JP2011165976A - Thermoelectric converter and thermoelectric conversion method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a light weight and high performance power generation thermoelectric converter that efficiently converts heat energy into electric energy, and a thermoelectric conversion method thereof. <P>SOLUTION: A thermoelectric converter 1 includes a thermoelectric conversion module 10 with a built-in thermoelectric element that converts heat energy into electric energy by using a temperature difference between a high temperature side surface portion 15 and a low temperature side surface portion 16 in a module case 11 enclosed with the high temperature side surface portion 15, the low temperature side surface portion 16, and a side surface portion 17, a high temperature side fluid channel portion 20 disposed on a side of the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10, and a low temperature side fluid channel portion 30 disposed on a side of the low temperature side surface portion 16 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10. In the thermoelectric converter 1, the high temperature side fluid channel portion 20 is formed by connecting the high temperature side surface portion 15 of each thermoelectric conversion module 10 and a high temperature side fluid channel forming portion 25 that connects the adjacent thermoelectric conversion modules 10 by using two or more thermoelectric conversion modules 10. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a thermoelectric conversion device and a thermoelectric conversion method for converting thermal energy into electric energy by a temperature difference using a thermoelectric conversion element, and more specifically, a thermoelectric conversion device including two or more thermoelectric conversion modules, and The present invention relates to a thermoelectric conversion method.

  In recent years, the energy consumption of mankind has accelerated unprecedentedly with the development of industry and science and technology. As a result, the problem of global warming due to greenhouse gases such as CO2 has emerged. In order to suppress the generation of greenhouse gases as much as possible, the high-temperature heat energy that is currently discarded from internal combustion engines such as automobiles, as well as various industries such as gas incinerators and thermal power plants, can be used as much as possible. The production of power generators that recover energy is expected.

  As an electrical conversion device that recovers thermal energy as electrical energy, a thermoelectric conversion technique using a thermoelectric conversion element is well known. The thermoelectric conversion element utilizes the Seebeck effect that, when a temperature difference is given to both ends of a metal or a semiconductor, a potential difference is generated between a high temperature portion and a low temperature portion. In addition, the thermoelectric conversion element has a property that the power generation amount increases as the temperature difference increases. The thermoelectric conversion element is usually used in the form of a thermoelectric conversion module incorporating a plurality of thermoelectric conversion elements.

  For example, in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-119833), for the purpose of converting exhaust heat energy of an internal combustion engine into electric energy, the thermoelectric conversion module is brought into a pressed state by tightening with a band or the like, A structure in which a high temperature medium flow path and a cooling medium flow path are brought into contact with a high temperature surface and a low temperature surface of a thermoelectric conversion module to convert heat energy into electric energy is disclosed.

  In Non-Patent Document 1 ("Thermoelectric Conversion Engineering-Fundamentals and Applications"), a high-temperature side fluid as a heat source is circulated through a heat transfer tube provided in the center of the apparatus, and a plurality of heat is supplied around the heat transfer tube. A thermoelectric conversion device is disclosed that fixes a thermoelectric conversion module to a heat transfer tube surface in a pressed state by collectively tightening the electric conversion module with bolts and nuts, bands, or the like.

  FIG. 25 is a longitudinal sectional view of an example of a conventional thermoelectric conversion device 51 described in Non-Patent Document 1, Patent Document 2 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2009-88408), and the like. As shown in FIG. 25, a conventional thermoelectric conversion device 51 is formed using a member such as a pipe or a duct, and the high temperature side fluid flow path section 20 through which exhaust gas or the like flows, the thermoelectric conversion module 10, water, and the like. The low-temperature side fluid flow path portion 30 through which etc. flow is a separate member. Further, the high temperature side fluid flow path section 20, the thermoelectric conversion module 10, and the low temperature side fluid flow path section 30 are arranged between the pressing members 57, 57, and the pressing members 57, 57 are tightened with bolts and nuts 58. It is constituted by being done.

  In the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the thermoelectric conversion device 51, the surface portion on the high temperature side and the vicinity thereof are used at a high temperature of 200 ° C. or higher, or are used in a corrosive environment. For this reason, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is usually equipped with a thermoelectric conversion element or the like in order to protect the thermoelectric conversion element or the like built in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 from deterioration such as oxidation and improve reliability. 11 has a sealing structure sealed in the inside.

JP 2004-1119833 A JP 2009-88408 A

Sakatagai, “Thermoelectric Conversion Engineering: Fundamentals and Applications”, Realize, p. 349-363, (2001)

  However, the conventional thermoelectric conversion device 51 described in Non-Patent Document 1 and the like is not connected to the high temperature side fluid flow path forming unit 20 and the thermoelectricity unless the installation position of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 or the like and the tightening condition of the band are sufficient. There is a problem that contact thermal resistance at the contact surface 59 with the conversion module 10 is increased, heat input to the thermoelectric conversion element built in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is lowered, and sufficient performance may not be realized. there were.

  Further, when the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the conventional thermoelectric conversion device 51 described in Non-Patent Document 1 or the like is arranged around the heat transfer tube, the heat exchange amount with respect to the overall size of the device, that is, the heat exchange density is increased. In addition, there were problems such as being difficult to assemble and not suitable for mass production. For this reason, for example, when the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is used in an exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine such as an automobile, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is limited in installation location and has a sufficient number of thermoelectric conversion modules 10 that satisfy a required output. In addition, it is difficult to reduce the manufacturing cost of the thermoelectric conversion module 10.

  Further, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 of the conventional thermoelectric conversion device 51 described in Non-Patent Document 1 or the like is a separate member, the thermoelectric conversion module 10, and a member 25 constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path unit 20. Since the contact thermal resistance is generated at the contact surface 59, the amount of heat supplied to the thermoelectric conversion element built in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is reduced, and there is a problem that the power generation performance is deteriorated.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a thermoelectric conversion device and a thermoelectric conversion method that achieve efficient conversion from heat energy to electric energy and obtain a light-weight and high-performance power generation function. The purpose is to do.

  The present invention provides a thermoelectric conversion module by forming a high temperature side fluid flow path section with a high temperature side surface section of a thermoelectric conversion module and a high temperature side fluid flow path forming section connecting adjacent thermoelectric conversion modules. By arranging in a state of high density and low thermal resistance, the conversion efficiency from thermal energy to electrical energy in the thermoelectric conversion device is improved, the thermoelectric conversion device is lighter and has higher power generation performance, structural soundness and reliability It has been completed by finding that it is excellent in workability and workability such as mounting and maintenance.

  In addition, the present invention has been completed by finding that when the thermoelectric conversion module is held in an appropriate pressed state, structural soundness and reliability, and workability such as mounting and maintenance are more excellent.

  The thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention solves the above-described problems. In a module case surrounded by a high temperature side surface portion, a low temperature side surface portion, and a side surface portion, the high temperature side surface portion and the low temperature side Thermoelectric conversion module including a thermoelectric conversion element that converts thermal energy into electrical energy using a temperature difference between the side surface portions, and a high temperature side fluid provided on the high temperature side surface portion side of the thermoelectric conversion module In a thermoelectric conversion device comprising a flow path portion and a low temperature side fluid flow path portion provided on the low temperature side surface portion side of the thermoelectric conversion module, two or more thermoelectric conversion modules are used, and the high temperature side The fluid flow path part is formed by connecting a high temperature side surface part of each thermoelectric conversion module and a high temperature side fluid flow path forming part connecting adjacent thermoelectric conversion modules.

