WO2017046485A1 - Thermoelectric module and device, in particular for generating an electric current in a motor vehicle, and method for manufacturing such a module - Google Patents

Thermoelectric module and device, in particular for generating an electric current in a motor vehicle, and method for manufacturing such a module Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2017046485A1
WO2017046485A1 PCT/FR2016/052258 FR2016052258W WO2017046485A1 WO 2017046485 A1 WO2017046485 A1 WO 2017046485A1 FR 2016052258 W FR2016052258 W FR 2016052258W WO 2017046485 A1 WO2017046485 A1 WO 2017046485A1
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Prior art keywords
thermoelectric
tube
elements
module
thermoelectric elements
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PCT/FR2016/052258
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French (fr)
Inventor
Kamel Azzouz
Patrick Boisselle
Cédric DE VAULX
Véronique MONNET
Ambroise SERVANTIE
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Valeo Systemes Thermiques
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Publication of WO2017046485A1 publication Critical patent/WO2017046485A1/en

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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H10—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H10N—ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H10N10/00—Thermoelectric devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, i.e. devices exhibiting Seebeck or Peltier effects
    • H10N10/10—Thermoelectric devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, i.e. devices exhibiting Seebeck or Peltier effects operating with only the Peltier or Seebeck effects
    • H10N10/13—Thermoelectric devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, i.e. devices exhibiting Seebeck or Peltier effects operating with only the Peltier or Seebeck effects characterised by the heat-exchanging means at the junction
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H10—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H10N—ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H10N10/00—Thermoelectric devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, i.e. devices exhibiting Seebeck or Peltier effects
    • H10N10/10—Thermoelectric devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, i.e. devices exhibiting Seebeck or Peltier effects operating with only the Peltier or Seebeck effects
    • H10N10/17—Thermoelectric devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, i.e. devices exhibiting Seebeck or Peltier effects operating with only the Peltier or Seebeck effects characterised by the structure or configuration of the cell or thermocouple forming the device

Definitions

  • thermoelectric devices also called electric thermo generators or TEG according to the acronym "ThermoElectric Generator”
  • TEG electric thermo generators
  • electrical thermo to generate an electric current in the presence of a gradient of temperature between two of their opposite faces according to the phenomenon known as the Seebeck effect.
  • These devices comprise a stack of first tubes, intended for the circulation of the exhaust gases of an engine, and second tubes, intended for the circulation of a heat transfer fluid of a cooling circuit.
  • the electrical thermo elements are sandwiched between the tubes so as to be subjected to a temperature gradient from the temperature difference between the hot exhaust gases and the cold cooling fluid.
  • Such devices are particularly interesting because they make it possible to produce electricity from a conversion of the heat coming from the exhaust gases of the engine. I ls thus offer the possibility of reducing the fuel consumption of the vehicle by replacing, at least partially, the alternator usually provided therein to generate electricity from a belt driven by the crankshaft of the vehicle. engine.
  • a constraint encountered with the known devices is that they require that a very good contact is ensured between the electrical thermo elements and the tubes so as to ensure a satisfactory conduction between them. It is thus necessary to have tubes having perfect flatness and excellent surface condition impacting the cost of the device.
  • a first solution is to strengthen the contact with external tie rods exerting a compressive force on the stack of tubes. Such a solution is also reserved for configurations in which the tubes are stacked one above the other, which limits the possibilities of integration into an exhaust line.
  • a second solution consists in using large elementary compression surfaces such as fins. However, this solution does not ensure a uniform clamping on all the thermoelectric elements. Indeed, to ensure the clamping, it is necessary to apply significant clamping forces and deformations of the flat surfaces appear over time.
  • Thermoelectric devices of cylindrical configuration are also known.
  • Such a device is shown in Figure 1 and comprises a support ring 1 lining an exhaust gas flow pipe, not shown, and on which are joined the electric thermo elements 2, said electric thermo elements 2 being secured to the wall external of said ring 1, and second tubes 3 for the circulation of a coolant of a cooling circuit, said second tubes 3 extending longitudinally, that is to say parallel to the longitudinal axis of the exhaust gas circulation pipe.
  • said ring is advantageously deformable.
  • this ring provides additional thermal resistance which affects the performance of the electric thermo elements and it does not allow to sufficiently make up the defects in shape of the various components also affecting the performance of the thermoelectric device.
  • thermoelectric device of cylindrical configuration, shown in FIG. 2, comprising at least a plurality of electric thermo modules 4, each thermoelectric module 4 comprising at least one element electrical thermo 2, for creating an electric current from a temperature gradient applied between two of their faces, said contact faces, and a plurality of corners 5 resting on two of said adjacent thermoelectric modules 4 to maintain said modules 4 around an axis.
  • thermoelectric modules 4 This configuration is easily integrable into a vehicle exhaust duct and provides a symmetrical and self-balancing thermo-electric modules 4 thus improving the transfer of calories and, ultimately, the performance of said thermoelectric elements.
  • thermoelectric elements as well as the circulation tubes of a coolant of a cooling circuit must be positioned independently to be assembled, which strike the manufacturing cost of these thermoelectric devices.
  • these configurations require the use of intermediate parts which must be electrically insulated to avoid short circuit, also affecting the cost of manufacture.
  • these configurations require additional electrical resistances between the thermoelectric elements and the heat transfer fluid circulation tubes of the cooling circuit.
  • the fragmentation of the section passage of the heat transfer fluid of the cooling circuit in a multitude of small pipes provides a significant pressure drop that affects the efficiency of these thermoelectric devices.
  • thermoelectric module comprising at least a plurality of thermoelectric elements in the form of cylinder or right prism and having a central recess, capable of generating an electric current under the action of a temperature gradient exerted between a first so-called outer face defined by an outer periphery surface and a second inner so-called face defined by an inner periphery surface, a first fluid being intended to flow through the central recess and a second fluid being intended to circulate around the outer periphery, said module further comprising a tube on which the electric thermoelectric elements are mounted, said tube being configured to ensure self-centering of the electric thermoelectric elements before mounting on said tube.
  • Such a solution facilitates assembly of the module and contributes to good contact between the components of the module which promotes its performance.
  • the tube is configured to be expanded to realize the mechanical crimping of the electric thermo elements on said tube. Expansion of the tube reduces the pressure drop of the first fluid and thus improve the efficiency of the thermoelectric module.
  • each thermoelectric element has a cylindrical washer shape provided with a central circular hole.
  • said tube further comprises an inner tubular electrode secured to the inner face of each electric thermo element, said tube being in contact with said electrodes (15).
  • the inner electrodes of two adjacent thermoelectric elements are brazed.
  • each electrode consists of a tube of circular copper section and projecting from one of the faces of said thermoelectric element and being set back from the opposite face inside the central recess.
  • said tube is an anodized tube so as to provide electrical insulation, in particular between a core of said tube and said inner electrodes.
  • each thermoelectric element may comprise fins extending from the outer face of said thermoelectric element and perpendicular to the axis of its central recess.
  • thermoelectric device comprising a plurality of modules as described above.
  • said device is configured to be positioned in a motor vehicle exhaust gas duct so that said gases circulate between the fins, said gases defining the second fluid.
