Having Housing, Mounting Or Support Patents (Class 136/230)
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Patent number: 9568373Abstract: A cable-base sensor can detect a material level and temperatures of a material stored in a silo. The cable-base sensor comprises an electronic box, a cable, a stopper, and a signal processing module. The electronic box comprises a base and a space for containing the signal processing module, and a hole is formed through a bottom of the electronic box. The base is mounted in the bottom, and a tapered hole is formed through the base. A first end of the cable extents into the tapered hole and the hole, and spreads to form a cable bud. The stopper is a tapered block and pressed into the tapered hole for enforcing the cable bud to be sandwiched between the stopper and the base. The cable bud strengthens a connection between the electronic box and the cable for preventing damages from solid materials.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2014Date of Patent: February 14, 2017Assignee: Finetek Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chien-Lung Huang, Sheng-Shou Chen, Tzu-Chuan Tsai, Yao-Chen Yu, Chao-Kai Cheng, Ting-Kuo Wu
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Patent number: 9523614Abstract: Devices for determining sterilization conditions within a sterilization chamber are described. Such devices include an elongate tube to be placed within said sterilization chamber and at least two temperature sensors within the cavity of the elongate tube. The at least two temperature sensors are spaced apart from each other along the length of the elongate tube by a predetermined distance and spaced apart from the interior wall of the elongate tube. Methods for determining sterilization discussed.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2011Date of Patent: December 20, 2016Inventors: Robbert-Jan Hermsen, Knut Schumacher
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Patent number: 9404814Abstract: An exhaust gas temperature detection sensor is arranged at a predetermined position outside a muffler, or at a predetermined position outside an exhaust pipe constituting an exhaust gas flow passage on a more downstream side than the muffler in an exhaust direction. The sensor detects that an atmosphere temperature at the predetermined position outside the muffler has reached a predetermined temperature based on an increase in a temperature inside the muffler, or detects that an atmosphere temperature at the predetermined position outside the exhaust pipe has reached a predetermined temperature based on an increase in a temperature of an exhaust gas inside the exhaust pipe.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2012Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: KUBOTA CORPORATIONInventors: Hiroyuki Tada, Masato Asahara, Yoshihiro Ueda, Hideki Aoki, Akira Minoura
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Patent number: 9356217Abstract: An electrically conductive composition, containing (A) a carbon nanotube, (B) an electrically conductive polymer, and (C) an onium salt compound, an electrically conductive film using the composition, and a method of producing the electrically conductive film.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2013Date of Patent: May 31, 2016Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventors: Toshiaki Aoai, Ryo Nishio, Naoyuki Hayashi
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Patent number: 9349609Abstract: A method including forming a structure including a plurality of semiconductor devices surrounded by a dielectric layer such that a top surface of the dielectric layer is substantially flush with a top surface of the plurality of semiconductor devices, depositing a thermal optimization layer above the structure, patterning the thermal optimization layer such that a portion of the thermal optimization layer is removed from a above first region of the structure and another portion of the thermal optimization layer remains above a second region of the structure, the first region having a different thermal conductivity than the second region, and heating the structure, the patterned thermal optimization layer causing substantially uniform thermal absorption of the structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2014Date of Patent: May 24, 2016Assignee: GLOBALFOUNDRIES INC.Inventors: Brian J. Greene, Yue Liang, Xiaojun Yu
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Patent number: 9196387Abstract: An apparatus for detecting the location of at least one annulus spacer between concentric interior and exterior tubes when a temperature gradient is present therebetween. A probe head assembly is movable within the interior tube. At least one temperature sensor is coupled to the probe head assembly and configured to detect a temperature of an interior surface of the interior tube. A drive assembly is operable to move the probe head assembly relative to the interior tube. A data acquisition system is coupled to the at least one temperature sensor and configured to receive a plurality of temperature measurements in order to identify at least one position along the interior surface having a temperature abnormality corresponding to a reduced temperature gradient.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2012Date of Patent: November 24, 2015Assignee: Atomic Energy of Canada LimitedInventor: Jaroslaw Jan Goszczynski
