Thermoelectric generator system

US10170677B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• PANASONIC HOLDINGS CORPORATION · JP

Inventors

• Tsutomu Kanno · Kyoto, JP
• Akihiro Sakai · Nara, JP
• Kohei Takahashi · Osaka, JP
• Hiromasa Tamaki · Osaka, JP
• Hideo Kusada · Osaka, JP
• Yuka Yamada · Nara, JP

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 7, 2015
• Grant date: Jan 1, 2019
• Expiry date: Feb 3, 2036

Classification

• Technology area (CPC H): Electricity
• CPC primary: H10N10/13

Abstract

A thermoelectric generator system according to the present disclosure includes first and second thermoelectric generator units, each including tubular thermoelectric generators. Each of the generators has a flow path defined by its inner peripheral surface, and generates electromotive force in an axial direction thereof based on a temperature difference between its inner and outer peripheral surfaces. Each unit further includes: a container housing the generators inside; and electrically conductive members providing electrical interconnection for the generators. The container has fluid inlet and outlet ports through which a fluid flows inside, and openings into which the generators are inserted. A buffer vessel is arranged between the first and second units, and has a first opening communicating with the flow paths of the generators in the first unit and a second opening communicating with the flow paths of the generators in the second unit.