Thermal lensing electrode in thermoelectric generators for improved performance
US11552235B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 16, 2019 |
| Grant date | Jan 10, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 24, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC25D7/12
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Exemplary thermoelectric devices and methods are disclosed herein. Thermoelectric generator performance is increased by the shaping isothermal fields within the bulk of a thermoelectric pellet, resulting in an increase in power output of a thermoelectric generator module. In one embodiment, a thermoelectric device includes a pellet comprising a semiconductor material, a first metal layer surrounding a first portion of the pellet, and a second metal layer surrounding a second portion of the pellet. The first and second metal layers are configured proximate to one another about a perimeter of the pellet. The pellet is exposed at the perimeter. And the perimeter is configured at a sidewall height about the pellet to provide a non-linear effect on a power output of the thermoelectric device by modifying an isotherm surface curvature within the pellet. The device also includes a metal container thermally and electrically bonded to the pellet.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.