JP5397180B2 - Thermoelectric generator and method for manufacturing the same - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a thermoelectric generator that converts thermal energy into electrical energy.

  A thermoelectric conversion element (Seebeck element) is an element that generates an electromotive force by providing a temperature difference at an end portion of a thermoelectric material. Since the thermoelectric conversion element does not have a movable part, it is noiseless and vibration-free and easy to install.

  Since the electromotive force differs depending on whether the material is n-type or p-type, in the thermoelectric conversion element, the p-type material and the n-type material are usually electrically connected in series via an electrode, and It has a structure (so-called π-type structure) in which the heat-absorbing side junction and the heat-dissipating side junction are arranged on opposite sides of the n-type material and the p-type material.

  A thermoelectric power generation device including a thermoelectric conversion element has low energy conversion efficiency with respect to its size.

JP 2006-296077 A

  An object of the present invention is to provide a thermoelectric generator that can be miniaturized by packing thermoelectric conversion elements in a small area.

According to one aspect of the invention,
A spiral first thermoelectric element;
A second thermoelectric element that is helical and is arranged alternately with the first heat flow path in the direction of the helical axis of the first thermoelectric element and forms a double helix with the first thermoelectric element;
A first heat flow path and a second heat flow path that are helical and alternately separate the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element;
A first electrode that contacts the first heat flow path and electrically joins the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element;
There is provided a thermoelectric power generator comprising a second electrode that is in contact with the second heat flow path and electrically joins the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element.

According to another aspect of the invention,
A sheet-like first thermoelectric element, in which a first electrode and a doughnut-shaped first rib are provided in order on one surface, a second electrode is provided on the other surface, and the first thermoelectric element passes through the center of the first thermoelectric element. Preparing the first thermoelectric element provided with one cut;
A sheet-like second thermoelectric element, in which a third electrode and a doughnut-shaped second rib having a larger curvature than the first rib are sequentially provided on one surface, and a fourth electrode is provided on the other surface; Preparing the second thermoelectric element provided with a second cut through the center of the second thermoelectric element;
Intersecting the first cut and the second cut so as to bite each other;
The intersecting first thermoelectric element and second thermoelectric element, a normal passing through the center of the one surface in the first thermoelectric element and a normal passing through the center of the one surface in the second thermoelectric element And a step of superimposing such that one surface of the first thermoelectric element and one surface of the second thermoelectric element face substantially the same direction. A method is provided.

  The thermoelectric power generation device of the present invention has an advantage that it can be miniaturized because the thermoelectric conversion elements can be packed in a small region.

It is a mimetic diagram explaining the thermoelectric power generator of a 1st embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the thermoelectric power generating apparatus of 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the thermoelectric generator of 3rd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of the 1st usage condition of the thermoelectric generator of 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of the 2nd usage condition of the thermoelectric generator of 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of the 3rd usage condition of the thermoelectric generator of 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of the 4th usage condition of the thermoelectric generator of 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of the 5th usage condition of the thermoelectric generator of 2nd Embodiment.

  Drawing 1 is a mimetic diagram explaining the thermoelectric power generator of a 1st embodiment.

  Fig.1 (a) is a schematic diagram explaining the thermoelectric generator of 1st Embodiment. An upper view of FIG. 1A is a plan view of the first heat flow path included in the thermoelectric generator of the first embodiment in the spiral axis direction. The lower figure of Fig.1 (a) is sectional drawing which shows the AA cross section of the upper figure. FIG.1 (b) is a fragmentary perspective view of the thermoelectric power generating apparatus containing the part enclosed by the dotted line B of Fig.1 (a). FIG.1 (c) is a schematic diagram which shows the shape of the n-type thermoelectric element 14 among the thermoelectric generators of Fig.1 (a), and FIG.1 (d) is among the thermoelectric generators of Fig.1 (a). 3 is a schematic diagram showing the shape of a p-type thermoelectric element 13. FIG. 1 (c) and 1 (d), the upper figure is a plan view of the first heat flow path in the direction of the helical axis, and the lower figure is a sectional view showing the CC section and the DD section of the upper figure, respectively.

