JP2006136188A - Thermoelectric generator and thermoelectric generation system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a thermoelectric generator where wasteful diffusion of heat from a warm water passage and deterioration of thermoelectric generation efficiency can be suppressed. <P>SOLUTION: The thermoelectric generator is provided with a warm water passage forming member 110 which has a warm water passage forming recess 111, a warm water take-in part 112 and a warm water discharge part 113 and is formed of a low thermally conductive material, a cold water passage forming member 120 having a cold water passage forming recess 121, a cold water take-in part 122 and a cold water discharge part 123 and with a thermoelectric generation element 130. The thermoelectric generation element 130 is arranged between the warm water passage forming member 110 and the cold water passage forming member 120. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a thermoelectric generator capable of performing efficient power generation using a hot heat source such as hot spring water, factory waste water, factory waste oil, steam, exhaust gas, or a cold heat source such as liquefied natural gas or various refrigerants. The present invention also relates to a thermoelectric power generation system including a plurality of the thermoelectric power generation devices.

  For example, a thermoelectric power generation system that generates power using hot spring water as a heat source, unlike a solar power generation system that generates power using sunlight, generates power even at night when sunlight cannot be used. It has the feature that it can be used, and it is expected to spread along with the photovoltaic power generation system.

  FIG. 27 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric power generation function of the thermoelectric power generation elements 2300 and 2302 used in the thermoelectric power generation system. FIG. 27A is a diagram illustrating the thermoelectric power generation function of the thermoelectric power generation element 2300 having a structure in which a large number of Peltier elements are connected in series, and FIG. 27B is a diagram in which a large number of Peltier elements are connected in parallel. It is a figure explaining the thermoelectric power generation function of the thermoelectric power generation element 2302 which has a structure.

  As shown in FIG. 27A, the thermoelectric generator 2300 has a structure in which P-type semiconductors 2310P and N-type semiconductors 2310N are alternately arranged in a π-type between the heat absorption side electrode 2330H and the heat dissipation side electrode 2330L. The body is further sandwiched between a heat absorption side ceramic 2320H and a heat dissipation side ceramic 2320L.

  For this reason, when the heat absorption side electrode 2330H side is brought into a higher temperature state than the heat radiation side electrode 2330L side by means such as bringing the heat absorption side electrode 2330H side into contact with warm water, in the upper part (the heat absorption side electrode 2330H side) of the thermoelectric generator 2300 Absorbs energy from the surroundings, and electrons move from a low energy level state to a high state, and in the lower part (heat dissipation side electrode 2330L side), electrons move from a high energy level state to a low state, and there is a surplus. Energy is applied to the surrounding crystal lattice. For this reason, heat is transmitted in the direction of arrow D in FIG. 27A, and an electromotive force is generated in the thermoelectric generator 2300.

  That is, electrons (−) flow in the direction of arrow B in the N-type semiconductor 2310N, and holes (+) flow in the direction of arrow C in the P-type semiconductor 2310P. As a result, current flows from the N-type semiconductor 2310N to the P-type semiconductor 2310P. (Electrons flow from the P-type semiconductor 2310P to the N-type semiconductor 2310N) (in the direction of arrow E).

  As a result, the voltmeter and ammeter needles connected to the heat radiation side electrode 2330L by the conductive wire swing according to the generated voltage and current. Then, a current flows through the load, and a predetermined operation is performed. As a result, the thermal energy is converted into electric energy, and the converted electric energy is effectively used in the load. The thermoelectric power generation element 2302 in FIG. 27B basically exhibits a thermoelectric power generation function as in the case of the thermoelectric power generation element 2300 in FIG.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a thermoelectric power generation apparatus and a thermoelectric power generation system that can perform efficient power generation using hot water such as hot spring water using such a thermoelectric power generation element. FIG. 28 is a diagram for explaining a conventional thermoelectric generator 2400 described in Patent Document 1. In FIG. FIG. 28A is a cross-sectional view of the thermoelectric generator 2400 as viewed from the side, and FIG. 28B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 28A, the thermoelectric generator 2400 takes in hot water from the hot water intake port 2442, and discharges hot water from the hot water drain port 2444 and cold water from the cold water intake port 2446. A cold water passage 2426 for draining cold water from the cold water drain port 2448 and a thermoelectric generator 2424 having one end thermally connected to the hot water passage 2422 and the other end thermally connected to the cold water passage 2426 are provided. ing.

  For this reason, according to this thermoelectric power generation device 2400, power is generated by giving the temperature difference between the hot water flow and the cold water flow to the thermoelectric power generation element 2424. Therefore, new hot water and cold water are always used for power generation. The temperature difference between the both ends of the thermoelectric power generation element 2424 is supplied and high power generation efficiency can be obtained.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-247753

  However, in this thermoelectric power generation apparatus 2400, since the hot water flow path 2422 needs to be thermally connected to the thermoelectric power generation element 2424, the hot water flow path 2422 is made of a material having high thermal conductivity such as copper. (See paragraph 0045 of Patent Document 1). For this reason, heat is dissipated wastefully from the portions of the hot water channel 2422 that are not in contact with the thermoelectric power generation element 2424 (the bottom surface 2422b and the side surface 2422c of the hot water channel 2422 in FIG. 28B), and the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is increased. There was a problem of lowering. This problem is particularly serious in the case of a thermoelectric power generation system that includes a plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices in series as viewed from the hot water flow path.

Note that the above problem is a problem that occurs only when the fluid that supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation (hereinafter referred to as the first fluid) is hot water and the second fluid different from the first fluid is cold water. It is a problem that may occur in general thermoelectric power generation devices that perform thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between the first fluid and the second fluid.
That is, in such a thermoelectric power generation device, when the temperature of the first fluid is higher than the temperature of the second fluid, heat (warmth) is generated from a portion that is not in contact with the thermoelectric power generation element in the first fluid flow path. It is dissipated in vain and reduces the thermoelectric power generation efficiency. In addition, when the temperature of the first fluid is lower than the temperature of the second fluid, heat (cold heat) is dissipated wastefully from the portion of the first fluid flow path that is not in contact with the thermoelectric power generation element. The power generation efficiency is reduced.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a thermoelectric power generation apparatus and a thermoelectric power generation system capable of suppressing the heat (hot or cold) from the first fluid flow path from being wasted and reducing the thermoelectric power generation efficiency. The purpose is to provide.

(1) The thermoelectric power generation apparatus of the present invention performs thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between a first fluid that mainly supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation and a second fluid having a temperature different from that of the first fluid. A thermoelectric generator for performing a first fluid flow path forming recess formed on one surface, and a first fluid intake section and a first fluid discharge section connected to the first fluid flow path forming recess. And a first fluid flow path forming member made of a low thermal conductivity material, a second fluid flow path forming recess formed on one surface, and a second fluid flow path forming recess connected to the second fluid flow path forming recess. A second fluid flow path forming member having a fluid intake part and a second fluid discharge part; and a thermoelectric power generation element, wherein the thermoelectric power generation element includes the one surface of the first fluid flow path formation member; The second fluid flow path forming member is disposed between the one surface and the second surface. The features.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric generator of the present invention, the first fluid flow path is formed in the first fluid flow path forming recess portion between the first fluid flow path forming member and the thermoelectric power generation element. become. According to the thermoelectric generator of the present invention, the portion of the first fluid channel that is not in contact with the thermoelectric generator is covered with the first fluid channel forming member made of a low thermal conductive material. For this reason, it is suppressed that heat is dissipated from this part, As a result, it is suppressed that thermoelectric power generation efficiency falls, and the objective of this invention is achieved.

  In the thermoelectric generator described in (1) above, the first fluid flow path forming member, the thermoelectric power generation element, and the second fluid flow path forming member are preferably integrated by means such as bolting. Thereby, it is suppressed that the first fluid leaks from the first fluid channel and the second fluid leaks from the second fluid channel.

  In the thermoelectric power generation device according to (1), the one surface of the first fluid flow path forming member and the one surface of the second fluid flow path forming member and the one surface of the second fluid flow path forming member. It is preferable that a packing or an O-ring is disposed between the thermoelectric generator and the thermoelectric generator.

The surface facing the first fluid flow path forming member or the second fluid flow path forming member in the thermoelectric power generation element is usually made of a heat conductive ceramic having an extremely small elastic coefficient. For this reason, it is not so easy to improve the adhesion between the first fluid flow path forming member and the thermoelectric power generation element and between the second fluid flow path forming member and the thermoelectric power generation element.
However, if a packing or an O-ring is disposed between the first fluid flow path forming member and the thermoelectric power generation element and between the second fluid flow path formation member and the thermoelectric power generation element, the first fluid flow It becomes easy to improve the adhesion between the path forming member and the thermoelectric power generation element and between the second fluid flow path forming member and the thermoelectric power generation element. As a result, the leakage of the first fluid from the first fluid channel and the leakage of the second fluid from the second fluid channel are further suppressed.

(2) In the thermoelectric generator according to (1), the one side of the first fluid flow path forming member and the thermoelectric power generation element and the one of the second fluid flow path forming member. It is preferable that a heat conduction plate made of a highly heat conductive material is disposed between the surface and the thermoelectric generator.

With this configuration, the heat (hot or cold) from the first fluid is transmitted to the thermoelectric generation element via the heat conduction plate, and the heat (hot or cold) of the thermoelectric generation element is transmitted via the heat conduction plate. Since it is transmitted to two fluids, the area where thermoelectric power generation is performed in the thermoelectric power generation element increases, and the thermoelectric power generation efficiency can be improved.
Further, if a heat conduction plate having a larger elastic coefficient than the heat conductive ceramic is used as the heat conduction plate, the first fluid flow path forming member and the heat conduction plate, and the second fluid flow path forming member and the heat conduction plate are used. It becomes easy to improve the adhesion between the conductive plate, and as a result, it is further suppressed that the first fluid leaks from the first fluid flow path and the second fluid leaks from the second fluid flow path. become.

  In the thermoelectric generator of the present invention, the high thermal conductivity material is preferably a metal.

  By configuring in this way, high thermal conductivity can be obtained, so that the thermoelectric power generation efficiency can be further improved. In general, since metal has a larger elastic coefficient than thermally conductive ceramics, the first fluid leaks from the first fluid channel and the second fluid leaks from the second fluid channel is further suppressed. become. As the metal, copper, titanium, titanium alloy, aluminum, aluminum alloy, stainless steel and the like can be preferably used.