  Further, the thermoelectric conversion method according to the present invention solves the above-mentioned problem, and the high temperature side surface portion is included in a module case surrounded by a high temperature side surface portion, a low temperature side surface portion and a side surface portion. And a thermoelectric conversion module with a built-in thermoelectric conversion element that converts thermal energy into electric energy using a temperature difference between the surface portion and the low temperature side surface portion, and a high temperature provided on the high temperature side surface portion side of the thermoelectric conversion module In the thermoelectric conversion method using the thermoelectric conversion device provided with the side fluid flow path part and the low temperature side fluid flow path part provided on the low temperature side surface part side of the thermoelectric conversion module, the thermoelectric conversion apparatus Uses two or more thermoelectric conversion modules, and the high temperature side fluid flow path portion connects the high temperature side surface portion of each thermoelectric conversion module and the adjacent thermoelectric conversion modules. form And in a section that is formed by connecting, with circulating the hot side fluid to the hot side fluid flow path unit, and wherein the circulating the cold side fluid to the cold-side fluid passage portion.

  According to the thermoelectric conversion device and the thermoelectric conversion method according to the present invention, conversion from heat energy to electric energy becomes efficient, the thermoelectric conversion device is light in weight and has high power generation performance, and structural soundness and reliability. In addition, workability such as mounting and maintenance is excellent.

The perspective view of 1st Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention. Sectional drawing of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. The perspective view of an example of a thermoelectric conversion module. The perspective view of another example of a thermoelectric conversion module. The figure explaining the preparation process of a high temperature side fluid flow-path part. The figure explaining the preparation process of a high temperature side fluid flow-path part. The figure which looked at FIG. 6 from the flow path direction of the high temperature side fluid flow path. Sectional drawing of an example of a fin. Sectional drawing of an example of a fin. Sectional drawing of the modification of a thermoelectric converter. Sectional drawing of the 1st modification of a high temperature side fluid flow path formation part. Sectional drawing of the 2nd modification of a high temperature side fluid flow path formation part. The perspective view of the modification of the high temperature side fluid flow path formation part shown in FIG. Sectional drawing of the modification of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus using the modification of the high temperature side fluid flow path formation part shown in FIG. Sectional drawing of the 3rd modification of a high temperature side fluid flow path formation part. Sectional drawing of the 4th modification of a high temperature side fluid flow path formation part. The perspective view of 2nd Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention. Sectional drawing of 3rd Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention. Sectional drawing of 3rd Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention. The perspective view of 3rd Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. Sectional drawing of 4th Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention. The perspective view of 5th Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention. The perspective view of 6th Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention. The perspective view of 7th Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention. Sectional drawing of the conventional thermoelectric conversion apparatus.

  Embodiments of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a thermoelectric converter according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the thermoelectric converter shown in FIG.

  The thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 each having a thermoelectric conversion element built in a module case 11, and the high temperature side surface portion 15 side of the thermoelectric conversion module 10. And one low temperature side fluid flow path section 30 provided on the low temperature side surface section 16 side of each thermoelectric conversion module 10.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 includes the high temperature side surface portions 15 and 15 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10, and the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10. A high-temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25 that connects a part of the ten side surface portions 17 and 17 on the high-temperature side surface portion 15 side and the side surface portions 17 and 17 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10; Used to form a substantially rectangular cross section. The high temperature side fluid flow path section 20 forms a high temperature side fluid flow path 21 having a substantially rectangular cross section inside.

  A fin 40 having a comb-like cross section is provided between the high temperature side fluid flow path portions 20 and 20 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 in the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20.

  With such a configuration, the thermoelectric conversion device 1 has the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 formed on the center side of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 when the high temperature side fluid flow passage portion 20 is set to the center side, and the low temperature side The fluid flow path portion 30 is formed on the peripheral side of the thermoelectric conversion device 1.

  Hereinafter, each structure of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1 is demonstrated in detail.

(Thermoelectric conversion module)
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example of the thermoelectric conversion module. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another example of the thermoelectric conversion module.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 includes a box-shaped module case 11 surrounded by a high temperature side surface portion 15, a low temperature side surface portion 16, and four side surfaces 17.

  The module case 11 is usually manufactured by superposing the high temperature side member 12 including the high temperature side surface portion 15 and the low temperature side member 13 including the low temperature side surface portion 16 and joining them by welding or brazing.

  As the high temperature side member 12 and the low temperature side member 13, for example, the high temperature side surface portion 15 and the low temperature side surface portion 16 are used as the bottom, and the high temperature side surface portion 15 and the low temperature side surface portion 16 are open to face each other. And having a flange around the open end is used.

  When the high temperature side member 12 and the low temperature side member 13 provided with these flanges are overlapped and the flanges are joined to each other by welding or brazing, a flange 18 is formed around the side surface portion 17 as shown in FIG. Module case 11 is obtained.

  In the module case 11 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10, p-type and n-type thermoelectrics (not shown) that convert thermal energy into electrical energy using a temperature difference between the high-temperature side surface portion 15 and the low-temperature side surface portion 16. A conversion element is incorporated.

  Examples of thermoelectric conversion elements include rare earth elements, thorium, cobalt, nickel, iron, palladium, antimony, titanium, zirconium, hafnium, tin, cobalt, silicon, manganese, zinc, boron, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, gallium, and vanadium. Thermal-electric direct conversion semiconductors composed of at least three elements among barium, magnesium, chromium, tantalum, molybdenum, aluminum, and bismuth are used.

  As the thermo-electric direct conversion semiconductor, for example, a thermoelectric conversion material having a cobalt antimonide compound having a skutterudite type crystal structure as a main phase and a cobalt antimonide compound having a filled skutterudite type crystal structure are mainly used. At least one of thermoelectric conversion materials having a phase, thermoelectric conversion materials having a clathrate compound as a main phase, thermoelectric conversion materials having a half-Heusler compound as a main phase, or a compound, mixture or solid solution comprising these materials Etc. are used.

  In the thermoelectric conversion module 10, an n-type thermo-electric direct conversion semiconductor and a p-type thermo-electric direct conversion semiconductor are arranged on the low temperature side electrode disposed on the low temperature side surface portion 16 side and on the high temperature side surface portion 15 side. It is built in with the arranged high temperature side electrode. Specifically, in the thermoelectric conversion module 10, the first low-temperature side electrode, the n-type thermoelectric conversion semiconductor, the high-temperature side electrode, the p-type thermoelectric conversion semiconductor, and the second low-temperature side electrode are electrically connected in this order. Built-in in series connection.

  Thereby, the thermoelectric conversion element in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 converts thermal energy into electric energy using a temperature difference between the high temperature side surface portion 15 and the low temperature side surface portion 16 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10. Can be done.

  In the thermoelectric conversion module 10, a thermoelectric conversion element or the like is normally disposed on at least one of the high temperature side member 12 and the low temperature side member 13 constituting the module case 11, and then the high temperature side member 12 and the low temperature side member 13 are combined. It is manufactured by joining overlapping and joining parts such as flanges by welding or brazing.

  When the high temperature side member 12, the low temperature side member 13, and the flange are joined together, the resulting thermoelectric conversion module 10 has a flange 18 as shown in FIG. The flange 18 can be used as the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25.

  The high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is exposed to the high temperature side fluid. For this reason, the high temperature side surface portion 15 is exposed to a corrosive fluid or the like as a high temperature side fluid, or is exposed to a high temperature of 400 ° C. or higher, and in some cases, 800 ° C. or higher. For this reason, the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and the material of the high temperature side member 12 including the high temperature side surface portion 15 are required to have high corrosion resistance and high temperature strength. Further, when the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is manufactured using the high temperature side member 12, the high temperature side member 12 needs to be easily weldable and workable.