  • the invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a thermoelectric module comprising at least a plurality of thermoelectric elements in the form of a cylinder or of a right prism and having a central recess, capable of generating an electric current under the action a temperature gradient exerted between a first said outer face defined by an outer periphery surface and a second inner so-called face defined by an inner periphery surface, a first fluid being intended to flow through the central recess and a second fluid being intended to circulate around the outer periphery; said method comprising at least one step of fitting said thermoelectric elements on a tube, in particular anodized aluminum tube, of external diameter just smaller than the internal diameter of the electrodes of said thermoelectric elements.
  • said method further comprises a step of expanding the tube from inside the latter to the outside in order to crimp said electric thermo elements ( ⁇ , ⁇ ) on said tube.
  • said module further comprises an inner tubular electrode integral with the inner face of each thermoelectric element and said method further comprises a step of welding two by two of the inner electrodes of the electric thermoelectric elements, in particular self-centering thermoelectric elements on the tube.
  • the expansion of the tube is advantageously carried out by fixed matrix hydroforming, the electric thermo elements forming the fixed matrix.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first thermoelectric module of cylindrical configuration of the prior art
  • FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic side view of a second electrical module of cylindrical configuration of the prior art
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a thermoelectric module according to the invention.
  • FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the thermoelectric module according to the invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic representation in longitudinal section of the thermoelectric module according to the invention.
  • thermoelectric module comprising a plurality of thermoelectric elements ⁇ , ⁇ , in the form of a cylinder or of a right prism and having a central recess, capable of generating an electric current under the action of a temperature gradient exerted between a first so-called outer face 11a defined by an outer periphery surface and a second inner face 11b defined by an inner periphery surface, a first fluid consisting of the heat transfer fluid of a cooling circuit being intended to flow through the central recess in a tube 3 and a second fluid consisting of the hot exhaust gas being intended to circulate around the outer periphery.
  • thermoelectric elements ⁇ , ⁇ consist, for example, of Bismuth and Tellurium (Bi 2 Te 3 ).
  • thermoelectric elements may be, for a first part, elements lp of a first type, said P, making it possible to establish a difference of electric potential in a direction, said positive, when they are subjected to a temperature gradient given, and, for the other part, elements ln of a second type, said N, allowing the creation of a difference of electric potential in an opposite direction, said negative, when they are subjected to the same temperature gradient .
  • the electric thermoelectric elements 1 represented consist of a ring in one piece. They may however be formed of several pieces each forming an angular portion of the ring.
  • the outer surface 11a has, for example, a radius of between 1.5 and 4 times the radius of the inner surface 11b. It may be a radius equal to about 2 times that of the inner surface 11b.
  • Each thermoelectric element 1 has, for example, two opposite parallel flat faces. In other words, the ring constituting each thermoelectric element 1 is of rectangular annular section.
  • thermoelectric elements lp, ln are arranged in the longitudinal extension of one another, in particular in a coaxial manner, and the P-type electric thermoelectric elements alternate with the N-type thermoelectric elements, in a direction D. are, in particular, of form and of identical size. They may, however, have a thickness, that is to say a dimension between their two planar faces, different from one type to another, particularly depending on their electrical conductivity.
  • thermoelectric elements lp, ln are grouped in pairs, each pair being formed of a said P type thermoelectric element and a said N type thermoelectric element, and the said module is configured to allow current flow between the first surfaces of the electric thermoelectric elements 1 of the same pair and a flow of current between the second surfaces of each of the electric thermoelectric elements 1 of the same pair and the thermoelectric element 1 adjacent to the neighboring pair. In this way, a series circulation of the electric current is ensured between the electric thermoelectric elements lp, ln arranged next to one another in the direction D.
  • Said module further comprises electrical insulation means 12 arranged between two faces vis-à-vis neighboring thermoelectric elements lp, ln according to the longitudinal extension direction D of the tube 3.
  • said module comprises first electrical connection means 13 connecting the outer periphery surfaces 11a of two of said thermoelectric elements 11n and 1p, provided adjacent and of different types.
  • Said first electrical connection means consist of a tubular electrode 12 said outer secured to the outer face of each thermoelectric element ln, lp, copper for brazing two adjacent electric thermo elements ln, lp.
  • This outer tubular electrode 13 has a thickness between 0.1 and 0.3 mm for thermoelectric elements ⁇ , ⁇ having an outer diameter of between 15 and 19 mm.
  • the outer electrode 13 may consist of any layer of electrically conductive material, such as a layer of Nickel for example without departing from the scope of the invention.
  • the thickness of the outer electrode 13 can easily be determined by the skilled person and depends, in addition to the material in which it is obtained, the outer diameter of the thermoelectric elements ⁇ , ⁇ .
  • said module advantageously comprises secondary exchange surfaces, in particular fins 14, with the second fluid.
  • Said fins 14 are arranged, for example, transversely, in particular radially to said electric thermoelectric elements 1. They are here positioned parallel to each other with a spacing allowing a good heat exchange with the second fluid while limiting the losses of charges.
  • Said fins 14 may comprise a catalytic coating for catalytic conversion of toxic components of the second fluid.
  • said module can in this way equip a catalytic converter in addition or substitution of the components conventionally used for catalysis in such equipment.
  • Said fins 14 are fixed on the outer electrode 13 by crimping and / or brazing.
  • the module comprises second electrical connection means consisting of an inner so-called electrode 15 which consists, for example, of a tube of circular copper section, integral with the inner face 11b of each thermoelectric element ln, lp and protruding from one of the faces of said thermoelectric element ln, lp and recessed from the opposite face within the central recess.
  • electrode 15 which consists, for example, of a tube of circular copper section, integral with the inner face 11b of each thermoelectric element ln, lp and protruding from one of the faces of said thermoelectric element ln, lp and recessed from the opposite face within the central recess.
  • said first 13 and second 15 electrical connection means connect said two thermoelectric elements ln, lp in pairs so as to establish an electrical circulation in series between said thermoelectric elements ⁇ , ⁇ of the module.
  • the tube 3 on which are mounted the thermoelectric elements ⁇ , ⁇ consists of an anodized aluminum tube 3 of circular section and whose outer diameter just smaller than the internal diameter of the electric thermo elements ⁇ , ⁇ to allow threading of said elements electric thermo ⁇ , ⁇ with a self centering of these.
  • the thermoelectric elements ln, lp onto the anodized aluminum tube 3 After threading the thermoelectric elements ln, lp onto the anodized aluminum tube 3, the latter is expanded to perform the mechanical crimping of the electric thermoelectric elements ⁇ , ⁇ on said tube 3.
  • the expansion of the anodized aluminum tube 3 makes it possible to reduce the pressure drop of the first fluid and thus to improve the efficiency of the thermoelectric module.
  • the anodized aluminum tube 3 makes it possible to self center the electric thermoelectric elements ⁇ , ⁇ , to maintain said thermoelectric elements ⁇ , ⁇ by mechanical crimping, to reduce the total thermal resistance between the heat transfer fluid , i.e. the first fluid, and the electric thermo elements using only one piece.
  • the aluminum tube being anodized, the electrical insulation of the electric thermo elements ⁇ , ⁇ is provided without the use of additional parts.
  • the method of manufacturing the module consists of fitting said thermoelectric elements ⁇ , ⁇ onto an anodized aluminum tube. 3 of external diameter just smaller than the internal diameter of the inner electrodes 15 of said electric thermo elements ⁇ , ⁇ , to weld in pairs the inner electrodes 15 of the electric thermo elements ⁇ , ⁇ autocentered on the anodized aluminum tube 3, then to to provide an expansion of the anodized aluminum tube 3 from the inside thereof to the outside to crimp said electric thermoelectric elements ⁇ , ⁇ on said tube 3.
