JP2015060935A - Thermoelectric generator - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To generate power as much as possible, under such conditions that the tightening pressure of a thermoelectric conversion module is uneven.SOLUTION: In a thermoelectric conversion device including three or more thermoelectric conversion modules generating power by temperature difference of both sides, and a configuration for generating temperature difference between both sides of the thermoelectric conversion module by a heat source and a cold heat source, the thermoelectric conversion modules are classified respectively depending on the magnitude of a current value generated alone, and then wired electrically so that a series connection is configured by connecting the thermoelectric conversion modules, belonging to the same classification, in series.

Description

  The present invention relates to a thermoelectric power generation apparatus including a thermoelectric conversion module that generates power based on a temperature difference.

  The thermoelectric generator is an environmentally friendly generator using non-fossil fuel that extracts electric power generated by making a temperature difference between both surfaces of the thermoelectric conversion module. Energy is recovered from heat sources such as factory wastewater and hot springs, and power is supplied to on-site lighting and equipment as an independent power source, which can be used for power storage in a backup power source in case of a power failure. A thermoelectric power generation device disclosed in Patent Document 1 as an example of the prior art will be described with reference to FIGS.

  The thermoelectric power generator 1 shown in FIG. 21 has a plurality of rectangular parallelepiped high temperature chambers 11A and low temperature chambers 11B through which a high-temperature thermal fluid flows, and a thermoelectric conversion module ( 21 (not shown in FIG. 21) is sandwiched between adjacent chambers. The high temperature chamber 11A and the low temperature chamber 11B are collectively referred to as a chamber 11. The arrows in FIG. 21 indicate the direction of the flow of the thermal fluid flowing through the thermoelectric generator 1. As shown in FIG. 21, the direction in which the high temperature thermal fluid flows in the high temperature chamber 11A and the direction in which the low temperature thermal fluid flows in the low temperature chamber 11B form an opposing flow. A pipe for taking in the thermal fluid is provided at one end of each chamber 11, and a pipe for discharging the thermal fluid is provided at the other end of the chamber 11. Since the flow of the thermal fluid in the adjacent chambers 11 constitutes a counter flow, the temperature difference between both surfaces of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is made as uniform as possible in the longitudinal direction from the supply side to the discharge side of the thermal fluid. Power generation performance can be improved. The plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules 13 are electrically connected in series or in parallel. The control device 3 is a control panel for performing storage of electric power obtained and DC / AC conversion. The control device 3 includes a battery as a power storage device, a charge controller that controls charging / discharging of electric power to the battery, an inverter that performs conversion from direct current to alternating current, and the like. The output of the control device 3 is supplied to loads such as the television device 4, the illumination device 5, and the display device 6, for example.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of an arrangement of a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules provided between the high temperature chamber 11A and the low temperature chamber 11B. As shown in FIG. 22, a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules 13 are attached to the wall surfaces of the high temperature chamber 11A and the low temperature chamber 11B at predetermined intervals. The thermoelectric conversion module 13 is electrically connected in series, for example, in the longitudinal direction of the chamber by the wiring 14.

  FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a detailed cross-sectional shape of one thermoelectric conversion module 13. The thermoelectric conversion module 13 includes a P-type semiconductor element (thermoelectric conversion material) 22a and an N-type semiconductor element (thermoelectric conversion material) 22b having a rectangular parallelepiped or cubic shape with sides of 1 mm or more, for example, as a first electrode (conductor). It has the structure connected in series via 20a or the 2nd electrode (conductor) 20b. The first electrode 20a is covered with a first insulating plate (alumina or the like) 21a, and the second electrode 20b is covered with a second insulating plate (alumina or the like) 21b. As a material of the thermoelectric conversion module, for example, a BiTe-based or Fe2VAl-based Heusler alloy is used. For example, a solder material is used for joining between the thermoelectric conversion materials and joining the thermoelectric conversion material and the insulating plate. Further, two electrodes at both ends of the series connection structure are provided with electrode outlets 23a and 23b for connecting wirings or lead wires (not shown). In such a configuration, when the surface of the first insulating plate 21a of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 becomes high temperature due to heat from the heat source and the surface of the second insulating plate 21b becomes low temperature due to a medium flowing through the pipe 11b, the thermoelectric conversion is performed. A temperature difference is generated on both surfaces of the module 13, and thermoelectric conversion occurs in the semiconductor element groups 21 and 22 in the process of heat exchange between both fluids, thereby generating power.

  The high temperature chamber 11A and the low temperature chamber 11B are arranged as shown in FIG. 24, and a plurality of fastening jigs 50 (not shown in FIG. 24) to be described later are attached. The high temperature chamber 11 </ b> A and the low temperature chamber 11 </ b> B press the thermoelectric conversion module 13 from both sides by the tightening jig 50, and the close contact state is maintained. As shown in FIG. 24, by interposing the high thermal conductivity material 15, the adhesion between the thermoelectric conversion module 13 and the chambers 11 </ b> A and 11 </ b> B can be improved, and the contact thermal resistance can be reduced. The high temperature chamber 11A and the low temperature chamber 11B are made of a metal such as carbon steel, stainless steel, titanium, copper, or aluminum, for example. A general thermal fluid is hot water as a high-temperature thermal fluid and water as a low-temperature thermal fluid, but is not limited thereto.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 25-27, the detailed structure of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus 1 is demonstrated. FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the thermoelectric generator 1. Moreover, FIG. 26 is a figure which shows a structure when the thermoelectric generator 1 is seen horizontally from the direction perpendicular | vertical to the flow direction of a thermal fluid. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a configuration when the thermoelectric generator 1 is viewed from above. In each drawing, some elements (such as wiring) are not shown in order to make the drawing easy to see. The thermoelectric generator 1 includes the above-described high temperature chamber 11A, low temperature chamber 11B, thermoelectric conversion module housing (slot) 12, thermoelectric conversion module 13, and wiring 14, as well as the chassis 10, the high temperature supply pipe 31A, and the low temperature supply pipe. 31B, high temperature supply header 32A, low temperature supply header 32B, high temperature supply pipe joint 33A, low temperature supply pipe joint 33B, high temperature supply header joint 34A, low temperature supply header joint 34B, high temperature supply pipe 41A, low temperature discharge pipe 41B, high temperature discharge header 42A, low temperature discharge header 42B, high temperature discharge pipe alignment section 43A, low temperature discharge pipe joint section 43B, high temperature discharge header joint section 44A, low temperature discharge header joint section 44B, a fastening jig 50, and the like. In addition, although not shown in the drawings, each chamber is provided with an air vent valve for extracting air staying in the chamber, a drain valve for extracting liquid in the chamber and unnecessary unnecessary substances when the apparatus is stopped, and the like. Yes. In the example of FIGS. 25 to 27, there are four high temperature chambers 11A and four low temperature chambers 11B, and a total of nine chambers 11. The number of thermoelectric modules 13 sandwiched between one set of adjacent chambers is 17 in the chamber longitudinal direction and 2 in the vertical direction, for a total of 34 sets. A detailed description of each component is described in the column “Mode for Carrying Out the Invention” of Patent Document 1.

  Now, the high temperature chamber 11A and the low temperature chamber 11B are pressed against the thermoelectric conversion module 13 from both sides by the tightening jig 50, and the contact state is maintained, the contact thermal resistance is reduced, and the amount of heat transfer is increased. The fastening jig 50 is a member that can adjust the fastening pressure to the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 of two adjacent chambers. In addition to the metal fitting 51, a screw mechanism for pulling the metal fittings 51 together to tighten them, that is, a bolt 52, 53, a spring 54, a nut, a washer, and the like. A plurality of metal fittings 51 are attached to both the upper surface and the lower surface of each chamber by welding or the like at regular intervals in the chamber longitudinal direction. The metal fitting 51 has three openings. The bolt 52 corrects the positional deviation of the nine chambers in the chamber longitudinal direction, and is passed through all the openings located at the center of the nine metal fittings 51 arranged in the chamber width direction. The bolts 53 and the springs 54 tighten the thermoelectric conversion module 13 between the two adjacent chambers with an appropriate tightening pressure, and can adjust the tightening pressure for the thermoelectric conversion module 13. The bolt 53 is passed through one of the two openings located at both ends of the metal fittings 51 of the two adjacent chambers, and is further passed through the spring 54.