  For this reason, as the material of the high temperature side surface portion 15 and the high temperature side member 12 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10, the chromium molybdenum steel, which is a material satisfying corrosion resistance, high temperature strength, ease of welding and workability, Ferritic stainless steel or austenitic stainless steel is used.

  On the other hand, the low temperature side surface portion 16 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is adjacent to the low temperature side fluid flow path portion 30. In the low temperature side fluid flow path portion 30, a low temperature side fluid such as water normally circulates. When the low temperature side fluid is water, the temperature of the low temperature side fluid is usually 100 ° C. or less, for example, about the outside air temperature.

  For this reason, the material of the low temperature side surface portion 16 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and the low temperature side member 13 including the low temperature side surface portion 16 is sufficient if it has a heat resistance of about 150 ° C. For this reason, as a material of the low temperature side member 13 including the low temperature side surface portion 16 and the low temperature side surface portion 16 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10, for example, the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 or the high temperature side surface portion. The same material as that of the high temperature side member 12 including 15 can be used.

  The thermoelectric conversion module 10 may be a plate shape, and the outer shape is not limited to a rectangular shape. In the thermoelectric conversion module 10, the inside of the module case 11 is generally replaced with an inert gas and the pressure is maintained at atmospheric pressure or lower, and the thermoelectric conversion element and the like are hermetically sealed. As such a hermetically sealed module, for example, a gigatopaz (registered trademark) module manufactured by Toshiba Corporation can be used.

(High temperature side fluid flow path)
As shown in FIG. 2, the high-temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 includes two high-temperature side surface portions 15 and 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10, and a side surface portion 17 of each thermoelectric conversion module 10 and 10. 17 is connected to a portion on the high temperature side surface portion 15 side and a high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25 connecting the side surface portions 17 and 17 of two adjacent thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10. The cross section is formed in a substantially rectangular shape. Inside the high temperature side fluid flow path section 20, a high temperature side fluid flow path 21 having a substantially rectangular cross section is formed.

  Here, the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 25 means the entire member other than the thermoelectric conversion module 10 among the members constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path part 20. Specifically, the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 25 is configured to connect the side surface parts 17 and 17 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 to form the high temperature side fluid flow path part 20.

  The high temperature side fluid flow path forming unit 25 is configured by a high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26. Here, the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 is a member constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25. The high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 25 is obtained, for example, by joining two high temperature side fluid flow path forming members 26 by welding, brazing or the like.

  As the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26, when the thermoelectric conversion module 10 has the flange 18, the flange 18 can be used as the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 as it is. Further, as the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26, a plate material or the like prepared as a separate member from the flange 18 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 may be used.

  The flange 18 and the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 are not permeable so that the high temperature side fluid does not leak when the high temperature side fluid flow path section 20 is configured. .

  The material of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 is required to have the same characteristics as the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20. Specifically, the material of the high-temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 is required to have high corrosion resistance and high-temperature strength, as well as easy welding and workability.

  For this reason, as a material of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26, for example, the same material as the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is used.

  The high temperature side fluid flow path part 20 is formed by joining the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 25 or joining the high temperature side fluid flow path forming parts 25 to each other.

  5-7 is a figure explaining the preparation process of the high temperature side fluid flow-path part 20. As shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a view of FIG. 6 as viewed from the flow path direction of the high temperature side fluid flow path.

  5-7, when the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is provided with the flange 18, specifically, this flange 18 is used as the high temperature side fluid flow path formation member 26 of the high temperature side fluid flow path formation part 25, It is a figure explaining the manufacturing process which produces the high temperature side fluid flow-path part 20. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 4, when the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is provided with a flange 18 around the side surface portion 17, the flanges 18, 18 protruding from the opposite side surface portions 17, 17 are connected to the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26. When it is bent for use as a shape, a shape as shown in FIG. 5 is obtained. Two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 with the flange 18 bent in this way are produced.

  Next, when the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 in which the flange 18 is bent are joined to each other by welding, brazing or the like, the ends of the bent flange 18 are joined as shown in FIGS. As a result, the end portions of the flanges 18 and 18 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 are joined by the joining portion 28.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 joined at the tip portions of the flange 18 form a high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20. Specifically, the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 includes the high temperature side surface portions 15 and 15 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 and the side surface portions 17 and 17 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10. A high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25 formed by joining a part of the high temperature side surface portion 15 side and the distal end portions of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 formed from the flange 18 at a bonding portion 28; And has a substantially rectangular cross section.

  In the high temperature side fluid flow path forming unit 20, when the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 is produced by bending the flange 18, the flange 18 is connected to the high temperature side surface portions 15, 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10, 10. It is preferable to strongly bend and fix within the rigid range toward the approaching direction because compressive stress can be generated on the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 even at room temperature.

  In the high temperature side fluid flow path section 20, a high temperature side fluid flow path 21 having a substantially rectangular cross section is formed.

  In the high temperature side fluid flow path 21, high temperature side fluid such as automobile exhaust gas and exhaust gas from factories such as steelworks and ceramics normally circulates. The high temperature side fluid is, for example, about 400 ° C to 800 ° C.

  The inner surface of the high temperature side fluid flow path section 20 is exposed to a high temperature in the high temperature side fluid flow path 21, for example, a high temperature side fluid of about 400 ° C to 800 ° C. However, each member such as the high temperature side surface portion 15 and the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 is made of a material having high corrosion resistance and high temperature strength. Even if exposed to the high temperature side fluid, there is no problem in corrosion resistance and high temperature strength.

  It is desirable that the outer surface of the high-temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 is heat-insulated with the atmosphere, for example, by being covered with a heat insulating material made of glass fiber or the like.

(Low temperature side fluid flow path)
The low temperature side fluid flow path portion 30 is provided on the low temperature side surface portion 16 side of the thermoelectric conversion module 10. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the low temperature side fluid flow path portion 30 is surrounded by a low temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 35 and is formed in a rectangular cross section.

  Inside the low temperature side fluid flow path portion 30, a low temperature side fluid flow path 31 having a substantially rectangular cross section is formed. A low temperature side fluid such as water of 100 ° C. or lower normally circulates in the low temperature side fluid flow path section 30. When water is used as the low temperature side fluid, the water usually has a temperature of about the outside air temperature.

  For this reason, the material of the low temperature side fluid flow path forming part 35 is sufficient if it has a heat resistance of about 150 ° C. Further, the material of the low temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 35 is required to have a low specific gravity, a corrosion resistance against the low temperature side fluid, and a high thermal conductivity in order to reduce the weight.

  In view of heat resistance of about 150 ° C., low specific gravity, corrosion resistance, and high thermal conductivity, for example, an aluminum alloy such as A6061 subjected to anodizing treatment such as alumite treatment is applied as the material of the low temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 35. It is desirable to do.

  In the case where weight reduction, strength, and corrosion resistance are strongly required, it is effective to use a titanium alloy as the material of the low temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 35.

  On the other hand, when weight reduction is not required, austenitic stainless steel such as SUS304 may be used for the low temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 35.

  In the present embodiment, an example in which the low temperature side fluid flow path portion 30 and the low temperature side fluid flow path 31 are formed in a rectangular cross section is shown. The shape may be other than a rectangular cross section.

  For example, in order to improve the corrosion resistance and reduce the weight of the low temperature side fluid flow path section 30, the base material of the low temperature side fluid flow path formation section 35 is made of an aluminum alloy, and the low temperature side fluid flow path formation section 35 has a low temperature side fluid flow A separately annealed stainless steel pipe material may be embedded by HIP processing as a member forming the path portion.

