Fuel flexible thermoelectric generator with battery charger
US7180264B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 3, 2004 |
| Grant date | Feb 20, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 21, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/10
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A micro-generator for providing electrical power to a battery charger capable of charging lithium ion, lithium polymer and other rechargeable batteries of the type which power portable electronic devices and MEMS. The micro-generator includes a micro-combustor and a thermoelectric module consisting of a number of quantum well thermoelectric panels connected between spaced heat spreaders, one of which is mounted in thermal communication with the micro-combustor. Different types of hydrocarbon fuel may be supplied to the micro-combustor where it is burned within a combustion chamber. The entire system is controlled in real time by a micro-controller which is powered upon start up by an ultra capacitor and thereafter by the electric power produced by the thermoelectric module.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.