Apparatus and method for use in thermoelectric power generation

摘要

An apparatus and method for generating thermoelectric power utilizes a hollow shell member having a cavity defined therein and a cartridge member disposed within the cavity, wherein the cartridge member has a combustion chamber defined therein. The cartridge member is mounted such that a space exists between the interior surface of the shell member and the exterior surface of the cartridge member. Thermoelectric elements are mounted to the exterior surface of the shell member such that no air spaces exist therebetween. A mixture of a combustible fuel and air is introduced into the chamber, the air/fuel ratio being less than the stoichiometric ratio for methane. Heat generated within the combustion chamber upon combustion of the fuel is transferred via the shell member to the thermoelectric elements which generate electrical energy in response thereto.