  In the thermoelectric generator of the present invention, a thermally conductive grease is applied or a thermally conductive sheet or a thermally conductive double-sided tape is disposed between the thermally conductive plate and the thermoelectric generator. Is preferred.

  By comprising in this way, since heat | fever can be efficiently transmitted from a heat conductive board to a thermoelectric power generation element, thermoelectric power generation efficiency improves.

  In the thermoelectric generator described in (2) above, the first fluid flow path forming member, the heat conduction plate, the thermoelectric power generation element, the heat conduction plate, and the second fluid flow path formation member are bolted or the like. It is preferable that they are integrated by means. This further suppresses the leakage of the first fluid from the first fluid channel and the leakage of the second fluid from the second fluid channel.

  In the thermoelectric power generation device according to (2), the one surface of the first fluid flow path forming member and the one surface of the second fluid flow path forming member and the one surface of the second fluid flow path forming member. It is preferable that a packing or an O-ring is arranged between the heat conducting plate and the heat conducting plate.

  With this configuration, the first fluid leaks from the first fluid channel and the second fluid leaks from the second fluid channel can be further suppressed.

(3) In the thermoelectric power generation device according to (2), it is preferable that a heat exchange fin is formed on the heat conducting plate.

  With this configuration, heat is efficiently transmitted from the first fluid to the thermoelectric power generation element via the heat conduction plate, and heat is efficiently transmitted from the thermoelectric power generation element to the second fluid via the heat conduction plate. Become. As a result, lowering of the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is further suppressed.

(4) In the thermoelectric generator according to any one of (1) to (3), the first fluid flow path forming member is preferably made of a resin.

  By comprising in this way, since high heat insulation performance is obtained, it will come to be suppressed that thermoelectric power generation efficiency falls. Moreover, since a sufficiently large elastic coefficient is ensured, leakage of the first fluid from the first fluid channel is suppressed as much as possible. As the resin material, acrylic resin, polyolefin resin, polycarbonate resin, polyacetal resin, polyamide resin, polyimide resin, epoxy resin, polyethylene terephthalate resin, vinyl chloride resin and the like can be preferably used.

(5) In the thermoelectric generator according to any one of (1) to (3), the first fluid flow path forming member is preferably made of ceramics.

  Even with this configuration, high heat insulation performance can be obtained, so that the reduction in thermoelectric power generation efficiency is suppressed as much as possible. As the ceramic material, alumina, magnesia, zirconia, or the like can be preferably used.

(6) In the thermoelectric generator according to any one of (1) to (5), it is preferable that the first fluid flow path forming member has translucency.

  With this configuration, the inside of the first fluid channel can be monitored at all times, so that clogging or the like in the first fluid channel is detected in advance, and the performance degradation or breakage of the thermoelectric generator Etc. can be suppressed.

(7) In the thermoelectric generator according to any one of (1) to (6), the second fluid flow path forming member is made of the same material as the first fluid flow path forming member. Is preferred.

  With this configuration, it is possible to minimize deterioration of the thermoelectric generator due to a difference in thermal expansion coefficient between the first fluid flow path forming member and the second fluid flow path forming member. The long-term reliability of the device can be increased. Further, the manufacture of the thermoelectric generator can be facilitated.

(8) In the thermoelectric power generator according to any one of (1) to (6), the second fluid flow path forming member is preferably made of metal.

  By comprising in this way, as a result of efficiently radiating heat (heat or cold) from the second fluid heated or cooled by thermoelectric power generation, it is further suppressed that the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is lowered. It becomes like this.

  In the thermoelectric generator according to any one of (1) to (8), the first fluid flow path forming recess and the second fluid flow path forming recess are grooves formed in a zigzag shape. Preferably there is.

By comprising in this way, the flow of the 1st fluid in a 1st fluid flow path and the flow of the 2nd fluid in a 2nd fluid flow path can be made smoother, and a thermoelectric power generation efficiency is further improved. Can be made.
In this case, the upper surface of the flow path is monotonous according to the flow direction so that bubbles that may be contained in the first fluid or the second fluid are naturally removed from the first fluid flow path or the second fluid flow path. It is preferable that it is comprised so that it may become high.

(9) The thermoelectric power generation apparatus of the present invention performs thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between a first fluid that mainly supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation and a second fluid having a temperature different from the first fluid. A thermoelectric power generation apparatus for performing a first fluid flow path forming recess formed in a zigzag shape on one surface, and a first fluid intake section and a first fluid connected to the first fluid flow path forming recess A first fluid flow path forming member having a discharge portion and made of a high thermal conductivity material, and a first fluid flow path for closing the first fluid flow path forming recess in the first fluid flow path forming member Forming lid plate, second fluid flow path forming recess formed in one surface in a zigzag shape, and a second fluid intake section and a second fluid discharge section connected to the second fluid flow path forming recess And a second fluid channel forming member made of a high thermal conductivity material, and the second fluid channel type A second fluid flow path forming lid plate for closing the second fluid flow path forming recess in the member, the other surface of the first fluid flow path forming member facing the one surface, and the first A thermoelectric power generation element disposed between the two fluid flow path forming member and the other surface facing the one surface is provided.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric generator of the present invention, the first fluid flow path forming recess and the second fluid flow path forming recess are formed in a zigzag shape, and therefore heat from the first fluid (warm or cold). ) Is efficiently transmitted to the thermoelectric power generation element via the first fluid flow path forming member made of the high thermal conductivity material, and the second fluid flow made of the heat (hot or cold) from the thermoelectric power generation element is made of the high thermal conductivity material. It is efficiently transmitted to the second fluid via the path forming member. As a result, it is possible to reduce the rate of heat dissipation from the portion that is not in contact with the thermoelectric power generation element, thereby suppressing the reduction in thermoelectric power generation efficiency and achieving the object of the present invention.

Also, according to the thermoelectric generator of the present invention, the first fluid flow path forming recess and the second fluid flow path forming recess are formed in a zigzag shape, so that the first fluid in the first fluid flow path The flow and the flow of the second fluid in the second fluid flow path can be made smoother, and the thermoelectric power generation efficiency can be further improved.
In this case, the upper surface of the flow path is monotonous according to the flow direction so that bubbles that may be contained in the first fluid or the second fluid are naturally removed from the first fluid flow path or the second fluid flow path. It is preferable that it is comprised so that it may become high.

  In the thermoelectric generator described in (9) above, the first fluid flow path forming cover plate, the first fluid flow path forming member, the thermoelectric power generation element, the second fluid flow path forming member, and the second fluid The flow path forming cover plate is preferably integrated by means such as bolting. Thereby, it is suppressed that the first fluid leaks from the first fluid channel and the second fluid leaks from the second fluid channel.

(10) In the thermoelectric power generation device according to (9), it is preferable that the first fluid flow path forming member is surrounded by a low thermal conductivity member.

  By comprising in this way, it can suppress further that heat | fever (warmth or cold) is dissipated from the part enclosed by the low thermal conductive member. For this reason, the rate of heat dissipation from the portion not in contact with the thermoelectric generator can be further reduced.

  In the thermoelectric generator of the present invention, as the low thermal conductivity member, a resin, a ceramic, a heat insulating member filled with a heat insulating material, or the like can be preferably used.

(11) In the thermoelectric generator according to (9) or (10), the other surface of the first fluid flow path forming member and the other surface of the second fluid flow path forming member It is preferable that a heat insulating layer is provided around the thermoelectric power generation element in the space between.

  By comprising in this way, the heat transfer from the 1st fluid flow path formation member to the 2nd fluid flow path formation member without the thermoelectric power generation element is suppressed. For this reason, the rate of heat dissipation from the portion not in contact with the thermoelectric generator can be further reduced.

  In the thermoelectric power generator according to any one of (9) to (11), between the one surface of the first fluid flow path forming member and the first fluid flow path forming lid plate, and It is preferable that a packing or an O-ring is disposed between the one surface of the second fluid flow path forming member and the second fluid flow path forming cover plate.

  By comprising in this way, the adhesiveness between the 1st fluid flow path formation member and the 1st fluid flow path formation cover plate, the 2nd fluid flow path formation member, and the 2nd fluid flow path formation lid It becomes easy to improve the adhesion between the plates. As a result, the leakage of the first fluid from the first fluid channel and the leakage of the second fluid from the second fluid channel are further suppressed.

(12) In the thermoelectric generator according to any one of (9) to (11), it is preferable that the first fluid flow path forming member and the second fluid flow path forming member are both made of metal. .

  With this configuration, heat is efficiently transferred from the first fluid to the first fluid flow path forming member, and heat is efficiently transferred from the second fluid flow path forming member to the second fluid. As a result, lowering of the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is further suppressed.

  In the thermoelectric generator according to any one of (9) to (12), the second fluid flow path forming member is preferably made of the same material as the first fluid flow path forming member.

  With this configuration, it is possible to minimize deterioration of the thermoelectric generator due to a difference in thermal expansion coefficient between the first fluid flow path forming member and the second fluid flow path forming member. The long-term reliability of the device can be increased. Further, the manufacture of the thermoelectric generator can be facilitated.

(13) In the thermoelectric generator according to any one of (9) to (12), the first fluid flow path forming recess and the second fluid flow path forming recess have a plurality of heat exchange purposes. Fins are preferably provided.

  With this configuration, heat is efficiently transferred from the first fluid to the first fluid flow path forming member, and heat is efficiently transferred from the second fluid flow path forming member to the second fluid. As a result, lowering of the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is further suppressed.

(14) The thermoelectric power generation apparatus of the present invention performs thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between a first fluid that mainly supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation and a second fluid having a temperature different from that of the first fluid. A thermoelectric generator for performing a first fluid flow path forming member having a first fluid flow path, a first fluid intake section and a first fluid discharge section, a second fluid flow path, a second fluid intake section, and A first fluid channel forming member and a second fluid channel forming member disposed on both sides of the first fluid channel forming member; A first thermoelectric generator disposed between a flow path forming member and the first second fluid flow path forming member; the first fluid flow path forming member; and the second second fluid flow path formation. A second thermoelectric power generation element disposed between the first fluid flow path forming member and the second thermoelectric power generation element. The portion in contact with the electric power generation element and the portion in contact with the second thermoelectric power generation element in the first fluid flow path forming member are made of a high thermal conductivity material, and at least in the first second fluid flow path formation member. The portion in contact with the first thermoelectric generation element and the portion in contact with the second thermoelectric generation element in the second second fluid flow path forming member are made of a highly thermally conductive material.

