Abstract: A solid state thermal transfer device includes first and second electrically conductive substrates that are positioned opposite from one another. The solid state thermal transfer device also includes a sealing layer disposed between the first and second electrically conductive substrates and a plurality of hollow structures having a conductive material, wherein the plurality of hollow structures is contained by the sealing layer between the first and second electrically conductive substrates.

Abstract: A thermoelectric conversion module (10) used at temperatures of 300° C. or more includes a first substrate (15) disposed on a low temperature side, a second substrate (16) disposed on a high temperature side, first and second electrode members (13, 14) provided to face the element mounting regions of these substrates (15, 16), and a plurality of thermoelectric elements (11, 12) disposed between the electrode members (13, 14). An occupied area ratio of the thermoelectric elements (11, 12) in the module is set to 69% or more, and an output per unit area of the thermoelectric conversion module (10) is made to increase.

Abstract: Energy harvesting devices are disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the energy harvesting devices includes a fastening device, a first thermally-conductive element engaging the fastening device, a thermoelectric device disposed in thermal contact with the first thermally-conductive element and a second thermally-conductive element disposed in thermal contact with the thermoelectric device.

Abstract: A compact, high-performance thermoelectric conversion module includes a laminate having a plurality of insulating layers, p-type thermoelectric semiconductors and n-type thermoelectric semiconductors formed by a technique for manufacturing a multilayer circuit board, particularly a technique for forming a via-conductor. Pairs of the p-type thermoelectric semiconductors and the n-type thermoelectric semiconductors are electrically connected to each other in series through p-n connection conductors to define thermoelectric conversion element pairs. The thermoelectric conversion element pairs are connected in series through, for example, series wiring conductors. The thermoelectric semiconductors each have a plurality of portions in which the peak temperatures of thermoelectric figures of merit are different from each other. These portions are distributed in the stacking direction of the laminate.

Abstract: A method of applying a physical barrier to suppress thermal decomposition near a surface of a thermoelectric material including applying a continuous metal foil to a predetermined portion of the surface of the thermoelectric material, physically binding the continuous metal foil to the surface of the thermoelectric material using a binding member, and heating in a predetermined atmosphere the applied and physically bound continuous metal foil and the thermoelectric material to a sufficient temperature in order to promote bonding between the continuous metal foil and the surface of the thermoelectric material. The continuous metal foil forms a physical barrier to enclose a predetermined portion of the surface. Thermal decomposition is suppressed at the surface of the thermoelectric material enclosed by the physical barrier when the thermoelectric element is in operation.

Abstract: Methods and devices for controlling thermal conductivity and thermoelectric power of semiconductor nanowires are described. The thermal conductivity and the thermoelectric power are controlled substantially independently of the electrical conductivity of the nanowires by controlling dimensions and doping, respectively, of the nanowires. A thermoelectric device comprising p-doped and n-doped semiconductor nanowire thermocouples is also shown, together with a method to fabricate alternately p-doped and n-doped arrays of silicon nanowires.

Abstract: In a first aspect of the invention, a power source comprising an electrical charging device comprising a thermal conductor, a thermoelectric source (TES) for converting thermal energy into electrical energy, and a battery for accumulating electrical charge generated by the converter. The battery provides electrical power to a cell-phone, laptop computer or the like. In a second aspect of the invention, an RFID tag is attached to the cell-phone, laptop or the like to prevent loss or theft.

Abstract: A flexible thermoelectric device and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. Flexible substrates are formed by using LIGA process, micro-electro-mechanical process or electroforming technique. The flexible substrates are used to produce thermoelectric device. The structure and the material property of the substrates offer flexible property and tensile property to the thermoelectric device. Thermal transfer enhancement structures such as thermal via or metal diffusion layer are formed on the flexible substrates to overcome the low thermal transfer property of the flexible substrates.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a temperature differential panel with conductors made of different metals or alloys. With thermoelectric couple effects the panel and device can generate power by temperature difference. The temperature differential panel comprises a sheet-like insulation (3); and a current power generation device (2) consists of a plurality of first conductors (20) and second conductors (21) made of different metals or alloys, the first conductors (20) and second conductors (21) are disposed to a top and a bottom of the sheet-like insulation (3) respectively; each of both ends of the first conductors (20) are connected to each of both ends of the second conductors (21) respectively to form electric charging points (22a, 22b).