  • the expansion of the anodized aluminum tube 3 is performed by fixed matrix hydroforming, the electric thermo elements ⁇ , ⁇ then forming the fixed matrix.
  • the expansion of the anodized tube 3 can be achieved by any other method well known to those skilled in the art.
  • the anodized aluminum tube makes it possible to self-center the thermoelectric elements, to hold said thermoelectric elements by mechanical crimping, to reduce the total thermal resistance between the coolant, that is to say the first fluid, and the electric thermo elements using only one piece.
  • the aluminum tube being anodized, the electrical insulation of the electric thermo elements is ensured without the use of additional parts.

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Abstract

The present invention relates to a thermoelectric module including at least one plurality of thermoelectric elements (1n, 1p) in the shape of a cylinder or right prism and having a central cavity, able to generate an electric current under the effect of a temperature gradient applied between a first so-called outer surface (11a) defined by an outer peripheral surface and a second so-called inner surface (11b) defined by an inner peripheral surface, a first fluid being intended to flow through the central cavity and second fluid being intended to flow around the outer periphery, a so-called inner tubular electrode (15) rigidly connected to the inner surface of each thermoelectric element (1n, 1p), the inner electrodes (15) of two adjacent thermoelectric elements (1n, 1p) being brazed, and an anodized aluminum tube (3) on which the thermoelectric elements (1n, 1p) are fitted, said anodized aluminum tube (3) ensuring self-centering of the thermoelectric elements (1n, 1p) prior to the brazing of the electrodes (15) thereof and electrically insulating said thermoelectric elements (1n, 1p).

Description

Module et dispositif thermo électriques, notamment destinés à générer un courant électrique dans un véhicule automobile, et procédé de fabrication d'un tel module La présente invention se rapporte à un module et un dispositif thermo électriques, notamment destinés à générer un courant électrique dans un véhicule automobile, ainsi qu'à un procédé de fabrication d'un tel module thermo électrique. I I a déjà été proposé des dispositifs thermo électriques, également appelés générateurs thermo électriques ou TEG selon l'acronyme anglo-saxon « ThermoElectric Generator », utilisant des éléments, dits thermo électriques, permettant de générer un courant électrique en présence d'un gradient de température entre deux de leurs faces opposées selon le phénomène connu sous le nom d'effet Seebeck. Ces dispositifs comprennent un empilement de premiers tubes, destinés à la circulation des gaz d'échappement d'un moteur, et de seconds tubes, destinés à la circulation d'un fluide caloporteur d'un circuit de refroidissement. Les éléments thermo électriques sont pris en sandwich entre les tubes de façon à être soumis à un gradient de température provenant de la différence de température entre les gaz d'échappement, chauds, et le fluide de refroidissement, froid.  The present invention relates to a module and a thermoelectric device, in particular intended to generate an electric current in an electric motor and a device for manufacturing such a module. vehicle, and a method of manufacturing such a thermoelectric module. It has already been proposed thermoelectric devices, also called electric thermo generators or TEG according to the acronym "ThermoElectric Generator", using elements, called electrical thermo, to generate an electric current in the presence of a gradient of temperature between two of their opposite faces according to the phenomenon known as the Seebeck effect. These devices comprise a stack of first tubes, intended for the circulation of the exhaust gases of an engine, and second tubes, intended for the circulation of a heat transfer fluid of a cooling circuit. The electrical thermo elements are sandwiched between the tubes so as to be subjected to a temperature gradient from the temperature difference between the hot exhaust gases and the cold cooling fluid.
Des tels dispositifs sont particulièrement intéressants car ils permettent de produire de l'électricité à partir d'une conversion de la chaleur provenant des gaz d'échappement du moteur. I ls offrent ainsi la possibilité de réduire la consommation en carburant du véhicule en venant se substituer, au moins partiellement, à l'alternateur habituellement prévu dans celui-ci pour générer de l'électricité à partir d'une courroie entraînée par le vilebrequin du moteur. Une contrainte rencontrée avec les dispositifs connus est qu'ils nécessitent qu'un très bon contact soit assuré entre les éléments thermo électriques et les tubes de manière à assurer une conduction satisfaisante entre eux. Il faut ainsi disposer de tubes présentant une parfaite planéité et un excellent état de surface impactant le coût de revient du dispositif. Such devices are particularly interesting because they make it possible to produce electricity from a conversion of the heat coming from the exhaust gases of the engine. I ls thus offer the possibility of reducing the fuel consumption of the vehicle by replacing, at least partially, the alternator usually provided therein to generate electricity from a belt driven by the crankshaft of the vehicle. engine. A constraint encountered with the known devices is that they require that a very good contact is ensured between the electrical thermo elements and the tubes so as to ensure a satisfactory conduction between them. It is thus necessary to have tubes having perfect flatness and excellent surface condition impacting the cost of the device.
Plus la puissance électrique à fournir est forte, plus le nombre de tubes à empiler doit être grand et/ou plus la surface des tubes à employer doit être large, compliquant encore la bonne application des éléments thermo électriques sur les tubes. The greater the electrical power to be supplied, the greater the number of tubes to be stacked and / or the larger the surface of the tubes to be used, which further complicates the proper application of the electric thermoelectric elements on the tubes.
Une première solution consiste à renforcer le contact grâce à des tirants externes exerçant un effort de compression sur l'empilement de tubes. Une telle solution est en outre réservée à des configurations dans lesquelles les tubes sont empilés les uns au-dessus des autres, ce qui limite les possibilités d'intégration dans une ligne d'échappement. Une seconde solution consiste à utiliser de grandes surfaces élémentaires de compression telles que des ailettes. Toutefois, cette solution ne permet pas d'assurer un serrage homogène sur l'ensemble des éléments thermo électriques. En effet, afin d'assurer le serrage, il est nécessaire d'appliquer des forces de serrage importantes et des déformations des surfaces planes apparaissent au cours du temps. A first solution is to strengthen the contact with external tie rods exerting a compressive force on the stack of tubes. Such a solution is also reserved for configurations in which the tubes are stacked one above the other, which limits the possibilities of integration into an exhaust line. A second solution consists in using large elementary compression surfaces such as fins. However, this solution does not ensure a uniform clamping on all the thermoelectric elements. Indeed, to ensure the clamping, it is necessary to apply significant clamping forces and deformations of the flat surfaces appear over time.
On connaît également des dispositifs thermo électriques de configuration cylindrique. Un tel dispositif est représenté sur la figure 1 et comprend un anneau support 1 chemisant une conduite de circulation des gaz d'échappement, non représentée, et sur lequel sont solidariser des éléments thermo électriques 2, lesdits éléments thermo électriques 2 étant solidarisés sur la paroi externe dudit anneau 1, et des seconds tubes 3 destinés à la circulation d'un fluide caloporteur d'un circuit de refroidissement, lesdits second tubes 3 s'étendant longitudinalement, c'est-à-dire parallèlement à l'axe longitudinal de la conduite de circulation des gaz d'échappement. Afin de procurer un bon serrage de l'anneau sur la conduite de circulation des gaz d'échappement, ledit anneau est avantageusement déformable. Néanmoins, cet anneau procure une résistance thermique supplémentaire qui grève le rendement des éléments thermo électriques et il ne permet pas de rattraper suffisamment les défauts de forme des différents composants grevant également le rendement du dispositif thermo électrique. Thermoelectric devices of cylindrical configuration are also known. Such a device is shown in Figure 1 and comprises a support ring 1 lining an exhaust gas flow pipe, not shown, and on which are joined the electric thermo elements 2, said electric thermo elements 2 being secured to the wall external of said ring 1, and second tubes 3 for the circulation of a coolant of a cooling circuit, said second tubes 3 extending longitudinally, that is to say parallel to the longitudinal axis of the exhaust gas circulation pipe. In order to provide a good tightening of the ring on the exhaust gas circulation pipe, said ring is advantageously deformable. However, this ring provides additional thermal resistance which affects the performance of the electric thermo elements and it does not allow to sufficiently make up the defects in shape of the various components also affecting the performance of the thermoelectric device.