  The thermoelectric generator according to the first embodiment includes a spiral p-type thermoelectric element 13 and a spiral and is arranged alternately with the first heat flow path in the spiral axis direction of the p-type thermoelectric element. The n-type thermoelectric element 14 which forms a double helix, and the 1st heat flow path 11 and the 2nd heat flow path 12 which are helical and separate the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 alternately are provided. Here, the spiral means a three-dimensional space helix such as a helical spring. The first heat channel 11, the second heat channel 12, the p-type thermoelectric element 13, and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 each have a spiral shape along substantially the same spiral axis OO. The p-type thermoelectric elements 13 and the n-type thermoelectric elements 14 are alternately arranged in the direction of the helical axis OO. In other words, the n-type thermoelectric element 14 is disposed at the position of the spiral groove of the p-type thermoelectric element 13. The p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 are not in direct contact. The p-type thermoelectric element 13 rotates about 360 ° counterclockwise along the spiral axis OO, and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 is counterclockwise along the spiral axis OO like the p-type thermoelectric element. Turn about 360 ° around. The spiral pitch of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the spiral pitch of the n-type thermoelectric element 14 are equal. Here, the helical pitch is the distance traveled in the direction of the helical axis OO every time 360 ° is turned. The turning direction may be clockwise. The turning angle is not necessarily about 360 °.

  The p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 have a substantially sector shape centered on the helical axis OO. With this shape, the columnar cavity 19 centered on the spiral axis OO can be used as a third heat channel capable of exchanging heat with the first heat channel 11. In addition, a heat source or a cold heat source may be arranged inside the hollow portion 19, and it may be in thermal contact with the first heat flow path 11.

  The third electrode 15 and the sixth electrode 17 are provided on the surface of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 so as to sandwich the p-type thermoelectric element 13 in the spiral axis direction. A first rib 21 is provided on the opposite side of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 across the third electrode 15. The seventh electrode 16 and the fourth electrode 18 are provided on the surface of the n-type thermoelectric element 14 so as to sandwich the n-type thermoelectric element 14 in the spiral axis direction. A second rib 22 is provided on the opposite side of the n-type thermoelectric element 14 across the seventh electrode 16.

  The first rib 21 is disposed between the spiral axis OO and the first heat channel 11, and the second rib 22 is disposed on the opposite side of the spiral axis OO across the first heat channel 11. The The 1st rib 21 and the 2nd rib 22 maintain the shape of the 1st heat channel 11 and the 2nd heat channel 12 by supporting p type thermoelectric element 13 and n type thermoelectric element 14 which adjoin, respectively.

  The spiral axis of the first rib 21 is substantially the same as the spiral axis of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14. The first rib 21 is in contact from one end to the other end in the spiral direction of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14. The spiral axis of the second rib 22 is substantially the same as the spiral axis of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14. The second rib 22 is in contact with one end from the other end of the spiral direction of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 to the other end.

  As the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14, any different metal or semiconducting substance can be used. From the viewpoint of increasing the energy conversion efficiency of the thermoelectric generator, a p-type semiconductor is normally used as the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and an n-type semiconductor is used as the n-type thermoelectric element 14.

  The main components of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 are, for example, BiTe, PbTe, SiGe, silicide, skutterudite, transition metal oxide, zinc antimony, boron compound, and cluster solid. And carbon nanotubes.

Examples of the BiTe-based material include BiTe, SbTe, BiSe, and compounds containing them. Examples of the PbTe-based material include PbTe, SnTe, AgSbTe, GeTe, and compounds containing them. Furthermore, examples of the SiGe-based material include Si, Ge, and SiGe, and examples of the silicide-based material include FeSi, MnSi, and CeSi. The skutterudite-based material is a compound described as MX ₃ or RM ₄ X ₁₂ . However, M is any element of Co, Rh, and Ir, X is any element of As, P, and Sb, and R is any element of La, Yb, and Ce.