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Patent number: 9190505Abstract: A semiconductor device includes a substrate and a source structure and a drain structure formed on the substrate. At least one nanowire structure interconnects the source structure and drain structure and serves as a channel therebetween. A gate structure is formed over said at least one nanowire structure to provide a control of a conductivity of carriers in the channel, and the nanowire structure includes a center core serving as a backbias electrode for the channel.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2013Date of Patent: November 17, 2015Assignee: Renesas Electronics CorporationInventors: Tomohiro Hirai, Toshiharu Nagumo
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Patent number: 9054273Abstract: A mobile device for generating electrical power may include a combustion chamber and a heat sink. A TEC module is in thermal communication with the combustion chamber and the heat sink to transfer thermal energy from the combustion chamber to the heat sink. A heat flux across the TEC module causes electrical power to be generated. The mobile device may also include a fuel delivery system to feed fuel into the combustion chamber. A control system may be included to at least monitor and control delivery of fuel to the combustion chamber by the fuel delivery system and to control a temperature gradient across the TEC module to control the electrical power produced by the thermal-to-electric energy conversion device.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2013Date of Patent: June 9, 2015Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: James Ping Huang, Ching-Fen Tsai, Han V. Nguyen, Mark Allen Cleveland, Jimmy M. Quiambao
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Patent number: 9024173Abstract: The present invention provides a thermoelectric conversion element module and a manufacturing method thereof capable of easily realizing a high-density array and securing connection reliability. The module includes a thermoelectric conversion element group made up of P-type elements and N-type elements alternately arranged in a first direction and a heat-resistant insulating member filling the periphery of the thermoelectric conversion materials, wherein the P-type elements and the N-type elements are connected via connection electrodes on a side portion of the group along the first direction, and connection electrodes at other parts of the group along a second direction crossing the first direction. The module is manufactured by forming a connection electrode layer that extends to the side portion of the group on the surface of the group and cutting this connection electrode layer between the thermoelectric conversion elements along the first direction and the second direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2012Date of Patent: May 5, 2015Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takaaki Higashida, Kaori Toyoda, Takashi Kubo
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Publication number: 20150059820Abstract: A semiconductor element includes at least a thermoelectric material and a first frame part which are connected to each other in a force-locking manner. The first frame part forms an electrical conductor and is made of a ferritic steel which, in particular, has good thermal conductivity and low thermal expansion in addition to good electrical conductivity. A thermoelectric module having semiconductor elements is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2014Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventors: ROLF BRUECK, SIGRID LIMBECK
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Patent number: 8952234Abstract: The invention relates to a thermoelectric device, comprising a first circuit (1), called hot circuit, through which a first fluid can flow, and, a second circuit (2), called cold circuit, through which a second fluid can flow at a temperature lower than that of the first fluid, and elements (3, 3p, 3n), called thermoelectric elements, that can be used to generate an electric current in the presence of a temperature gradient. According to the invention, it comprises fins (6f, 6c) in a heat exchange relationship with said hot circuit (1) and/or said cold circuit (2), the thermoelectric elements (3, 3p, 3n) being in contact at least with said fins (6f, 6c), at least some of said fins (6f, 6c) being associated in pairs, a compressible material (11) being provided between the fins (6f, 6c) of one and the same pair.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2011Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Valeo Systemes ThermiquesInventors: Stephane Tondelli, Michel Simonin
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Publication number: 20150034140Abstract: A thermoelectric element having high thermal resistance and requiring less semiconductor material than a conventional thermoelectric element with comparable performance comprises a substrate having a substrate front side and a substrate rear side opposite the substrate front side, a first contact, applied as a layer to the substrate front side, a second contact, applied as a layer to the substrate front side, a cut-off between the first and second contact which thermally and electrically separates the first and second contact from one another, and a thermoelectrically active layer having a top side and a bottom side, which are connected to one another by lateral delimiting surfaces, wherein the thermoelectrically active layer is arranged in the cut-off in such a way that the bottom side is on the substrate front side, and one of the lateral delimiting surfaces is against the first contact and one of the lateral delimiting surfaces is against the second contact.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2013Publication date: February 5, 2015Inventors: Gerhard Span, Arwed Siegloch, Juergen Haferkamp, Nikolay Iosad
