Theoretical Analysis on Thermoelectric Power Generation with Rectangular-Fin Elements and Its Applicability in Micro Systems

摘要

A thermoelectric module, which consists of rectangular-fin elements and has a simple structure suitable for micro fabrication, was newly proposed for a micro- to milli-scale thermoelectric power generator. A unit model was introduced to examine the basic characteristics of thermoelectric power generation with rectangular-fin elements. Theoretical descriptions of the power density and conversion efficiency were given by solving one-dimensional heal and current flows inside the elements. Then, it was found that there exist optimum aspect ratios of the elements to achieve maximum power density and conversion efficiency. Power density becomes larger if the module is downsized with a similarity in shape, while conversion efficiency remains constant, i.e., smaller devices show better performance. Finally, comparative analysis with a standard pi-type module was conducted to emphasize the superiority of the proposed module in micro systems, when convective heat transfer resistance is taken into account.