Transition metal oxide materials include CaMnO, NaCoO, ZnInO, SrTiO, BiSrCoO, PbSrCoO, CaBiCoO, and BaBiCoO. The zinc antimony-based material includes, for example, ZnSb, and the boron compound material includes CeB, BaB, SrB, CaB, MgB, VB, NiB, CuB, and LiB. The cluster solid material includes B cluster, Si cluster, C cluster, AlRe, and AlReSi. An example of the zinc oxide-based material is ZnO. A typical composition used for the p-type thermoelectric element 13 is Bi _0.5 Sb _1.5 Te ₃ , and a typical composition used for the n-type thermoelectric element 14 is Bi ₂ Te _2.85 Se _0.15. Is mentioned.

  In the first embodiment, the first rib 21 and the second rib 22 have conductivity. The p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 are in contact with the first heat flow path 11 sandwiched between the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 in the spiral axis direction. A third electrode 15 provided on one surface, a fourth electrode 18 provided on one surface of the n-type thermoelectric element 14, a first rib (fifth electrode) 21 sandwiched between the third electrode 15 and the fourth electrode 18, and It is electrically connected via. The 3rd electrode 15, the 4th electrode 18, and the 1st rib 21 constitute the 1st electrode. Further, the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 are arranged in the direction of the helical axis in a portion in contact with the second heat flow path 12 sandwiched between the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 in the helical axis direction. A sixth electrode 17 provided on the opposite side of the third electrode 15 with the p-type thermoelectric element 13 sandwiched therebetween, and a seventh electrode 16 provided on the opposite side of the fourth electrode 18 with the n-type thermoelectric element 14 interposed therebetween. The second rib (eighth electrode) 22 sandwiched between the sixth electrode 17 and the seventh electrode 16 is electrically joined. The sixth electrode 17, the seventh electrode 16, and the second rib 22 constitute the second electrode.

  In the first embodiment, the first rib 21 and the second rib 22 support the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14, and secure the first heat flow path 11 and the second heat flow path 12.

  The first heat channel 11 exchanges heat with the first electrode, and the second heat channel 12 exchanges heat with the second electrode. The first heat flow path 11 and the second heat flow path 12 are, for example, cavities, and heat transfer media having different temperatures can flow through the cavities during power generation. Moreover, the 1st heat flow path 11 and the 2nd heat flow path 12 can be comprised using the material provided with high heat conductivity, such as AlN, SiC, etc. and electrical insulation. Alternatively, as in the second to fifth usage modes described later, a threaded conduit formed using a material having high thermal conductivity and electrical insulation is disposed across the first heat channel and the third heat channel. May be.

  By making the temperature of the first heat flow path different from the temperature of the second heat flow path, the thermoelectric generator of the first embodiment can function. For example, when a heat medium is passed through the first heat flow path 11 and a coolant is passed through the second heat flow path 12, the second electrode (for example, the sixth electrode 17 and the seventh electrode 16) is used as the negative electrode and the first electrode (for example, the fourth electrode). 18, functions as a power generator using the third electrode 15) as a positive electrode. Further, for example, when a refrigerant is passed through the first heat flow path 11 and a heat medium is passed through the second heat flow path 12, it functions as a power generation device having the second electrode as a positive electrode and the first electrode as a negative electrode.

  In the thermoelectric generator of the first embodiment, the p-type thermoelectric element 13, the third electrode 15, the sixth electrode 17, the n-type thermoelectric element 14, the seventh electrode 16, and the fourth electrode 18 are perpendicular to the helical axis OO. Therefore, the contact area of the first electrode (the third electrode 15 and the fourth electrode 18) can be easily increased with respect to the first heat flow path 11, and the second heat flow path 12 can be extended to the second heat flow path 12. The contact area of the electrodes (sixth electrode 17, seventh electrode 16) can be easily increased. Therefore, the thermoelectric power generator of the first embodiment can arrange the thermoelectric elements at a high density with respect to the volume of the third heat flow channel (cavity) 19 that exchanges heat with the first heat flow channel 11. Can be miniaturized.