Abstract: A thermo-electric cooling device includes at least one-layer resin substrate having electric connection regions existing with a predetermined pattern, thermo-electric semiconductor elements including a plurality of p-type thermo-electric semiconductor elements and n-type thermo-electric semiconductor elements arranged so as to correspond to the electric connection regions, and an electric circuit metal layer where the thermo-electric semiconductor elements are electrically connected in series via a junction layer in the electric connection regions. The electric connection regions are, for example, through holes, openings, or the like. The plurality of thermo-electric semiconductor elements are a plurality of pairs of p-type thermo-electric semiconductor elements and n-type thermo-electric conductive elements.

Abstract: A thermowell mounting assembly and method which allow a finite-length thermowell tube to be precisely adjusted by length during field installation to a desired position within a machine, process unit, or other location to be evaluated by a thermocouple. The adjustable length thermowell protects the thermocouple from a harsh process environment while simultaneously facilitating temperature measurement by the thermocouple at the adjusted length of the thermowell. Adjustment of thermowell length is achieved by rotation of the thermocouple-thermowell assembly from a position exterior to a mounting flange connected to the machine or process unit.

Abstract: An aqueous slurry can be used to paint thermal electrodes onto a current-collector substrate with a spray gun for thin electrodes or pasting with a thickened slurry. A feedstock aqueous slurry can include thermal electrode components, thermal electrolyte components, a binder or thickening agent, and water. This slurry can be sprayed or pasted onto a substrate and dried. To obtain different densities, the substrate can be compressed to a desired density. Thermal electrodes of a desired size and shape can be cut or punched from the sheet. Different binders and/or binder concentrations can be used to adjust the viscosity and/or thickness of the electrode.

Abstract: A miniature quantum well thermoelectric device. The device includes a number of quantum well n-legs and a number of quantum well p-legs. Each of the p-legs are alternately electrically connected in series with each of the n-legs at locations that are thermal communication with a cold side and a hot side. The device can be adapted to function as a cooler and it can be adapted to function as an electric power generator. In a preferred embodiment the p-legs and said n-legs are configured generally radially between the hot side and the cold side. In this preferred embodiments each of the n-legs has at least 600 n-type layers with each n-type layer separated from other n-type layers by an insulating layer and each of the p-legs has at least 600 p-type layers with each p-type layer separated from other p-type layers by an insulating layer.

Abstract: A thermoelectric converter including p-type semiconductors and n-type semiconductors alternately provided in corresponding first and second through holes, respectively, in a ceramic honeycomb. The first and second through holes have different cross-sectional shapes and are alternately arranged. The semiconductors have respective first and second ends thereof successively connected to different ones of the semiconductors on first and second sides, respectively, of the corresponding through holes.

Abstract: A thermoelectric converter including plural thermoelectric conversion modules connected in series by having p-type semiconductors and n-type semiconductors alternately provided in through holes of a ceramic honeycomb, respectively. Ends of the p-type semiconductors are connected to ends of the n-type semiconductors on both sides of the through holes.

Abstract: Certain embodiments disclosed herein are directed to devices for cooling. In certain examples, a thermoelectric device comprising a substrate and a superlattice coupled to the substrate is disclosed. In some examples, the superlattice includes a first semi-conducting material and a second semi-conducting material coupled to the first semi-conducting material to provide an interface between the first and second semi-conducting materials.

