Efficiency thermoelectrics utilizing thermal isolation
US6539725B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 27, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 1, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 27, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01L2924/0002
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An improved efficiency thermoelectric system and method of making such a thermoelectric system are disclosed. Significant thermal isolation between thermoelectric elements in at least one direction across a thermoelectric system provides increased efficiency over conventional thermoelectric arrays. Significant thermal isolation is also provided for at least one heat exchanger coupled to the thermoelectric elements. In one embodiment, the properties, such as resistance or current flow, of the thermoelectric elements may also be varied in at least one direction across a thermoelectric array. In addition, the mechanical configuration of the thermoelectric elements may be varied, in one embodiment, according to dynamic adjustment criteria.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.