Modular thermoelectric assembly
US5367879A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 1, 1993 |
| Grant date | Nov 29, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 1, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF25D2400/40
- WIPO fieldOther consumer goods
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A modular thermoelectric assembly is provided to maintain the temperature within a container or enclosed structure holding water or other liquids at a desired value. The thermoelectric assembly includes a thermoelectric device with a hot sink and a cold sink. A layer of insulating material is disposed between the hot sink and the cold sink. The hot sink and the insulating material are used to install the thermoelectric assembly into an appropriately sized opening extending through the exterior of the container or enclosed structure. A thermoelectric device, contained within the layer of insulating material, functions as a heat pump to transfer heat between the cold sink and the hot sink. An electrical motor, rotating shaft and propeller are carried by the assembly to assist in the circulation of air to improve the efficiency of the cold sink and the hot sink. Another propeller and/or impeller may be carried by the rotating shaft to assist with circulation of liquids in the container or enclosed structure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.