THERMOELECTRIC ENERGY CONVERSION USING PERIODIC THERMAL CYCLES

摘要

The invention provides systems, apparatuses, and methods for applying periodic thermal management for converting heat into electricity using thermoelectric devices. One method comprises the use of a fluid that performs periodic heating and cooling cycles of thermoelectric devices during fluid evaporation and condensation. The systems, devices, and methods take advantage of the Seebeck effect as a material response between heat and electricity. One apparatus uses alternating pressures to drive fluid evaporation and condensation, thereby producing periodic heating and cooling of the thermoelectric modules. Ultimately, the thermoelectric generator apparatus and method provide improvements in conversion efficiency and reductions in parasitic loss over current solid-state systems.

主权项

1. A periodic heat transfer method for performing an energy conversion procedure comprising:
i. providing one or more thermoelectric modules with a first and a second surface; ii. providing a first fluid in contact with said first surface; and iii. providing a second fluid in contact with said second surface; and iv. changing the temperature of the said first surface and the said second surface during a phase change of the said first and second fluids in a manner predetermined by an energy conversion procedure.