of the first and second thermoelectric elements.