Japanese Patent No. 4945649 Japanese Patent No. 3564274 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-190073 JP 2009-247050 A JP 2012-80761 A

  The aforementioned thermoelectric generator 1 has the following problems.

  The clamping pressure for bringing the thermoelectric conversion module 13 and the chamber 11 into close contact with each other varies in the longitudinal direction of the chamber, is large near the clamping jig 50, and is an intermediate position between the clamping jig 50 and the adjacent clamping jig 50. Then it gets smaller. Until the clamping pressure reaches a certain value, the higher the clamping pressure, the smaller the contact thermal resistance. As a result, the surface of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 that is in contact with the high temperature chamber 11A is hotter, and the surface of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 that is in contact with the low temperature chamber 11B is lower in temperature. To increase. Therefore, if the tightening pressure varies, the power generation amount also varies. In FIG. 25 to FIG. 27, with respect to a pair of chambers 11 that are adjacent to each other with the thermoelectric conversion module 13 interposed therebetween, there are four tightening locations in the chamber longitudinal direction, and 17 power generation amounts of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 in the chamber longitudinal direction. Variation occurs. 25 to 27, there are two tightening points in the vertical direction of the chamber, but since there are two thermoelectric conversion modules 13 in the vertical direction for one set of adjacent chambers, the thermoelectric elements arranged in the vertical direction are arranged. The tightening pressure of the conversion module 13 is equal and there is no variation in the amount of power generation. However, if there are, for example, three in the vertical direction with respect to one set of chambers, the amount of power generation also varies for the three thermoelectric conversion modules 13 in the vertical direction.

  Since the thermoelectric conversion module 13 has a characteristic that the voltage decreases linearly as the current increases as shown in FIG. 28, the power output that is the product of the current and the voltage is a parabola that is convex upward with respect to the current. Therefore, at an appropriate current value, the power output that can be extracted becomes the maximum value. Here, two cases of a condition where the temperature difference at both ends in the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is large and a condition where the temperature difference is small are shown, but when the current value I1 in the current-voltage characteristic 38 is large at both ends, the temperature difference at both ends is large. The power in the current-power characteristic 40 of the current becomes the maximum. At this time, the voltage value is V1 and the power value is V1 × I1. Further, when the current value I2 in the current-voltage characteristic 39 when the temperature difference between both ends is small, the power in the current-power characteristic 45 when the temperature difference between both ends is small becomes maximum. At this time, the voltage value is V2 and the power value is V2 × I2. The greater the temperature difference at both ends, the greater the voltage for the same current value, the greater the power output, and the greater the maximum power output that can be extracted. If only one unit generates power, the maximum power generation amount, that is, the maximum power load that can be taken out, the current will be the current value, but when the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is connected in series, which thermoelectric conversion module 13 also has the same current. When the thermoelectric conversion module 13 has variations, the current value differs from module to module, and thus deviates from the current value that flows during serial connection. For example, it deviates from I1 and I2 in FIG. Therefore, the maximum power output cannot be realized in each thermoelectric conversion module 13. Thus, when there are a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules 13 having variations, the maximum power output value that can be taken out is smaller than the total value of the maximum power outputs that can be realized by each thermoelectric conversion module 13, and the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 that are wired in series are connected. The total power generation amount is sufficiently smaller than the simple total value of the power generation capacity of the thermoelectric conversion module 13.

  In addition, when the horizontal axis and the vertical axis in FIG. 28 are interchanged and displayed as shown in FIG. 29, the thermoelectric conversion module 13 has a current that decreases linearly as the voltage increases, and the power output that is the product of the current and voltage is Since it is a parabola convex upward with respect to the current, the power output that can be taken out becomes a maximum value at an appropriate voltage value. Here, two cases of a condition where the temperature difference at both ends in the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is large and a condition where the temperature difference is small are shown. When the voltage value V1 in the current-voltage characteristic 38 is large at both ends, the temperature difference at both ends is large. The voltage-power characteristic 46 of the maximum is maximum. At this time, the current value is I1 and the power value is V1 × I1. Further, when the current value V2 in the current-voltage characteristic 39 when the temperature difference between both ends is small, the voltage power characteristic 47 when the temperature difference between both ends is small becomes maximum. At this time, the current value is I2, and the power value is V2 × I2. The greater the temperature difference, the greater the current for the same voltage value, the greater the power output, and the greater the maximum power output that can be extracted. If only one unit generates power, the maximum power generation amount, that is, the maximum power load that can be taken out, the voltage will be the voltage value, but when the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is wired in parallel, which thermoelectric conversion module 13 also has the same value of voltage. When the thermoelectric conversion module 13 has variations, the voltage value differs from module to module, and thus deviates from the voltage value applied in parallel connection. For example, it deviates from V1 and V2 in FIG. Therefore, the maximum power output cannot be realized in each thermoelectric conversion module 13. In this way, the maximum power output value that can be taken out when there are a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules 13 with variations is smaller than the total value of the maximum power outputs that can be realized by each of the thermoelectric conversion modules 13, and the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 that are wired in parallel are connected. The total power generation amount is sufficiently smaller than the simple total value of the power generation capacity of the thermoelectric conversion module 13.

  Therefore, it is desired to increase the tightening pressure evenly in all thermoelectric conversion modules 13 regardless of whether the electrical wiring is in series or in parallel. However, a large amount of tightening jigs 50 are provided, and temporarily 3 in the vertical direction. If three or more are arranged, these three cannot be made equal.

  Even for causes other than unevenness in the tightening pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, unevenness in the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 may occur. For example, when the flow of the high-temperature heat fluid or the low-temperature heat fluid is uneven, or when the high-temperature heat fluid or the low-temperature heat fluid is water containing earth or sand or gas, sediment is deposited on the bottom of the chamber 11, For example, when the gas stays in the ceiling of the chamber 11. In this case, the same problem as in the case where there is uneven tightening pressure occurs.

  In addition, the power generation performance of each of the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 may vary sufficiently due to manufacturing reasons. In the thermoelectric conversion module 13 with low power generation performance, under the same temperature difference at both ends, the voltage value is small and the power generation capacity is small at the same current value, and the current value is small and the power generation capacity at the same voltage value. Becomes smaller. When there is a sufficient difference between the thermoelectric conversion module 13 with high power generation performance and the thermoelectric conversion module 13 with low power generation performance, the relationship between the thermoelectric conversion module 13 with a large clamping pressure and the thermoelectric conversion module 13 with a small clamping pressure is Same as relationship. Therefore, also in this case, the same problem as in the case where there is uneven tightening pressure occurs.

  In the thermoelectric generator 1, the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is not limited to the configuration sandwiched between the high temperature chamber 11A and the low temperature chamber 11B through which fluids having different temperatures flow. Any configuration that causes a temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 by the heat source and the cold source may be used, and the same problem occurs in any form.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a thermoelectric power generator capable of generating as much power generation as possible under conditions such as uneven clamping pressure of a thermoelectric conversion module. Objective.

  A thermoelectric power generation device according to an embodiment includes three or more thermoelectric conversion modules that generate power based on a temperature difference between both surfaces, and a configuration in which a temperature difference is generated on both surfaces of the thermoelectric conversion module by a heat source and a cold heat source. , Each thermoelectric conversion module is classified according to the magnitude of the current value generated independently by each thermoelectric conversion module, and the thermoelectric conversion modules belonging to the same classification are connected in series to form a serial connection portion. It is characterized by being electrically wired as described above.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to generate as much power generation as possible under conditions where the clamping pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module is uneven.