  In the first embodiment, the first rib 21 has a function of electrically connecting the third electrode 15 and the sixth electrode 17 and a function of supporting the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14. Both functions may be realized by different members. For example, in FIG. 1A, the first rib 21 has a support function and insulation, and a conductive material (not shown) is provided on the surface of the first rib 21 on the spiral axis side, and the third electrode 15. And the sixth electrode 17 may be electrically connected to form the first electrode. Similarly, the second rib 22 has a function of electrically connecting the seventh electrode 16 and the fourth electrode 18 and a function of supporting the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14. Each may be realized by different members. For example, in FIG. 1A, the second rib 22 has a support function and insulation, and a conductive material (not shown) is provided on the surface of the second rib 22 on the spiral axis side. The material may electrically connect the seventh electrode 16 and the fourth electrode 18 to form the second electrode. At this time, it is preferable that the first rib 21 and the second rib 22 have lower thermal conductivity than the material of the first electrode and the second electrode. Examples of such a material include an epoxy resin, a polypropylene (PP) resin, Examples thereof include thermosetting resins such as ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) resin.

  Hereinafter, a method for manufacturing the thermoelectric generator of the first embodiment will be described with an example. First, a circular sheet-shaped p-type thermoelectric element in which an electrode and a circumferential first rib are sequentially provided on one surface, an electrode is provided on the other surface, and a notch passing through the center is prepared. In addition, an electrode and a circular second rib having a larger curvature than the first rib are sequentially provided on one surface, an electrode is provided on the other surface, and a circular sheet-like n-type thermoelectric device provided with a notch passing through the center. Prepare the device. A method for preparing such a p-type thermoelectric element and an n-type thermoelectric element is not particularly limited, and can be prepared by, for example, the following method. First, a sheet-like p-type thermoelectric element and an n-type thermoelectric element are respectively formed by a sintering method, for example. The thickness of each thermoelectric element is 2 mm, for example. Next, each sheet-like thermoelectric element is punched and processed into a donut shape. The donut-shaped thermoelectric element has, for example, an outer diameter of 20 mm and a central hole diameter of 5 mm. Next, electrodes are formed on both surfaces of each thermoelectric element of the donut by, for example, copper plating. Next, for example, using a commercially available metal mask printer, a conductive resin having adhesive performance such as the trade name “Dotite” (manufactured by Fujikura Kasei Co., Ltd.) is applied circumferentially to one surface of each thermoelectric element. , Forming ribs. In the n-type thermoelectric element, the rib is provided with a height of 300 μm and a width of 300 μm, for example, at a position 6 mm from the center. In the p-type thermoelectric element, the rib is provided with a height of 300 μm and a width of 300 μm, for example, at a position 19 mm from the center. Next, one radial notch passing through the circular center is made in each thermoelectric element in which the rib is formed. The cutting width (circumferential width) is, for example, about 2 mm.

  Next, the cut portions of the p-type thermoelectric element and the n-type thermoelectric element cross each other so as to bite into each other, and then overlap. At this time, the normal line passing through the center of the main surface in the p-type thermoelectric element and the normal line passing through the center of the main surface in the n-type thermoelectric element are substantially the same, and ribs of each thermoelectric element are formed. Two thermoelectric elements are overlapped so that the formed surfaces face substantially the same direction. As a result, the p-type thermoelectric element and the n-type thermoelectric element are spirally deformed, and the p-type thermoelectric element and the n-type thermoelectric element are electrically joined via the ribs and the electrodes provided on both surfaces of each thermoelectric element. Thus, the first electrode and the second electrode are formed, and the first heat channel and the second heat channel are formed. The two thermoelectric elements crossed and stacked are firmly integrated by applying pressure with an isobaric press (temperature 150 ° C., time 30 min, pressure 2 MPa). Thus, the thermoelectric generator of the first embodiment is obtained.