  In this case, the low temperature side fluid flow path 31 has a circular cross section, and the low temperature side fluid flow path section 30 does not have a rectangular cross section, but the low temperature side surface 16 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 can be cooled. As long as it is a thing, there is no problem.

  Moreover, between the low temperature side fluid flow path part 30 and the thermoelectric conversion module 10, in order to reduce contact thermal resistance or to make temperature distribution uniform, silicon grease or a heat conductive sheet may be interposed.

  Furthermore, the low temperature side fluid flow path section 30 and the thermoelectric conversion module 10 are subjected to metallurgical joining such as welding and brazing, or mechanical joining such as caulking and extrusion, etc. at the contacted portion. Thus, the low-temperature side fluid flow path section 30 and the thermoelectric conversion module 10 may be integrated.

(fin)
The fin 40 is disposed between the high temperature side surface portions 15 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 in the high temperature fluid passage portion 20.

  The fin 40 is arrange | positioned so that the high temperature side surface parts 15 and 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 may be contacted.

  The fin 40 is for increasing the heat receiving capability, that is, for efficiently transferring the heat of the high temperature side fluid to the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 via the fin 40. When the fins 40 are provided, the thermal efficiency of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 is improved.

  When the fin 40 is exposed to a high temperature high temperature fluid, it thermally expands and presses the high temperature side surfaces 15 and 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10, so that the structural strength and reliability of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 are improved. Improve.

  Since the fin 40 is exposed to a high temperature high temperature fluid, the material of the fin 40 is required to have high corrosion resistance and high temperature strength. For this reason, the same material as the material of the high temperature side member 12 including the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 or the high temperature side surface portion 15 can be used as the material of the fin 40.

  The shape of the fin 40 is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a large number of plate members are arranged so that the longitudinal direction thereof coincides with the high-temperature side fluid flow path 21, and have a comb-like cross section. Used.

  Note that the shape of the fin 40 is not limited to a comb having a cross-sectional shape. For example, fins 40S, 40T, 40U, 40V having a cross-sectional shape as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B and FIGS. 9A and 9B can be used.

  The fins 40S and 40T shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B are preferable because they can be produced by press-molding a single plate material, and productivity and manufacturing cost are reduced.

  9A and 9B can be manufactured by using the fin constituent members 41 and 42 of the fin 40V, pressing the fin constituent members 41 and 42, and performing bonding or the like. .

  Among the fins 40S to 40V, the fin 40T is preferable because it is easy to manufacture and has high strength and heat receiving efficiency.

(Relationship between the linear expansion coefficient α _m of the material constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path section and the linear expansion coefficient α _f of the fin 40)
The material constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path section 20, that is, the linear expansion coefficient α _m of the high temperature side surface section 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and the high temperature side fluid flow path forming section 25, and the linear expansion coefficient α of the fin 40 _f is the following formula (1)
[Equation 1]
α _m <α _f (1)
It is preferable to satisfy the relationship.

  When the high-temperature fluid is circulated in the high-temperature fluid channel 21, generally, each member such as the high-temperature surface 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10, the high-temperature fluid channel forming unit 25, the fin 40, or the like Stiffness decreases.

  However, if the linear expansion coefficient between the material constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path section 20 and the fin 40 satisfies the relationship of the equation (1), when the high temperature side fluid is circulated in the high temperature side fluid flow path 21, The degree of expansion of the fin 40 is larger than that of the material constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20, that is, the high temperature side surface portion 15 and the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10. A compressive stress that presses the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is generated.

  The compressive stress from the fin 40 generates a compressive stress in each structure such as the thermoelectric conversion element inside the thermoelectric conversion module 10 via the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10. Thereby, the thermoelectric conversion device 1 is improved in stability and reliability during operation, that is, when the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 becomes high temperature.

(Function)
First, the high temperature fluid is circulated in the high temperature fluid passage 21 of the high temperature fluid flow passage 20 and the low temperature fluid is circulated in the low temperature fluid passage 31 of the low temperature fluid passage 30. As the high temperature side fluid, exhaust gas of automobiles of about 400 ° C. to 800 ° C. is used. As the low temperature side fluid, water at about 100 ° C. is used.

  The high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 constitutes a high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 and is exposed to the high temperature side fluid flow path 21. For this reason, when the high temperature side fluid is circulated, the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is in direct contact with the high temperature side fluid and efficiently heated.

  On the other hand, since the low temperature side surface portion 16 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is in contact with the low temperature side fluid flow path portion 30, it is cooled.

  Thereby, in the thermoelectric conversion module 10, a big temperature difference arises rapidly between the high temperature side surface part 15 and the low temperature side surface part 16, and a thermal energy comes to be efficiently converted into an electrical energy.

Further, the material constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20, that is, one of the high temperature side surface portion 15 side of the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and the side surface portion 17 of each thermoelectric conversion module 10. The linear expansion coefficient α _{m of the} part and the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 25 and the linear expansion coefficient α _f of the fin 40 satisfy the relationship of the above formula (1).

  For this reason, when the high-temperature fluid is circulated in the high-temperature fluid passage 21 for the operation of the thermoelectric conversion device 1, the fin 40 expands more than the material constituting the high-temperature fluid passage 20. Therefore, the fin 40 generates a compressive stress that presses the high temperature side surface portions 15 and 15 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10.

  Thereby, the thermoelectric conversion device 1 is further improved in stability and reliability during operation, that is, when the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 becomes high temperature.

  As described above, the thermoelectric conversion device 1 includes the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25 that forms the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20, the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10, and the thermoelectric conversion module 10. Part of the side surface portion 17 on the high temperature side surface portion 15 side is integrated to form a high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20.

  Therefore, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1, the amount of heat transferred to the thermoelectric conversion element in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is increased by shortening the heat transfer distance for supplying heat to the thermoelectric conversion module 10. It becomes possible.

  Further, in the conventional thermoelectric conversion device, the thermoelectric conversion module and the high temperature side fluid flow path portion are separate members, and between the high temperature side surface portion of the thermoelectric conversion module and the high temperature side fluid flow path portion. Contact thermal resistance was generated.

  However, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1, the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 itself forms the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20, and the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and the high temperature side surface portion 15. Since no contact thermal resistance is generated between the side fluid flow path part 20 and the heat quantity passing through the thermoelectric conversion element in the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is increased, the power generation performance is high.

  Further, in the thermoelectric conversion device 1, when the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 is set to the center side, the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 is formed on the center side of the thermoelectric conversion device 1, and the low temperature side fluid flow path portion is formed. 30 is formed on the peripheral side of the thermoelectric conversion device 1.

  Since the low-temperature side fluid flow path portion 30 formed on the peripheral side of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 is cooled by outside air, the low-temperature side fluid in the low-temperature side fluid flow path 31 is quickly cooled and is about the outside air temperature. Become temperature.

  On the other hand, the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 formed on the center side of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 is formed on the center side of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 and is not substantially cooled by outside air.

  For this reason, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1, the heat held by the high temperature side fluid is efficiently given to the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10, and the low temperature side surface portion of the thermoelectric conversion module 10. By efficiently cooling 16, the amount of heat lost by being released to the atmosphere is reduced, and the power generation performance can be maintained high.