Explanatory drawing which shows the position of the thermoelectric conversion module in the thermoelectric generator of the 1st-7th embodiment. Schematic which shows arrangement | positioning of the thermoelectric conversion module of 1st, 4th, 5th embodiment. Schematic which shows a mode that the thermoelectric conversion module of 1st, 4th, 5th embodiment was seen from the chamber upper direction. Schematic which shows the wiring of the prior art corresponding to 1st Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of 1st Embodiment. Schematic which shows arrangement | positioning of the thermoelectric conversion module of 2nd, 6th embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of the prior art corresponding to 2nd Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of 2nd Embodiment. Schematic which shows arrangement | positioning of the thermoelectric conversion module of 3rd, 7th embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of the prior art corresponding to 3rd Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of 3rd Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of the prior art corresponding to 4th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of 4th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of the prior art corresponding to 5th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of 5th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of the prior art corresponding to 6th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of 6th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of the prior art corresponding to 7th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of 7th Embodiment. Schematic which shows the wiring of 8th Embodiment. The conceptual diagram which shows schematic structure of the conventional thermoelectric power generation system. The figure which shows an example of arrangement | positioning of the conventional thermoelectric conversion module. The figure which shows the cross-sectional shape of the conventional thermoelectric conversion module. The figure which shows the conventional chamber structure. The perspective view which shows the whole structure of the conventional thermoelectric generator. The figure which shows a structure when the conventional thermoelectric generator is seen horizontally from the direction perpendicular | vertical to the flow direction of a thermal fluid. The figure which shows a structure when the conventional thermoelectric generator is seen from the upper side. The figure which shows the electric current characteristic of the thermoelectric conversion module. The figure which shows the versus voltage characteristic of a thermoelectric conversion module.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

First Embodiment (Corresponding to Claim 1)
A first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, the same elements as those in the prior art are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted. Only the parts different from the prior art will be described below.

  Drawing 1 is an explanatory view showing the position of thermoelectric conversion module 13 in thermoelectric power generator 1 of a 1st embodiment. FIG. 1 is also used in second to seventh embodiments described later. As an example, FIG. 1 shows a configuration in which one low temperature chamber 11B is arranged on each side of the high temperature chamber 11A, and the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is sandwiched between the high temperature chamber 11A and the low temperature chamber 11B. 2 and 3 show the arrangement of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 on the side surface of the chamber 11 and the state of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 as viewed from above the chamber. As described above, assuming that four thermoelectric conversion modules 13 are provided in the longitudinal direction of the chamber and one is provided in the vertical direction, the total number of the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 is eight if there are two sandwiches. In order to distinguish the eight thermoelectric conversion modules 13, the sandwiching position 8 by the chamber 11 is denoted as A and B, and the position 7 in the chamber longitudinal direction is denoted as positions 1, 2,. The eight thermoelectric conversion modules 13 are expressed as A1 to A4 and B1 to B4. Assume that the fastening positions 9 relating to the longitudinal position of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 are the three places shown in FIGS. In FIG. 2, the pressure is shown as if pressure is applied from the upper side to the lower side of the first chamber 16, but the heat transfer surface of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 (square in FIG. 2) as shown in FIG. 3. Tightening pressure is applied in a direction perpendicular to the direction (direction perpendicular to the paper surface).

  Now, since conventional electrical wiring is most easily connected due to its configuration, A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 are often connected in series as shown in FIG. Symbols expressed as A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 correspond to the thermoelectric conversion module 13, and a line connecting the symbols corresponds to the electrical wiring 14. In FIG. 4, A 1 to A 4 are connected to the first power load 19, and B 1 to B 4 are connected to the second power load 24.

  Here, according to the tightening position 9 in FIGS. 2 and 3, the tightening pressure is the same for the four A1, B1, A4, and B4, and the same for the four A2, B2, A3, and B3. is there. Then, the tightening pressures at the four points A1, B1, A4, and B4 are larger than the tightening pressures at the four points A2, B2, A3, and B3 that are tightened at a location shifted from the thermoelectric conversion module 13. Therefore, a difference occurs in the contact thermal resistance between the heat transfer surface of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 and the side surface of the first chamber 16, and the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 in four of A1, B1, A4, and B4 is the first. It becomes larger than the temperature difference between both ends of four of A2, B2, A3, and B3 that are in closer contact with the side surface of one chamber 16. Nevertheless, since the currents flowing through A1 to A4 connected in series are the same, the maximum power output that can be taken out by each thermoelectric conversion module 13 as described in [Problems to be Solved by the Invention] Cannot be realized, and the total maximum power output value is smaller than the total value of the maximum power outputs of the thermoelectric conversion modules 13. The same applies to B1 to B4. Therefore, the total power generation amount of A1 to A4 connected in series and the total power generation amount of B1 to B4 are sufficiently smaller than the simple total value of the power generation capability of the thermoelectric conversion module 13. Naturally, the total power output of eight of A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 is also sufficiently smaller than the simple total value of the power generation capacity of the thermoelectric conversion module 13.

  In contrast to the above, in the first embodiment, wiring connection is made as shown in FIG. That is, A1, B1, B4, and A4, which are thermoelectric conversion modules 13 having substantially the same temperature difference at both ends, are connected in series and then connected to the first power load 19, and the temperature differences at both ends are substantially the same. B2, A2, A3, and B3, which are certain thermoelectric conversion modules 13, are connected in series and then connected to the second power load 24.

  When connected in this way, A1, B1, B4, and A4 have the same temperature difference at both ends, so the current values that achieve the maximum power output are the same, but the four connected in series have the same current value. , B1, B4, and A4 all have current values that achieve the maximum power output. The voltage value of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is a voltage value that realizes the maximum power output, and the combined voltage value is four times the voltage value in the current value that realizes the maximum power output. The four total power outputs can realize the maximum value of the current temperature difference between the two ends. Similarly, since B2, A2, A3, and B3 have the same temperature difference at both ends, the current values that realize the maximum power output at the temperature difference at both ends are the same, but the four connected in series have the same current value. , B2, A2, A3, and B3 all have current values that realize the maximum power output at the temperature difference between both ends, and the total power output of these four is also the maximum value at the current temperature difference at both ends of the four. realizable. Naturally, the total power output from which eight of A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 can be extracted is also maximized.

  If eight of A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 correspond to FIG. 28, the four characteristics of A1, B1, A4, and B4 have a current-voltage characteristic 38 with a large temperature difference at both ends and a large temperature difference between both ends. The four characteristics A2, B2, A3, and B3 are a current-voltage characteristic 39 with a small temperature difference at both ends and a current-power characteristic 45 with a small temperature difference at both ends. In the first embodiment, the currents and voltages of A1, B1, A4, and B4 can be I1 and V1, respectively, and the currents and voltages of A2, B2, A3, and B3 can be I2 and V2, respectively. Each can achieve the maximum power that can be extracted. The total value is 4 × (V1 × I1 + V2 × I2).

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, the power that can be taken out by both the first power load 19 and the second power load 24 is maximized by wiring connection as shown in FIG.

  In addition, the example mentioned above is only an example about arrangement | positioning of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, and fastening pressure distribution, and how to perform wiring connection is not restricted to the example mentioned above. That is, under the condition in which each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is placed, each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is classified according to the magnitude of the current value generated individually, and the thermoelectric conversion modules belonging to the same classification 13 (that is, thermoelectric conversion modules 13 having current values close to each other) are connected in series and electrically wired so as to form a serial connection portion.

  In addition, when there is unevenness in the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 due to reasons other than uneven tightening pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, or when the power generation performance of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 varies sufficiently, this Even if the technology is applied, the same effect as that in the case where the clamping pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is uneven is obtained.

Second Embodiment (Corresponding to Claim 1)
A second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 6 to 8. Here, the same reference numerals are given to elements common to the prior art and the first embodiment, and a duplicate description is omitted.

  FIG. 6 shows the arrangement of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 on the side surface of the chamber 11. In this way, if the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 are eight in the chamber longitudinal direction and two in the vertical direction, the number of sandwiches is two, so the total is 32. In order to distinguish the 32 thermoelectric conversion modules 13, in addition to the rule that the chamber sandwiching position is A, B and the chamber longitudinal position is 1, 2,. In the upper and lower direction of the chamber, the alphabet indicating “” is written as an upper case letter, and below the lower case letter as a lower case letter. It is assumed that the tightening positions 9 related to the position in the chamber longitudinal direction of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 are the four positions in FIG. In FIG. 6, the pressure is illustrated as if pressure is applied from the upper side to the lower side of the second chamber 17, but the heat transfer surface of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 (FIG. 6) as in the first embodiment. Tightening pressure is applied in the direction perpendicular to the square.