Abstract: The invention provides a power generation method using a thermoelectric element, a thermoelectric element, and a thermoelectric device that excel in thermoelectric performance and are applicable to a wider range of applications over conventional counterparts. The element includes a first electrode and a second electrode that are disposed to oppose each other, and a laminate interposed between the first and second electrodes and electrically connected to both of the electrodes. The laminate has a structure in which a Bi layer and a metal layer made of a metal other than Bi are alternately layered, and the Bi layer and the metal layer having layer surfaces that are slanted with respect to a direction in which the first and second electrodes oppose each other. The element generates a potential difference between the electrodes by a temperature difference created along a direction perpendicular to the opposing direction of the first and second electrodes in the element.

Abstract: A thermoelectric material includes a composite having a first electrically conducting component and second low thermal conductivity component. The first component may include a semiconductor and the second component may include an inorganic oxide. The thermoelectric composite includes a network of the first component having nanoparticles of the second component dispersed in the network.

Abstract: A temperature control system may include a thermoelectric device and a controller electrically coupled to the thermoelectric device. The controller may be configured to sense a first value of an electrical characteristic of the thermoelectric device, and to generate a first electrical control signal to pump heat through the thermoelectric device in response to sensing the first value of the electrical characteristic of the thermoelectric device. The controller may be further configured to sense a second value of the electrical characteristic of the thermoelectric device wherein the first and second values of the electrical characteristic are different, and to generate a second electrical control signal to pump heat through the thermoelectric device in response to sensing the second electrical characteristic of the thermoelectric device with the first and second electrical control signals being different. Related methods are also discussed.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical device that comprises a first and a second fiber having a core of thermoelectric material embedded in an electrically insulating material, and a conductor. The first fiber is doped with a first type of impurity, while the second fiber is doped with a second type of impurity. A conductor is coupled to the first fiber to induce current flow between the first and second fibers.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a thermoelectric conversion module includes a thermoelectric conversion portion, a first external electrode, and a second external electrode. The thermoelectric conversion portion includes a single thermoelectric conversion portion element, or electrically connected thermoelectric conversion portion elements. The thermoelectric conversion portion element includes a high temperature electrode, low temperature electrodes, and an n-type and a p-type thermoelectric conversion semiconductor layer disposed between the high temperature electrode and the low temperature electrodes. The first and the second external electrode are electrically connected to one of the low temperature electrode and another one of the low temperature electrode respectively.

Abstract: A thermoelectric film is disclosed. The thermoelectric film includes a substrate that is substantially electrically non-conductive and flexible and a thermoelectric material that is deposited on at least one surface of the substrate. The thermoelectric film also includes multiple cracks oriented in a predetermined direction.

Abstract: Method for producing a nanostructure based on interconnected nanowires, nanostructure and use as thermoelectric converter The nanostructure comprises two arrays of nanowires made from respectively n-doped and p-doped semi-conducting material. The nanowires of the first array, for example of n type, are formed for example by VLS growth. A droplet of electrically conducting material that acted as catalyst during the growth step remains on the tip of each nanowire of the first array at the end of growth. A nanowire of the second array is then formed around each nanowire of the first array by covering a layer of electrically insulating material formed around each nanowire of the first array, and the associated droplet, with a layer of p-type semi-conducting material. A droplet thus automatically connects a nanowire of the first array with a single coaxial nanowire of the second array. This type of nanostructure can be used in particular to form a thermoelectric converter.

Abstract: A thermoelectric conversion module (10) comprises first and second electrode members (13, 14), and thermoelectric elements (11, 12) arranged between the electrode members (13, 14). The thermoelectric elements (11, 12) are made of a half-Heusler material and are electrically and mechanically connected to the first and second electrode members (13, 14) via bonding parts (17). The bonding parts (17) include a bonding material which contains at least one selected from Ag, Cu and Ni as a main component and at least one of active metal selected from Ti, Zr, Hf, Ta, V and Nb in a range from 1 to 10% by mass.