Therefore, according to the thermoelectric power generation device of the present invention, the heat from the first fluid is converted into two thermoelectric power generation elements (the first thermoelectric power generation element and the second thermoelectric power generation element and the second thermoelectric generation element) disposed on both sides of the first fluid flow path forming member. Since it is transmitted to the second fluid via the thermoelectric power generation element), it is possible to further reduce the rate of heat dissipation from the portion not in contact with the first thermoelectric power generation element and the second thermoelectric power generation element. Decreasing the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is suppressed, and the object of the present invention is achieved.
At this time, as described above, at least a portion of the first fluid flow path forming member that contacts the first thermoelectric generation element, a portion of the first fluid flow path formation member that contacts the second thermoelectric generation element, and the first Since the portion of the second fluid flow path forming member that contacts the first thermoelectric power generation element and the portion of the second second fluid flow path formation member that contacts the second thermoelectric power generation element are made of a highly thermally conductive material, It is further suppressed that heat is efficiently transmitted and the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is lowered.

(15) In the thermoelectric generator according to (14), it is preferable that the first fluid flow path forming member is surrounded by a low thermal conductivity member.

  With this configuration, since the first fluid flow path forming member is surrounded by the low thermal conductivity member, heat (hot or cold) can be prevented from being dissipated from this portion. The rate of heat dissipation from the portion that is not in contact with the power generation element can be further reduced.

(16) In the thermoelectric generator according to (14) or (15), the first fluid in the space between the first fluid flow path forming member and the first second fluid flow path forming member. Heat insulation layers are provided around the thermoelectric power generation element and around the second thermoelectric power generation element in the space between the first fluid flow path forming member and the second second fluid flow path forming member. It is preferable.

  By comprising in this way, the heat transfer from the 1st fluid flow path formation member to the 2nd fluid flow path formation member through the thermoelectric generation element is suppressed, As a result, from the part which is not in contact with the thermoelectric generation element The emission ratio of can be further reduced.

(17) In the thermoelectric generator according to any one of (14) to (16), the first fluid flow path forming member, the first second fluid flow path forming member, and the second second Both fluid flow path forming members are preferably made of metal.

  With this configuration, heat is efficiently transferred from the first fluid to the first fluid flow path forming member, and heat is efficiently transferred from the second fluid flow path forming member to the second fluid. As a result, lowering of the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is further suppressed.

(18) In the thermoelectric generator according to any one of (14) to (17), it is preferable that a heat exchange fin is disposed in the first fluid flow path.

  With such a configuration, heat can be efficiently transferred from the first fluid to the first fluid flow path forming member. As a result, lowering of the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is further suppressed.

(19) In the thermoelectric generator according to any one of (1) to (18), the first fluid intake portion and the first fluid discharge portion are disposed on side surfaces facing each other, and It is preferable that the two fluid intake part and the second fluid discharge part are arranged on the side surfaces facing each other.

  With this configuration, when a thermoelectric power generation system is configured using a plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices of the present invention, it becomes easier to connect the thermoelectric power generation devices.

(20) In the thermoelectric power generator according to any one of (1) to (18), each of the first fluid intake section and the first fluid discharge section is disposed on one side surface, and the second Each of the fluid intake portion and the second fluid discharge portion is preferably disposed on the other side surface.

  Also with this configuration, when a thermoelectric power generation system is configured using a plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices of the present invention, it becomes easier to connect the thermoelectric power generation devices.

(21) In the thermoelectric power generator according to any one of (1) to (20), it is preferable that the first fluid intake portion is disposed at a lower portion than the first fluid discharge portion.

  By comprising in this way, the bubble which may be contained in a 1st fluid comes to be naturally removed from a 1st fluid flow path along a flow, and can suppress the fall of thermoelectric power generation efficiency.

(22) The thermoelectric power generation system of the present invention is a thermoelectric power generation system including a plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices according to any one of (1) to (21), wherein the plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices are a first fluid. They are arranged in series as viewed from the flow path.

  For this reason, the thermoelectric power generation system of the present invention is a thermoelectric power generation device in which each of the thermoelectric power generation devices constituting the thermoelectric power generation system is suppressed from dissipating heat wastefully. This is a thermoelectric power generation system that is suppressed.

(23) In the thermoelectric power generation system according to (22), the plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices are preferably arranged in series as viewed from the second fluid flow path.

  By comprising in this way, the consistency of the 2nd fluid flow path and 1st fluid flow path in a thermoelectric power generation system can be improved, and the connection operation | work at the time of constructing a thermoelectric power generation system becomes easy.

(24) In the thermoelectric power generation system according to (23), it is preferable that the plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices are arranged in parallel as viewed from the second fluid flow path.

  Since the second fluid is usually more abundant than the first fluid, this configuration makes it possible to supply the fresh second fluid as it is to each thermoelectric generator, thereby reducing the thermoelectric generation efficiency. This is a thermoelectric power generation system that is further suppressed from being damaged.

  Hereinafter, a thermoelectric power generation apparatus and a thermoelectric power generation system according to the present invention will be described based on embodiments shown in the drawings.

[Embodiment 1]
FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment. 1 (a) is an exploded perspective view of a thermoelectric generator 100, a front view as viewed along an arrow A ₁ direction in FIG. 1 (b) Fig hot water passage forming member 110 1 (a) , and the FIG. 1 (c) is a front view when seen along a cold water flow path forming member 120 in the arrow a ₁ direction of FIG. 1 (a), FIG. 1 (d) is a thermoelectric generator 100 FIG. 1E is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B ₁ -B _{1 in} FIG.

  The thermoelectric power generation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment performs thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between a first fluid that mainly supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation and a second fluid having a temperature different from the first fluid. It is a thermoelectric generator. In the thermoelectric generator 100 according to Embodiment 1, hot water is used as the first fluid, and cold water is used as the second fluid.

As shown in FIG. 1, the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment includes a hot water flow path forming member 110, a cold water flow path forming member 120, and a thermoelectric power generation element 130.
A hot water flow path forming recess 111 is formed on one surface of the hot water flow path forming member 110, and a hot water intake part 112 and a hot water discharge part 113 are connected to the hot water flow path forming recess 111. The hot water flow path forming member 110 is made of a low thermal conductivity material.
On the other hand, a cold water flow path forming recess 121 is formed on one surface of the cold water flow path forming member 120, and a cold water intake part 122 and a cold water discharge part 123 are connected to the cold water flow path forming recess 121. . The cold water flow path forming member 120 is also made of the same low thermal conductivity material as the hot water flow path forming member 110.

  The thermoelectric generator 130 is disposed between one surface of the hot water flow path forming member 110 and one surface of the cold water flow path forming member 120. The hot water flow path forming member 110 and the cold water flow path forming member 120 are fastened by bolts and nuts (not shown).

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, the hot water flow path 114 (see FIG. 1B) forms the hot water flow path between the hot water flow path forming member 110 and the thermoelectric power generation element 130. It will be formed in the concave portion 111 for use. According to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, the portion of the hot water channel 114 that is not in contact with the thermoelectric power generation element 130 is covered with the hot water channel forming member 110 made of a low thermal conductive material. Become. For this reason, it is suppressed that heat is dissipated from this part, As a result, it is suppressed that thermoelectric power generation efficiency falls, and the objective of this invention is achieved.

  In the thermoelectric generator 100 according to Embodiment 1, the hot water flow path forming member 110 is made of an acrylic resin as a low thermal conductive material.

For this reason, according to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, since the acrylic resin has excellent heat insulation performance, it is suppressed as much as possible to reduce the thermoelectric power generation efficiency. Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment, since the acrylic resin has a relatively large elastic coefficient, the adhesion between the hot water flow path forming member 110 and the thermoelectric generator 130 is improved, It is suppressed as much as possible that hot water leaks from the hot water flow path 114. Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment, since the acrylic resin has translucency, the inside of the hot water channel 114 can be monitored at all times, and clogging in the hot water channel 114 is prevented. It is possible to detect in advance and suppress performance degradation or breakage of the thermoelectric generator as much as possible.
In addition to acrylic resin, polyolefin resin, polycarbonate resin, polyacetal resin, polyamide resin, polyimide resin, epoxy resin, polyethylene terephthalate resin, vinyl chloride resin and the like can be preferably used as the resin material.

  In the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment, the cold water flow path forming member 120 is also made of an acrylic resin, like the hot water flow path forming member 110.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric power generation device 100 according to the first embodiment, the acrylic resin has a relatively large elastic coefficient, and thus the adhesion between the cold water flow path forming member 120 and the thermoelectric power generation element 130 is improved. The leakage of cold water from the cold water flow path 124 (see FIG. 1C) is suppressed as much as possible. Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment, since the acrylic resin has translucency, the inside of the cold water passage 124 can be constantly monitored, and clogging in the cold water passage 124 and the like can be performed. It is possible to detect in advance and suppress performance degradation or breakage of the thermoelectric generator as much as possible.

  In addition, according to the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment, the hot water flow path forming member 110 and the cold water flow path forming member 120 are both made of acrylic resin, and thus the hot water flow path forming member 110 and the cold water. Deterioration of the thermoelectric generator due to the difference in coefficient of thermal expansion in the flow path forming member 120 can be minimized, and the long-term reliability of the thermoelectric generator can be improved. Further, the manufacture of the thermoelectric generator can be facilitated.

  In the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment, the hot water flow path forming recess 111 and the cold water flow path forming recess 121 are grooves formed in a zigzag shape in the flow traveling direction.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, the flow of hot water in the hot water flow channel 114 and the flow of cold water in the cold water flow channel 124 are made smoother, thereby further improving the thermoelectric power generation efficiency. Can be improved.