Afin de remédier à ces inconvénients, Il a déjà été développé par la demanderesse un dispositif thermo électrique de configuration cylindrique, représenté sur la figure 2, comprenant au moins une pluralité de modules thermo électriques 4, chaque module thermo électrique 4 comprenant au moins un élément thermo électrique 2, permettant de créer un courant électrique à partir d'un gradient de température appliqué entre deux de leurs faces, dites faces de contact, et une pluralité de coins 5 venant en appui sur deux desdits modules thermo électriques 4 adjacents pour maintenir lesdits modules 4 autour d'un axe. In order to remedy these drawbacks, it has already been developed by the applicant a thermoelectric device of cylindrical configuration, shown in FIG. 2, comprising at least a plurality of electric thermo modules 4, each thermoelectric module 4 comprising at least one element electrical thermo 2, for creating an electric current from a temperature gradient applied between two of their faces, said contact faces, and a plurality of corners 5 resting on two of said adjacent thermoelectric modules 4 to maintain said modules 4 around an axis.
Cette configuration est facilement intégrable dans un conduit d'échappement de véhicule et elle procure un serrage symétrique et auto- équilibré des modules thermo-électriques 4 améliorant ainsi le transfert des calories et, in fine, le rendement desdits éléments thermo-électriques. This configuration is easily integrable into a vehicle exhaust duct and provides a symmetrical and self-balancing thermo-electric modules 4 thus improving the transfer of calories and, ultimately, the performance of said thermoelectric elements.
Toutefois, ces configurations présentent plusieurs inconvénients. Les éléments thermo électriques ainsi que les tubes de circulation d'un fluide caloporteur d'un circuit de refroidissement doivent être positionnés indépendamment pour être assemblés, ce qui grève le coût de fabrication de ces dispositifs thermo électriques. Par ailleurs, ces configurations nécessitent l'utilisation de pièces intermédiaires qui doivent être isolées électriquement pour éviter tout court circuit, grevant également le coût de fabrication. De plus, ces configurations nécessitent des résistances électriques additionnelles entre les éléments thermo électriques et les tubes de circulation du fluide caloporteur du circuit de refroidissement. Enfin, le morcellement de la section de passage du fluide caloporteur du circuit de refroidissement en une multitude de petites tubulures procure une perte de charge importante qui nuit à l'efficacité de ces dispositifs thermo électriques. L'invention se propose d'améliorer la situation et concerne à cet effet une module thermo électrique comprenant au moins une pluralité d'éléments thermo électriques en forme de cylindre ou de prisme droit et présentant un évidement central, susceptibles de générer un courant électrique sous l'action d'un gradient de température exercé entre une première face dite extérieure définie par une surface de périphérie extérieure et une seconde face dite intérieure définie par une surface de périphérie intérieure, un premier fluide étant destiné à circuler à travers l'évidement central et un second fluide étant destiné à circuler autour de la périphérie extérieure, ledit module comprenant en outre un tube sur lequel sont montés les éléments thermo électriques ledit tube étant configuré pour assurer un auto-centrage des éléments thermo électriques avant montage sur ledit tube. However, these configurations have several disadvantages. The thermoelectric elements as well as the circulation tubes of a coolant of a cooling circuit must be positioned independently to be assembled, which strike the manufacturing cost of these thermoelectric devices. Furthermore, these configurations require the use of intermediate parts which must be electrically insulated to avoid short circuit, also affecting the cost of manufacture. In addition, these configurations require additional electrical resistances between the thermoelectric elements and the heat transfer fluid circulation tubes of the cooling circuit. Finally, the fragmentation of the section passage of the heat transfer fluid of the cooling circuit in a multitude of small pipes provides a significant pressure drop that affects the efficiency of these thermoelectric devices. The invention proposes to improve the situation and concerns for this purpose a thermoelectric module comprising at least a plurality of thermoelectric elements in the form of cylinder or right prism and having a central recess, capable of generating an electric current under the action of a temperature gradient exerted between a first so-called outer face defined by an outer periphery surface and a second inner so-called face defined by an inner periphery surface, a first fluid being intended to flow through the central recess and a second fluid being intended to circulate around the outer periphery, said module further comprising a tube on which the electric thermoelectric elements are mounted, said tube being configured to ensure self-centering of the electric thermoelectric elements before mounting on said tube.
Une telle solution facilite le montage du module et contribue à un bon contact entre les composants du module ce qui favorise son rendement. Such a solution facilitates assembly of the module and contributes to good contact between the components of the module which promotes its performance.
Selon un aspect de l'invention, le tube est configuré pour être expansé pour réaliser le sertissage mécanique des éléments thermo électriques sur ledit tube. L'expansion du tube permet de réduire la perte de charge du premier fluide et, ainsi, d'améliorer l'efficacité du module thermo électrique. According to one aspect of the invention, the tube is configured to be expanded to realize the mechanical crimping of the electric thermo elements on said tube. Expansion of the tube reduces the pressure drop of the first fluid and thus improve the efficiency of the thermoelectric module.
Selon un autre aspect de l'invention, chaque élément thermo électrique présente une forme de rondelle cylindrique muni d'un trou circulaire central. According to another aspect of the invention, each thermoelectric element has a cylindrical washer shape provided with a central circular hole.
Selon un aspect de l'invention, ledit tube comprend en outre une électrode tubulaire dite intérieure solidaire de la face intérieure de chaque élément thermo électrique, ledit tube étant en contact avec lesdites électrodes (15). According to one aspect of the invention, said tube further comprises an inner tubular electrode secured to the inner face of each electric thermo element, said tube being in contact with said electrodes (15).
Selon un mode de réalisation, les électrodes intérieures de deux éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ) adjacents sont brasées. According to one embodiment, the inner electrodes of two adjacent thermoelectric elements (Ιη, ΐρ) are brazed.
Selon un aspect de l'invention, chaque électrode consiste en un tube de section circulaire en cuivre et faisant saillie de l'une des faces dudit élément thermo électrique et étant en retrait de la face opposée à l'intérieur de l'évidement central. According to one aspect of the invention, each electrode consists of a tube of circular copper section and projecting from one of the faces of said thermoelectric element and being set back from the opposite face inside the central recess.
Selon un aspect de l'invention, ledit tube est un tube anodisé de façon à assurer une isolation électrique, en particulier entre une âme dudit tube et lesdits électrodes intérieures. According to one aspect of the invention, said tube is an anodized tube so as to provide electrical insulation, in particular between a core of said tube and said inner electrodes.
