Abstract: A thermoelectric generator having both a hot and a cold heat sink. Fast r times, and stable output voltages for short duration, are accomplished using fluids at their melting points at the hot and cold junctions.

Abstract: A method for determining reactive acoustic power density level and its direction in a fluid using a single sensor is disclosed. In the preferred embodiment, an apparatus for conducting the method, which is termed a thermoacoustic couple, consists of a stack of thin, spaced apart polymeric plates, selected ones of which include multiple bimetallic thermocouple junctions positioned along opposite end edges thereof. The thermocouple junctions are connected in series in the nature of a thermopile, and are arranged so as to be responsive to small temperature differences between the opposite edges of the plates. The magnitude of the temperature difference, as represented by the magnitude of the electrical potential difference generated by the thermopile, is found to be directly related to the level of acoustic power density in the gas.

Abstract: An energy conversion element is disclosed which is capable of efficiently converting light and thermal energies into electrical energy. The element comprises a thermoelectric material and a photoelectric material which are different in type and joined together and is capable of efficiently converting solar energy incident on the junction between the both materials into electrical energy. The thermoelectric material is most suitably formed of a transition element-silicon compound.

Abstract: Thermoelectric installation of the "heat pump" type, in which the thermoelements 1 and the exchangers 2 and 3 are stacked to form columns, these assembled to form a rack.The rows of exchangers 2 and 3 demarcate two conduits for the circulation of a hot fluid and a cold fluid. These conduits are situated outside the stacking axes of the columns, so that adjacent exchangers can turn in relation to each other. The thermoelements and the exchangers are in contact by at least one cylindrical or spherical profile surface.This assembly allows proper tightening of the columns and therefore good contact between exchanger and thermoelement without destruction of the thermoelements.

Abstract: A thermoelectric device exhibiting both structural integrity and decreased stress across the device notwithstanding the application of thermally cycled temperature differentials thereacross includes, electrically interconnected thermoelectric elements and a rigidly affixed substrate. Thermal stress is relieved by using flexible conductors to interconnect the thermoelectric elements, and by the use of a flexile joint to attach a second substrate to the remainder of the device. Complete elimination of the second substrate may also be used to eliminate stress. Presence of the rigidly affixed substrate gives the device sufficient structural integrity to enable it to withstand rugged conditions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for fabricating a thermoelectric device includes forming a matrix board (12) with an array of orifices (100) formed therein. A plurality of P-type thermoelements (96) are formed and then a vacuum chuck (92) is utilized to dispose alternating ones of the elements (96) into the alternating ones of the orifices (100). A plurality of N-type elements (108) is formed and a vacuum chuck (104) is utilized to dispose alternating ones of the elements (108) into the remaining orifices (100) of the matrix (12). This forms an assembled array (52). A plurality of conductive tabs (114) is placed onto the P-type elements (98) and N-type elements (108) by a vacuum chuck (116). A second set of conductive tabs (120) is disposed on the opposite side of the assembled array by a vacuum chuck (124). A solder flow oven (54) and a solder flow oven (76) are utilized to reflow the solder on the tabs between the two operations.

Abstract: A thermoelectrical arrangement comprises a thermocouple element, each limb of which has a heat flow at one point such that a large temperature gradient is present and, as a result, the specific heat conduction at this point is reduced.

Abstract: A new and improved thermoelectric device of the type which provides electrical energy in response to a temperature gradient applied across the device exhibits both structural integrity and improved efficiency. The new thermoelectric device includes a plurality of thermoelectric elements, coupling means on opposite respective sides of the thermoelectric elements for interconnecting the elements electrically in accordance with a predetermined pattern, and encapsulant means including an encapsulant material covering the exposed surfaces of the thermoelectric elements. The encapsulant forms void spaces between the elements for providing effective thermal insulation between the elements and confining substantially all of the heat flow from the temperature gradient to through the elements. The coupling means includes electrically conductive plate segments for electrically interconnecting the thermoelectric elements.