  According to the manufacturing method, the thermoelectric generator of the first embodiment can be easily produced from a sheet-like p-type thermoelectric element and an n-type thermoelectric element having ribs on the surface.

  FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the thermoelectric power generation device of the second embodiment, and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the EE cross section of FIG. In addition, in the thermoelectric power generation apparatus of 2nd Embodiment, about the structure similar to the thermoelectric power generation apparatus of 1st Embodiment, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted. In the thermoelectric generator of FIG. 2, a plurality of structures having the same configuration as the thermoelectric generator of FIG. 1 are connected and stacked in the direction of the spiral axis. In the thermoelectric generator of FIG. 2, the p-type thermoelectric material 13 and the n-type thermoelectric material 14 of the device 31 are connected to the p-type thermoelectric material 13 and the n-type thermoelectric material 14 of the device 32, respectively. The thermoelectric material 13 and the n-type thermoelectric material 14 are connected to the p-type thermoelectric material 13 and the n-type thermoelectric material 14 of the device 33, respectively. That is, in the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment, devices 31 to 33 having the same configuration as the thermoelectric generator of FIG. 1 are electrically connected in parallel.

  In the device 31, the side end corresponding to the spiral side end 42 of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 shown in FIG. 1A and the device 32 of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 shown in FIG. A side end corresponding to the side end 41 of the spiral is joined. Further, in the device 31, a side end corresponding to the spiral side end 44 of the n-type thermoelectric element 14 shown in FIG. 1A, and in the device 32, a p-type thermoelectric element shown in FIG. The side end portions corresponding to the side end portions 43 of the 13 spirals are joined. The device 32 and the device 33 are similarly joined. As a bonding method, for example, an insulating and thermosetting adhesive can be applied to each side end portion, and the side end portions can be bonded to each other. Since the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment can be arranged at a high density like that of the first embodiment, it can be downsized. The electromotive force generated by the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, while the capacity of the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment is larger than that of the first embodiment. Further, as in the second to fifth usage modes described later, the thermoelectric power generation device of the second embodiment arranges a conduit having a screw thread with respect to the first heat flow path or screws with respect to the second heat flow path. A heat sink with a mountain can be arranged. Thus, the thermoelectric element of 2nd Embodiment is equipped with the structure where it is easy to supply heat to a 1st electrode and a 2nd electrode.

  Hereinafter, an example of a method for manufacturing the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment will be described. From the step of creating the sheet of the p-type thermoelectric element and the n-type thermoelectric element to the step of forming the rib are performed in the same manner as in the example of the method for manufacturing the thermoelectric generator of the first embodiment. After the ribs are formed, an insulating thermosetting adhesive (150 ° C. curing type) is applied to the side surfaces of the cut portions of each element. Next, after intersecting and overlapping at the notch portions of the two elements, three sets of them are overlapped and laminated with an isobaric press (temperature 150 ° C., time 30 min, pressure 2 MPa), and the thermoelectric power generation of the second embodiment Get the device.

  According to the above manufacturing method, similar to the manufacturing method of the thermoelectric power generation element of the first embodiment, the second implementation is performed from the sheet-shaped p-type thermoelectric element and the n-type thermoelectric element provided with ribs on the surface in a circumferential shape. The thermoelectric power generator of the form can be easily created.

  FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a thermoelectric generator according to a third embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a thermoelectric power generation apparatus in which the thermoelectric power generation apparatuses of FIG. 1 are electrically connected in series. In addition, in the thermoelectric power generating apparatus of 3rd Embodiment, about the structure similar to the thermoelectric power generating apparatus of 1st and 2nd embodiment, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted. Fig.3 (a) is sectional drawing which passes along a spiral axis and respond | corresponds to the EE cross section of Fig.1 (a) and FIG.3 (b). The difference from the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment is that a spacer 53 is arranged between the device 51 and the device 52 corresponding to the thermoelectric generator of FIG. By disposing the spacer 53, thermoelectric power generators having the same configuration as in the first embodiment can be electrically connected in series, and the electromotive force can be increased.