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Patent number: 8937240Abstract: A cable installation having a support structure, for example a rod or a support frame will be proposed, the latter or the former, being able to be hinged to abuses structure about a first axis, respectively, wherein at each end of the support structure a deviating roller is rotatably provided, which is provided for a cable which at one end is fixed to an area of the support structure while the other end of the cable is fixed to a second area of the base structure which is spaced apart from the first area.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2011Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Inventor: Johann Czaloun
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Patent number: 8936224Abstract: The invention relates to a mounting system, in particular for solar modules (1), consisting of supports (2) with a closed hollow box profile (3), with connectors (4) for solar module fastening means, and connectors (5) for roof fastening means. At least the connectors (4) for the solar module fastening means are formed from longitudinal groove pairs—or longitudinal flange pairs in or on the hollow box profile (3) that are arranged at a distance from each other. The fastening means for the solar module (1) or solar modules (1) in the area of the support consist of a clamping piece with a shaped part (8), with each shaped part (8) having at least two webs (9.1, 9.2), arranged opposite each other on the shaped part (8) whereby at least one positive click connection with one of the groove pair—or flange pairs can be made by means of the ends remote from the shaped part (8), and the shaped part (8) has at least one bore hole (11) for the insertion of a fastening bolt (14).Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2007Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Assignee: Sapa Holding GmbHInventors: Sven Bartelt-Muszynski, Gido Genschorek
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Patent number: 8933317Abstract: In one embodiment, a system includes a strap configured to be coupled to a container. The strap includes a plurality of plates arranged to allow the strap to flex. The system also includes a thermoelectric device coupled to the strap. The strap is configured to transfer heat between the thermoelectric device and the container. The system includes a thermal interface situated between the thermoelectric device and the strap.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2013Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Marlow Industries, Inc.Inventors: Joshua E. Moczygemba, Overton L. Parish, IV, Ryan A. Turner, Pravesh Parmanand
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Publication number: 20140360550Abstract: This disclosure examines using lead telluride nanocrystals as well as other materials suitable for thermoelectric conversion, particularly materials with high Figure of Merit values, as coatings on flexible substrates.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2012Publication date: December 11, 2014Applicant: PURDUE RESEARCH FOUNDATIONInventors: Yue Wu, Daxin Liang, Haoran Yang, Scott Finefrock
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Publication number: 20140345666Abstract: A thermoelectric element includes a p-type/n-type semiconductor element having an upper end surface and a lower end surface, a lower electrode that is joined to the lower end surface of the p-type/n-type semiconductor element to connect the p-type/n-type semiconductor element and another n-type/p-type semiconductor element adjacently thereto and has an area less than that of the lower end surface in a joint region therebetween. A joint portion is made of a solder and has a surface joint part joining the lower end surface of the p-type/n-type semiconductor element and a surface of the lower electrode while the lower end surface of the p-type/n-type semiconductor element and the surface of the lower electrode are opposed to each other A fillet part is formed to fill a space produced between intersecting surfaces, i.e., the lower end surface and a lateral side of the lower electrode, and composes a step part formed by the lower end surface and the lower electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2012Publication date: November 27, 2014Inventors: Mitsuoki Konnai, Akio Konishi
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Publication number: 20140332049Abstract: A thermoelectric module having a first and second housing element, at least two thermoelectric elements arranged between the housing elements and are each connected electrically to one another via first or second electrical contacts or are connected electrically to an electrical circuit via first and/or second electrical contacts. The first electrical contacts are assigned to the first housing element and the second electrical contacts are assigned to the second housing element. The first housing element and/or the second housing element have at least one opening, which is covered by at least one section of the first electrical contacts and/or the second electrical contacts. The first electrical contacts and/or the second electrical contacts are connected to the first housing element and/or the second housing element.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2014Publication date: November 13, 2014Applicant: Behr GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Hans-Heinrich ANGERMANN
