Thermoelectric Module Terminals for Heat Flux and Voltage Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermoelectric conversion modules lack the ability to detect the distribution of internal heat flux and obtain maximum voltage when all elements are connected in series, due to limited output terminals and the inability to measure local voltages effectively.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelectric conversion module with n-type and p-type elements connected in series, featuring additional intermediate output terminals between the end terminals, allowing for the detection of heat flux distribution and selective voltage supply by measuring voltages between these terminals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If all thermoelectric conversion elements are connected in series to obtain maximum voltage, then the voltage output is maximized, but the ability to detect local voltage and heat flux distribution is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the series-connected thermoelectric conversion elements into multiple groups, with each group having its own output terminals. This allows the module to maintain maximum voltage output when all elements are connected in series, while also enabling local voltage detection in each segment. The segmentation principle resolves the contradiction by creating hierarchical output structures that serve both functions simultaneously.
2Device complexity
If output terminals are formed only at the ends of the thermoelectric conversion elements, then the electrical connection configuration is simplified, but local voltage detection becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the thermoelectric conversion elements into multiple groups arranged in series, with each group equipped with its own output terminals. This segmentation allows local voltage detection capability to be added without significantly increasing overall device complexity, as each segment uses a standardized terminal configuration that can be replicated.
Solution Approach 2:
The output terminals serve multiple functions: they provide voltage output for power generation and simultaneously serve as measurement points for detecting local voltage and heat flux distribution. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by eliminating the need for separate detection terminals, thus not increasing device complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the contact force distribution on the contact surface is non-uniform, then the module assembly is easier to manufacture, but heat transfer efficiency between the module and members deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs the intermediate output terminals to detect local voltage, which serves as feedback information about the contact force distribution and heat flux. By measuring the voltage in each segment, the system can identify non-uniform contact force distribution and adjust the assembly process or module design to achieve more uniform heat transfer, thus improving reliability while maintaining ease of manufacture.
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
Enables the detection of internal heat flux distribution and attainment of maximum voltage when all elements are connected in series, while also providing lower voltage options, improving thermoelectric power generation efficiency by ensuring uniform contact force across the module.
Implementation Method 1
The Seebeck effect is an effect by which thermal energy is converted into electric energy, and it is a phenomenon in which an electromotive force is generated when a temperature difference is generated between both ends of a thermoelectric conversion material.
Implementation Method 2
The thermoelectric conversion element is an electronic element that enables mutual conversion between heat and electricity by the Seebeck effect and the Peltier effect.
Data Source
AI summary
A thermoelectric conversion module is formed by arranging, on one surface, a plurality of thermoelectric conversion element pairs in which an n-type thermoelectric conversion element and a p-type thermoelectric conversion element are connected by interposing an electrode plate, and connecting the plurality of the thermoelectric conversion element pairs in series; and the thermoelectric conversion module has a first output terminal provided on one thermoelectric conversion element pair arranged at one end side of the plurality of the thermoelectric conversion element pairs connected in series, a second output terminal provided on the other thermoelectric conversion element pair arranged at the other end side of the plurality of the thermoelectric conversion element pairs connected in series, and an intermediate output terminal provided at any position between the thermoelectric conversion element pair arranged at the one end side and the thermoelectric conversion element pair arranged at the other end side.