Abstract: A method for generating electricity from a ground source. A temperature differential is created across a thermoelectric generator by passing a first fluid that has been maintained at air temperature over one side of the generator, and passing a second fluid that has been maintained at ground temperature over the other side of the generator. Electricity is generated from a voltage induced by the temperature differential across the thermoelectric generator.

Abstract: Means to use and combine methods of thermal engineering, plasmonics, photonics, electronics, photovoltaics, optical transfer, heat transport, light transport, catalysis and chemical reactions individually or in any combination for the enhancement or generation of solar, optical, electrical or any form of energy. The present disclosure further concerns a means to use at least a form of electromagnetic excitation or light-matter interactions in a structure or material having one or more addressable frequencies to generate the exchange of thermal, kinetic, electronic or photonic energy.

Abstract: A thermoelectric converting device includes a P type thermoelectric element, an N type thermoelectric element, the N type thermoelectric element connected with the P type thermoelectric element alternately to be electrically in series, an electrode circuit contacting the P type thermoelectric element and the N type thermoelectric element, an insulation substrate, at least one electric circuit forming a layer with the electrode circuit via the insulation substrate, and a conduction member for electrically conducting the electrode circuit and the electric circuit.

Abstract: Energy harvesting devices are disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the energy harvesting devices includes a fastening device, a first thermally-conductive element engaging the fastening device, a thermoelectric device disposed in thermal contact with the first thermally-conductive element and a second thermally-conductive element disposed in thermal contact with the thermoelectric device.

Abstract: A solid state energy conversion device along with its production methods and systems of use is provided. The device in its most basic form consists of two layers, in contact with each other, of dissimilar materials in terms of electron density and configuration, sandwiched between metal layers, which serve as the anode and cathode of the device. One of the inside layers is made of a stabilized mixture of carbon and an ionic material (carbon matrix). The other inner material consists of a stabilized oxide mixed with an ionic material (oxide matrix). This device takes advantage of the built-in potential that forms across the barrier between the carbon matrix and the oxide matrix. The built-in potential of the device (when not attached to a resistive load at the terminals), which is determined mathematically by integrating the electrostatic forces that have created themselves across the barrier, will rise or fall in direct proportion to the rise and fall of the device temperature (in kelvins).

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a Gap Diode is disclosed in which a tubular actuating element serves as both a housing for a pair of electrodes and as a means for controlling the separation between the electrode pair. In a preferred embodiment, the tubular actuating element is a quartz piezo-electric tube. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a Gap Diode is disclosed which is fabricated by micromachining techniques in which the separation of the electrodes is controlled by piezo-electric, electrostrictive or magnetostrictive actuators. Preferred embodiments of Gap Diodes include Cool Chips, Power Chips, and photoelectric converters.

Abstract: Diamond-like carbon based thermoelectric conversion devices and methods of making and using the same which have improved conversion efficiencies and increased reliability. The device can include a cathode having a base member with a layer of diamond-like carbon material such as amorphous diamond coated over the cathode. A dielectric intermediate member can be electrically coupled between the diamond-like carbon material and an anode. Various additional layers and configurations can allow for improved performance such as multiple cathode layers and/or multiple intermediate layers. The thermoelectric conversion devices can be configured as an electrical generator and/or a cooling device and can be conveniently formed. In addition, the devices of the present invention do not require formation of a vacuum space and are typically completely solid throughout.

Abstract: A thermoelectric (TE) device includes a first leg of TE material (a pseudobinary or pseudoternary alloy) and a second leg comprising a metal wire. The second leg is in thermal and electrical communication with the first leg. The TE device has a ZT value of approximately 2.0 at a temperature of approximately 300K.

Abstract: A sensor and method of manufacturing an extended temperature range EMF sensor that is cost effective and highly reliable, with a stable EMF output and with an operating range of up to 1700° C. in hostile environments. The sensor is formed of highly stable dispersion hardened materials capable of withstanding mechanical loads and chemical attacks at elevated temperatures while maintaining internal chemical integrity. Electronics are implemented to condition the devices output and convert it to an industry standard.