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Patent number: 8870455Abstract: A temperature sensing assembly for measuring the temperature of a surface of a structure includes a thermocouple device having a sheath containing a pair of conductors of dissimilar materials connected at a junction point to provide indications of temperature. The assembly further includes a docking device with a recess formed in a top surface to receive a portion of the sheath that is proximate the junction point. The bottom surface of the docking device is attached to the surface of the structure. The recess extends through the bottom surface of the docking device so that when the thermocouple device is positioned in the recess, the junction point is adjacent the surface of the tube. A heat shield can be attached to the docking device to shield the sheath proximate the junction point from direct and radiant heat sources.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2011Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Inventors: Jeffrey N. Daily, Larry Welch, Yean C. Chan
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Patent number: 8863451Abstract: The present invention relates generally to photovoltaic systems. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing systems in which photovoltaic elements are disposed upon roofing elements such as shingles, tiles, shakes or slates.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2012Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: CertainTeed CorporationInventors: Robert L. Jenkins, Christopher C. Fisher
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Patent number: 8865999Abstract: A thermoelectric converter is formed by a plenum divided into high and low pressure chambers by a partition and includes a stack of series-coupled alkali-metal thermoelectric cells that projects orthogonally from the partition into one of the chambers.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2012Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: NanoConversion Technologies, Inc.Inventors: David M. Rossi, Michael P. Staskus, Derek W. Nam
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Publication number: 20140299171Abstract: Disclosed is a material for an electrode having an excellent performance and an excellent durability by maintaining high electrical conductivity and by restraining the growth of the grain at a high temperature. The material can be manufactured by synthesizing composite materials through use of a metallic material of Mo and a ceramic material, and then the composite materials can be used as the electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2013Publication date: October 9, 2014Applicant: KOREA INSTITUTE OF ENERGY RESEARCHInventors: Sun-Dong KIM, Sang-Kuk Woo, Se-Young Kim, Jong-Hoon Joo, In-Sub Han, Doo-Won Seo, Min-Soo Suh
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Patent number: 8847059Abstract: Electrical energy is generated in a device that includes an integrated circuit which produces thermal flux when operated. A substrate supports the integrated circuit. A structure is formed in the substrate, that structure having a semiconductor p-n junction thermally coupled to the integrated circuit. Responsive to the thermal flux produced by the integrated circuit, the structure generates electrical energy. The generated electrical energy may be stored for use by the integrated circuit.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2011Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: STMicroelectronics (Crolles 2) SASInventors: Thomas Skotnicki, Stephane Monfray
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Publication number: 20140251406Abstract: This invention provides a multi-purpose high performance thermoelectric module, comprising: A first impeller; a second impeller at the opposite side of the first impeller; Two FPCBs respectively positioned between the first and second impellers; Multiple T.E elements located between the two FPCBs, and combine with the first and second impellers to form a thermoelectric module; A shaft at the outer end of the second impeller; Two slip rings located at the insulation layer of the shaft; Two wires inside the shaft, with the two ends of the wires respectively attached to the ends of the T.E elements and two slip rings for connection; and two brushes installed at the slip ring. With this design, the present invention is able to convert the existing kinetic energy within the waste heat into the required rotational energy for the thermoelectric module and achieve the heat dissipation performance of a fan.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2013Publication date: September 11, 2014Inventors: Wen-Pin Chen, Chiu-Yueh Tung
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Patent number: 8821013Abstract: Methods for determining a temperature of a portion of an electrically conductive substrate are provided wherein the substrate is heated by applying an electrical current flow through the substrate. The method for determining the temperature employs a thermocouple including a first tab element and a second tab element that are spaced apart from one another along an axis transverse to a direction of the current flow. In another example, an apparatus includes an electrically conductive substrate and a direct heating apparatus configured to heat the substrate with an electrical current flow through the substrate. The apparatus includes first and second coupling positions of a thermocouple that are spaced apart from one another along an axis transverse to a direction of the current flow.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2011Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Corning IncorporatedInventors: Daniel R Boudreault, Kenneth P Ehrlich, David D Rye