Abstract: A new and improved thermoelectric device and a method of manufacturing same takes advantage of the anisotropy of the materials employed to provide a substantially increased power output over prior art devices. The individual thermoelectric elements are pressed using techniques such as those employed in powdered metallurgy and electrically coupled such that a current path is established through the elements in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of pressing.The method and device of the present invention also achieve a substantially thinner device than was previously possible with no concomitant sacrifice in individual thermoelectric element integrity or increased resistance of the electrical connections between the individual thermoelectric elements. The individual thermoelectric elements are dimensioned such that each has a first dimension substantially greater than either its second or third dimensions.

Abstract: A method of operating a thermoelectric generator includes: cyclically producing increasing then decreasing temperature differences in the thermoelectric material of the generator; and generating a cyclically increasing then decreasing electrical generator output signal, in response to such temperature differences, to transmit electrical power generated by the generator from the generator. Part of the thermoelectric material reaches temperatures substantially above the melting temperature of the material. The thermoelectric material of the generator forms a part of a closed electrical loop about a transformer core so that the inductor voltage for the loop serves as the output signal of the generator. A thermoelectric generator, which can be driven by the described method of operation, incorporates fins into a thermopile to conduct heat toward or away from the alternating spaces between adjacent layers of different types of thermoelectric material.

Abstract: A thermoelectric device includes first and second sets of spaced apart copper plate segments. Thermoelectric elements which generate electricity are disposed between the sets of copper plate segments. The elements are electrically and thermally fastened thereto by a solder paste screen printed on the inner surfaces of the sets of copper plate segments. A ceramic potting compound which absorbs thermal expansion of the device fills the voids between the thermoelectric elements and the copper plate segments and a thick film ceramic insulator coats the outer surfaces of the sets of copper plate segments.Also disclosed is a method for manufacturing the device of the present invention.

Abstract: A thermopile formed of conductor elements of dissimilar materials, the junctions of the dissimilar materials being much larger in cross-section than the normal cross-sectional area of the conductor elements, and junctions in one temperature zone being much larger than the corresponding junctions in the other temperature zone. If the thermopile is used to generate electricity, the heated junctions will be much larger in cross-section than the normal cross-sectional area of the conductor elements and they will also be much larger in cross-section than the junctions in the cooler zone. If the thermopile is to be used as a cooling device rather than an electric generating device and electricity is applied to the thermopile, then the cold junctions will be much larger in cross-section than the warm junctions and the cold junction cross-sectional area will also be much larger than the cross-sectional area of conductor elements of the thermopile.

Abstract: A low-cost thermocouple utilizes a substrate of a first conductor, upon a surface of which is deposited on insulative layer, supporting a screen-printed conductive ink pattern. A second conductor is electrolessly plated upon the conductive ink pattern and onto at least a portion of the first conductor, through an aperture in the insulation layer therebetween. Thermocouple action occurs along the length of the plated conductor contact with the substrate conductor.

Abstract: In a round assembly having a propellant and an igniter for activating the opellant, a thermoelectric power supply comprising a plurality of junctions, which are coupled to the propellant for sensing the propellant temperature, and means of generating a voltage in response to the temperature sensed by the junctions.

Abstract: A thermoelectric generator panel and heat exchanger is disclosed. The heat exchanger, in a preferred form, is comprised of a water compartment or chamber, fixed relative to the normally cool side of a solar panel, comprised of a substantial plurality of substrate strips, each strip carrying a plurality of thermocouples, printed in series, and in metallic inks, along one side of the respective strips. Terminal tabs are provided on opposed ends of each strip of thermocouples which are electrically interconnected, in parallel, and a voltage regulator, connected between the panel strips and a pump, serves to energize the pump when the voltage reaches a predetermined voltage level, to circulate water from any suitable source, such as ground water, through the water chamber to enhance the cooling of the normally cool side of the thermocouple panel.

Abstract: A thermoelectric generator panel and heater device is disclosed. A heater element is disposed along the normally cool side of a solar panel, comprised of a substantial plurality of substrate strips carrying a plurality of thermocouples, printed in series, and in metallic inks, along one side of the respective strips. Terminal tabs are provided on opposed ends of each strip of thermocouples which are electrically interconnected, in parallel, and a voltage regulator, connected between the panel strips and a heater device, monitors the voltage to maintain a predetermined voltage, 12 volts for example.