Afin d'améliorer l'efficacité du module suivant l'invention, chaque élément thermo électrique pourra comporter des ailettes s'étendant depuis la face extérieure dudit élément thermo électrique et perpendiculairement à l'axe de son évidement central. In order to improve the efficiency of the module according to the invention, each thermoelectric element may comprise fins extending from the outer face of said thermoelectric element and perpendicular to the axis of its central recess.
L'invention concerne aussi un dispositif thermo électrique comprenant une pluralité de modules tels que décrits précédemment. The invention also relates to a thermoelectric device comprising a plurality of modules as described above.
Avantageusement, ledit dispositif est configuré pour être positionné dans un conduit de gaz d'échappement de véhicule automobile de sorte que lesdits gaz circulent entre les ailettes, lesdits gaz définissant le second fluide. Advantageously, said device is configured to be positioned in a motor vehicle exhaust gas duct so that said gases circulate between the fins, said gases defining the second fluid.
L'invention concerne également un procédé de fabrication d'un module thermo électrique comprenant au moins une pluralité d'éléments thermo électriques en forme de cylindre ou de prisme droit et présentant un évidement central, susceptible de générer un courant électrique sous l'action d'un gradient de température exercé entre une première face dite extérieure définie par une surface de périphérie extérieure et une seconde face dite intérieure définie par une surface de périphérie intérieure, un premier fluide étant destiné à circuler à travers l'évidement central et un second fluide étant destiné à circuler autour de la périphérie extérieure; ledit procédé comprenant au moins une étape d'emmanchement desdits éléments thermo électriques sur un tube, notamment un tube en aluminium anodisé, de diamètre externe tout juste inférieur au diamètre interne des électrodes desdits éléments thermo électriques. The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a thermoelectric module comprising at least a plurality of thermoelectric elements in the form of a cylinder or of a right prism and having a central recess, capable of generating an electric current under the action a temperature gradient exerted between a first said outer face defined by an outer periphery surface and a second inner so-called face defined by an inner periphery surface, a first fluid being intended to flow through the central recess and a second fluid being intended to circulate around the outer periphery; said method comprising at least one step of fitting said thermoelectric elements on a tube, in particular anodized aluminum tube, of external diameter just smaller than the internal diameter of the electrodes of said thermoelectric elements.
Selon un aspect de l'invention, ledit procédé comprend en outre une étape d'expansion du tube depuis l'intérieur de ce dernier vers l'extérieur afin de sertir lesdits éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ) sur ledit tube. Selon un aspect de l'invention, ledit module comprend en outre une électrode tubulaire dite intérieure solidaire de la face intérieure de chaque élément thermo électrique et ledit procédé comprend en outre une étape de soudure deux à deux des électrodes intérieures des éléments thermo électriques, notamment des éléments thermo électriques autocentrés sur le tube. According to one aspect of the invention, said method further comprises a step of expanding the tube from inside the latter to the outside in order to crimp said electric thermo elements (Ιη, ΐρ) on said tube. According to one aspect of the invention, said module further comprises an inner tubular electrode integral with the inner face of each thermoelectric element and said method further comprises a step of welding two by two of the inner electrodes of the electric thermoelectric elements, in particular self-centering thermoelectric elements on the tube.
Selon un aspect de l'invention, l'expansion du tube est avantageusement réalisée par hydroformage à matrice fixe, les éléments thermo électriques formant la matrice fixe. According to one aspect of the invention, the expansion of the tube is advantageously carried out by fixed matrix hydroforming, the electric thermo elements forming the fixed matrix.
L'invention sera mieux comprise à la lumière de la description suivante qui n'est donnée qu'à titre indicatif et qui n'a pas pour but de la limiter, accompagnée des dessins joints parmi lesquels : The invention will be better understood in the light of the following description which is given only as an indication and which is not intended to limit it, accompanied by the appended drawings among which:
la figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'un premier module thermo électrique de configuration cylindrique de l'art antérieur, la figure 2 est une représentation schématique de côté d'un second module électrique de configuration cylindrique de l'art antérieur, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first thermoelectric module of cylindrical configuration of the prior art, FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic side view of a second electrical module of cylindrical configuration of the prior art,
la figure 3 est une vue en perspective d'un module thermo électrique conforme à l'invention,  FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a thermoelectric module according to the invention,
la figure 4 est une vue en perspective partielle du module thermo électrique conforme à l'invention,  FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the thermoelectric module according to the invention,
la figure 5 est une représentation schématique en coupe longitudinale du module thermo électrique conforme à l'invention.  Figure 5 is a schematic representation in longitudinal section of the thermoelectric module according to the invention.
Sur les figures, les éléments identiques ou analogues portent les mêmes références. Comme illustré sur les figures 3 à 5, l'invention concerne un module thermo électrique comprenant une pluralité d'éléments thermo électriques ΙΟη,ΙΟρ, en forme de cylindre ou de prisme droit et présentant un évidement central, susceptible de générer un courant électrique sous l'action d'un gradient de température exercé entre une première face dite extérieure lia définie par une surface de périphérie extérieure et une seconde face dite intérieure 11b définie par une surface de périphérie intérieure, un premier fluide consistant dans le fluide caloporteur d'un circuit de refroidissement étant destiné à circuler à travers l'évidement central dans un tube 3 et un second fluide consistant dans les gaz chauds d'échappement étant destiné à circuler autour de la périphérie extérieure. In the figures, identical or similar elements bear the same references. As illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5, the invention relates to a thermoelectric module comprising a plurality of thermoelectric elements ΙΟη, ΙΟρ, in the form of a cylinder or of a right prism and having a central recess, capable of generating an electric current under the action of a temperature gradient exerted between a first so-called outer face 11a defined by an outer periphery surface and a second inner face 11b defined by an inner periphery surface, a first fluid consisting of the heat transfer fluid of a cooling circuit being intended to flow through the central recess in a tube 3 and a second fluid consisting of the hot exhaust gas being intended to circulate around the outer periphery.
On notera que les faces extérieures lia et intérieures 11b des éléments thermo électriques 1 sont par exemple circulaires. Toutefois, de façon plus générale, toute section de forme arrondie, telle qu'une forme ovale par exemple, et/ou polygonale est possible. De tels éléments fonctionnent, selon l'effet Seebeck, en permettant de créer un courant électrique dans une charge connectée entre les faces intérieure 11b et extérieure lia des éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ soumises au gradient de température. De façon connue de l'homme du métier, de tels éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ sont constitués, par exemple, de Bismuth et de Tellurium (Bi2Te3). It will be noted that the outer 11a and inner faces 11b of the electric thermoelectric elements 1 are for example circular. However, more generally, any section of rounded shape, such as an oval shape for example, and / or polygonal is possible. Such elements operate, according to the Seebeck effect, by making it possible to create an electric current in a load connected between the inner faces 11b and outer 11a of the electric thermo elements Ιη, ΐρ subjected to the temperature gradient. In a manner known to those skilled in the art, such thermoelectric elements Ιη, ΐρ consist, for example, of Bismuth and Tellurium (Bi 2 Te 3 ).
Les éléments thermo électriques pourront être, pour une première partie, des éléments lp d'un premier type, dit P, permettant d'établir une différence de potentiel électrique dans un sens, dit positif, lorsqu'ils sont soumis à un gradient de température donné, et, pour l'autre partie, des éléments ln d'un second type, dit N, permettant la création d'une différence de potentiel électrique dans un sens opposé, dit négatif, lorsqu'ils sont soumis au même gradient de température. The thermoelectric elements may be, for a first part, elements lp of a first type, said P, making it possible to establish a difference of electric potential in a direction, said positive, when they are subjected to a temperature gradient given, and, for the other part, elements ln of a second type, said N, allowing the creation of a difference of electric potential in an opposite direction, said negative, when they are subjected to the same temperature gradient .