  In addition, in the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1 shown as 1st Embodiment, the high temperature side fluid flow-path part 20 has the high temperature side surface parts 15 and 15 of each of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10, and each thermoelectricity. A part of the side surface parts 17 and 17 of the conversion modules 10 and 10 on the high temperature side surface part 15 side and a high temperature side fluid flow path connecting the side surface parts 17 and 17 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10. The formation unit 25 is used to form a substantially rectangular cross section.

  However, in the present invention, the high temperature side fluid flow path section includes the high temperature side surface sections 15 and 15 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 and the side surface sections 17 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10. The high-temperature side fluid flow path forming part 25 connecting the 17 may be formed to have a substantially rectangular cross section.

  That is, the high-temperature side fluid flow path portion may not include the side surface portion 17 in the thermoelectric conversion module 10.

  In the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment, the flanges 18 and 18 are joined by welding, brazing, or the like. However, in the thermoelectric conversion device of the present invention, the tips of the flanges 18 and 18 are connected to each other. It may be fixed by caulking or the like.

  Furthermore, in the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment, the fins 40 are provided. However, in the thermoelectric conversion device of the present invention, the fins 40 are not essential, and the fins 40 are not provided. Also good. When the fins 40 are not disposed, the thermoelectric conversion device 1 can be reduced in cost.

  Further, in the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment, the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 and the high temperature side fluid flow path 21 are configured to have a substantially rectangular cross section. In the conversion device, the shapes of the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 and the high temperature side fluid flow path 21 are not limited to a substantially rectangular cross section.

  Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2, in the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment, the width of the low temperature side fluid flow path portion 30 is substantially the same as the width of the thermoelectric conversion module 10. In the thermoelectric conversion device of the present invention, the width of the low temperature side fluid flow path section 30 may be wider than the width of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 as in the thermoelectric conversion device 1p shown in FIG.

[First Modification of First Embodiment]
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a first modification of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming unit 20 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 7.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the first modification 20S of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion is a high temperature side fluid flow path forming member that is bent in the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 20 shown in FIG. 7. Instead of 26, a high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26S having a curved shape is used.

  In FIG. 11, illustration of the fins 40 arranged so as to contact the high temperature side surface portions 15 and 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 in the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 20S is omitted.

  The high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26S is obtained, for example, by bending the flange 18 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 within a rigid range, and joining and fixing the tip of the flange 18 at the joint portion 28.

  According to the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20S, it has the same action as the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20 shown in FIG.

  In the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 20S, when the flange 18 is bent to produce the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26S, the flange 18 is connected to the high temperature side surface portions 15 and 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10. If it is strongly curved and fixed in the rigid range toward each other, it is pressed from the fins 40 even at room temperature, and compressive stress can be generated on the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10. preferable.

[Second Modification of First Embodiment]
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a second modification of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part of the thermoelectric conversion device shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1. Specifically, FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of a second modification of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion, and FIG. 12B is a high temperature side fluid flow path formation that constitutes the second modification. It is sectional drawing of a member.

  13 is a perspective view of a modified example of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion shown in FIG.

  14 is a cross-sectional view of a modified example of the thermoelectric conversion device using the modified example of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming unit shown in FIG.

  A second modified example 20T of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming section shown in FIG. 12A is a bent high temperature side fluid flow path forming member in the high temperature side fluid flow path forming section 20 shown in FIG. Instead of 26, a flat plate-like high-temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26T is used, and a high-temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27T for joining two flat plate-like high-temperature side fluid flow path forming members 26T is used. . The high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27T is a member constituting a part of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25T.

  In FIG. 12A, illustration of the fins 40 arranged to contact the high temperature side surface portions 15 and 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 in the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 20T is omitted. .

  As shown in FIG. 12B, the high-temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27T is a plate material having a U-shaped cross section. The material of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27T is the same as that of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26.

  The high temperature side fluid flow path forming unit 20T is fixed by, for example, joining both ends of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27T to the flanges 18 and 18 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 at the joints 28. Is obtained. The flange 18 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 becomes the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 in the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 20T.

  According to the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20T, the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20 shown in FIG.

  Also, the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20T is easy to manufacture because it is not necessary to bend or curve the flange 18 unlike the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20 or 20S.

  In the high temperature side fluid flow path forming section 20T, the flange 18 is curved within the rigidity range in a direction in which the high temperature side surface sections 15 and 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 approach each other, and then the high temperature side fluid flow path forming section 20T. It is preferable to join the fluid flow path forming member 27T because it can be pressed from the fins 40 even at room temperature to generate a compressive stress on the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10.

Further, since the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27T is a member constituting a part of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25, the linear expansion coefficient α _m of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27T is expressed by the above equation (1). ) Is preferably satisfied.

  FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the high-temperature side fluid flow path forming unit 20T shown in FIG. When the high temperature side fluid flow path forming unit 20T is used in place of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming unit 20 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1p shown in FIG. 10, a thermoelectric conversion device 1q shown in FIG. 14 is obtained.

[Third Modification of First Embodiment]
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a third modification of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part of the thermoelectric conversion device shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1. Specifically, FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view of a third modified example of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion, and FIG. 15B is a high temperature side fluid flow path formation constituting the third modified example. It is sectional drawing of a member.

  A third modification 20U of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion shown in FIG. 15A is not provided with a guide groove on the inner side in the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 20T shown in FIG. Instead of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27T, a high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27U provided with a guide groove inside is used.

  In FIG. 15A, illustration of the fins 40 arranged so as to contact the high temperature side surface portions 15 and 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 in the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 20U is omitted. .

  As shown in FIG. 15 (b), the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27U is a plate material having a substantially U-shaped cross section, and guide grooves 29 are provided at two locations at the top and bottom in the drawing. The guide groove 29 guides the flange 18 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10, thereby facilitating assembly and joining of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27 </ b> U and the flange 18 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10.

  According to the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20U, it has the same action as the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20 shown in FIG.

  Moreover, according to the high temperature side fluid flow path formation part 20U, it has an effect | action similar to the high temperature side fluid flow path formation part 20T shown to Fig.12 (a).

  Furthermore, according to the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20U, the guide groove 29 is formed in the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27U, so that the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20U is higher than the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20T. Assembly and joining of the forming member 27U and the flange 18 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 are easy.

  In the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 20U, the flange 18 is curved within the rigidity range in a direction in which the high temperature side surface portions 15 and 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 approach each other, It is preferable to join the fluid flow path forming member 27U because it can be pressed from the fins 40 even at room temperature to generate a compressive stress on the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10.

Further, since the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27U is a member constituting a part of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25, the linear expansion coefficient α _m of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27U is expressed by the above equation (1). ) Is preferably satisfied.

[Fourth Modification of First Embodiment]
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a fourth modification of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part of the thermoelectric conversion device shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1. Specifically, FIG. 16A is a cross-sectional view of a fourth modification of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion, and FIG. 16B is a high temperature side fluid flow path formation constituting the fourth modification. It is sectional drawing of a member.

  A fourth modification 20V of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion shown in FIG. 16A is a high temperature side fluid having a U-shaped cross section in the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 20T shown in FIG. Instead of the flow path forming member 27T, a flat high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27V is used.

  In FIG. 16A, illustration of the fins 40 arranged so as to be in contact with the high temperature side surface portions 15 and 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 in the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 20V is omitted. .

  As shown in FIG. 16B, the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27V is a flat plate material. For this reason, the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27V is easy to process, and the parts processing cost is reduced as compared with the high temperature side fluid flow path forming members 27T and 27U.

  The material of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27V is the same as that of the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26.

  According to the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20V, the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20 has the same action as the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20 shown in FIG.