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Patent number: 8816183Abstract: A thermoelectric module includes a first insulated substrate having a first opposing surface, a second insulated substrate having a second opposing surface, the second opposing surface faces the first opposing surface, a plurality of electrodes formed on the first and second opposing surfaces, a plurality of thermoelectric transducers provided between the first insulated substrate and the second insulated substrate, the plurality of thermoelectric transducers electrically connected with one another in series and/or in parallel via each electrode, and a conducting circuit electrically connecting the plurality of electrodes with an external power source, wherein the first insulated substrate includes a substrate body having the first opposing surface and a projecting portion being formed continuously from the substrate body and extending in a direction that intersects the substrate body, and the projecting portion includes a fixing surface extending in the direction that intersects the substrate body.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2008Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Akihiro Morimoto
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Patent number: 8814428Abstract: A temperature sensor is described that comprises a temperature sensing element, a substantially thermally insulating substrate having a first side and a second side and at least one layer of substantially thermally conductive material coated on the first side of the substrate. A first hole is provided on the second side of the substrate and the temperature sensing element is arranged to sense temperature within the first hole. A plurality of additional holes may also be provided on the second side of the substrate, these holes may be coated to aid thermal transfer. The temperature sensing element may be a thermocouple. The temperature sensor may be included in a temperature measurement probe for use in measuring the temperature of workpieces produced using a machine tool.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2008Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Renishaw PLCInventor: Jean-Marie Chancy
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Publication number: 20140230875Abstract: A thermoelectric module may include a fluid-tight housing having at least one thermoelectrically active element arranged therein. The at least one thermoelectrically active element may have a coating. The housing may form an outer encapsulation and the coating may form an inner encapsulation for the at least one thermoelectrically active element.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2014Publication date: August 21, 2014Applicant: Mahle Behr GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Hans-Heinrich Angermann, Tobias Fuchs, Thomas Himmer, Volker Schall
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Publication number: 20140224297Abstract: A thermoelectric conversion element formed by laminating, on a substrate having a porous anodic oxidation film of aluminum, a thermoelectric conversion layer which contains an inorganic oxide semiconductor or an element having a melting point of 300° C. or higher, as a main component, and which has a void structure; and a method of producing the same.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2014Publication date: August 14, 2014Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATIONInventors: Naoyuki HAYASHI, Toshiaki AOAI, Yoshinori HOTTA
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Patent number: 8779276Abstract: The present invention relates to a thermoelectric device, in particular an all-organic thermoelectric device, and to an array of such thermoelectric devices. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a thermoelectric device, in particular an all-organic thermoelectric device. Moreover, the present invention relates to uses of the thermoelectric device and/or the array in accordance with the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Rene Wirtz, Silvia Rosselli, Gabriele Nelles
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Patent number: 8729380Abstract: In the thermoelectric module composed of p- and n-conductive thermoelectric material legs which are connected to one another alternately via electrically conductive contacts, at least some of the electrically conductive contacts on the cold and/or the warm side of the thermoelectric module are formed between, or embedded into, the thermoelectric material legs composed of porous metallic materials.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2010Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: BASF SEInventors: Madalina Andreea Stefan, Alexander Traut