  As shown in FIG. 1 (d), the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment is arranged such that the facing surfaces of the hot water flow path forming member 110 and the cold water flow path forming member 120 are along the vertical direction. It has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. And the warm water intake part 112, the warm water discharge part 113, the cold water intake part 122, and the cold water discharge part 123 are arrange | positioned at the side surface of this rectangular parallelepiped.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric power generation device 100 according to the first embodiment, when a thermoelectric power generation system is configured using a plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices 100, it becomes easy to connect the thermoelectric power generation devices to each other.

  In the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment, each of the hot water intake unit 112 and the hot water discharge unit 113 is arranged on one side, and each of the cold water intake unit 122 and the cold water discharge unit 123 is arranged on the other side. Has been.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric power generation device 100 according to the first embodiment, when a thermoelectric power generation system is configured by using a plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices 100, it becomes easier to connect the thermoelectric power generation devices.

  In the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment, the hot water intake unit 112 is disposed at a lower part than the hot water discharge part 113, and the cold water intake part 122 is disposed at a lower part than the cold water discharge part 123.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment, the bubbles are naturally removed from the hot water channel 114 or the cold water channel 124 according to the water flow in both the hot water channel 114 and the cold water channel 124. Become.

[Embodiment 2]
FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment. 2 (a) is an exploded perspective view of a thermoelectric generator 200, and FIG. 2 (b) is a front view as viewed along the hot water flow path forming member 210 in the arrow A ₂ direction shown in FIG. 2 (a) , and the FIG. 2 (c) is a front view as viewed along an arrow a ₂ direction shown in FIG. 2 (a) cold water flow path forming member 220, FIG. 2 (d) of the thermoelectric generator 200 2 is a perspective view, and FIG. 2E is a B ₂ -B ₂ cross-sectional view of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment has a configuration that is very similar to that of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, but the hot water flow path forming member 210 and the thermoelectric power generation element. 230 is different in that the packing 240 is disposed between the cooling water flow path forming member 220 and the thermoelectric generator 230.

  As described above, the thermoelectric generator 200 according to the second embodiment includes the packing 240 between the hot water flow path forming member 210 and the thermoelectric power generation element 230 and between the cold water flow path forming member 220 and the thermoelectric power generation element 230. Although different from the case of the thermoelectric power generation device 100 according to the first embodiment in that they are respectively arranged, a portion of the hot water flow channel 214 that is not in contact with the thermoelectric power generation element 230 is a member for forming a hot water flow channel made of a low thermal conductive material. Since it is covered with 210, similarly to the case of the thermoelectric power generation device 100 according to the first embodiment, heat is prevented from being dissipated from the hot water flow path 214, and as a result, the thermoelectric power generation efficiency may be reduced. It is suppressed.

  Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 200 according to the second embodiment, the packing 240 is provided between the hot water flow path forming member 210 and the thermoelectric power generation element 230 and between the cold water flow path forming member 220 and the thermoelectric power generation element 230. Since it is arranged, it also has the following effects.

That is, the surface of the thermoelectric generator 230 facing the hot water flow path forming member 210 and the cold water flow path forming member 220 is made of a heat conductive ceramic having an extremely small elastic coefficient. For this reason, it is not so easy to improve the adhesion between the hot water flow path forming member 210 and the thermoelectric power generation element 230 and between the cold water flow path forming member 220 and the thermoelectric power generation element 230.
However, according to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment, packing is provided between the hot water flow path forming member 210 and the thermoelectric power generation element 230 and between the cold water flow path forming member 220 and the thermoelectric power generation element 230, respectively. Since 240 is disposed, it becomes easy to improve the adhesion between the hot water flow path forming member 210 and the thermoelectric power generation element 230 and between the cold water flow path forming member 220 and the thermoelectric power generation element 230. As a result, leakage of hot water from the hot water flow path 214 and leakage of cold water from the cold water flow path 224 are suppressed as much as possible.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the packing 240 is provided between the hot water flow path forming recess 211 and the thermoelectric generator 230 and between the cold water flow path forming recess 221 and the thermoelectric generator 230. The shape is such that no packing is disposed.

[Embodiment 3]
FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment. Figure 3 (a) is an exploded perspective view of a thermoelectric generator 300, a front view as viewed along an arrow A ₃ direction in FIG. 3 (b) 3 hot water flow path forming member 310 (a) , and the FIG. 3 (c) is a front view as viewed along the cold water flow path forming member 320 in the arrow a ₃ direction of FIG. 3 (a), FIG. 3 (d) of the thermoelectric generator 300 3 is a perspective view, and FIG. 3E is a B ₃ -B ₃ cross-sectional view of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the thermoelectric power generation device 300 according to the third embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the thermoelectric power generation device 100 according to the first embodiment, but the hot water flow path forming member 310 and the thermoelectric power generation element. 330 and the cold water flow path forming member 320 and the thermoelectric power generation element 330 are different in that a heat conductive plate 350 made of aluminum, which is a highly heat conductive material, is disposed.

  As described above, the thermoelectric generator 300 according to the third embodiment has high thermal conductivity between the hot water flow path forming member 310 and the thermoelectric power generation element 330 and between the cold water flow path forming member 320 and the thermoelectric power generation element 330. Unlike the case of the thermoelectric generator 100 according to the first embodiment in that the heat conductive plates 350 made of materials are respectively disposed, the portions of the hot water flow path 314 that are not in thermal contact with the thermoelectric generator 330 are low in thermal conductivity. Since it is covered with the hot water flow path forming member 310 made of the material, the heat is prevented from being dissipated from the hot water flow path 314 as in the case of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. Decreasing thermoelectric power generation efficiency is suppressed.

  Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 300 according to the third embodiment, high thermal conductivity is provided between the hot water flow path forming member 310 and the thermoelectric power generation element 330 and between the cold water flow path forming member 320 and the thermoelectric power generation element 330. Since the heat conductive plates 350 made of aluminum as a material are respectively disposed, the following effects are also obtained.

That is, heat from the hot water flowing through the hot water flow path 314 is transmitted to the thermoelectric power generation element 330 via the heat conduction plate 350, and heat of the thermoelectric power generation element 330 is transmitted to the cold water flowing through the cold water flow path 324 via the heat conduction plate 350. Therefore, the area where thermoelectric power generation is performed in the thermoelectric power generation element 330 is increased, and the thermoelectric power generation efficiency can be improved.
Further, since aluminum is used as the material of the heat conduction plate 350, the adhesion between the hot water flow path forming member 310 and the heat conduction plate 350 and between the cold water flow path forming member 320 and the heat conduction plate 350 is improved. As a result, it is possible to suppress the leakage of hot water from the hot water flow path 314 and the leakage of cold water from the cold water flow path 324 as much as possible.

  In the thermoelectric generator 300 according to the third embodiment, aluminum is used as the high thermal conductivity material. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and copper, titanium, a titanium alloy, an aluminum alloy, stainless steel, or the like is preferably used. it can.

  In the thermoelectric generator 300 according to the third embodiment, a thermally conductive grease is applied between the thermally conductive plate 350 and the thermoelectric generator 330.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment, heat is efficiently transmitted from the heat conducting plate 350 to the thermoelectric power generation element 330, and thus thermoelectric power generation efficiency is improved.

  In the thermoelectric generator 300 according to the third embodiment, the case where the heat conductive grease is applied between the heat conductive plate 350 and the thermoelectric generator 330 has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In addition, a heat conductive sheet or a heat conductive double-sided tape may be disposed.

[Embodiment 4]
FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment. 4 (a) is an exploded perspective view of a thermoelectric generator 400, a front view as viewed along an arrow A ₄ direction in FIG. 4 (b) FIG. 4 the hot water flow path forming member 410 (a) , and the FIG. 4 (c) is a front view as viewed along the cold water flow path forming member 420 in the arrow a ₄ direction of FIG. 4 (a), FIG. 4 (d) of the thermoelectric generator 400 4 is a perspective view, and FIG. 4E is a B ₄ -B ₄ cross-sectional view of FIG. FIG. 5 is an external view for explaining a thermoelectric generator 400 according to the fourth embodiment. 5 (a) is a front view as viewed along the arrow A ₄ direction shown in FIG. 4 (a) a thermoelectric generator 400, FIG. 5 (b) viewed from the direction of arrow C in FIGS. 5 (a) FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment has a configuration that is very similar to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment. The difference is that the packing 440 is disposed between the heat conduction plate 450 and between the cold water flow path forming member 420 and the heat conduction plate 450.

  Thus, in the thermoelectric generator 400 according to the fourth embodiment, the packing 440 is provided between the hot water flow path forming member 410 and the heat conduction plate 450 and between the cold water flow path formation member 420 and the heat conduction plate 450. Although it is different from the case of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment in that they are respectively arranged, the third embodiment has the same configuration as the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment in other points. This has the same effect as that of the thermoelectric generator 300 according to the above.

  Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 400 according to the fourth embodiment, the packing 440 is provided between the hot water flow path forming member 410 and the heat conduction plate 450 and between the cold water flow path formation member 420 and the heat conduction plate 450. Since they are respectively arranged, it becomes easy to improve the adhesion between the hot water flow path forming member 410 and the heat conduction plate 450 and between the cold water flow path formation member 420 and the heat conduction plate 450. As a result, there is also an effect that the hot water leaks from the hot water flow path 414 and the cold water leaks from the cold water flow path 424 are further suppressed.

  As shown in FIG. 4A, the packing 440 is disposed between the hot water channel forming recess 411 and the heat conduction plate 450 and between the cold water channel forming recess 421 and the heat conduction plate 450. The shape is such that no packing is disposed.

[Embodiment 5]
FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric power generation device 500 according to the fifth embodiment. 6A is a front view of the hot water flow path forming member 510 viewed from the same direction as FIG. 1B, and FIG. 6B is a front view of the cold water flow path forming member 520 shown in FIG. It is the front view seen from the same direction.
As shown in FIG. 6, the thermoelectric power generation device 500 according to the fifth embodiment has a configuration that is very similar to the thermoelectric power generation device 400 according to the fourth embodiment, but the hot water intake unit 512, the hot water discharge unit 513, and The positions where the cold water intake part 522 and the cold water discharge part 523 are arranged (and the layout of the hot water flow path 514 and the cold water flow path 524 are different).