  Moreover, according to the high temperature side fluid flow path formation part 20V, it has an effect | action similar to the high temperature side fluid flow path formation part 20T shown to Fig.12 (a).

  Furthermore, according to the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part 20V, the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 27V is processed compared to the high temperature side fluid flow path forming members 20T and 20U. It is easy and the parts processing cost is reduced.

  In the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 20U, the flange 18 is curved within the rigidity range in a direction in which the high temperature side surface portions 15 and 15 of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 approach each other, It is preferable to join the fluid flow path forming member 27U because it can be pressed from the fins 40 even at room temperature to generate a compressive stress on the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention.

  A thermoelectric conversion device 1A shown in FIG. 17 is configured by stacking two thermoelectric conversion devices 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. This corresponds to a configuration in which one low temperature side fluid flow path portion 30 is omitted.

  Therefore, in the thermoelectric conversion device 1A shown in FIG. 17 as the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. Is omitted or simplified.

  Specifically, in the thermoelectric conversion device 1A, the low-temperature side fluid flow path section 30, the thermoelectric conversion module 10, and the fins 40 are arranged from the bottom to the top in the drawing. 10 / fin 40 / thermoelectric conversion module 10 / low temperature side fluid flow path 30 / thermoelectric conversion module 10 / fin 40 / thermoelectric conversion module 10 are stacked in this order.

  In addition, the thermoelectric conversion device 1 </ b> A has two high temperature side fluid flow path portions 20 and 20 formed so as to include each fin 40 and the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 adjacent to the fin 40. ing.

  According to the thermoelectric conversion device 1 </ b> A, the same effects as the thermoelectric conversion device 1 can be obtained. In addition, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1A, it is not necessary to form one low-temperature side fluid flow path portion 30 as compared with the case where two thermoelectric conversion devices 1 are simply stacked, and therefore, the thermoelectric conversion device 1A can be made compact. it can.

[Third Embodiment]
18 and 19 are cross-sectional views of a third embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention. FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the third embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion device shown in FIG.

  The thermoelectric conversion device 1B shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 is replaced with four thermoelectric conversion modules 10 as compared with the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. The four thermoelectric conversion modules are used in place of the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 including the high temperature side surface portions 15 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1. The other configurations are the same except that the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20B including the ten high temperature side surface portions 15 is formed and the fin 40B is used in place of the fin 40.

  For this reason, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same structure between the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1B shown as 3rd Embodiment in FIG.18 and FIG.19, and the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1 shown as 1st Embodiment in FIG. The description of the configuration and operation is omitted or simplified.

  19 and 20, in the configuration shown in FIG. 18, the low temperature side fluid flow path portion 30 provided outside the low temperature side surface portion 16 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and the high temperature side fluid flow path portion. Illustration of the fins 40 </ b> B arranged in the high temperature side fluid flow path 21 in 20 </ b> B is omitted.

  As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the high-temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 </ b> B of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 </ b> B includes the high-temperature side surface portions 15 of the four thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and the side surface portions of the thermoelectric conversion modules 10. 17 includes a part on the high temperature side surface portion 15 side and a high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25 </ b> B connecting the side surface portions 17, 17 of the adjacent thermoelectric conversion module 10.

  The high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25B is formed by connecting the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 formed around the side surface portion 17 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and the end surfaces of the adjacent high temperature side fluid flow path forming members 26, 26. It consists of the joining part 28 to join.

  The high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 uses the flange 18 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 shown in FIG. 4 as the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 as it is.

  Unlike the fin 40 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1, the fin 40 </ b> B has a shape that contacts all of the high temperature side surface portions 15 of the four thermoelectric conversion modules 10.

  Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the fin 40B includes two diagonal line portions that are part of two diagonal lines in the cross section of the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20B, and these two diagonal line portions. To the high temperature side surface portion 15 of each thermoelectric conversion module 10 and a plurality of perpendicular portions lowered vertically.

  By adopting such a shape, the fin 40 </ b> B can efficiently transfer the heat of the high temperature side fluid flowing through the high temperature side fluid flow path 21 to the high temperature side surface portions 15 of the four thermoelectric conversion modules 10. It has become.

  Further, by forming the fins 40B in the above shape, it is effective and uniform on the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 during operation, that is, when the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 becomes high temperature. It is possible to generate compressive stress.

Furthermore, the thermoelectric conversion device 1B is similar to the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1, and the material constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20B, that is, the high temperature side of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is used. It is preferable that the linear expansion coefficient α _{m of the} surface portion 15 and the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25B and the linear expansion coefficient α _f of the fin 40B satisfy the relationship of the above formula (1).

  According to the thermoelectric conversion device 1B, in addition to the same effects as the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1, the following effects are further obtained.

  That is, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1B, since the thermoelectric conversion module 10 can be densely arranged around the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20B, the high temperature side fluid flowing through the high temperature side fluid flow path 21 can be obtained. Increases heat utilization efficiency. In addition, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1B, the number of thermoelectric conversion modules 10 arranged per cross-sectional area increases, so that the space efficiency increases.

  Note that, in the thermoelectric conversion device 1B, as in the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which the fins 40B are not arranged in the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20B. . When the fins 40B are not disposed, the cost of the thermoelectric conversion device 1B can be reduced.

[Fourth Embodiment]
FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention.

  A thermoelectric conversion device 1C shown in FIG. 21 has six thermoelectrics instead of using two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 as compared to the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. The high temperature of the six thermoelectric conversion modules 10 is used in place of the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 including the high temperature side surface portions 15 of the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 in that the conversion module 10 is used. The other configurations are the same except that the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20C including the side surface portion 15 is formed and a fin (not shown) is used instead of the fin 40.

  For this reason, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same structure between 1 C of thermoelectric conversion apparatuses shown as 4th Embodiment in FIG. 21, and the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1 shown as 1st Embodiment in FIG. The explanation of the action is omitted or simplified.

  In FIG. 21, the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is disposed in the low temperature side fluid flow path section 30 provided outside the low temperature side surface section 16 and the high temperature side fluid flow path 21 in the high temperature side fluid flow path section 20C. The illustration of the fin is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 </ b> C of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 </ b> C includes the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the six thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and the side surface portion 17 of each thermoelectric conversion module 10. Part of the high temperature side surface portion 15 side, and a high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25 </ b> C connecting the side surface portions 17, 17 of the adjacent thermoelectric conversion module 10.

  The high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25C is formed by connecting the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 formed around the side surface portion 17 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 and the end surfaces of the adjacent high temperature side fluid flow path forming members 26, 26. It consists of the joining part 28 to join.

  The high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 uses the flange 18 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 shown in FIG. 4 as the high temperature side fluid flow path forming member 26 as it is.

  In FIG. 21, the fins are not shown, but the fins arranged in the high-temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 </ b> C of the thermoelectric converter 1 </ b> C are the thermoelectric converter 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1. Unlike the fins 40, the shape is in contact with all the high temperature side surface portions 15 of the six thermoelectric conversion modules 10. Specifically, as the fins of the thermoelectric conversion device 1C, in the fins 40B of the thermoelectric conversion device 1B shown as the third embodiment in FIG. Used.

  Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the fin used in the thermoelectric conversion device 1C is the longest 3 connecting the farthest vertices facing each other in the cross section of the high-temperature side fluid flow path portion 20C, that is, the joint portions 28 and 28. Three diagonal line portions composed of a part of a pair of diagonal lines, and a plurality of perpendicular line portions vertically lowered from these three diagonal line portions to the high temperature side surface portion 15 of each thermoelectric conversion module 10 It is preferable to have. The cross-sectional shape formed by the intersection of the three diagonal line portions is similar to the asterisk symbol.