  Since conventional electric wiring is most easily connected in configuration, A1 to A8, a1 to a8, B1 to B8, and b1 to b8 are often connected in series as shown in FIG. In FIG. 7, a1 to A8 connected in series and a1 to a8 directly connected to each other are connected in parallel, and then connected to the third power load 25. Similarly, b1 to b1 connected directly to B1 to B8 connected in series are connected. After b8 is connected in parallel, it is connected to the fourth power load 26.

  Here, according to the tightening position 9 in FIG. 6, for example, the tightening pressures A1 and a1 arranged in the vertical direction are the same, and the tightening position 9 is shifted from the symmetrical center line of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 by the same distance. A1, A3, A6, and A8 are the same. Similarly, in the object located on the upper side, A2 and A7 are the same and A4 and A5 are the same, but these four are sufficiently separated from the tightening position 9 and may be treated as almost the same. When considered in this way, the tightening pressure is about the same for eight of A1, a1, B1, b1, A3, a3, B3, b3, A6, a6, B6, b6, A8, a8, B8, b8, The same is true for eight of A2, a2, B2, b2, A4, a4, B4, b4, A5, a5, B5, b5, A7, a7, B7, b7. The clamping pressures at eight of A1, a1, B1, b1, A3, a3, B3, b3, A6, a6, B6, b6, A8, a8, B8, b8 are from the symmetrical center line of the thermoelectric conversion module 13. The tightening pressure is greater than the eight tightening pressures A2, a2, B2, b2, A4, a4, B4, b4, A5, a5, B5, b5, A7, a7, B7, and b7 that are tightened at the shifted positions. Therefore, a difference occurs in the contact thermal resistance, and the thermoelectric conversion module 13 in eight of A1, a1, B1, b1, A3, a3, B3, b3, A6, a6, B6, b6, A8, a8, B8, b8. The temperature difference at both ends is larger than the temperature difference at both ends of eight of A2, a2, B2, b2, A4, a4, B4, b4, A5, a5, B5, b5, A7, a7, B7, b7. Nevertheless, since the currents flowing through A1 to A8 connected in series have the same current value, the total power generation amount of A1 to A8 connected in series as in the first embodiment is the power generation of the thermoelectric conversion module 13. It is sufficiently smaller than the simple total value of the abilities. The same applies to a1 to a8, B1 to B8, and b1 to b8. The voltage value of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is a voltage value corresponding to the flowing current value in the current-voltage characteristic determined by the temperature difference at both ends, and the eight total voltages in series are a simple sum of the voltage values. However, since the tightening pressure distribution is the same in the longitudinal direction as shown in FIG. 6, A1 to A8, a1 to a8, B1 to B8, and b1 to b8 have the same voltage value. Therefore, the current, voltage, and power do not change by connecting A1 to A8 and a1 to a8 in parallel. The same applies to B1-B8 and b1-b8 connected in parallel.

  In contrast to the above, in the second embodiment, wiring connection is made as shown in FIG. That is, A1, a1, B1, b1, b3, B3, a3, and A3, which are thermoelectric conversion modules 13 having substantially the same temperature difference at both ends, are connected in series, and A8, a8, B8, b8, b6, B6, a6. , A6 are connected in series, and the two sets are connected in parallel and then connected to the third power load 25. In addition, b4, B4, a4, A4, A2, a2, B2, b2 which are thermoelectric conversion modules 13 having substantially the same temperature difference at both ends are connected in series, and b5, B5, a5, A5, A7, a7, B7. , B7 are connected in series, and the two sets are connected in parallel and then connected to the fourth power load 26.

  If connected in this way, A1, a1, B1, b1, b3, B3, a3, and A3 have the same temperature difference at both ends, so the current value that achieves the maximum power output is the same, but the eight connected in series are Since the current values are the same, all of A1, a1, B1, b1, b3, B3, a3, and A3 are current values that realize the maximum power output. The voltage value of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is a voltage value that realizes the maximum power output, and the combined voltage value of eight is eight times the voltage value in the current value that realizes the maximum power output. The total power output of 8 can realize the maximum value of the current temperature difference between the 8 ends. Similarly, all of A8, a8, B8, b8, b6, B6, a6, and A6 have current values that realize the maximum power output at the temperature difference between both ends. The maximum value of the current temperature difference at both ends can be realized. In A8, a8, B8, b8, b6, B6, a6, and A6, the combined voltage value is eight times the voltage value at the current value that achieves the maximum power output, so A1, a1, B1, b1, b3 , B3, a3, A3 are equal to the combined voltage value of eight, A8, a8, B8, b8, b6, B6, a6, A6 are connected in series with A1, a1, B1, b1, b3 When eight B3, a3, and A3 in series are arranged in parallel, the voltage value of any of the eight does not change. In other words, even if they are arranged in parallel, the maximum power output from which any of the eight can be extracted is realized, and each of the 16 can realize the maximum power output. Similarly, 8 pieces of b4, B4, a4, A4, A2, a2, B2, b2 in series and 8 pieces of b5, B5, a5, A5, A7, a7, B7, b7 in series are arranged in parallel. Also, each of 16 achieves maximum power output. Naturally, the total power output of 32 of A1 to b8 is also maximized.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the power that can be taken out by both the third power load 25 and the fourth power load 26 is maximized by wiring connection as shown in FIG.

  In addition, the example mentioned above is only an example about arrangement | positioning of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, and fastening pressure distribution, and how to perform wiring connection is not restricted to the example mentioned above. That is, under the condition in which each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is placed, each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is classified according to the magnitude of the current value generated individually, and the thermoelectric conversion modules belonging to the same classification 13 (that is, thermoelectric conversion modules 13 having close current values) are connected in series to form a serial connection portion, and the serial connection portions having a total voltage close to each other are electrically connected in parallel. It is. In this case, there are not necessarily two serially connected portions in parallel. In addition, one thermoelectric conversion module 13 may be used as one unit called a serial connection portion.

  In addition, when there is unevenness in the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 due to reasons other than uneven tightening pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, or when the power generation performance of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 varies sufficiently, this Even if the technology is applied, the same effect as that in the case where the clamping pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is uneven is obtained.

Third Embodiment (Corresponding to Claim 2)
A third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 9 to 11. Here, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the element which is common in a prior art and 1st, 2nd embodiment, and the overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 9 shows the arrangement of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 on the side surface of the chamber 11. As described above, when the number of thermoelectric conversion modules 13 is 19 in the longitudinal direction of the chamber and 1 in the vertical direction, the number of the sandwiched parts is 39 in total. It is assumed that the tightening positions 9 with respect to the position in the chamber longitudinal direction of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 are nine places in FIG. In FIG. 9, the pressure is applied as if pressure is applied from the upper side to the lower side of the third chamber 18, but the heat transfer surface of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is the same as in the first and second embodiments. Tightening pressure is applied in a direction perpendicular to (square in FIG. 9) (direction perpendicular to the paper surface).

  Now, since conventional electrical wiring is most easily connected due to its configuration, A1-A19 and B1-B19 are often connected in series as shown in FIG. In FIG. 10, B1 to B19 connected in series with A1 to A19 connected in series are connected in parallel, and then connected to the fifth power load 27.