  As described above, the thermoelectric power generation device 500 according to the fifth embodiment includes the hot water intake unit 512 and the hot water discharge unit 513, the position where the cold water intake unit 522 and the cold water discharge unit 523 are disposed (and the hot water flow path accordingly). 514 and the layout of the cold water flow path 524) are different from the case of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment, but have the same configuration as the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment in other points, This has the same effect as that of the thermoelectric generator 400 according to the fourth embodiment.

  Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 500 according to the fifth embodiment, the hot water intake unit 512 and the hot water discharge unit 513 are arranged on the side surfaces (the left side surface and the right side surface in FIG. 6A) that are opposed to each other. Since the intake part 522 and the cold water discharge part 523 are arranged on the side surfaces facing each other (the right side surface and the left side surface in FIG. 6B), a thermoelectric power generation system is configured using a plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices 500. In this case, there is an effect that it becomes easier to connect adjacent thermoelectric generators.

  In the thermoelectric generator 500 according to the fifth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the hot water channel 514 and the cold water channel 524 include hot water or bubbles that may be contained in the cold water. In order to be removed naturally from the channel 524, the height of the upper surface of the channel is configured to increase monotonously in accordance with the flow direction.

[Embodiment 6]
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric power generation device 600 according to the sixth embodiment. 7A is a front view of the hot water flow path forming member 610 as viewed from the same direction as FIG. 1B, and FIG. 7B is a front view of the cold water flow path forming member 620 of FIG. It is the front view seen from the same direction.
As shown in FIG. 7, the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 600 according to the sixth embodiment has a configuration that is very similar to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 500 according to the fifth embodiment, but the cold water intake unit 622 is more than the cold water discharge unit 623. Is different in that it is arranged in the high part.

  As described above, the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 600 according to the sixth embodiment is different from the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 500 according to the fifth embodiment in that the cold water intake unit 622 is disposed higher than the cold water discharge unit 623. In addition, since it has the same configuration as that of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 500 according to the fifth embodiment, the same effect as that of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 500 according to the fifth embodiment is obtained.

  Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 600 according to the sixth embodiment, the hot water flowing through the hot water flow path 614 and the cold water flowing through the cold water flow path 624 flow in directions opposite to each other. The thermoelectric power generation efficiency can be further improved by making the temperature difference between water and cold water more uniform.

[Embodiment 7]
FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 700 according to the seventh embodiment. 8A is a front view of the hot water flow path forming member 710 viewed from the same direction as FIG. 1B, and FIG. 8B is a front view of the cold water flow path forming member 720 of FIG. It is the front view seen from the same direction.
As shown in FIG. 8, the thermoelectric generator 700 according to the seventh embodiment has a structure that is very similar to the thermoelectric generator 500 according to the fifth embodiment, but the hot water flow path forming recess 711 and the cold water flow path. The formation recess 721 is different in that it is not a groove formed in a zigzag shape in the flow direction, but a recess having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape.

  As described above, in the thermoelectric generator 700 according to the seventh embodiment, the hot water flow path forming concave portion 711 and the cold water flow path forming concave portion 721 are not a groove formed in a zigzag shape in the flow direction, but a substantially rectangular parallelepiped. Although it is different from the case of the thermoelectric generator 500 according to the fifth embodiment in that it is a concave portion having a shape, the embodiment has the same configuration as that of the thermoelectric generator 500 according to the fifth embodiment except for this point. 5 has the same effect as that of the thermoelectric generator 500 according to the fifth embodiment.

  In addition, according to the thermoelectric generator 700 according to the seventh embodiment, the hot water flow path forming concave portion 711 and the cold water flow path forming concave portion 721 are not grooves formed in a zigzag shape in the flow direction, but a substantially rectangular parallelepiped. Since the concave portion has a shape, it becomes easy to manufacture the hot water flow path forming member 710 and the cold water flow path forming member 720, and it is easy to reduce the manufacturing cost. According to the thermoelectric generator 700, the contact area between hot water or cold water and the thermoelectric power generation element 730 (not shown) is increased, so that the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is also increased.

[Embodiment 8]
FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric power generation device 800 according to the eighth embodiment.
The thermoelectric power generation device 800 according to the eighth embodiment has a structure that is very similar to the thermoelectric power generation device 400 according to the fourth embodiment, but as shown in FIG. 9, a hot water flow path forming member 810 and a cold water flow path. The difference is that the forming member 820 is made of alumina as ceramic.

  As described above, the thermoelectric power generation device 800 according to the eighth embodiment is the case of the thermoelectric power generation device 400 according to the fourth embodiment in that the hot water flow path forming member 810 and the cold water flow path forming member 820 are made of alumina as ceramics. However, since the configuration is the same as that of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment, the same effect as that of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 500 according to the fifth embodiment is obtained.

Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 800 according to the eighth embodiment, since the hot water flow path forming member 810 and the cold water flow path forming member 820 are made of alumina as ceramics, alumina has excellent heat insulating performance. Further, the reduction in thermoelectric power generation efficiency is further suppressed.
In addition to alumina, magnesia, zirconia, etc. can be preferably used as the ceramic material.

[Embodiment 9]
FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 900 according to the ninth embodiment.
The thermoelectric power generation apparatus 900 according to the ninth embodiment has a structure that is very similar to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment. However, as shown in FIG. It differs in that it is made of aluminum.

  As described above, the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 900 according to the ninth embodiment is different from the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment in that the cold water flow path forming member 920 is made of aluminum as a metal. Then, since it has the structure similar to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 which concerns on Embodiment 4, it has an effect similar to the case of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 which concerns on Embodiment 4. FIG.

  Further, according to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 900 according to the ninth embodiment, since the cold water flow path forming member 920 is made of aluminum as a metal, the heat is efficiently radiated from the cold water heated by the thermoelectric power generation. In addition, the reduction in thermoelectric power generation efficiency is suppressed as much as possible.

[Embodiment 10]
FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric generator 1000 according to the tenth embodiment.
The thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1000 according to the tenth embodiment has a structure that is very similar to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment. However, as shown in FIG. The difference is that 1051 and 1053 are formed.

  As described above, the thermoelectric generator 1000 according to the tenth embodiment is different from the thermoelectric generator 400 according to the fourth embodiment in that the heat exchange fins 1051 and 1053 are formed on the heat conductive plates 1050 and 1052. In addition, since it has the same configuration as that of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment, the same effects as those of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment are obtained.

  Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 1000 according to the tenth embodiment, since the heat exchange fins 1051 and 1053 are formed on the heat conduction plates 1050 and 1052, the heat of the hot water is efficiently transmitted to the heat conduction plate 1050, and Since heat is efficiently transmitted from the heat conducting plate 1052 to the cold water, it is further suppressed that the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is lowered.

[Embodiment 11]
FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a thermoelectric generator 1100 according to the eleventh embodiment. 12A is a front view of the thermoelectric generator 1100 as viewed from the same direction as FIG. 1C, and FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line DD in FIG. In FIG. 12A, the packing 1140 is omitted.

  The thermoelectric generator 1100 according to the eleventh embodiment has a similar structure to the thermoelectric generator 400 according to the fourth embodiment, but between the hot water flow path forming member 1110 and the cold water flow path forming member 1120. The difference is that a plurality of (four in this case) thermoelectric generators 1130 are installed.

  As described above, the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1100 according to the eleventh embodiment is similar to the fourth embodiment in that a plurality of thermoelectric power generation elements 1130 are installed between the hot water flow path forming member 1110 and the cold water flow path forming member 1120. Although it is different from the case of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the present embodiment, the configuration is the same as that of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment except for the above points, and thus the same as the case of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment It has the effect of.

  Further, if a plurality of thermoelectric power generation elements 1130 are installed between the hot water flow path forming member 1110 and the cold water flow path forming member 1120 as in the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1100 according to the eleventh embodiment, the thermoelectric power generation is performed. A large-scale thermoelectric generator can be configured without being limited by the size of the element. Further, if a plurality of thermoelectric generators 1130 are connected in series, a high voltage output can be obtained.

[Embodiment 12]
FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment. 13 (a) is an exploded perspective view of the thermoelectric generator 1200, FIG. 13 (b) is a perspective view of the hot water flow path forming member 1210, and FIG. 13 (c) is a view of the cold water flow path forming member 1220. is a perspective view, FIG. 13 (d) is a perspective view of a thermoelectric generator 1200, FIG. 13 (e) is _B 5 -B ₅ cross section when viewed along an arrow _{a 5} direction shown in FIG. 13 (d) FIG.

  The thermoelectric power generation device 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment performs thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between a first fluid that mainly supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation and a second fluid having a temperature different from the first fluid. It is a thermoelectric generator. And also in the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1200 which concerns on Embodiment 12, similarly to the case of the thermoelectric power generation apparatuses 100-1100 which concern on Embodiment 1-11, warm water is used as a 1st fluid, and cold water is used as a 2nd fluid.

As shown in FIG. 13, the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment includes a hot water flow path forming member 1210, a hot water flow path forming lid plate 1250, a cold water flow path forming member 1220, and a cold water flow path formation. A lid plate 1252 for use and a thermoelectric power generation element 1230 are provided.
The hot water flow path forming member 1210 has a hot water flow path forming recess 1211 formed in a zigzag shape on one surface, a hot water intake portion 1212 (not shown) connected to the hot water flow path forming recess 1211, and the like. It has a hot water discharge part 1213 and is made of a highly thermally conductive material.
The hot water flow path forming lid plate 1250 closes the hot water flow path forming recess 1211 in the hot water flow path forming member 1210 to form a hot water flow path 1214.

The chilled water channel forming member 1220 has a chilled water channel forming recess 1221 formed in a zigzag shape on one surface, a chilled water intake unit 1221 (not shown) connected to the chilled water channel forming recess 1221, and the like. It has a cold water discharge part 1222 and is made of a highly thermally conductive material.
The cold water flow path forming lid plate 1252 closes the cold water flow path forming recess 1221 in the cold water flow path forming member 1220 to form the cold water flow path 1224.
The thermoelectric power generation element 1230 includes four thermoelectric power generation elements 1231, 1232, 1233, and 1234.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 13B and 13C, the hot water flow path forming concave portion 1211 and the cold water flow path forming concave portion 1221 are zigzag-shaped. Therefore, the heat from the hot water is efficiently transmitted to the thermoelectric power generation element 1230 via the hot water flow path forming member 1210 made of the high thermal conductivity material, and the heat from the thermoelectric power generation element 1230 is the high thermal conductivity material. It is efficiently transmitted to the cold water through the member 1220 for forming a cold water flow path. As a result, it is possible to reduce the rate of heat dissipation from the portion that is not in contact with the thermoelectric power generation element 1230, and to suppress the reduction in thermoelectric power generation efficiency.