  By using the fins having such a shape, the heat of the high temperature side fluid flowing through the high temperature side fluid passage 21 can be efficiently transmitted to the high temperature side surface portions 15 of the six thermoelectric conversion modules 10. ing.

  In addition, by making the fins have the above shape, when the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 becomes high temperature during operation, the high temperature side surface portion 15 of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is effectively and evenly distributed. It is possible to generate a compressive stress.

Further, the thermoelectric conversion device 1C is similar to the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1, and the material constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20B, that is, the high temperature side of the thermoelectric conversion module 10 is used. It is preferable that the linear expansion coefficient α _m between the surface portion 15 and the high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion 25C and the linear expansion coefficient α _{f of a} fin (not shown) satisfy the relationship of the above formula (1).

  According to the thermoelectric conversion device 1 </ b> C, the same effects as the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG.

  That is, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1C, since the thermoelectric conversion module 10 can be densely arranged around the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20C, the high temperature side fluid flowing through the high temperature side fluid flow path 21 can be obtained. Increases heat utilization efficiency. In addition, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1C, the number of thermoelectric conversion modules 10 arranged per cross-sectional area is increased, so that the space efficiency is increased.

  Furthermore, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1C, the cross-sectional shape of the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20C is a hexagon and is a shape close to a circle, so that it can be easily used for, for example, an exhaust manifold of an automobile.

  In addition, in the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1C, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which no fins are disposed in the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20C, similarly to the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. When fins are not disposed, the cost of the thermoelectric conversion device 1C can be reduced.

[Fifth Embodiment]
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention.

  A thermoelectric conversion device 1D shown in FIG. 22 has two thermoelectric conversion devices 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1 arranged in series with respect to the flow direction of the high temperature side fluid flow path and the low temperature side fluid flow path. Is equivalent to

  For this reason, the thermoelectric conversion device 1D shown as the fifth embodiment in FIG. 22 attaches the same reference numerals to the same components as the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. Is omitted or simplified.

  In the thermoelectric conversion device 1D, the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20D includes two high temperature side fluid flow path portions 20 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. It is joined and extended at the joint 28 along the flow direction of the low temperature side fluid flow path.

  In the thermoelectric conversion device 1D, each of the low temperature side fluid flow path portions 30 includes two of the low temperature side fluid flow path portions 30 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. And it is what was joined and extended by the junction part which is not shown in figure along the distribution direction of a low temperature side fluid flow path.

  According to the thermoelectric conversion device 1D, the same effect as the thermoelectric conversion device 1 is achieved. Further, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1D, when the number of thermoelectric conversion modules 10 installed is the same as that of the thermoelectric conversion device 1, the electric capacity is large and compact.

  The thermoelectric conversion device 1D shown in FIG. 22 is an example in which two thermoelectric conversion devices 1 are arranged in series. However, in the present invention, three or more thermoelectric conversion devices 1 may be arranged in series. .

  Further, in the thermoelectric conversion device 1D shown in FIG. 22, two sets of fins 40 are used, one set each independently in the flow direction of the high temperature side fluid flow channel 21 in the figure. In other words, each fin 40 is configured to contact only between the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 arranged above and below in the drawing.

  However, in the present invention, instead of the two sets of fins 40, one set of long fins (not shown), which is produced by integrating the two sets of fins 40 in the flow direction of the high temperature side fluid flow channel 21, that is, FIG. 22, two fins 40 arranged in the flow direction of the high temperature side fluid, and long fins in which the fins are also arranged in the space in the flow direction of the high temperature side fluid flow channel 21 between the 40 may be used. .

  When such an integrated long fin is used, the fin can recover more heat from the high-temperature side fluid and improve the power generation performance of the thermoelectric conversion device.

[Sixth Embodiment]
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention.

  A thermoelectric conversion device 1E shown in FIG. 23 includes two thermoelectric conversion devices 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1 arranged in parallel with respect to the flow direction of the high temperature side fluid flow path and the low temperature side fluid flow path. Is equivalent to

  For this reason, the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1E shown as FIG. 22 as 5th Embodiment attaches | subjects the same code | symbol to the same structure as the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1 shown as 1st Embodiment in FIG. Is omitted or simplified.

  The high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20E of the thermoelectric conversion device 1E includes two high temperature side fluid flow path portions 20 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. It is different from the one simply arranged in parallel with the flow direction of the side fluid channel.

  That is, the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20E of the thermoelectric conversion device 1E has two high temperature side fluid flow path portions 20 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown in FIG. 1 as the first embodiment arranged in parallel. The channel wall of the adjacent high-temperature side fluid channel section 20 is removed, and the open end from which the channel wall is removed is joined by the joint portions 28E and 28E. For this reason, the high temperature side fluid flow path part 20E of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1E has no flow path wall, and the cross section is formed in a single wide rectangular shape.

  Thereby, the high temperature side fluid flow path part 20E of the thermoelectric conversion device 1E can reduce the number of parts and reduce the pressure loss of the high temperature side fluid.

  According to the thermoelectric conversion device 1E, the same effects as the thermoelectric conversion device 1 can be obtained. Further, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1E, compared to the thermoelectric conversion device 1, when the number of thermoelectric conversion modules 10 installed is the same, the electric capacity is large and compact, and the number of parts is reduced and the temperature is high. The pressure loss of the side fluid can be reduced.

  In the thermoelectric conversion device 1E, the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20E of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1E has no flow path wall and is formed in a single wide rectangular shape in cross section. However, in the present invention, two of the high temperature side fluid flow path portions 20 are connected to the high temperature side without changing the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. The high temperature side fluid flow path portion may be formed by simply arranging the fluid flow path and the low temperature side fluid flow path in parallel with each other and joining the adjacent high temperature side fluid flow path portions 20 together. In this case, the portion where the adjacent high temperature side fluid flow path portions 20 are joined becomes a flow path wall in the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20E, but it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost due to the mass production effect. .

  Moreover, although the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1E shown in FIG. 23 is an example in which two thermoelectric conversion apparatuses 1 are arranged in parallel, in the present invention, three or more thermoelectric conversion apparatuses 1 may be arranged in parallel. .

  Further, in the thermoelectric conversion device 1E shown in FIG. 23, a total of two sets of fins 40 are used, one set each on the left and right sides in the figure. In other words, each fin 40 is configured to contact only between the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 arranged above and below in the drawing.

  However, in the present invention, instead of the two sets of fins 40, one set of wide fins (not shown) formed by integrating two sets of fins 40 in the horizontal direction in the figure, that is, two sets of fins shown in FIG. A wide-shaped fin in which fins are also arranged in the space between the fins 40 may be used.

  When such an integrated wide fin is used, the fin collects more heat from the high-temperature side fluid, and the power generation performance of the thermoelectric converter can be improved.

[Seventh Embodiment]
FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention.

  A thermoelectric conversion device 1F shown in FIG. 24 includes two thermoelectric conversion devices 1E shown as the sixth embodiment in FIG. 23 arranged in series with respect to the flow direction of the high temperature side fluid flow path and the low temperature side fluid flow path. Is equivalent to

  That is, in the thermoelectric conversion device 1F shown in FIG. 24, two thermoelectric conversion devices 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1 are connected in series with respect to the flow direction of the high temperature side fluid flow path and the low temperature side fluid flow path. And it is roughly equivalent to what is arranged in parallel.