  Here, according to the tightening position 9 in FIG. 9, the tightening pressures are different from odd-numbered and even-numbered from the left, and A1, B1, A3, B3, A5, B5, A7, B7, A9, B9, A11, B11, A13, B13, A15, B15, A17, B17, A19, B19 are about the same, and A2, B2, A4, B4, A6, B6, A8, B8, A10, B10, A12, B12, It is about the same with 18 pieces of A14, B14, A16, B16, A18, and B18. The tightening pressure at 20 of A1, B1, A3, B3, A5, B5, A7, B7, A9, B9, A11, B11, A13, B13, A15, B15, A17, B17, A19, B19 is A2. , B2, A4, B4, A6, B6, A8, B8, A10, B10, A12, B12, A14, B14, A16, B16, A18, B18. Therefore, a difference occurs in the contact thermal resistance, and A1, B1, A3, B3, A5, B5, A7, B7, A9, B9, A11, B11, A13, B13, A15, B15, A17, B17, A19, B19 The temperature difference between both ends of the 20 thermoelectric conversion modules 13 is 18 of A2, B2, A4, B4, A6, B6, A8, B8, A10, B10, A12, B12, A14, B14, A16, B16, A18, B18. It becomes larger than the temperature difference at both ends of the piece. Nevertheless, since the currents flowing through A1 to A19 connected in series have the same current value, the total power generation amount of A1 to A19 connected in series as in the first and second embodiments is the thermoelectric conversion module. It is sufficiently smaller than the simple total value of 13 power generation capacities. The same applies to B1 to B19. The voltage value of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is a voltage value corresponding to the flowing current value in the current-voltage characteristic determined by the temperature difference between both ends, and the 19 total voltages in series are a simple sum of the voltage values. However, since the tightening pressure distribution is the same in the longitudinal direction as shown in FIG. 9, the same voltage value is obtained for A1 to A19 and B1 to B19. Therefore, current, voltage, and power do not change by connecting A1 to A19 and B1 to B19 in parallel.

  In contrast to the above, in the third embodiment, wiring connection is made as shown in FIG. That is, A1, B1, B3, A3, A5, B5, B7, A7, A9, B9, B11, A11, A13, B13, B15, A15, A17, which are thermoelectric conversion modules 13 having the same temperature difference at both ends. 20 pieces of B17, B19, A19 are connected in series, and A2, B2, B4, A4, A6, B6, B8, A8, A10, B10, B12, A12, A14, B14, B16, A16, A18, B18 18 pieces are connected in series, and the two sets are connected in parallel and then connected to the fifth power load 27.

  When connected in this way, as in the second embodiment, the 20 currents have the same current value, and the total voltage value is 20 times that of one, and the 18 currents have the same current value. Is 18 times the size of one.

  Here, let us consider a case in which the 20 pieces and the 18 pieces are not connected in parallel but are connected to the fifth power load 27 one by one. At this time, in the third embodiment, it is assumed that the voltage value is as follows due to the difference in temperature difference between both ends. That is, the voltage for one of the 20 thermoelectric conversion modules 13 in series is 0.9 times the voltage of one thermoelectric conversion module 13 in series (V3), that is, 0. It is assumed that it is 9 × V3. In this case, the total voltage obtained by serially connecting the 20 pieces and the total voltage obtained by serially connecting the 18 pieces are 18 × V3. The value does not change. That is, when the 20 pieces and the 18 pieces are arranged in parallel, the maximum power output that can be taken out is realized in each of the serially connected portions, and each of the 38 pieces can realize the maximum power output. Naturally, the total power output of 38 A1 to B19 is also maximized.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, the power that can be taken out by the fifth power load 27 is maximized by wiring connection as shown in FIG.

  However, in the third embodiment, 20 and 18 series are made in parallel, but the combination of the numbers in series is adjusted according to the voltage ratio or the like. If the total voltages of the series connection parts are different, since the total voltage of both series connection parts becomes equal when paralleled, both series connection parts deviate from the voltage value that achieves the maximum power output, and 38 total power outputs. Becomes smaller.

  In addition, the example mentioned above is only an example about arrangement | positioning of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, and fastening pressure distribution, and how to perform wiring connection is not restricted to the example mentioned above. That is, each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is classified according to the magnitude of the current value generated independently by each thermoelectric conversion module 13, and the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 belonging to the same classification (that is, thermoelectric conversions having close current values). Modules 13) are connected in series to form a serial connection portion, and at that time, the number of thermoelectric conversion modules 13 connected in series is adjusted so that a difference in voltage value generated between the serial connection portions is reduced, If there is an unused thing in the thermoelectric conversion module 13, the procedure of the classification is repeated, and after the serial connection portion is manufactured, the entire serial connection portion is electrically wired so as to be connected in parallel. is there. In this case, there are not necessarily two serially connected portions in parallel. In addition, one thermoelectric conversion module 13 may be used as one unit called a serial connection portion.

  In addition, when there is unevenness in the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 due to reasons other than uneven tightening pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, or when the power generation performance of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 varies sufficiently, this Even if the technology is applied, the same effect as that in the case where the clamping pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is uneven is obtained.

<Fourth Embodiment> (Corresponding to Claim 2)
A fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, 12, and 13. Here, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the element which is common in a prior art and 1st-3rd embodiment, and the overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The arrangement of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is the arrangement shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 as in the first embodiment. Further, at the contact surface between the first chamber 16 and the heat transfer surface (the square in FIG. 2) of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, at least one of the flatnesses is poor, and the contact thermal resistance considering the tightening pressure distribution is A1, B2. , B4 is smaller, and A2, A3, A4, B1, and B3 marked (inferior) in FIG. 12 are larger. At this time, the tightening position 9 regarding the position in the chamber longitudinal direction of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 may be the same as or different from those in FIGS.

  Now, since conventional electrical wiring is most easily connected due to its configuration, A1-A4 and B1-B4 are often connected in series as shown in FIG. In FIG. 12, B1 to B4 connected in series with A1 to A4 connected in series are connected in parallel and then connected to the sixth power load 28.

  Here, due to the difference in contact thermal resistance, the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 in three of A1, B2, and B4 is larger than the temperature difference between both ends of five of A2, A3, A4, B1, and B3. Nevertheless, since the currents flowing through A1 to A4 wired in series have the same current value, the total power generation amount of A1 to A4 wired in series as in the first to third embodiments is the thermoelectric conversion module. It is sufficiently smaller than the simple total value of 13 power generation capacities. The same applies to B1 to B4. The voltage value of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is a voltage value corresponding to the flowing current value in the current-voltage characteristic determined by the temperature difference between both ends, and the total voltage of the four in series is a simple sum of the voltage values. When the four pieces are connected in parallel to the sixth power load 28 without being parallel, the total voltage of the series connection portion is different. When two series connection parts are paralleled, the total voltage is equal in both series connection parts. Therefore, both series connection parts deviate from the voltage value that realizes the maximum power output. Furthermore, the total power output is reduced. Naturally, the total power output that can be extracted from eight of A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 is small.

  In contrast to the above, in the fourth embodiment, wiring connection is made as shown in FIG. That is, three thermoelectric conversion modules A1, B2, and B4 having the same temperature difference at both ends are connected in series, and five of B1, B3, A2, A3, and A4 are connected in series. The sets are connected in parallel and then connected to the sixth power load 28.

  When connected in this way, as in the second and third embodiments, the three currents have the same current value, and the total voltage value is three times that of one, and the five currents have the same current value. The voltage value is five times that of one.

  Here, consider a case where the three and the five are connected in parallel to the sixth power load 28 without being parallel. At this time, in the fourth embodiment, it is assumed that the voltage value is as follows due to the difference in temperature difference between both ends. That is, the voltage for one of the five thermoelectric conversion modules 13 in series is 0.6 times the voltage for one thermoelectric conversion module 13 in series (referred to as V4). Assume 6 × V4. The corresponding thermoelectric conversion module 13 in FIG. 13 is labeled <0.6> after the position display symbol. In this case, the total voltage obtained by serially connecting the five and the total voltage obtained by serially connecting the three is 3 × V4. The value does not change. That is, when the three and the five are arranged in parallel, the maximum power output that can be taken out is realized in each of the serially connected portions, and each of the eight can realize the maximum power output. Naturally, the total power output of eight of A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 is also maximized.

  Thus, according to the fourth embodiment, the power that can be taken out by the sixth power load 28 is maximized by wiring connection as shown in FIG.

  However, in the fourth embodiment, three and five series are formed and then paralleled, but the combination of the number of series is adjusted according to the ratio of the voltages generated by one. If the total voltage of the series connected parts is different, the total voltage of both series connected parts becomes equal when paralleled. Therefore, both series connected parts deviate from the voltage value that achieves the maximum power output, and 8 total power outputs Becomes smaller.