  In addition, according to the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, the hot water flow path forming concave portion 1211 and the cold water flow path forming concave portion 1221 are formed in a zigzag shape, so that the flow of hot water in the hot water flow channel 1214 and The flow of cold water in the cold water flow path 1224 can be made smoother, and the thermoelectric power generation efficiency can be further improved.

  In the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, the hot water channel forming lid plate 1250, the hot water channel forming member 1210, the thermoelectric power generation element 1230, the cold water channel forming member 1220, and the cold water channel forming lid plate 1252. Are integrated by means such as bolts, nuts and screws. Thereby, it is suppressed that warm water leaks from the hot water flow path 1214 and cold water leaks from the cold water flow path 1224.

  In the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13E, the hot water flow path forming member 1210 is a low thermal conductive member 1270 (FIGS. 13A to 13D). Not shown.)

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, since the hot water flow path forming member 1210 is surrounded by the low thermal conductive member 1270, it is suppressed that heat is dissipated from this portion. As a result, a decrease in thermoelectric power generation efficiency is suppressed.

  In the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, the low thermal conductivity member 1270 is made of an acrylic resin. However, the thermoelectric generator of the present invention is not limited to this, and those made of a resin other than acrylic resin, those made of ceramics, a heat insulating member filled with a heat insulating material, etc. are preferably used. it can.

  In the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, between one surface of the hot water flow path forming member 1210 and the hot water flow path forming lid plate 1250 and one surface of the cold water flow path forming member 1220 and the cold water flow. Packings 1240 and 1242 are arranged between the path forming lid plate 1252 and the path forming lid plate 1252, respectively.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, the adhesion between the hot water flow path forming member 1210 and the hot water flow path forming lid plate 1250, and the cold water flow path forming member 1220 and the cold water flow path. It becomes easy to improve the adhesion between the forming lid plate 1252 and the cover plate 1252. As a result, leakage of hot water from the hot water flow path 1214 and leakage of cold water from the cold water flow path 1224 are suppressed.

  In the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to Embodiment 12, both the hot water flow path forming member 1210 and the cold water flow path forming member 1220 are made of aluminum as a metal.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, heat is efficiently transferred from the hot water to the hot water flow path forming member 1210, and the cold water flow path forming member 1220 heated by the thermoelectric power generation is efficiently transferred to the cold water. Heat is transmitted. As a result, lowering of the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is further suppressed.

  In the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, the hot water flow path forming member 1210 and the cold water flow path forming member 1220 are both made of the same metal (aluminum).

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, the deterioration of the thermoelectric generator due to the difference in thermal expansion coefficient between the hot water flow path forming member 1200 and the cold water flow path forming member 1220 is minimized. It is possible to improve the long-term reliability of the thermoelectric generator. Further, the manufacture of the thermoelectric generator can be facilitated.

  In the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, a plurality of heat exchange fins 1215 and 1225 are provided in the hot water channel forming recess 1211 and the cold water channel forming recess 1221.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, heat is efficiently transferred from the hot water to the hot water flow path forming member 1210, and heat is efficiently transferred from the cold water flow path forming member 1220 to the cold water. Therefore, the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is improved.

[Embodiment 13]
FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining a thermoelectric generator 1300 according to the thirteenth embodiment.
The thermoelectric generator 1300 according to the thirteenth embodiment has a structure that is very similar to the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, but as shown in FIG. 14, the other surface of the hot water flow path forming member 1310. What is the case of the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment in that a heat insulating layer 1360 is provided around the thermoelectric generator 1330 in the space between the cold water flow path forming member 1320 and the other surface? Is different.

  As described above, the thermoelectric generator 1300 according to the thirteenth embodiment is different from the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment in that the heat insulating layer 1360 is provided around the thermoelectric generator 1330. Since it has the same configuration as that of the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment, the same effect as that of the thermoelectric generator 1200 according to the twelfth embodiment is obtained.

  Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 1300 according to the thirteenth embodiment, since the heat insulating layer 1360 is provided around the thermoelectric generator 1330, the thermoelectric power from the hot water flow path forming member 1310 to the cold water flow path forming member 1320 is provided. Heat transfer not via the power generation element 1330 is suppressed, and as a result, the rate of heat dissipation from the portion not in contact with the thermoelectric power generation element 1330 can be further reduced.

[Embodiment 14]
FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining a thermoelectric generator 1400 according to the fourteenth embodiment.
The thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1400 according to the fourteenth embodiment has a structure very similar to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1300 according to the thirteenth embodiment. However, as shown in FIG. 15, the hot water flow path forming member 1410 has a low thermal conductivity. It is different from the case of the thermoelectric generator 1300 according to the thirteenth embodiment in that it is not surrounded by members.

  As described above, the thermoelectric generator 1400 according to the fourteenth embodiment is different from the thermoelectric generator 1300 according to the thirteenth embodiment in that the hot water flow path forming member is not surrounded by the low thermal conductivity member. Since the heat insulating layer 1460 is provided around the thermoelectric power generation element 1430, heat transfer from the hot water flow path forming member 1410 to the cold water flow path forming member 1420 without the thermoelectric power generation element 1430 is suppressed. The effect that the rate of heat dissipation from the portion not in contact with the thermoelectric generator 1430 can be further reduced is obtained.

[Embodiment 15]
FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining a thermoelectric generator 1500 according to the fifteenth embodiment.
The thermoelectric power generation device 1500 according to the fifteenth embodiment performs thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between a first fluid that mainly supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation and a second fluid having a temperature different from the first fluid. It is a thermoelectric generator. And in the thermoelectric generator 1500 which concerns on Embodiment 15, as shown in FIG. 16, water vapor | steam is used as a 1st fluid, and cold water is used as a 2nd fluid.

  As described above, the thermoelectric generator 1500 according to the fifteenth embodiment is different from the thermoelectric generator 1300 according to the thirteenth embodiment in that water vapor is used as the first fluid, but as shown in FIG. Since the forming member 1510 is surrounded by the low thermal conductive member 1570, similarly to the case of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1300 according to the thirteenth embodiment, it is suppressed that heat (heat) is dissipated from this portion, As a result, it is suppressed that thermoelectric power generation efficiency falls.

[Embodiment 16]
FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining a thermoelectric generator 1600 according to the sixteenth embodiment.
The thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1600 according to the sixteenth embodiment performs thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between a first fluid that mainly supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation and a second fluid having a temperature different from the first fluid. It is a thermoelectric generator. In the thermoelectric generator 1600 according to the sixteenth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, LNG (liquefied natural gas) is used as the first fluid and octane is used as the second fluid.

  As described above, the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1600 according to the sixteenth embodiment is different from the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1300 according to the thirteenth embodiment in that LNG is used as the first fluid and octane is used as the second fluid. As shown in FIG. 6, since the cold water flow path forming member 1610 is surrounded by the low thermal conductive member 1670, heat (cold heat) is dissipated from this portion as in the case of the thermoelectric generator 1600 according to the sixteenth embodiment. As a result, it is suppressed that the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is reduced.

[Embodiment 17]
18 and 19 are exploded perspective views of the thermoelectric generator 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining a thermoelectric generator 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment. 20A is a cross-sectional view of the thermoelectric generator 1700, and FIG. 20B is an exploded cross-sectional view of the thermoelectric generator 1700. FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a thermoelectric generator 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment.
Incidentally, FIG. 19, the thermoelectric generator 1700, is viewed from the opposite direction to the arrow _{A 6} in FIG.

  A thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1700 according to Embodiment 17 is a thermoelectric power generation apparatus that performs thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between hot water that mainly supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation and cold water, and is illustrated in FIGS. As shown, the hot water flow path forming member 1710, the two cold water flow path forming members (the first cold water flow path forming member 1720 and the second cold water flow path forming member 1740), and the two thermoelectric power generation elements (first 1 thermoelectric power generation element 1730 and second thermoelectric power generation element 1750).

  The hot water flow path forming member 1710 includes a hot water flow path forming member 1711, a hot water flow path forming cover plate 1715, and an O-ring 1717. The hot water flow path forming member 1711 is formed with a hot water flow path forming recess 1712, a groove partition wall 1713, and an O-ring groove 1714. Heat exchange fins 1716 are formed on the hot water flow path forming lid plate 1715. And it has a warm water flow path, a warm water intake part 1718 and a warm water discharge part 1719.

  The first cold water flow path forming member 1720 includes a cold water flow path forming member 1721, a cold water flow path forming lid plate 1725, and an O-ring 1727. The cold water flow path forming member 1721 is formed with a cold water flow path forming recess 1722, a groove partition wall 1723, and an O-ring groove 1724. And it has the cold water flow path, the cold water intake part 1728, and the cold water discharge part 1729.

  The second cold water flow path forming member 1740 includes a cold water flow path forming member 1741, a cold water flow path forming lid plate 1745 and an O-ring 1747. The cold water flow path forming member 1741 is formed with a cold water flow path forming recess 1742, a groove partition wall 1743, and an O-ring groove 1744. And it has the cold water flow path, the cold water intake part 1748, and the cold water discharge part 1749.

  The hot water flow path forming member 1711 and the cold water flow path forming members 1721 and 1741 are made of aluminum as a highly thermally conductive material.

For this reason, according to the thermoelectric generator 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment, the heat from the hot water flows through the first thermoelectric generator 1730 and the second thermoelectric generator 1750 arranged on both sides of the hot water flow path forming member 1710. Since the heat is transmitted to the cold water through the first thermoelectric power generation element 1730 and the second thermoelectric power generation element 1750, it is possible to further reduce the heat dissipation rate from the portion that is not in contact with the first thermoelectric power generation element 1750, thereby reducing the thermoelectric power generation efficiency. It is suppressed that it makes it.
At this time, since the hot water flow path forming member 1711 and the cold water flow path forming members 1721 and 1741 are made of a highly heat conductive material, it is further suppressed that heat is efficiently transmitted and the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is lowered. The

  In the thermoelectric generator 1700 according to Embodiment 17, the hot water flow path forming member 1710 may be surrounded by a low thermal conductivity member.