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Patent number: 8692104Abstract: A thermoelectric element has a first substrate at a high temperature side, a second substrate at a low temperature side facing the first substrate, a thermoelectric material placed on the second substrate via a silicon layer, a first electrode formed on the first substrate, and a second electrode formed on the silicon layer. The thermoelectric element has a stress releasing section which is formed between the first electrode and the thermoelectric material, and which includes a plurality of columnar portions. The stress releasing section suppresses defects such as cracks that might be produced in the thermoelectric element due to a stress generated in the thermoelectric element.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2012Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: TDK CorporationInventors: Takashi Asatani, Fujimi Kimura
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Publication number: 20140083477Abstract: The disclosed relates to a thermoelectric device for generating electrical currents exploiting the Seebeck effect, more specifically a structural thermoelectric device which can replace a structural component of a body. The structural thermoelectric device can include a first conductor layer, a second conductor layer and located therebetween a polymer thermocouple layer having a reinforcement formed from a structural support, wherein the internal surface of the support includes at least one layer of at least one conducting polymer. The reinforcement can be is porous material with a plurality of voids, wherein the internal surfaces of the voids are coated with a conducting polymer, which is capable of providing the Peltier effect.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2012Publication date: March 27, 2014Applicant: BAE SYSTEMS plcInventors: Sajad Haq, Michael Dunleavy, Martyn John Hucker, Joseph Maurice Davies
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Patent number: 8623687Abstract: A method of forming a thermoelectric device may include forming a first electrically conductive trace, and bonding a thermoelectric element to the first electrically conductive trace. After bonding the thermoelectric element to the first electrically conductive trace, a metal post may be formed on the thermoelectric element so that the thermoelectric element is between the first electrically conductive trace and the metal post. After forming the metal post, the metal post may be bonded to a second electrically conductive trace so that the metal post is between the second electrically conductive trace and the thermoelectric element. Other related methods and structures are also discussed.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2006Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Nextreme Thermal Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Brooks O'Quinn, Rama Venkatasubramanian, Edward Siivola
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Patent number: 8614392Abstract: A micro-combustion power system is disclosed. The invention is comprised of a housing that further comprises two flow path volumes, each having generally opposing flow path directions and each generally having opposing configurations. Each flow path volume comprises a pre-heating volume having at least one pre-heating heat exchange structure. Each flow path volume further comprises a combustion volume having a combustion means or structure such as a catalytic material disposed therein Further, each flow path volume comprise a post-combustion volume having at least one post-combustion heat exchange structure. One or more thermoelectric generator means is in thermal communication with at least one of the combustion volumes whereby thermal energy generated by an air/fuel catalytic reaction in the combustion volume is transferred to the thermoelectric generator to convert same to electrical energy for use by an external circuit.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2009Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Inventors: Ying Hsu, Itzhak Sapir, Paul Ronney, G. Jeffrey Snyder
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Publication number: 20130327370Abstract: A thermoelectric energy harvesting system may include a thermoelectric generator that may produce a voltage in response to a temperature difference across the thermoelectric generator. The thermoelectric generator may be captured between the housing and the base member. The system may include at least one mechanical fastener coupling the housing to the base member and including a shoulder spacer formed of thermally-insulating material and positioned under the mechanical fastener.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2012Publication date: December 12, 2013Applicant: PERPETUA POWER SOURCE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Marcus S. Ward, Mark J. Hauck
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Publication number: 20130312802Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a low-cost thermoelectric converter element having high productivity and excellent conversion efficiency. A thermoelectric converter element according to the present invention includes a substrate 4, a magnetic film 2 provided on the substrate 4 with a certain magnetization direction A and formed of a polycrystalline magnetically insulating material, and an electrode 3 provided on the magnetic film 2 with a material exhibiting a spin-orbit interaction. When a temperature gradient is applied to the magnetic film 2, a spin current is generated so as to flow from the magnetic film 2 toward the electrode 3. A current I is generated in a direction perpendicular to the magnetization direction A of the magnetic film 2 by the inverse spin Hall effect in the electrode 3.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2012Publication date: November 28, 2013Applicants: TOHOKU UNIVERSITY, NEC CORPORATIONInventors: Akihiro Kirihara, Yasunobu Nakamura, Shinichi Yorozu, Kenichi Uchida, Eiji Saitoh