Aux figures 3 à 5, les éléments thermo électriques 1 représentés sont constitués d'un anneau en une seule pièce. Ils pourront cependant être formés de plusieurs pièces formant chacune une portion angulaire de l'anneau. In FIGS. 3 to 5, the electric thermoelectric elements 1 represented consist of a ring in one piece. They may however be formed of several pieces each forming an angular portion of the ring.
La surface extérieure lia présente, par exemple, un rayon compris entre 1,5 et 4 fois le rayon de la surface intérieure 11b. Il pourra s'agir d'un rayon égal à environ 2 fois celui de la surface intérieure 11b. Chaque élément thermo électrique 1 présente, par exemple, deux faces planes parallèles opposées. Autrement dit, l'anneau constituant chaque élément thermo électrique 1 est de section annulaire rectangulaire. The outer surface 11a has, for example, a radius of between 1.5 and 4 times the radius of the inner surface 11b. It may be a radius equal to about 2 times that of the inner surface 11b. Each thermoelectric element 1 has, for example, two opposite parallel flat faces. In other words, the ring constituting each thermoelectric element 1 is of rectangular annular section.
Lesdits éléments thermo électriques lp, ln sont disposés dans le prolongement longitudinal l'un de l'autre, notamment de façon coaxiale, et les éléments thermo électriques de type P alternent avec les éléments thermo électriques de type N, selon une direction D. Ils sont, notamment, de forme et de dimension identiques. Ils pourront cependant présenter une épaisseur, c'est-à-dire une dimension entre leurs deux faces planes, différente d'un type à l'autre, notamment en fonction de leur conductivité électrique. Lesdits éléments thermo électriques lp, ln sont groupés par paire, chaque paire étant formée d'un dit élément thermo électrique de type P et d'un dit élément thermo électrique de type N, et ledit module est configuré pour permettre une circulation de courant entre les premières surfaces des éléments thermo électriques 1 d'une même paire et une circulation de courant entre les secondes surfaces de chacun des éléments thermo électriques 1 de ladite même paire et l'élément thermo électrique 1 voisin de la paire voisine. On assure de la sorte une circulation en série du courant électrique entre les éléments thermo électriques lp, ln disposés les uns à côtés des autres selon la direction D. Said thermoelectric elements lp, ln are arranged in the longitudinal extension of one another, in particular in a coaxial manner, and the P-type electric thermoelectric elements alternate with the N-type thermoelectric elements, in a direction D. are, in particular, of form and of identical size. They may, however, have a thickness, that is to say a dimension between their two planar faces, different from one type to another, particularly depending on their electrical conductivity. Said thermoelectric elements lp, ln are grouped in pairs, each pair being formed of a said P type thermoelectric element and a said N type thermoelectric element, and the said module is configured to allow current flow between the first surfaces of the electric thermoelectric elements 1 of the same pair and a flow of current between the second surfaces of each of the electric thermoelectric elements 1 of the same pair and the thermoelectric element 1 adjacent to the neighboring pair. In this way, a series circulation of the electric current is ensured between the electric thermoelectric elements lp, ln arranged next to one another in the direction D.
Ledit module comprend en outre des moyens d'isolation électrique 12 disposés entre deux faces en vis-à-vis d'éléments thermo électriques voisins lp, ln selon la direction d'extension D longitudinale du tube 3. En référence aux figures 3 à 5, ledit module comprend des premiers moyens de connexion électrique 13 reliant les surfaces de périphérie extérieure lia de deux desdits éléments thermo électrique ln et lp, prévus adjacents et de types différents. Lesdits premiers moyens de connexion électrique consistent en une électrode tubulaire 12 dite extérieure solidaire de la face extérieure de chaque élément thermo électrique ln, lp, en cuivre permettant de braser deux éléments thermo électriques ln, lp contigus. Cette électrode tubulaire extérieure 13 présente une épaisseur comprise entre 0,1 et 0,3 mm pour des éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ présentant un diamètre externe compris entre 15 et 19 mm. Said module further comprises electrical insulation means 12 arranged between two faces vis-à-vis neighboring thermoelectric elements lp, ln according to the longitudinal extension direction D of the tube 3. With reference to FIGS. said module comprises first electrical connection means 13 connecting the outer periphery surfaces 11a of two of said thermoelectric elements 11n and 1p, provided adjacent and of different types. Said first electrical connection means consist of a tubular electrode 12 said outer secured to the outer face of each thermoelectric element ln, lp, copper for brazing two adjacent electric thermo elements ln, lp. This outer tubular electrode 13 has a thickness between 0.1 and 0.3 mm for thermoelectric elements Ιη, ΐρ having an outer diameter of between 15 and 19 mm.
On observera que l'électrode extérieure 13 pourra consister dans toute couche de matière électriquement conductrice, telle qu'une couche de Nickel par exemple sans sortir du cadre de l'invention. Par ailleurs, l'épaisseur de l'électrode extérieure 13 pourra aisément être déterminée par l'Homme du Métier et dépend, outre le matériau dans lequel elle est obtenue, du diamètre externe des éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ. It will be observed that the outer electrode 13 may consist of any layer of electrically conductive material, such as a layer of Nickel for example without departing from the scope of the invention. Moreover, the thickness of the outer electrode 13 can easily be determined by the skilled person and depends, in addition to the material in which it is obtained, the outer diameter of the thermoelectric elements Ιη, ΐρ.
Accessoirement, ledit module comprend avantageusement des surfaces d'échange secondaire, en particulier des ailettes 14, avec le second fluide. On augmente de la sorte la surface d'échange entre les éléments thermo électriques 1 et ledit second fluide. Lesdites ailettes 14 sont disposées, par exemple, transversalement, en particulier radialement auxdits éléments thermo électriques 1. Elles sont ici positionnées parallèlement les unes aux autres avec un écartement permettant un bon échange de chaleur avec le second fluide tout en limitant les pertes de charges. Lesdites ailettes 14 pourront comprendre un revêtement catalytique pour assurer une conversion catalytique de composants toxiques du second fluide. Dans le cas de gaz d'échappement, ledit module pourra de la sorte équiper un pot catalytique en complément ou substitution des composants servant classiquement à la catalyse dans de tels équipements. Incidentally, said module advantageously comprises secondary exchange surfaces, in particular fins 14, with the second fluid. In this way, the exchange surface between the electric thermoelectric elements 1 and said second fluid is increased. Said fins 14 are arranged, for example, transversely, in particular radially to said electric thermoelectric elements 1. They are here positioned parallel to each other with a spacing allowing a good heat exchange with the second fluid while limiting the losses of charges. Said fins 14 may comprise a catalytic coating for catalytic conversion of toxic components of the second fluid. In the case of exhaust gas, said module can in this way equip a catalytic converter in addition or substitution of the components conventionally used for catalysis in such equipment.
Lesdites ailettes 14 sont fixées sur l'électrode extérieure 13 par sertissage et/ou brasage. Said fins 14 are fixed on the outer electrode 13 by crimping and / or brazing.