  With this configuration, since the hot water flow path forming member 1710 is surrounded by the low thermal conductivity member, heat can be prevented from being dissipated from this portion, and the hot water flow path forming member 1710 is in contact with the thermoelectric power generation element. It is possible to further reduce the heat dissipation rate from the non-existing portion.

  In the thermoelectric generator 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment, the surroundings of the first thermoelectric generator 1730 and the hot water flow path forming member 1710 in the space between the hot water flow path forming member 1710 and the first cold water flow path forming member 1720. A heat insulating layer may be provided around the second thermoelectric power generation element 1750 in the space between the first cold water flow path forming member 1740 and the second cold water flow path forming member 1740.

  With this configuration, heat transfer from the hot water flow path forming member 1710 to the first cold water flow path forming member 1720 without passing through the first thermoelectric generator 1730, or from the hot water flow path forming member 1710 to the second The heat transfer to the cold water flow path forming member 1740 without the second thermoelectric power generation element 1750 is suppressed, and as a result, the first thermoelectric power generation element 1730 and the second thermoelectric power generation element 1750 are not in contact with each other. The emission rate can be further reduced.

  In the thermoelectric generator 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment, heat exchange fins 1716 are arranged in the hot water flow path forming member 1710.

  For this reason, in the thermoelectric generator 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment, heat is efficiently transmitted from the hot water to the hot water flow path forming member 1710. As a result, lowering of the thermoelectric power generation efficiency is further suppressed.

  A total of 20 thermoelectric power generation elements (10 first thermoelectric power generation devices 1730 and 10 second thermoelectric power generation devices 1750) are installed in the thermoelectric power generation device 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric generator 1700 which concerns on Embodiment 17, it becomes possible to comprise a large sized thermoelectric generator, without being restrict | limited to the magnitude | size of a thermoelectric power generation element. Further, if 20 thermoelectric generators are connected in series, a high voltage output can be obtained.

[Embodiment 18]
FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining a thermoelectric generator 1800 according to the eighteenth embodiment. FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view of the thermoelectric generator 1800, and FIG. 22B is an exploded cross-sectional view of the thermoelectric generator 1800.
The thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1800 according to the eighteenth embodiment has a structure similar to that of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment, but as shown in FIG. 18, the hot water flow path forming member 1810 is a low thermal conductivity member. It is different from the case of the thermoelectric generator 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment in that it is surrounded by 1870.

  As described above, the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1800 according to the eighteenth embodiment is different from the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment in that the hot water flow path forming member is surrounded by the low thermal conductivity member. Since it is the same as that of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment, the same effect as that of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment is obtained.

  Further, according to the thermoelectric generator 1800 according to the eighteenth embodiment, since the hot water flow path forming member 1810 is surrounded by the low thermal conductive member 1870, heat is prevented from being dissipated from this portion, and as a result. It is suppressed that thermoelectric power generation efficiency falls.

[Embodiment 19]
FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining a thermoelectric generator 1900 according to the nineteenth embodiment. FIG. 23A is a cross-sectional view of the thermoelectric generator 1900, and FIG. 23B is an exploded cross-sectional view of the thermoelectric generator 1900.
The thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1900 according to the nineteenth embodiment has a structure very similar to that of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment, but as shown in FIG. 19, the structure of the hot water flow path forming member 1910 is an embodiment. This is different from the case of the thermoelectric generator 1700 according to FIG.

  That is, in the thermoelectric generator 1900 according to the nineteenth embodiment, the hot water flow path forming member 1910 includes a hot water flow path forming frame 1911, hot water flow path forming cover plates 1914 and 1916, and O-rings 1918 and 1919. Yes. O-ring grooves 1912 and 1913 are formed in the hot water flow path forming frame 1911. Heat exchange fins 1915 are formed on the hot water flow path forming lid plate 1914. Heat exchange fins 1917 are formed on the hot water flow path forming lid plate 1916. And it has a warm water flow path, a warm water intake part, and a warm water discharge part.

  As described above, the thermoelectric power generation device 1900 according to the nineteenth embodiment is different from the thermoelectric power generation device 1700 according to the seventeenth embodiment in the structure of the hot water flow path forming member, but otherwise the thermoelectric power generation according to the seventeenth embodiment. Since it is the same as the apparatus 1700, it has the same effect as the case of the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 1700 which concerns on Embodiment 17. FIG.

  In addition, according to the thermoelectric generator 1900 according to the nineteenth embodiment, since the hot water flow path forming frame 1911 is made of a low thermal conductive material, heat is prevented from being dissipated from this portion, and as a result, the thermoelectric power generation is performed. It is further suppressed that efficiency is lowered.

[Embodiment 20]
FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment. The thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment is a thermoelectric power generation system including a number of thermoelectric power generation devices as shown in FIG. As the thermoelectric generator, the thermoelectric generator 500 according to the fifth embodiment is used. The plurality of thermoelectric generators 500,..., 500 are arranged in series as viewed from the hot water flow path.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment, each thermoelectric power generation device 500 constituting the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 is suppressed from dissipating heat from the hot water flow path. Therefore, the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 as a whole is prevented from wastefully dissipating heat from the hot water flow path, and the thermoelectric power generation is suppressed as much as possible from reducing the thermoelectric power generation efficiency as a whole. System.

  In the thermoelectric generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 24, the bottom row thermoelectric generator and the top row thermoelectric generator are arranged such that the hot water flow path forming member is located on the front side. The thermoelectric generators in the middle are arranged so that the hot water flow path forming member is located on the back side.

  Therefore, in the bottom row thermoelectric generator and the top row thermoelectric generator, the hot water intake portion is disposed on the left side surface of FIG. 24 and the hot water discharge portion is disposed on the right side surface. On the other hand, in the middle thermoelectric generator, the hot water intake section is disposed on the right side, and the hot water discharge section is disposed on the left side. In the bottom row thermoelectric generator and the top row thermoelectric generator, the cold water intake section is disposed on the right side, and the cold water discharge section is disposed on the left side. On the other hand, in the middle thermoelectric generator, the cold water intake portion is disposed on the left side surface, and the cold water discharge portion is disposed on the right side surface.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 24, a pipe for supplying hot water to each thermoelectric power generation apparatus 500 and a pipe for supplying cold water to each thermoelectric power generation apparatus 500 The layout becomes simple.

  Further, in the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment, the plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices 500 are arranged in series even when viewed from the cold water flow path.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment, the consistency between the cold water flow path and the hot water flow path in the thermoelectric power generation system can be improved, and the connection work when constructing the thermoelectric power generation system is easy. Become.

[Embodiment 21]
FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining the thermoelectric power generation system 2100 according to the twenty-first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 25, the thermoelectric power generation system 2100 according to the twenty-first embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment, but in the thermoelectric power generation system 2100 according to the twenty-first embodiment. The plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices 500,..., 500 are different from the case of the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment in that the thermoelectric power generation devices 500,.

  As described above, the thermoelectric power generation system 2100 according to the twenty-first embodiment is the case of the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment in that a plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices 500, ..., 500 are arranged in parallel as viewed from the cold water flow path. However, since it has the same configuration as that of the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment in other respects, it has the same effect as that of the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment.

  In addition, according to the thermoelectric power generation system 2100 according to the twenty-first embodiment, since the plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices 500,... It becomes possible to supply to 500, and a thermoelectric power generation system in which the reduction in thermoelectric power generation efficiency is further suppressed is obtained.

[Embodiment 22]
FIG. 26 is a diagram for explaining a thermoelectric power generation system 2200 according to the twenty-second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 26, the thermoelectric power generation system 2200 according to the twenty-second embodiment is a thermoelectric power generation system including a large number of thermoelectric power generation devices, similarly to the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment. As the thermoelectric generator, the thermoelectric generator 400 according to the fourth embodiment is used. The plurality of thermoelectric generators 400,..., 400 are arranged in series as viewed from the hot water flow path.

  As described above, the thermoelectric power generation system 2200 according to the twenty-second embodiment is different from the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment in the configuration of the thermoelectric power generation device constituting the thermoelectric power generation system. Are the thermoelectric power generation devices in which heat is prevented from being dissipated unnecessarily from the hot water flow path, the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 according to the twentieth embodiment, as in the case of the thermoelectric power generation system 2000. It becomes a thermoelectric power generation system in which reducing the power generation efficiency is suppressed as much as possible.