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Publication number: 20130284229Abstract: P-type semiconductor sheets and n-type semiconductor sheets formed by mixing a powder of semiconductor material, a binder resin, a plasticizer, and a surfactant are prepared. In addition, separator sheets formed by mixing a resin such as PMMA and a plasticizer are prepared. Through holes are formed in each of the separator sheets and then filled with a conductive material. Thereafter, the p-type semiconductor sheet, the separator sheet, the n-type semiconductor sheet and the separator sheet are stacked. The resultant laminated body is cut into a predetermined size and then subjected to a baking process.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2013Publication date: October 31, 2013Inventors: Kazuaki Kurihara, Masaharu Hida, Kazunori Yamanaka
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Patent number: 8525016Abstract: A thermoelectric device may include a thermoelectric element including a layer of a thermoelectric material and having opposing first and second surfaces. A first metal pad may be provided on the first surface of the thermoelectric element, and a second metal pad may be provided on the second surface of the thermoelectric element. In addition, the first and second metal pads may be off-set in a direction parallel with respect to the first and second surfaces of the thermoelectric element. Related methods are also discussed.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Nextreme Thermal Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Philip A. Deane, Ramaswamy Mahadevan, Edward P. Siivola
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Patent number: 8519254Abstract: A mobile device for generating electrical power may include a combustion chamber and a heat sink. A TEC module is in thermal communication with the combustion chamber and the heat sink to transfer thermal energy from the combustion chamber to the heat sink. A heat flux across the TEC module causes electrical power to be generated. The mobile device may also include a fuel delivery system to feed fuel into the combustion chamber. A control system may be included to at least monitor and control delivery of fuel to the combustion chamber by the fuel delivery system and to control a temperature gradient across the TEC module to control the electrical power produced by the thermal-to-electric energy conversion device.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2008Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: James Ping Huang, Ching-Fen Tsai, Han V. Nguyen, Mark Allen Cleveland, Jimmy M. Quiambao
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Publication number: 20130213448Abstract: In one embodiment, a system includes a strap configured to be coupled to a container. The strap includes a plurality of plates arranged to allow the strap to flex. The system also includes a thermoelectric device coupled to the strap. The strap is configured to transfer heat between the thermoelectric device and the container. The system includes a thermal interface situated between the thermoelectric device and the strap.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2013Publication date: August 22, 2013Inventors: Joshua E. Moczygemba, Overton L. Parish, IV, Ryan A. Turner, Pravesh Parmanand
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Patent number: 8512034Abstract: A pilot burner assembly for easy removal of a thermo-electric or other device is disclosed. In an illustrative embodiment, a burner tube, thermo-electric device, and/or spark source are retained in a desired position via a bracket and resilient clip. The bracket may include retention features built into the bracket to help aid in the positioning of the burner tube, thermo-electric device, and/or spark source. The burner tube, thermo-electric device and/or spark source may include retention features that are configured to engage corresponding retention features in the bracket, when desired. The resilient clip may bias the retention features of the burner tube, thermo-electric device and/or spark source against corresponding the retention features of the bracket.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2009Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Gregory Young, Donald J. Kasprzyk
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Publication number: 20130199593Abstract: The present invention provides a thermoelectric conversion element, a thermoelectric conversion element module, and a method of manufacturing the same that can easily realize high-density arrangement of thermoelectric conversion elements and securement of connection reliability. The thermoelectric conversion element has, for example, rod-shaped thermoelectric conversion material, tube that has an insulation property and an adiabatic property and houses thermoelectric conversion material, and electrodes that are in close adhesion to the end surfaces of thermoelectric conversion material and tube. A surface roughness Ra of the end surfaces is larger than 0.8 micrometers. In the present invention, the thermoelectric conversion elements can be arranged at a high density such that tubes are in close adhesion to each other. Also, since the close adhesion surface of electrodes on the end surfaces is large, the connection reliability of electrodes is further improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2011Publication date: August 8, 2013Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATIONInventors: Takaaki Higashida, Kaori Toyoda, Takashi Kubo, Yoshihisa Ohido, Nobuaki Hirata, Yasushi Taniguchi