  The upper view of FIG. 3B is a top view of the spacer viewed from the spiral axis direction. The lower view of FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view showing the AA cross section of the upper view of FIG. FIG. 3C is a partial perspective view of the spacer including a portion surrounded by a dotted line B in FIG. The spacer 53 includes a spiral first heat flow path 11, a second heat flow path 12 that is spiral and disposed alternately adjacent to the first heat flow path in the direction of the spiral axis of the first heat flow path, and the first heat flow path 12. Insulators 64 and conductors 63 that alternately separate the heat flow paths 11 and the second heat flow paths 12 are provided.

  A spiral third rib 62 is provided on one surface of the insulator 64. The third rib 62 supports the insulator 64 and the conductor 63 and secures the second heat flow path 12. However, the third rib 62 supports the insulator 64 and the sixth electrode 17 of the device 52 between the device 52 and the spacer 53. A spiral fourth rib 61 is provided on one surface of the conductor 63. The fourth rib 61 supports the conductor 63 and the insulator 64 and secures the first heat flow path 11. However, the fourth rib 61 supports the conductor 63 and the fourth electrode 18 of the device 51 between the device 52 and the spacer 53. The fourth rib 61 has conductivity.

  In the device 51, the side end corresponding to the spiral side end 42 of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 shown in FIG. 1A, and the spacer 53 in the spiral side end of the conductor 63 shown in FIG. The part 45 is joined. Further, in the device 51, the side end corresponding to the spiral side end 44 of the n-type thermoelectric element 14 shown in FIG. 1A and the spacer 53 of the insulator 64 shown in FIG. A side end corresponding to the side end 47 of the spiral is joined. Also, the spacer 53 corresponds to the spiral side end portion 46 of the conductor 63 shown in FIG. 3B and the device 52 corresponds to the spiral side end portion 41 of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 shown in FIG. The side end portion to be joined is joined. Further, in the spacer 53, the spiral side end portion 48 of the insulator 64 shown in FIG. 3B, and in the device 52, the spiral side end portion 43 of the p-type thermoelectric element 13 shown in FIG. Are joined to the side end corresponding to. As a bonding method, for example, an insulating and thermosetting adhesive can be applied to each side end portion, and the side end portions can be bonded to each other.

  The insulator 64 pivots about 360 ° counterclockwise along the spiral axis, and the conductor 63 pivots about 360 ° counterclockwise along the spiral axis along the spiral axis. The first heat channel 11, the second heat channel 12, the p-type thermoelectric element 13, and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 each have a spiral shape along substantially the same spiral axis OO.

  The conductor 63 electrically connects the second rib 22 and the seventh electrode 16 of the device 51 and the fourth electrode 18 of the device 52. On the other hand, the insulator 64 electrically insulates the first rib 21 and the third electrode 15 of the device 51 from the sixth electrode 17 of the device 52.

  Since the thermoelectric generator of the third embodiment can be arranged at a high density, similar to that of the first embodiment, it can be downsized. The thermoelectric generator of the third embodiment is p-type by connecting and laminating a plurality of structures having the same configuration as the thermoelectric generator of the first embodiment in the direction of the spiral axis via the spacer. Since a structure in which thermoelectric elements and n-type thermoelectric elements are alternately connected in series is provided, an electromotive force generated from the thermoelectric generators of the first and second embodiments is large.

  FIGS. 4-8 is sectional drawing which shows the structure which is a usage condition of the thermoelectric power generating apparatus of 2nd Embodiment.

  FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the first usage mode of the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment. The structure of the first usage mode is sealed on the cylindrical cavity portion 19, the spiral second heat flow path 12, the p-type thermoelectric element 13, and the n-type thermoelectric element 14 of the thermoelectric power generation device of the second embodiment. Materials 71a and 71b are provided. Sealing 71a, 71b constitutes a part of the 1st heat channel 11 and the 2nd heat channel 12 at the time of operation. In the first heat flow path 11, the first heat medium flows in from the inlet 74a, and the first heat medium flows out from the outlet 74b. The inlet 74a and the outlet 74b of the first heat flow path 11 are connected by a first heat medium flow path 72 that penetrates the sealing materials 71a and 71b. In the second heat flow path 12, the second heat medium flows in from the inlet 75a, and the second heat medium flows out from the outlet 75b. The inlet 75a and the outlet 75b of the second heat channel 12 are connected by a channel 73 of the second heat medium that penetrates the sealing materials 71a and 71b. The electromotive force is taken out from the positive terminal 76 and the negative terminal 77 provided on the sixth electrodes 17 and 18 at the lower end, respectively.

  FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the second usage mode of the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment. The structure of the second usage mode has the same configuration as that of the second embodiment, except that the spiral axis is not a straight line but a curve, and six structures corresponding to the thermoelectric generator of the first embodiment are provided. Have. In the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment, there are no ribs on the outer peripheral portion of the second heat flow channel 12 and the inner peripheral portion of the first heat flow channel, so that it is easily bent without being damaged like a bellows structure. sell.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the third usage mode of the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment. In the structure according to the third usage mode, a conduit 81 having a helical thread 82 is arranged in the columnar cavity 19 and the first heat flow path 11 of the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment. Since the screw thread 82 corresponds to the shape of the first heat flow path 11, the structure in the third usage mode can be formed by screwing the conduit 81 into the cavity 19. When the thermoelectric generator is used, a heat transfer medium is caused to flow inside the conduit 81. About the 2nd heat flow path 12, you may immerse in the medium for heat conveyance, for example, the sealing material 71 may be provided like a 1st use aspect, and the medium for heat conveyance may be flowed inside. In addition, even when the conduit provided with the thread is bent, the thermoelectric generator of the second embodiment can be similarly screwed.
As shown in FIG. 5, the thermoelectric generator after being screwed has a shape in which the spiral axis is bent.

  FIG. 7: is sectional drawing which shows the structure of the 4th usage condition of the thermoelectric generator of 2nd Embodiment. In the structure according to the fourth usage mode, the heat sink 91 including the thread 92 is arranged in the second heat flow path of the structure according to the third usage mode. Since the screw thread 92 corresponds to the shape of the second heat flow path, the structure in the fourth usage mode can be formed by screwing the heat sink 91 into the second heat flow path 12 of the second thermoelectric generator.

  FIG. 8: is sectional drawing which shows the structure of the 5th usage condition of the thermoelectric generator of 2nd Embodiment. The heat sink 91 of the structure according to the fourth usage mode is mounted on a semiconductor device 93 such as an IC chip. The semiconductor device 93 is provided on the substrate 94 via solder bumps 95. The heat generated in the semiconductor device 93 is transmitted to the heat sink 91, and the thread 92 corresponding to the second heat flow path 12 in the second embodiment is heated. On the other hand, by flowing cold water inside the conduit 81, the screw thread 82 corresponding to the first heat flow path 11 in the second embodiment is cooled. Therefore, a temperature difference is generated between the first electrode and the second electrode sandwiching the p-type thermoelectric element 13 and the n-type thermoelectric element 14, and the thermoelectric element of the second embodiment generates an electromotive force.