Par ailleurs, le module comprend des seconds moyens de connexion électrique consistant en une électrode dite intérieure 15 qui est constituée, par exemple, d'un tube de section circulaire en cuivre, solidaire de la face intérieure 11b de chaque élément thermo électrique ln, lp et faisant saillie de l'une des faces dudit élément thermo électrique ln, lp et étant en retrait de la face opposée à l'intérieur de l'évidement central. Ces moyens de connexion électrique permettent d'établir une connexion électrique entre les surfaces de périphérie intérieure de deux desdits éléments thermo électrique ln, lp, prévus adjacents, de types différents et non reliés par lesdits premiers moyens de connexion électrique. Furthermore, the module comprises second electrical connection means consisting of an inner so-called electrode 15 which consists, for example, of a tube of circular copper section, integral with the inner face 11b of each thermoelectric element ln, lp and protruding from one of the faces of said thermoelectric element ln, lp and recessed from the opposite face within the central recess. These electrical connection means make it possible to establish an electrical connection between the inner periphery surfaces of two of said thermoelectric elements. ln, lp, provided adjacent, of different types and not connected by said first electrical connection means.
Autrement dit, lesdits premiers 13 et seconds 15 moyens de connexion électrique relient deux à deux lesdits éléments thermo électriques ln, lp de façon à établir une circulation électrique en série entre lesdits éléments thermo électrique Ιη,ΐρ du module. In other words, said first 13 and second 15 electrical connection means connect said two thermoelectric elements ln, lp in pairs so as to establish an electrical circulation in series between said thermoelectric elements Ιη, ΐρ of the module.
Le tube 3 sur lequel sont montés les éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ consiste en un tube en aluminium anodisé 3 de section circulaire et dont le diamètre externe tout juste inférieure au diamètre interne des éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ afin de permettre un enfilage desdits éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ avec un auto centrage des ces derniers. Après l'enfilage des éléments thermo électriques ln, lp sur le tube en aluminium anodisé 3, ce dernier est expansé pour réaliser le sertissage mécanique des éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ sur ledit tube 3. The tube 3 on which are mounted the thermoelectric elements Ιη, ΐρ consists of an anodized aluminum tube 3 of circular section and whose outer diameter just smaller than the internal diameter of the electric thermo elements Ιη, ΐρ to allow threading of said elements electric thermo Ιη, ΐρ with a self centering of these. After threading the thermoelectric elements ln, lp onto the anodized aluminum tube 3, the latter is expanded to perform the mechanical crimping of the electric thermoelectric elements Ιη, ΐρ on said tube 3.
L'expansion du tube en aluminium anodisé 3 permet de réduire la perte de charge du premier fluide et, ainsi, d'améliorer l'efficacité du module thermo électrique. The expansion of the anodized aluminum tube 3 makes it possible to reduce the pressure drop of the first fluid and thus to improve the efficiency of the thermoelectric module.
Par ailleurs, on comprend bien que le tube d'aluminium anodisé 3 permet d'auto centrer les éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ, de maintenir lesdits éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ par sertissage mécanique, de réduire la résistance thermique totale entre le fluide caloporteur, c'est-à-dire le premier fluide, et les éléments thermo électriques en utilisant qu'une seule pièce. De plus, le tube en aluminium étant anodisé, l'isolation électrique des éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ est assurée sans utiliser de pièce additionnelle. Furthermore, it is well understood that the anodized aluminum tube 3 makes it possible to self center the electric thermoelectric elements Ιη, ΐρ, to maintain said thermoelectric elements Ιη, ΐρ by mechanical crimping, to reduce the total thermal resistance between the heat transfer fluid , i.e. the first fluid, and the electric thermo elements using only one piece. In addition, the aluminum tube being anodized, the electrical insulation of the electric thermo elements Ιη, ΐρ is provided without the use of additional parts.
Ainsi, le procédé de fabrication du module consiste à emmancher lesdits éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ sur un tube en aluminium anodisé 3 de diamètre externe tout juste inférieur au diamètre interne des électrodes intérieures 15 desdits éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ, à souder deux à deux les électrodes intérieures 15 des éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ autocentrés sur le tube d'aluminium anodisé 3, puis à procurer une expansion du tube d'aluminium anodisé 3 depuis l'intérieur de ce dernier vers l'extérieur afin de sertir lesdits éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ sur ledit tube 3. De préférence, l'expansion du tube d'aluminium anodisé 3 est réalisée par hydroformage à matrice fixe, les éléments thermo électriques Ιη,ΐρ formant alors la matrice fixe. Toutefois, l'expansion du tube anodisé 3 pourra être réalisée par tout autre procédé bien connu de l'homme du métier. Thus, the method of manufacturing the module consists of fitting said thermoelectric elements Ιη, ΐρ onto an anodized aluminum tube. 3 of external diameter just smaller than the internal diameter of the inner electrodes 15 of said electric thermo elements Ιη, ΐρ, to weld in pairs the inner electrodes 15 of the electric thermo elements Ιη, ΐρ autocentered on the anodized aluminum tube 3, then to to provide an expansion of the anodized aluminum tube 3 from the inside thereof to the outside to crimp said electric thermoelectric elements Ιη, ΐρ on said tube 3. Preferably, the expansion of the anodized aluminum tube 3 is performed by fixed matrix hydroforming, the electric thermo elements Ιη, ΐρ then forming the fixed matrix. However, the expansion of the anodized tube 3 can be achieved by any other method well known to those skilled in the art.
On comprend bien que, selon le ou les modes de réalisation avantageux de l'invention évoqué plus haut, le tube d'aluminium anodisé permet d'auto centrer les éléments thermo électriques, de maintenir lesdits éléments thermo électriques par sertissage mécanique, de réduire la résistance thermique totale entre le fluide caloporteur, c'est-à-dire le premier fluide, et les éléments thermo électriques en utilisant qu'une seule pièce. De plus, le tube en aluminium étant anodisé, l'isolation électrique des éléments thermo électriques est assurée sans utiliser de pièce additionnelle. It is well understood that, according to the advantageous embodiment or embodiments of the invention mentioned above, the anodized aluminum tube makes it possible to self-center the thermoelectric elements, to hold said thermoelectric elements by mechanical crimping, to reduce the total thermal resistance between the coolant, that is to say the first fluid, and the electric thermo elements using only one piece. In addition, the aluminum tube being anodized, the electrical insulation of the electric thermo elements is ensured without the use of additional parts.
Il est bien entendu que la présente invention n'est en aucune façon limitée aux formes de réalisations décrites ci-dessus et que bien des modifications peuvent y être apportées sans sortir du cadre des revendications annexées. It is understood that the present invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described above and that many modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Module thermo électrique comprenant au moins une pluralité d'éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ) en forme de cylindre ou de prisme droit et présentant un évidement central, susceptibles de générer un courant électrique sous l'action d'un gradient de température exercé entre une première face dite extérieure (lia) définie par une surface de périphérie extérieure et une seconde face dite intérieure (11b) définie par une surface de périphérie intérieure, un premier fluide étant destiné à circuler à travers l'évidement central et un second fluide étant destiné à circuler autour de la périphérie extérieure, ledit module comprenant en outre un tube (3) sur lequel sont montés les éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ), ledit tube (3) étant configuré pour assurer un auto-centrage des éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ) avant montage sur ledit tube (3). 1. Thermoelectric module comprising at least a plurality of thermoelectric elements (Ιη, ΐρ) in the form of a cylinder or of a right prism and having a central recess, capable of generating an electric current under the action of a temperature gradient exerted between a first outer face (11a) defined by an outer periphery surface and a second inner face (11b) defined by an inner periphery surface, a first fluid being adapted to flow through the central recess and a second fluid being intended to circulate around the outer periphery, said module further comprising a tube (3) on which the electric thermoelectric elements (Ιη, ΐρ) are mounted, said tube (3) being configured to ensure a self-centering of the elements electric thermo (Ιη, ΐρ) before mounting on said tube (3).