Abstract: A tracking device for tracking a vehicle in which a radio transmitter is powered by heat energy of the exhaust system of an engine propelling the vehicle. A thermoelectric module is attached to a hot portion of the exhaust system. Electrical power generated by the thermoelectric module is used to power the transmitter. A preferred tracking device consists of one thermoelectric module, one transmitter, a flexible finned plate for dissipating heat, and two high Curie temperature magnets for attaching the device to the vehicle's tail pipe. The transmitter is mounted on the flexible finned plate with a thermal insulator in-between them.

Abstract: A disposable sheath for a data logger probe comprises a mounting plate 12 and an elongated sheath 14 attached perpendicularly to the mounting plate for insertion through the wall or top cover and into the interior of a container, the mounting plate having inwardly projecting overlap members 22 and stop bosses 20 for mounting a data logger on the mounting plate, and the sheath having a longitudinal bore 60 in communication with an aperture 48 in the mounting plate for insertion therein of a data logger probe for measuring the environmental conditions on the interior of the container while keeping the data logger on the outside of the container for viewing of displayed information related to those conditions.

Abstract: An automatic insertion device includes a temperature sensing element structured to provide direct contact between the fluid in a pipeline and the sensor or sensing element. A valve assembly is provided to seal the interior of the conduit from its exterior when the sensing element is in its retracted position.

Abstract: Tunneling-effect converters of thermal energy to electricity with an emitter and a collector separated from each other by a distance that is comparable to atomic dimensions and where tunneling effect plays an important role in the charge movement from the emitter to the collector across the gap separating such emitter and collector. At least one of the emitter and collector structures includes a flexible structure. Tunneling-effect converters include devices that convert thermal energy to electrical energy and devices that provide refrigeration when electric power is supplied to such devices.

Abstract: A fuel reforming system comprises a fuel reformer and a thermoelectric device positioned in thermal communication with the fuel reformer. A method of generating electrical energy is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for charging an electronic device using solar energy are disclosed. In one form, a portable storage apparatus operable to charge a battery associated with an electronic device is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first material configured to provide a storage space for storing articles. The storage space includes an interior portion and an exterior portion. The apparatus further includes a first flexible solar panel coupled to an exterior portion of the portable storage apparatus and integrated as a part of the first material. A second positional solar panel is also provided and coupled to an interior portion of the portable storage apparatus. The apparatus further includes a universal 12-volt charge port coupled to the first and second solar panels and operable to receive a charge conductor for charging the electronic device.

Abstract: Improved thermoelectric assemblies are disclosed, wherein layers of heterostructure thermoelectric materials or thin layers of thermoelectric material form thermoelectric elements. The layers are bound together with agents that improve structural strengths, allow electrical current to pass in a preferred direction, and minimize or reduce adverse affects, such a shear stresses, that might occur to the thermoelectric properties and materials of the assembly by their inclusion.

Abstract: The present invention is a solid state thermal engine and method for creating a solid state thermal engine that provides an effective thermal tunneling gap between a hot and cold electrode. The effective gap produced in the present invention is on the order of one nanometer. A via is etched through a first side of first and second substrates, and metal electrodes are attached to a second side of the first and second substrates. The second sides are opposite the first sides. The metal electrodes are mated by bonding the second side of the first substrate to the second side of the second substrate.

Abstract: Solid state thermioninc refrigerators with elements having at least one barrier segment connected to wire-equivalent segments. The barrier segment has solid state regions that establish a potential energy barrier to electric carriers. This barrier is such that the circulation of a negative electrical charge from one of such regions to another region experiences an increasing potential energy. Elements can be superconducting or nonsuperconducting. Elements can also include an inverse barrier.