  Therefore, the thermoelectric converter 1F shown as the seventh embodiment in FIG. 24 includes the thermoelectric converter 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. 1 and the thermoelectric converter shown as the sixth embodiment in FIG. The same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in 1E, and descriptions of the configurations and operations are omitted or simplified.

  According to the thermoelectric conversion device 1F, the same effects as the thermoelectric conversion device 1 can be obtained. Further, according to the thermoelectric conversion device 1F, when the number of thermoelectric conversion modules 10 installed is the same as that of the thermoelectric conversion device 1, the electric capacity is large and compact, and the number of parts is reduced and the temperature is high. The pressure loss of the side fluid can be reduced.

  In the thermoelectric conversion device 1F, the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20F of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1F has no flow path wall and is formed in a single wide rectangular shape in cross section. However, in the present invention, two of the high temperature side fluid flow path portions 20 are connected to the high temperature side without changing the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 of the thermoelectric conversion device 1 shown as the first embodiment in FIG. The high temperature side fluid flow path portions may be formed by simply arranging them in parallel and in series with respect to the flow direction of the fluid flow paths and the low temperature side fluid flow paths, and joining the adjacent high temperature side fluid flow path portions 20 together. In this case, the portion where the adjacent high temperature side fluid flow path portions 20 are joined serves as a flow path wall in the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20F, but it becomes possible to reduce the manufacturing cost due to the mass production effect. .

  24 is an example in which two thermoelectric conversion devices 1 are arranged in series and two are arranged in parallel, but in the present invention, two or more thermoelectric conversion devices 1 are arranged. Two or more may be arranged in parallel as well as arranged in series.

  Furthermore, in the thermoelectric conversion device 1F shown in FIG. 24, a total of four fins 40 are used, one for each of the left and right and front and rear in the figure. In other words, each fin 40 is configured to contact only between the two thermoelectric conversion modules 10 and 10 arranged above and below in the drawing.

  However, in the present invention, instead of the four sets of fins 40, two sets of fins 40 arranged on the front side and the left and right sides in the flow direction of the high-temperature side fluid flow channel 21 in the drawing are integrally manufactured. A wide-shaped fin not shown, and a wide-shaped fin (not shown) produced by integrating two pairs of fins 40 arranged on the back side and the left and right sides of the high-temperature side fluid flow path 21 in the drawing. Two sets of fins may be used.

  When such an integrated wide fin is used, the fin collects more heat from the high-temperature side fluid, and the power generation performance of the thermoelectric converter can be improved.

  Further, in the present invention, instead of the four pairs of fins 40, a long fin (not shown) produced by integrating two pairs of fins 40 arranged on the left side in the flow direction of the high-temperature side fluid in the drawing, In addition, two pairs of fins, which are long fins (not shown) produced by integrating two pairs of fins 40 arranged on the right side in the flow path direction of the high-temperature side fluid in the drawing, may be used.

  When such an integrated long fin is used, the fin can recover more heat from the high-temperature side fluid and improve the power generation performance of the thermoelectric conversion device.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, instead of the four sets of fins 40, one set of fins (not shown), which is formed by integrating the four sets of fins 40 in the horizontal direction and the flow direction of the high temperature side fluid flow channel 21, that is, A fin having a large area in which fins are arranged may be used in the space between the four pairs of fins 40 shown in FIG.

  When such an integrated large-area fin is used, the fin collects more heat from the high-temperature side fluid than when a wide fin or a long fin is used, and the thermoelectric converter generates power. The performance can be further improved.

[Thermoelectric conversion method]
The thermoelectric conversion method according to the present invention uses the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention, for example, the thermoelectric conversion devices 1 to 1F described above, and causes the high temperature side fluid to flow through the high temperature side fluid flow path portion 20 and the like, This is a thermoelectric conversion method in which a low-temperature side fluid is circulated through the low-temperature side fluid flow path section 30 and the like.

  Since the operation of the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is the same as the operation shown in the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention, description thereof is omitted.

  According to the thermoelectric conversion device of the present invention, the conversion from heat energy to electric energy becomes efficient, the thermoelectric conversion device is lightweight and has high power generation performance, structural soundness and reliability, and installation and maintenance. Excellent workability.

1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F Thermoelectric converter 10 Thermoelectric conversion module 11 Module case 12 High temperature side member of module case 13 Low temperature side member of module case 15 High temperature side surface portion 16 of module case Module case Low temperature side surface portion 17 Module case side surface portion 18 Thermoelectric conversion module flange 20, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 20S, 20T, 20U, 20V High temperature side fluid flow channel portion 21 High temperature side fluid flow channel 25 , 25B, 25C, 25T, 25U, 25V High temperature side fluid flow path forming part 26, 26S, 26T, 27T, 27U, 27V High temperature side fluid flow path forming member 28, 28E Joint 29 Guide groove 30 Low temperature side fluid flow path part 31 Low temperature side fluid flow path 35 Low temperature side fluid flow path forming part 40, 40B, 40S, 40T, 40 , The contact surface between 40V fin 41 fin structure member 42 fin component 51 conventional thermoelectric conversion device 57 pressing member 58 bolts and nuts 59 the hot side fluid flow channel forming portion and the thermoelectric conversion module

Claims (5)

In a module case surrounded by a high temperature side surface portion, a low temperature side surface portion, and a side surface portion, heat energy is converted into electrical energy using a temperature difference between the high temperature side surface portion and the low temperature side surface portion. A thermoelectric conversion module with a built-in thermoelectric conversion element;
A high temperature side fluid flow path provided on the high temperature side surface portion side of the thermoelectric conversion module;
A low temperature side fluid flow path portion provided on the low temperature side surface portion side of the thermoelectric conversion module;
In a thermoelectric conversion device comprising:
Using two or more thermoelectric conversion modules,
The high temperature side fluid flow path portion is formed by connecting a high temperature side surface portion of each thermoelectric conversion module and a high temperature side fluid flow path forming portion connecting adjacent thermoelectric conversion modules. Thermoelectric conversion device. The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, further comprising a fin in contact with a high temperature side surface portion of the thermoelectric conversion module in the high temperature side fluid flow path portion. The linear expansion coefficient α _m of the material constituting the high temperature side fluid flow path portion and the linear expansion coefficient α _{f of the} fin are expressed by the following formula (1).
[Equation 1]
α _m <α _f (1)
The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 2, wherein the relationship is satisfied. The said high temperature side fluid flow path part is formed in the center side of a thermoelectric conversion apparatus, The said low temperature side fluid flow path part is formed in the peripheral side of a thermoelectric conversion apparatus, The said 1st aspect is characterized by the above-mentioned. Thermoelectric conversion device. In a module case surrounded by a high temperature side surface portion, a low temperature side surface portion, and a side surface portion, heat energy is converted into electrical energy using a temperature difference between the high temperature side surface portion and the low temperature side surface portion. A thermoelectric conversion module with a built-in thermoelectric conversion element;
A high temperature side fluid flow path provided on the high temperature side surface portion side of the thermoelectric conversion module;
A low temperature side fluid flow path portion provided on the low temperature side surface portion side of the thermoelectric conversion module;
In a thermoelectric conversion method using a thermoelectric conversion device comprising:
The thermoelectric conversion device uses two or more thermoelectric conversion modules, and the high temperature side fluid flow path portion connects between the high temperature side surface portion of each thermoelectric conversion module and the adjacent thermoelectric conversion modules. It is formed by connecting the high temperature side fluid flow path forming part,
A thermoelectric conversion method characterized in that a high temperature side fluid is allowed to flow through the high temperature side fluid flow path portion and a low temperature side fluid is allowed to flow through the low temperature side fluid flow path portion.

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