  In the structure of the fifth usage mode, for example, a circulation pump for circulating the heat transfer medium in the conduit 81 may be driven by the electromotive force generated by the thermoelectric power generation device of the second embodiment, The heat sink may be cooled by wind generated by driving.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. As long as there is no contradiction, a plurality of embodiments may be combined. The above-described embodiment is an exemplification, and the present invention has any configuration that has substantially the same configuration as the technical idea described in the claims of the present invention and that exhibits the same effects. Are included in the technical scope.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 1st heat flow path 12 2nd heat flow path 13 p-type thermoelectric element 14 n-type thermoelectric element 15 3rd electrode 16 7th electrode 17 6th electrode 18 4th electrode 19 Cavity part 21 1st rib (5th electrode)
22 2nd rib (8th electrode)
31-33 Device having the same configuration as the thermoelectric generator of the first embodiment 41 Spiral side end of p-type thermoelectric element 42 Spiral side end of p-type thermoelectric element 43 Spiral side end of n-type thermoelectric element 44 Side end portions 51 and 52 of the spiral of the n-type thermoelectric element 51, 52 Apparatus having the same configuration as the thermoelectric generator of the first embodiment 53 Spacer 61 Fourth rib 62 Third rib 63 Conductor 64 Insulator 71 Sealing material 72 First Heat medium channel 73 Second heat medium channel 74a First heat channel inlet 74b First heat channel outlet 75a Second heat channel inlet 75b Second heat channel outlet 81 Conduit 82 Thread 91 Heat sink 92 Screw Mountain 93 Semiconductor device 94 Substrate 95 Solder bump

Claims (8)

A spiral first thermoelectric element;
A second thermoelectric element that is helical and is arranged alternately with the first heat flow path in the direction of the helical axis of the first thermoelectric element and forms a double helix with the first thermoelectric element;
A first heat flow path and a second heat flow path that are helical and alternately separate the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element;
A first electrode that contacts the first heat flow path and electrically joins the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element;
A thermoelectric power generator comprising: a second electrode that contacts the second heat flow path and electrically joins the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element.   The first electrode includes a third electrode provided on the surface of the first thermoelectric element facing the first heat flow path, and a fourth electrode provided on the surface of the second thermoelectric element facing the first heat flow path. A fifth electrode that electrically connects the third electrode and the fourth electrode, and the second electrode includes a sixth electrode provided on a surface of the first element facing the second heat flow path, And a seventh electrode provided on a surface of the second element facing the second heat flow path, and an eighth electrode electrically connecting the sixth electrode and the seventh electrode. The thermoelectric generator according to claim 1. The fifth electrode has a spiral shape and is disposed between a spiral axis of the first thermoelectric element and the first heat flow path, and supports the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element,
The eighth electrode has a spiral shape and is disposed on the opposite side of the spiral axis of the first thermoelectric element across the second heat flow path, and supports the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric generator according to claim 2. A first rib that is helical and is disposed between the helical axis of the first thermoelectric element and the first heat flow path, and supports the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element;
A spiral rib is disposed on the opposite side of the spiral axis of the first thermoelectric element across the second heat flow path, and includes a second rib that supports the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric power generator according to claim 1 or 2.   The thermoelectric generator according to claim 4, wherein the first rib and the second rib have lower thermal conductivity than the first electrode and the second electrode.   6. The thermoelectric generator according to claim 1, wherein the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element have a substantially fan-shaped shape with a spiral axis as a center.   The thermoelectric power generation according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein one of the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element is a p-type thermoelectric material and the other is an n-type thermoelectric material. apparatus. A sheet-like first thermoelectric element, in which a first electrode and a doughnut-shaped first rib are provided in order on one surface, a second electrode is provided on the other surface, and the first thermoelectric element passes through the center of the first thermoelectric element. Preparing the first thermoelectric element provided with one cut;
A sheet-like second thermoelectric element, in which a third electrode and a doughnut-shaped second rib having a larger curvature than the first rib are sequentially provided on one surface, and a fourth electrode is provided on the other surface; Preparing the second thermoelectric element provided with a second cut through the center of the second thermoelectric element;
Intersecting the first cut and the second cut so as to bite each other;
The intersecting first thermoelectric element and second thermoelectric element, a normal passing through the center of the one surface in the first thermoelectric element and a normal passing through the center of the one surface in the second thermoelectric element And a step of superimposing such that one surface of the first thermoelectric element and one surface of the second thermoelectric element face substantially the same direction. Method.