Abstract: Chips, and methods of manufacturing thereof, comprising a base having a surface, and a plurality of components integrated in the base. Each component is coupled to at least one individual electrode disposed on the surface and to a counter-electrode. Each component operates as an electric generator, when activated by a power supply external to the chip. The counter-electrode is disposed such that each activated component creates a polarization voltage and/or a polarization current between that at least one individual electrode and the counter-electrode, when a medium is brought into contact with the surface.

Abstract: Diode devices are disclosed in which the separation of the electrodes is set and controlled using piezo-electric, electrostrictive or magnetostrictive actuators. This avoids problems associated with electrode spacing changing or distorting as a result of heat stress. In addition it allows the operation of these devices at electrode separations which permit quantum electron tunneling between them. Pairs of electrodes whose surfaces replicate each other are also disclosed. These may be used in constructing devices with very close electrode spacings.

Abstract: Device for the installation in an air-gas feeding duct, a standard thermocouple to provide both a cold safety function in case of extinction, and a hot safety function, without any additional device, in case of internal combustion. The downstream portion of the bulb side (4) of the thermocouple penetrates into the air-gas duct (2). Its probe tip (3) is immobilized against the inner surface of the diffusion chamber (5) at the center of the combustion chamber (6). Its connector (16) is secured to its exit point from the duct (2) at a marker-projection (17) by a lock (15). The life span of the thermocouple is considerably increased through permanent cooling by the fresh air-gas mixture of the elements proximate to combustion. In case of internal combustion, the inversion of temperature gradients of the cold and hot junctions of the thermocouple causes the generated electromotive force to fall rapidly. The device is designed for high temperature confinement burners.

Abstract: Method for manufacturing thermoelectric converters, consisting in weaving electroconducting threads (12, 14) of two different natures, parallel and arranged alternately, with threads (10) made of an electrically insulating material in moving the electroconducting threads together two by two at predetermined intervals, in welding them in their contact zones (20) and in cutting them at the level of the welds so as to obtain strips (34) comprising, on the longitudinal edges thereof, a large number of thermocouples connected in series.

Abstract: The current invention provides a method and apparatus that minimizes the destructive effects of non-reflected energy during lithography. More specifically, a cooling system is located within the mask. In one example, a cooling module is integrated into the EUV mask. The cooling module may be thermoelectric. The EUV mask comprises a substrate structure as a base for a reticle, a cooling layer, which is formed on the substrate structure and a planarizing layer deposited on the cooling layer. In another example, a cooling channel is formed within the mask.

Abstract: An improved efficiency thermoelectric system is disclosed wherein convection is actively facilitated through a thermoelectric array. Thermoelectrics are commonly used for cooling and heating applications. Thermal power is convected through a thermoelectric array toward at least one side of the thermoelectric array, which leads to increased efficiency. Several different configurations are disclosed to provide convective thermal power transport, using a convective medium. In addition, a control system is disclosed which responds to one or more inputs to make adjustments to the thermoelectric system.

Abstract: Counter-current heat flow systems are disclosed, where heat containing medium flows in adjacent conduits arranged anti-parallel to one another so that the medium flowing from a warm zone to a cool zone flows adjacent to the medium flowing from the cool to the warm zone in the opposite direction. A plurality of heat pumps are distributed along the conduits to actively pump heat between adjacent points of the conduits. Little energy is required to pump heat between the adjacent points yet a large temperature difference can be maintained between the warm and the cool zones. The heat containing medium can be a fluid or an electric current. The medium in one conduit may have a different heat capacity than the medium in the other conduit. A controller may be included to regulate the plurality of heat pumps and/or the flow of the media to maintain a desired temperature at the warm zone or the cool zone.

Abstract: A quick charge battery with thermal management is described which includes a cooler preferably disposed at least partially within the battery to transfer thermal energy. The cooler may comprise a thermoelectric generator, a microcooler, a heat pipe or combinations of the above. The cooler is capable of cooling the battery and in some embodiments selectively heating the battery to a minimum temperature level. The cooler functions to cool the battery and thereby minimizes thermal build-up produced by rapid charging of the battery.