It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric power generator 100 which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 200 which concerns on Embodiment 2. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 300 which concerns on Embodiment 3. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 400 which concerns on Embodiment 4. FIG. It is an external view shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 400 which concerns on Embodiment 4. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 500 which concerns on Embodiment 5. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 600 which concerns on Embodiment 6. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric power generation apparatus 700 which concerns on Embodiment 7. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 800 which concerns on Embodiment 8. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 900 which concerns on Embodiment 9. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 1000 which concerns on Embodiment 10. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 1100 which concerns on Embodiment 11. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 1200 which concerns on Embodiment 12. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 1300 which concerns on Embodiment 13. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 1400 which concerns on Embodiment 14. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 1500 which concerns on Embodiment 15. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 1600 which concerns on Embodiment 16. FIG. FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of a thermoelectric generator 1700 according to Embodiment 17. FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of a thermoelectric generator 1700 according to Embodiment 17. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 1700 which concerns on Embodiment 17. FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the thermoelectric generator 1700 which concerns on Embodiment 17. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 1800 which concerns on Embodiment 18. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric generator 1900 which concerns on Embodiment 19. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric power generation system 2000 which concerns on Embodiment 20. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric power generation system 2100 which concerns on Embodiment 21. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric power generation system 2200 which concerns on Embodiment 22. FIG. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the thermoelectric power generation function of the thermoelectric power generation elements 2300 and 2302 used for a thermoelectric power generation system. It is a figure shown in order to demonstrate the conventional thermoelectric generator 2400. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900 ... thermoelectric generators, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 910, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310, 1410, 1510, 1610, 1711, 1811... Member for forming hot water flow path, 111, 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711, 811 , 911, 1011, 1111, 1211, 1311, 1411, 1511, 1611, 1712, recesses for forming a hot water flow path, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712, ... hot water intake part, 113, 213, 313 , 413, 513, 613, 713, 1 13 ... Warm water discharge part, 114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 614, 714, 1214, 1314, 1414 ... Warm water flow path, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620, 720, 820, 920, 1020, 1120, 1220, 1320, 1420, 1520, 1620, 1721, 1741, 1821, 1841, 1921, 1941 ... members for forming a cold water flow path, 121, 221, 321, 421, 521, 621, 721, 821, 921, 1021 , 1121, 1221, 1321, 1421, 1521, 1621, 1722, 1742 ... concave portions for forming a cold water flow path, 122, 222, 322, 422, 522, 622, 722, 1122, 1222 ... cold water intake portions, 123, 223 , 323, 423, 523, 623, 723, 1 23 ... Cold water discharge part, 124, 224, 324, 424, 524, 624, 724, 1224, 1324, 1424, 1524 ... Cold water flow path, 130, 230, 330, 430, 830, 930, 1030, 1130, 1230, 1231, 1232, 1233, 1334, 1330, 1430, 1530, 1630 ... thermoelectric generators, 240, 440, 1240, 1242, 1340, 1342, 1440, 1442, 1540, 1542, 1640, 1642 ... packing, 350, 450, 1050, 1052, 1150 ... heat conduction plate, 1051, 1053, 1215, 1225, 1315, 1325, 1415, 1425, 1515, 1525, 1615, 1625, 1716, 1915, 1917 ... fins for heat exchange, 1132 ... lead wires, 1 250, 1350, 1450, 1550, 1650, 1715, 1815, 1914, 1916 ... Hot water flow path forming cover plate, 1252, 1352, 1452, 1552, 1652, 1725, 1745, 1825, 1845, 1925, 1945 ... cold water flow Road forming cover plate, 1270, 1370, 1570, 1670, 1870 ... low thermal conductivity member, 1360, 1460, 1560, 1660 ... heat insulation layer, 1514 ... water vapor channel, 1614 ... LNG channel, 1624 ... octane channel, 1710, 1810, 1910 ... warm water flow path forming member, 1713, 1723, 1743 ... groove partition wall, 1714, 1724, 1744, 1912, 1913 ... O-ring groove, 1717, 1727, 1747, 1817, 1827, 1847, 1918 , 1919, 1927, 1 47 ... O-ring, 1720, 1820, 1920 ... first cold water flow path forming member, 1730, 1830, 1930 ... first thermoelectric power generation element, 1740, 1840, 1940 ... second cold water flow path forming member, 1750, 1850, 1950: second thermoelectric power generation element, 1911: hot water flow path forming frame, 2000, 2100, 2200 ... thermoelectric power generation system, 2300, 2302 ... thermoelectric power generation element, 2310N: N type semiconductor, 2310P: P type semiconductor, 2320H ... endothermic ceramic, 2320L ... heat dissipating side ceramic, 2330H ... endothermic side electrode, 2330L ... heat dissipating side electrode, 2400 ... thermoelectric generator, 2422 ... hot water flow path, 2422a ... top surface, 2422b ... bottom surface, 2422c ... side surface, 2424 ... Thermoelectric power generation element, 2426 ... cold water flow path, 2430, 2432, 2434 2436 ... Pipe, 2442 ... Hot water inlet, 2444 ... Hot water outlet, 2446 ... Cold water inlet, 2448 ... Cold water outlet, 2450, 2454, 2456, 2460 ... Flange, 2452, 2458 ... Rubber material, 2470, 2472 ... Heat exchange fins

Claims (24)

A thermoelectric power generation apparatus that performs thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between a first fluid that mainly supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation and a second fluid having a temperature different from the first fluid,
A first fluid flow path forming recess formed on one surface, and a first fluid intake section and a first fluid discharge section connected to the first fluid flow path forming recess; A first fluid flow path forming member,
A second fluid flow path forming recess having a second fluid flow path forming recess formed on one surface, and a second fluid intake portion and a second fluid discharge portion connected to the second fluid flow path forming recess. Members,
A thermoelectric generator,
The thermoelectric power generation element is disposed between the one surface of the first fluid flow path forming member and the one surface of the second fluid flow path forming member. apparatus. The thermoelectric generator according to claim 1,
High heat is generated between the one surface of the first fluid flow path forming member and the thermoelectric power generation element and between the one surface of the second fluid flow path forming member and the thermoelectric power generation element. A thermoelectric generator comprising a heat conductive plate made of a conductive material. The thermoelectric generator according to claim 2,
The thermoelectric generator is characterized in that heat exchange fins are formed on the heat conducting plate. In the thermoelectric generator in any one of Claims 1-3,
The thermoelectric generator according to claim 1, wherein the first fluid flow path forming member is made of resin. In the thermoelectric generator in any one of Claims 1-3,
The thermoelectric generator according to claim 1, wherein the first fluid flow path forming member is made of ceramics. In the thermoelectric power generator according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The thermoelectric generator according to claim 1, wherein the first fluid flow path forming member has translucency. The thermoelectric generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The second fluid flow path forming member is made of the same material as the first fluid flow path forming member. The thermoelectric generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
2. The thermoelectric generator according to claim 2, wherein the second fluid flow path forming member is made of metal. A thermoelectric power generation apparatus that performs thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between a first fluid that mainly supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation and a second fluid having a temperature different from the first fluid,
It has a first fluid flow path forming recess formed in a zigzag shape on one surface, and a first fluid intake section and a first fluid discharge section connected to the first fluid flow path formation recess, and has high heat conductivity. A first fluid flow path forming member made of a conductive material;
A first fluid flow path forming lid plate for closing the first fluid flow path forming recess in the first fluid flow path forming member;
A second fluid flow path forming recess formed in a zigzag shape on one surface, a second fluid intake section and a second fluid discharge section connected to the second fluid flow path forming recess, and high heat conduction A second fluid flow path forming member made of a conductive material;
A second fluid flow path forming lid plate for closing the second fluid flow path forming recess in the second fluid flow path forming member;
Thermoelectric power generation disposed between the other surface facing the one surface of the first fluid flow path forming member and the other surface facing the one surface of the second fluid flow path forming member A thermoelectric generator comprising the element. The thermoelectric generator according to claim 9,
The thermoelectric generator according to claim 1, wherein the first fluid flow path forming member is surrounded by a low thermal conductivity member. The thermoelectric generator according to claim 9 or 10,
A heat insulating layer is provided around the thermoelectric generator in a space between the other surface of the first fluid flow path forming member and the other surface of the second fluid flow path forming member. A thermoelectric generator characterized by that. The thermoelectric power generator according to any one of claims 9 to 11,
The first fluid flow path forming member and the second fluid flow path forming member are both made of metal. The thermoelectric generator according to any one of claims 9 to 12,
A thermoelectric generator according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of heat exchange fins are provided in the first fluid flow path forming recess and the second fluid flow path forming recess. A thermoelectric power generation apparatus that performs thermoelectric power generation using a temperature difference between a first fluid that mainly supplies energy for thermoelectric power generation and a second fluid having a temperature different from the first fluid,
A first fluid flow path forming member having a first fluid flow path, a first fluid intake section, and a first fluid discharge section;
A first fluid flow path forming member and a second fluid flow path forming member disposed on both sides of the first fluid flow path forming member; A second fluid flow path forming member;
A first thermoelectric generator disposed between the first fluid flow path forming member and the first second fluid flow path forming member;
A second thermoelectric generator disposed between the first fluid flow path forming member and the second second fluid flow path forming member;
At least a portion in contact with the first thermoelectric generation element in the first fluid flow path forming member and a portion in contact with the second thermoelectric generation element in the first fluid flow path forming member are made of a high thermal conductivity material. ,
At least a portion in contact with the first thermoelectric power generation element in the first second fluid flow path forming member and a portion in contact with the second thermoelectric power generation element in the second second fluid flow path forming member are: A thermoelectric generator comprising a highly heat conductive material. The thermoelectric generator according to claim 14,
The thermoelectric generator according to claim 1, wherein the first fluid flow path forming member is surrounded by a low thermal conductivity member. The thermoelectric generator according to claim 14 or 15,
Around the first thermoelectric power generation element and in the space between the first fluid flow path forming member and the first second fluid flow path forming member, the first fluid flow path forming member and the second second A thermoelectric generator, wherein a heat insulating layer is provided around each of the second thermoelectric generators in a space between the two fluid flow path forming members. The thermoelectric power generator according to any one of claims 14 to 16,
The first fluid flow path forming member, the first second fluid flow path forming member, and the second second fluid flow path forming member are all made of metal. The thermoelectric power generator according to any one of claims 14 to 17,
The thermoelectric generator according to claim 1, wherein heat exchange fins are disposed in the first fluid flow path. The thermoelectric power generator according to any one of claims 1 to 18,
The first fluid intake part and the first fluid discharge part are respectively disposed on side surfaces facing each other, and the second fluid intake part and the second fluid discharge part are respectively disposed on side surfaces facing each other. A thermoelectric power generator characterized by comprising: The thermoelectric power generator according to any one of claims 1 to 18,
Each of the first fluid intake part and the first fluid discharge part is disposed on one side surface, and each of the second fluid intake part and the second fluid discharge part is disposed on the other side surface. A thermoelectric generator characterized by. In the thermoelectric generator in any one of Claims 1-20,
The thermoelectric generator according to claim 1, wherein the first fluid intake portion is disposed at a lower portion than the first fluid discharge portion. A thermoelectric power generation system comprising a plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices according to any one of claims 1 to 21,
The thermoelectric power generation system, wherein the plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices are arranged in series as viewed from the first fluid flow path. The thermoelectric power generation system according to claim 22,
The thermoelectric power generation system, wherein the plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices are arranged in series as viewed from the second fluid flow path. The thermoelectric power generation system according to claim 22,
The thermoelectric power generation system, wherein the plurality of thermoelectric power generation devices are arranged in parallel as viewed from the second fluid flow path.