  In addition, the example mentioned above is only an example about arrangement | positioning of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, and fastening pressure distribution, and how to perform wiring connection is not restricted to the example mentioned above. That is, each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is classified according to the magnitude of the current value generated independently by each thermoelectric conversion module 13, and the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 belonging to the same classification (that is, thermoelectric conversions having close current values). Modules 13) are connected in series to form a serial connection portion, and at that time, the number of thermoelectric conversion modules 13 connected in series is adjusted so that a difference in voltage value generated between the serial connection portions is reduced, If there is an unused thing in the thermoelectric conversion module 13, the procedure of the classification is repeated, and after the serial connection portion is manufactured, the entire serial connection portion is electrically wired so as to be connected in parallel. is there. In this case, there are not necessarily two serially connected portions in parallel. In addition, one thermoelectric conversion module 13 may be used as one unit called a serial connection portion.

  In addition, when there is unevenness in the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 due to reasons other than uneven tightening pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, or when the power generation performance of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 varies sufficiently, this Even if the technology is applied, the same effect as that in the case where the clamping pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is uneven is obtained.

<Fifth Embodiment> (Corresponding to Claim 3)
A fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, 14, and 15. Here, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the element which is common in a prior art and 1st-4th embodiment, and the overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted.

  As in the first and fourth embodiments, the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is arranged as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, and the tightening position 9 with respect to the longitudinal position of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is shown in FIGS. Assume that there are three locations.

  Now, since the conventional electrical wiring is easy to connect in terms of configuration, A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 are often connected in parallel as shown in FIG. In FIG. 14, A1 to A4 are connected to the seventh power load 29, and B1 to B4 are connected to the eighth power load 30.

  Here, according to the tightening position 9 in FIGS. 2 and 3, the tightening pressure is the same for four of A1, B1, A4 and B4, and is the same for four of A2, B2, A3 and B3. is there. The tightening pressures at the four points A1, B1, A4, and B4 are larger than the tightening pressures at the four points A2, B2, A3, and B3 that are tightened at a location shifted from the thermoelectric conversion module 13. Therefore, a difference occurs in the contact thermal resistance between the heat transfer surface of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 and the side surface of the first chamber 16, and the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 in four of A 1, B 1, A 4 and B 4 is It becomes larger than the temperature difference at both ends of four of A2, B2, A3, and B3 that are in closer contact with the side surface of one chamber 16. Nevertheless, since the voltages applied to A1 to A4 connected in parallel are the same voltage value, as described in [Problems to be Solved by the Invention], each thermoelectric conversion module 13 can extract the maximum power output. Cannot be realized, and the total maximum power output value is smaller than the total value of the maximum power outputs of the thermoelectric conversion modules 13. The same applies to B1 to B4. Therefore, the total power generation amount of A1 to A4 wired in parallel and the total power generation amount of B1 to B4 are sufficiently smaller than the simple total value of the power generation capability of the thermoelectric conversion module 13. Naturally, the total power output of eight of A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 is also sufficiently smaller than the simple total value of the power generation capacity of the thermoelectric conversion module 13.

  In contrast to the above, in the fifth embodiment, wiring connection is made as shown in FIG. That is, A1, B1, A4, and B4, which are thermoelectric conversion modules 13 having substantially the same temperature difference at both ends, are connected in parallel and then connected to the seventh power load 29. A thermoelectric conversion module 13, A 2, B 2, A 3, B 3 is connected in parallel and then connected to the fourth power load 30. Since A1, B1, A4, and B4 have the same temperature difference at both ends, the voltage values that achieve the maximum power output are the same, but the four that are connected in parallel have the same voltage value, so A1, B1, A4, and B4 The four current values are current values that achieve the maximum power output. The current value of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is a current value that realizes the maximum power output, and the combined current value is four times the current value in the voltage value that realizes the maximum power output. The four total power outputs can realize the maximum value of the current temperature difference between the two ends. Similarly, A2, B2, A3, and B3 have the same temperature difference at both ends, so the voltage values that realize the maximum power output at the temperature difference at both ends are the same, but the four connected in parallel have the same voltage value. , A2, B2, A3, and B3 all have voltage values that achieve the maximum power output at the temperature difference between both ends, and the total power output of these four also has the maximum value at the current temperature difference at both ends of the four. realizable. Naturally, the total power output from which eight of A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 can be extracted is also maximized. If eight of A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 correspond to FIG. 29, the four characteristics of A1, B1, A4, and B4 have a current-voltage characteristic 38 with a large temperature difference at both ends and a large temperature difference between both ends. The four characteristics A2, B2, A3, and B3 are a current-voltage characteristic 39 with a small temperature difference at both ends and a voltage power characteristic 47 with a small temperature difference at both ends. In the fifth embodiment, the currents and voltages of A1, B1, A4, and B4 can be I1 and V1, respectively, and the currents and voltages of A2, B2, A3, and B3 can be I2 and V2, respectively. Each can achieve the maximum power that can be extracted, and the total value is 4 × (V1 × I1 + V2 × I2).

  As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, by connecting the wires as shown in FIG. 15, the power that can be extracted from both the seventh power load 29 and the eighth power load 30 is maximized.

  In addition, the example mentioned above is only an example about arrangement | positioning of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, and fastening pressure distribution, and how to perform wiring connection is not restricted to the example mentioned above. That is, each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is classified according to the magnitude of the voltage value generated independently by each thermoelectric conversion module 13, and the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 belonging to the same classification (that is, thermoelectric conversions having close voltage values). That is, the modules 13 are connected in parallel to be electrically wired so as to form a parallel connection portion. In this case, there are not necessarily two parallel connection parts in series. One unit called a parallel connection part may be one thermoelectric conversion module 13 or a series connection part of a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules 13.

  In addition, when there is unevenness in the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 due to reasons other than uneven tightening pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, or when the power generation performance of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 varies sufficiently, this Even if the technology is applied, the same effect as that in the case where the clamping pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is uneven is obtained.

<Sixth Embodiment> (Corresponding to Claim 4)
A sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 9, 16, and 17. Here, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the element which is common in a prior art and 1st-5th embodiment, and the overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted.

  Similarly to the third embodiment, the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is arranged as shown in FIG. 9, and the tightening positions 9 with respect to the position in the chamber longitudinal direction of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 are nine places shown in FIG.

  Now, since conventional electric wiring is easy to connect in terms of configuration, A1 to A19 and B1 to B19 are often connected in parallel as shown in FIG. In FIG. 16, A1 to A19 connected in parallel and B1 to B19 connected in parallel are connected in series, and then connected to the ninth power load 35.

  Here, according to the tightening position 9 in FIG. 9, the tightening pressures are different from odd-numbered and even-numbered from the left, and A1, B1, A3, B3, A5, B5, A7, B7, A9, B9, A11, B11, A13, B13, A15, B15, A17, B17, A19, B19 are about the same, and A2, B2, A4, B4, A6, B6, A8, B8, A10, B10, A12, B12, It is about the same with 18 pieces of A14, B14, A16, B16, A18, and B18. The tightening pressure at 20 of A1, B1, A3, B3, A5, B5, A7, B7, A9, B9, A11, B11, A13, B13, A15, B15, A17, B17, A19, B19 is A2. , B2, A4, B4, A6, B6, A8, B8, A10, B10, A12, B12, A14, B14, A16, B16, A18, B18. Therefore, a difference occurs in the contact thermal resistance, and A1, B1, A3, B3, A5, B5, A7, B7, A9, B9, A11, B11, A13, B13, A15, B15, A17, B17, A19, B19 The temperature difference between both ends of the 20 thermoelectric conversion modules 13 is 18 of A2, B2, A4, B4, A6, B6, A8, B8, A10, B10, A12, B12, A14, B14, A16, B16, A18, B18. It becomes larger than the temperature difference at both ends of the piece. Nevertheless, since the currents flowing through A1 to A19 wired in parallel have the same voltage value, the total power generation amount of A1 to A19 wired in parallel as in the fifth embodiment is the power generation of the thermoelectric conversion module 13. It is sufficiently smaller than the simple total value of the abilities. The same applies to B1 to B19. The current value of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is a current value corresponding to the applied voltage value in the current-voltage characteristics determined by the temperature difference at both ends, and the 19 total currents in parallel are a simple sum of the current values. However, since the tightening pressure distribution is the same in the longitudinal direction as shown in FIG. 9, the same current value is obtained for A1 to A19 and B1 to B19. Therefore, the current, voltage, and power do not change by connecting A1 to A19 and B1 to B19 in series.