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Patent number: 8502361Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a CPV package which comprises a leadframe assembly, such leadframe assembly including multiple frames stacked on top of each other. A top frame of the leadframe assembly provides the electrical interconnect between the top or front surface of the receiver die and the bypass diode required to complete the circuit. The top frame also provides hook up wire interconnect pads for the completed CPV package. An exposed bottom surface of a bottom frame of the leadframe assembly defines a heat spreader which assists in thermal management. The fabrication of the CPV package to include multiple frames stacked on top of each other provides high thermal dissipation and high voltage isolation, while at the same providing a high level of reliability with a comparatively low manufacturing cost.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Amkor Technology, Inc.Inventors: John M. Nickelsen, Jr., Pil Je Sung, Garry Pycroft
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Patent number: 8498127Abstract: The thermal interface material including a thermally conductive metal a thermally conductive metal having a first surface and an opposing second surface, a diffusion barrier plate coupled to the first surface of the thermally conductive metal and the second surface of the thermally conductive metal, and a thermal resistance reducing layer coupled to the diffusion barrier plate.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2010Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc.Inventor: Graham Charles Kirk
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Publication number: 20130160807Abstract: A semiconductor element includes at least a thermoelectric material and a first frame part which are force-lockingly connected to one another, with the frame part forming a diffusion barrier for the thermoelectric material and an electrical conductor. A method for producing the semiconductor element as well as a thermoelectric module having at least two semiconductor elements, are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2013Publication date: June 27, 2013Applicant: EMITEC GESELLSCHAFT FUER EMISSIONSTECHNOLOGIE MBHInventor: EMITEC GESELLSCHAFT FUER EMISSIONSTE EMISSIONSTECHNOLOGIE MBH
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Publication number: 20130139866Abstract: In one embodiment, a method for forming a metallized ceramic includes thermal spraying metal directly onto a first side of a ceramic plate. The metal comprising aluminum. The method also includes densifying the thermally ceramic plate after spraying the metal onto the first side of the ceramic plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2011Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicant: MARLOW INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventors: Joshua E. Moczygemba, James L. Bierschenk
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Patent number: 8455806Abstract: A method includes collecting site specific data, collecting field data at a site of an array of photovoltaic members, determining a current tracked irradiance of the array of photovoltaic members, calculating predicted irradiance for multiple orientations based on the site specific data and the sensed field data, or sensing an actual irradiance for multiple orientations. The method further includes determining a maximum predicted irradiance from the calculated predicted irradiance or a maximum actual irradiance from the sensed irradiance. The method further includes comparing the maximum predicted irradiance or the maximum sensed irradiance with the current tracked irradiance, and re-orienting the array of photovoltaic members to an orientation having the maximum predicted or actual irradiance if the maximum predicted or actual irradiance is greater than the current tracked irradiance.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2010Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Sunpower CorporationInventor: Zachary Judkins
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Patent number: 8453986Abstract: The invention relates to a solar module attachment, comprising a Z-support (2), the one Z-side (2.1) of which is used directly as a roof attachment or can be connected to roof hooks or support posts in the case of a mounting system, while clamps (5) can be displaced over the other Z-side (2.2), the attachment means engaging in said clamps in order to fix solar module frames (1).Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2010Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Mounting Systems GmbHInventor: Sandy Schnitzer
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Publication number: 20130098419Abstract: A thermoelectric converter is formed by a plenum divided into high and low pressure chambers by a partition and includes a stack of series-coupled alkali-metal thermoelectric cells that projects orthogonally from the partition into one of the chambers.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2012Publication date: April 25, 2013Applicant: NANOCONVERSION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventor: NanoConversion Technologies, Inc.