2. Module selon la revendication 1 dans lequel ledit tube est un tube anodisé de façon à assurer une isolation électrique. 2. Module according to claim 1 wherein said tube is anodized tube so as to provide electrical insulation.
3. Module selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 ou 2 dans lequel le tube (3) configuré pour être expansé pour réaliser le sertissage mécanique des éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ) sur ledit tube (3). 3. Module according to any one of claims 1 or 2 wherein the tube (3) configured to be expanded to perform the mechanical crimping of the electric thermo elements (Ιη, ΐρ) on said tube (3).
4. Module selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3 dans lequel chaque élément thermo électrique (Ιη,ΐρ) présente une forme de rondelle cylindrique muni d'un trou circulaire central. 4. Module according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein each thermoelectric element (Ιη, ΐρ) has a cylindrical washer shape provided with a central circular hole.
5. Module selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4 comprenant en outre une électrode tubulaire dite intérieure (15) solidaire de la face intérieure de chaque élément thermo électrique (Ιη,ΐρ), ledit tube (3) étant en contact avec lesdites électrodes (15). 5. Module according to any one of claims 1 to 4 further comprising an inner tubular electrode (15) integral with the inner face of each thermoelectric element (Ιη, ΐρ), said tube (3) being in contact with said electrodes (15).
6. Module selon la revendication précédente dans lequel les électrodes intérieures (15) de deux éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ) adjacents sont brasées. 6. Module according to the preceding claim wherein the inner electrodes (15) of two adjacent thermoelectric elements (Ιη, ΐρ) are brazed.
7. Module selon l'une quelconque des revendications 5 ou7. Module according to any one of claims 5 or
6 dans lequel chaque électrode (15) consiste en un tube de section circulaire en cuivre et faisant saillie de l'une des faces dudit élément thermo électrique (Ιη,ΐρ) et étant en retrait de la face opposée à l'intérieur de l'évidement central. 6 in which each electrode (15) consists of a tube of circular copper section and projecting from one of the faces of said thermoelectric element (Ιη, ΐρ) and being set back from the opposite face inside the central recess.
8. Module selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 7 dans lequel chaque élément thermo électrique (Ιη,ΐρ) comporte des ailettes (14) s'étendant depuis la face extérieure dudit élément thermo électrique (Ιη,ΐρ) et perpendiculairement à l'axe de son évidement central. 8. Module according to any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein each thermoelectric element (Ιη, ΐρ) comprises fins (14) extending from the outer face of said thermoelectric element (Ιη, ΐρ) and perpendicular to the axis of its central recess.
9. Dispositif thermo électrique comprenant au moins un module selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 8 précédentes. 9. Thermoelectric device comprising at least one module according to any one of claims 1 to 8 above.
10. Dispositif thermo électrique selon la revendication 9 configuré pour être positionné dans un conduit de gaz d'échappement de véhicule automobile, lesdits gaz définissant le second fluide. 10. Thermoelectric device according to claim 9 configured to be positioned in a motor vehicle exhaust gas duct, said gases defining the second fluid.
11. Procédé de fabrication d'un module thermo électrique comprenant au moins une pluralité d'éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ) en forme de cylindre ou de prisme droit et présentant un évidement central, susceptible de générer un courant électrique sous l'action d'un gradient de température exercé entre une première face dite extérieure (lia) définie par une surface de périphérie extérieure et une seconde face dite intérieure (11b) définie par une surface de périphérie intérieure, un premier fluide étant destiné à circuler à travers l'évidement central et un second fluide étant destiné à circuler autour de la périphérie extérieure; ledit procédé comprenant au moins une étape d'emmanchement desdits éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ) sur un tube (3) de diamètre externe tout juste inférieur au diamètre interne des électrodes intérieures (15) desdits éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ). 11. A method of manufacturing a thermoelectric module comprising at least a plurality of thermoelectric elements (Ιη, ΐρ) in the form of a cylinder or right prism and having a central recess, capable of generating an electric current under the action a temperature gradient exerted between a first said outer face (11a) defined by an outer periphery surface and a second inner face (11b) defined by an inner periphery surface, a first fluid being intended to flow through the central recess and a second fluid being adapted to circulate around the outer periphery; said method comprising at least one step of fitting said thermoelectric elements (Ιη, ΐρ) on a tube (3) of external diameter just smaller than the internal diameter of the inner electrodes (15) of said electric thermoelectric elements (Ιη, ΐρ).
12. Procédé selon la revendication précédente comprenant en outre une étape d'expansion du tube (3) depuis l'intérieur de ce dernier vers l'extérieur afin de sertir lesdits éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ) sur ledit tube (3). 12. Method according to the preceding claim further comprising a step of expanding the tube (3) from the inside thereof to the outside to crimp said electric thermo elements (Ιη, ΐρ) on said tube (3).
13. Procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 11 ou 12 dans lequel ledit module comprend en outre une électrode tubulaire dite intérieure (15) solidaire de la face intérieure (11b) de chaque élément thermo électrique (Ιη,ΐρ) ; ledit procédé comprenant en outre une étape de soudure deux à deux des électrodes intérieures (15) des éléments thermo électriques (Ιη,ΐρ). 13. A method according to any one of claims 11 or 12 wherein said module further comprises an inner tubular electrode (15) integral with the inner face (11b) of each thermoelectric element (Ιη, ΐρ); said method further comprising a step of two-to-two welding of the inner electrodes (15) of the electric thermoelectric elements (Ιη, ΐρ).
14. Procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 11 à 13 dans lequel l'expansion du tube (3) est réalisée par hydroformage à matrice fixe, les éléments thermo électrique (Ιη,ΐρ) formant la matrice fixe. 14. A method according to any one of claims 11 to 13 wherein the expansion of the tube (3) is performed by fixed matrix hydroforming, the thermoelectric elements (Ιη, ΐρ) forming the fixed matrix.
PCT/FR2016/052258 2015-09-15 2016-09-09 Thermoelectric module and device, in particular for generating an electric current in a motor vehicle, and method for manufacturing such a module WO2017046485A1 (en)

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JP2006086402A (en) * 2004-09-17 2006-03-30 Hitachi Metals Ltd Tubular thermoelectric module and thermoelectric converting device
FR2977374A1 (en) * 2011-06-30 2013-01-04 Michel Simonin ELEMENT, MODULE AND THERMO ELECTRIC DEVICE, IN PARTICULAR FOR GENERATING AN ELECTRICAL CURRENT IN A MOTOR VEHICLE.
US20130104953A1 (en) * 2011-06-06 2013-05-02 Amerigon Inc. Cartridge-based thermoelectric systems
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JP2006086402A (en) * 2004-09-17 2006-03-30 Hitachi Metals Ltd Tubular thermoelectric module and thermoelectric converting device
US20130104953A1 (en) * 2011-06-06 2013-05-02 Amerigon Inc. Cartridge-based thermoelectric systems
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