  In contrast to the above, in the sixth embodiment, wiring connection is made as shown in FIG. That is, A1, B1, A3, B3, A5, B5, A7, B7, A9, B9, A11, B11, A13, B13, A15, B15, A17, which are thermoelectric conversion modules 13 having the same temperature difference at both ends. 20 of B17, A19, B19 are connected in parallel, and A2, B2, A4, B4, A6, B6, A8, B8, A10, B10, A12, B12, A14, B14, A16, B16, A18, B18 Eighteen pieces are connected in parallel, and the two sets are connected in series and then connected to the ninth power load 35.

  When connected in this way, as in the fifth embodiment, the same voltage value is obtained in the 20 pieces, and the total current value is 20 times that of one piece, and the same voltage value is obtained in the 18 pieces, and the total current value is 18 times as much as one.

  Here, let us consider a case where the 20 pieces and the 18 pieces are not connected in series but connected to the ninth power load 35 one by one. At this time, in the sixth embodiment, it is assumed that the current value is as follows due to the difference in temperature difference between both ends. That is, the current for one of the 20 thermoelectric conversion modules 13 in parallel is 0.9 times the current for one thermoelectric conversion module 13 in parallel (referred to as I5), that is, 0. It is assumed that 9 × I5. In this case, since the total current obtained by paralleling the 20 pieces and the total current obtained by paralleling the 18 pieces are both 18 × I5, even if the 20 pieces and the 18 pieces are connected in series, both parallel connection portions have the total current. The value does not change. That is, when the 20 pieces and the 28 pieces are connected in series, the maximum power output that can be taken out is realized in each of the parallel connection portions, and each of the 38 pieces can realize the maximum power output. Naturally, the total power output of 38 A1 to B19 is also maximized.

  As described above, according to the sixth embodiment, the power that can be extracted from the ninth power load 35 is maximized by wiring connection as shown in FIG.

  However, in the sixth embodiment, 20 and 18 parallels are made and then connected in series. However, the combination of the numbers to be paralleled is adjusted depending on the current ratio or the like. If the total currents of the parallel connection parts are different, since the total currents of both parallel connection parts become equal when they are connected in series, both parallel connection parts deviate from the current value that achieves the maximum power output, and 38 total power outputs Becomes smaller.

  In addition, the example mentioned above is only an example about arrangement | positioning of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, and fastening pressure distribution, and how to perform wiring connection is not restricted to the example mentioned above. That is, each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is classified according to the magnitude of the voltage value generated independently by each thermoelectric conversion module 13, and the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 belonging to the same classification (that is, thermoelectric conversions having close voltage values). The modules 13) are connected in parallel to form a parallel connection portion, and at that time, the number of thermoelectric conversion modules 13 connected in parallel is adjusted so that a difference in current value generated between the parallel connection portions is reduced, If there is an unused thing in the thermoelectric conversion module 13, the procedure of the classification is repeated, and after the parallel connection portion is manufactured, the entire parallel connection portion is electrically wired so as to be connected in series. . In this case, there are not necessarily two parallel connection parts in series. One unit called a parallel connection part may be one thermoelectric conversion module 13 or a series connection part of a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules 13.

  In addition, when there is unevenness in the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 due to reasons other than uneven tightening pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, or when the power generation performance of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 varies sufficiently, this Even if the technology is applied, the same effect as that in the case where the clamping pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is uneven is obtained.

<Seventh Embodiment> (Corresponding to Claim 4)
A seventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, 18, and 19. Here, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the element which is common in a prior art and 1st-6th embodiment, and the overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The thermoelectric conversion module 13 is arranged as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 as in the first and fourth embodiments. Similarly to the fourth embodiment, at the contact surface between the first chamber 16 and the heat transfer surface of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 (square in FIG. 2), at least one of the flatness is poor and the tightening pressure distribution is taken into consideration. It is assumed that the contact thermal resistance is smaller in A1, B2, and B4, and larger in A2, A3, A4, B1, and B3, which are marked (inferior) in FIG. At this time, the tightening position 9 regarding the position in the chamber longitudinal direction of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 may be the same as or different from those in FIGS.

  Since conventional electrical wiring is easy to connect in terms of configuration, A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 are often connected in parallel as shown in FIG. In FIG. 18, A1 to A4 connected in parallel and B1 to B4 connected in parallel are connected in series and then connected to the tenth power load 36.

  Here, due to the difference in contact thermal resistance, the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 in three of A1, B2, and B4 is larger than the temperature difference between both ends of five of A2, A3, A4, B1, and B3. Nevertheless, since the voltages applied to A1 to A4 wired in parallel have the same voltage value, the total power generation amount of A1 to A4 wired in parallel as in the fifth and sixth embodiments is the thermoelectric conversion module. It is sufficiently smaller than the simple total value of 13 power generation capacities. The same applies to B1 to B4. The current value of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is a current value corresponding to the applied voltage value in the current-voltage characteristics determined by the temperature difference between both ends, and the four total currents in parallel are a simple sum of the current values. When the four pieces are connected in series to the tenth power load 36 instead of in series, the total voltage of the parallel connection portions is different. When two parallel connection parts are paralleled, the total current becomes equal in both parallel connection parts. Therefore, both parallel connection parts deviate from the current value that achieves the maximum power output. Furthermore, the total power output is reduced. Naturally, the total power output that can be extracted from eight of A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 is small.

  In contrast to the above, in the seventh embodiment, wiring connection is made as shown in FIG. That is, three thermoelectric conversion modules A1, B2, and B4 having the same temperature difference at both ends are connected in parallel, and five of B1, B3, A2, A3, and A4 are connected in parallel. The sets are connected in series and then connected to the tenth power load 36.

  When connected in this way, as in the fifth and sixth embodiments, the three have the same voltage value and the total current value is three times that of one, and the five have the same voltage value and the total. The current value is five times that of one.

  Here, let us consider a case where the three and the five are not connected in series but connected to the tenth power load 36 one by one. At this time, in the seventh embodiment, it is assumed that the current value is as follows due to the difference in temperature difference between both ends. That is, the current for one of the five thermoelectric conversion modules 13 in parallel is 0.6 times the current for one thermoelectric conversion module 13 in parallel (referred to as I6), that is, 0.1. Assume 6 × I6. The corresponding thermoelectric conversion module 13 in FIG. 19 is labeled <0.6> after the position display symbol. In this case, the total current obtained by paralleling the five and the total current obtained by paralleling the three are 3 × I6. Therefore, even if the three and the five are connected in series, both parallel connection portions have a total current. The value does not change. That is, when the three and the five are connected in series, the maximum power output that can be taken out is realized in each of the parallel connection portions, and each of the eight can realize the maximum power output. Naturally, the total power output of eight of A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 is also maximized.

  As described above, according to the seventh embodiment, the power that can be taken out by the tenth power load 36 is maximized by wiring connection as shown in FIG.

  However, in the seventh embodiment, 3 and 5 parallels are made and then connected in series, but the combination of the number of parallels is adjusted according to the ratio of the current generated by one. If the total currents of the parallel connection parts are different, the total currents of both parallel connection parts become equal when they are connected in series, so that both parallel connection parts deviate from the current value that achieves the maximum power output, and the total power output of 8 Becomes smaller.

  In addition, the example mentioned above is only an example about arrangement | positioning of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, and fastening pressure distribution, and how to perform wiring connection is not restricted to the example mentioned above. That is, each thermoelectric conversion module 13 is classified according to the magnitude of the current value generated independently by each thermoelectric conversion module 13, and the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 belonging to the same classification (that is, thermoelectric conversions having close current values). Modules 13) are connected in series to form a serial connection portion, and at that time, the number of thermoelectric conversion modules 13 connected in series is adjusted so that a difference in voltage value generated between the serial connection portions is reduced, If there is an unused thing in the thermoelectric conversion module 13, the procedure of the classification is repeated, and after the serial connection portion is manufactured, the entire serial connection portion is electrically wired so as to be connected in parallel. is there. In this case, there are not necessarily two parallel connection parts in series. One unit called a parallel connection part may be one thermoelectric conversion module 13 or a series connection part of a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules 13.

  In addition, when there is unevenness in the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 due to reasons other than uneven tightening pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, or when the power generation performance of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 varies sufficiently, this Even if the technology is applied, the same effect as that in the case where the clamping pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is uneven is obtained.

<Eighth Embodiment> (Corresponding to Claims 5 and 6)
The eighth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the element which is common in a prior art and 1st-7th embodiment, and the overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In FIG. 20, each of the thermoelectric conversion modules 13 is indicated by a circled number. However, in the text, it is indicated by numbers enclosed in parentheses.

  In the first to seventh embodiments, a plurality of sets of series connection portions are collectively arranged in parallel, or a plurality of sets of parallel connection portions are arranged in series, but in the eighth embodiment, the series connection portions are combined. Both are connected in parallel. That is, as shown in FIG. 20, “(1) and (2)” is connected in series, assuming that “(3), (4) and (5)” are substantially the same temperature difference at both ends in each combination. To do. In addition, it is assumed that “(1) and (2) series connection portion” and “(3), (4) and (5) series connection portion” have substantially the same voltage at which the power output becomes the highest. Connect in parallel. Further, the parallel connection portion and (6) are connected in series assuming that the currents at which the power output is highest are substantially the same. Similarly, after connecting (1) to (11), it is connected to the eleventh power load 37.

  Although the power output that can be taken out by the eleven thermoelectric conversion modules 13 is maximized, according to the eighth embodiment, the degree of freedom in optimization is increased by using a plurality of serial connections and parallel connections.

  In addition, the example mentioned above is only an example about arrangement | positioning of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, and fastening pressure distribution, and how to perform wiring connection is not restricted to the example mentioned above. That is, at least one of the serial connection portions connected in parallel may include a parallel connection portion configured by connecting the thermoelectric conversion modules in parallel, or may be included in the parallel connection portions connected in series. In addition, at least one portion may include a portion where the thermoelectric conversion modules are connected in series. In this case, one unit called a serial connection portion may be one thermoelectric conversion module 13, or one unit called a parallel connection portion may be one thermoelectric conversion module 13 or a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules 13. It may be a serial connection part.

  In addition, when there is unevenness in the temperature difference between both ends of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 due to reasons other than uneven tightening pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13, or when the power generation performance of each thermoelectric conversion module 13 varies sufficiently, this Even if the technology is applied, the same effect as that in the case where the clamping pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is uneven is obtained.

  As described in detail above, according to each embodiment, it is possible to generate as much power generation as possible under the condition that the clamping pressure of the thermoelectric conversion module 13 is uneven.

  Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Thermoelectric power generation device, 3 ... Control apparatus, 4 ... Television apparatus, 5 ... Illumination equipment, 6 ... Display equipment, 7 ... Position of a chamber longitudinal direction, 8 ... Position between clamping by a chamber, 9 ... Tightening position, 10 ... Chassis, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 ... Chamber, 11A ... High temperature chamber, 11B ... Low temperature chamber, 12 ... Thermoelectric conversion module accommodating part (slot), 13 ... Thermoelectric conversion module, 14 ... Wiring, 15 ... High heat conductive material, 16 ... 1st chamber, 17 ... 2nd chamber, 18 ... 3rd chamber, 19 ... 1st electric power load, 20a, 20b ... Electrode, 21a, 21b ... Insulating plate, 22s, 22b ... Semiconductor element, 23a, 23b ... Electrode extraction port, 24 ... 2nd power load, 25 ... 3rd power load, 26 ... 4th power load, 27 ... 5th power load, 28 ... 6th power load, 29 ... 7th power load, 30 ... 8th Power load, 31A ... High temperature supply pipe, 31B ... Low temperature supply pipe, 32A ... High temperature supply header, 32B ... Low temperature supply header, 33A ... High temperature supply pipe joint, 33B ... Low temperature supply pipe joint, 34A ... header junction for high temperature supply, 34B ... header junction for low temperature supply, 35 ... ninth power load, 36 ... tenth power load, 37 ... eleventh power load, 38 ... current at large temperature difference at both ends Voltage characteristics 39 ... Current voltage characteristics with small temperature difference at both ends, 40 ... Current power characteristics with large temperature difference at both ends, 41A ... High temperature discharge piping, 41B ... Low temperature discharge piping, 42A ... High temperature discharge header, 42B ... Low temperature discharge header, 43A ... High temperature discharge pipe joint, 43B ... Low temperature discharge pipe joint, 44A ... High temperature discharge header joint, 44B ... Low temperature discharge header joint, 45 ... Current with small temperature difference at both ends Electric Characteristics, voltage power characteristics at 46 ... across a temperature difference large, the voltage power characteristics at 47 ... across the temperature difference is small, 50 ... tightening jig 51 ... fitting, 52 ... bolt, 54 ... spring.

Claims (6)

In a thermoelectric conversion device comprising three or more thermoelectric conversion modules that generate power due to a temperature difference between both surfaces, and a configuration that causes a temperature difference between both surfaces of the thermoelectric conversion module by means of a heat source and a cold heat source,
Each thermoelectric conversion module is classified according to the magnitude of the current value generated by each thermoelectric conversion module, and the thermoelectric conversion modules belonging to the same classification are connected in series to form a serial connection portion. A thermoelectric generator characterized by electrical wiring. In a thermoelectric conversion device comprising three or more thermoelectric conversion modules that generate power due to a temperature difference between both surfaces, and a configuration that causes a temperature difference between both surfaces of the thermoelectric conversion module by means of a heat source and a cold heat source,
Each thermoelectric conversion module is classified according to the magnitude of the current value generated independently by each thermoelectric conversion module, and the thermoelectric conversion modules belonging to the same classification are connected in series to form a serial connection part. At this time, the number of the thermoelectric conversion modules connected in series is adjusted so that the difference between the voltage values generated by the serial connection portions is reduced, and if there is an unused one in the thermoelectric conversion module, the procedure of the classification is performed. The thermoelectric power generator is characterized in that, after making a series connection part again, the whole series connection part is electrically wired so as to be connected in parallel. In a thermoelectric conversion device comprising three or more thermoelectric conversion modules that generate power due to a temperature difference between both surfaces, and a configuration that causes a temperature difference between both surfaces of the thermoelectric conversion module by means of a heat source and a cold heat source,
Each thermoelectric conversion module is classified according to the magnitude of the voltage value generated independently by each thermoelectric conversion module, and the thermoelectric conversion modules belonging to the same classification are connected in parallel to form a parallel connection part. A thermoelectric generator characterized by electrical wiring. In a thermoelectric conversion device comprising three or more thermoelectric conversion modules that generate power due to a temperature difference between both surfaces, and a configuration that causes a temperature difference between both surfaces of the thermoelectric conversion module by means of a heat source and a cold heat source,
Each thermoelectric conversion module is classified according to the magnitude of the voltage value generated independently by each thermoelectric conversion module, and the thermoelectric conversion modules belonging to the same classification are connected in parallel to form a parallel connection part. At this time, the number of the thermoelectric conversion modules connected in parallel is adjusted so that the difference in the current value generated by each of the parallel connection portions is small, and if there is an unused one in the thermoelectric conversion module, the procedure of the classification is performed. The thermoelectric power generation apparatus is characterized in that, after performing again, a parallel connection portion is manufactured, and then the parallel connection portions are all electrically connected so as to be connected in series.   The thermoelectric generator according to claim 2, further comprising a parallel connection portion configured by connecting the thermoelectric conversion modules in parallel at least one of the serial connection portions connected in parallel.   5. The thermoelectric generator according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the parallel connection portions connected in series includes a serial connection portion configured by connecting thermoelectric conversion modules in series.