Abstract: A thermocouple and thermopile formed of conductor elements. The conductors are joined at thermocouple junctions, with the junction areas being relatively large compared with the normal cross-sectional area of the conductor elements. By providing large cross-sectional areas of the thermocouple junctions, reduction in resistance and heat concentration is achieved, so that the resulting thermocouple and thermopile may easily be used for solar energy collection to produce an electrical current and voltage related to the available solar energy.

Abstract: Energy storage is accomplished for use with a thermoelectric generator in which thermopiles are provided. The source of solar energy irradiates upon the latent heat storage device to enable the heat to be stored at a relatively constant temperature to serve as the source of heat for a greater period of time than that which the solar source is providing energy. Apparatus is provided to enhance the temperature gradient in which the thermopile is located in order to increase the thermoelectric energy generated.

Abstract: An air-to-air heat exchanger, comprising an array of stainless steel tubi arranged in a three-fold pass, is connected to the outlet of the combustion chamber of a liquid hydrocarbon-fueled, thermoelectric generator. Air enters the heat exchanger at the ambient temperature and is pre-heated up to 500.degree. C. At the same time, the temperature of the gases leaving the combustion chamber is reduced from 700.degree. C. to only 200.degree. C. This pre-heating of the air reduces fuel consumption, increases efficiency and makes it more difficult to detect the generator by means of its infrared signature.

Abstract: An improved method of fabricating thermoelectric power generator modules, which are particularly useful in converting solar energy into electrical power and heat, is disclosed. This method involves the formation of an array of longitudinally elongated n- and p-type semiconductor elements tightly contained in a supporting matrix; slicing the supporting matrix containing the semiconductor elements to provide a plurality of matrix plates; and the application of a pattern of electrically conductive pads on opposite surfaces of the matrix plates to connect n- and p-type semiconductor elements, in series, thereby forming a thermoelectric power generator module. This method is simpler, less expensive and more adaptable to large scale production than methods heretofore proposed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are described for directly converting heat to electricity within an array of thermoelements and heat pipes. The thermoelectric generator contains two conduits for two fluid streams, and a plurality of thermal bridges connecting points in both fluid streams, placing them in an overall counterflow heat exchange relationship. Each thermal bridge comprises at least one heat exchange surface with the first fluid stream, at least one heat exchange surface with the second fluid stream and at least one heat pipe, delivering heat to and/or from the thermoelectric element. The rapid heat delivery capability of the heat pipes, in combination with the counterflow heat exchange relationship between the two fluid streams within the generator, are responsible for the simultaneous considerable improvement of efficiency and power density of the generator.

Abstract: The proposed profiled multielectrode thermocouple comprises a flexible protective shell wherein there are arranged a thermoelectrode of one polarity, constructed as a bundle of thermoelectrodes of one polarity and of different lengths, and at least two thermoelectrodes of the opposite polarity with working junctions spaced at a preset distance along the thermocouple. The thermocouple of the present invention is basically intended for simultaneously measuring temperature at several points of an industrial installation.

Abstract: An electrical power generating array of a semiconductor, laminar structured thermopile for producing low values of electrical power at high values of direct output voltage and a method for its manufacture including the step of lapping opposed semiconductor layers bonded on opposite sides of a glass layer to achieve a predetermined thinness.

Abstract: An electrical generator having an Isotopic Heat Capsule including radioactive fuel rod 21 as a primary heat source and Thermoelectric Modules 41 and 43 as converters. The Biological Shield for the Capsule is suspended from Spiders at each end each consisting of pretensioned rods 237 and 239 defining planes at right angles to each other. The Modules are mounted in cups 171 of transition members 173 of a heat rejection Fin Assembly whose fins 195 and 197 extend from both sides of the transition member 173 for effective cooling.

Abstract: A cylindrical casing has a central shielded capsule of radioisotope fuel. A plurality of thermonuclear modules are axially arranged with their hot junctions resiliently pressed toward the shield and with their cold junctions adjacent a transition member having fins radiating heat to the environment. For each module, the assembly of transition member and fins is hinged to the casing for swinging to permit access to and removal of such module. A ceramic plate having gold layers on opposite faces prevents diffusion bonding of the hot junction to the shield.

Abstract: Disclosure is made of a thermoelement comprising a substrate having films of a semiconductor material of n- and p-types applied onto both sides thereof, which films make up the thermoelement branches. Each branch consists of two semiconductor films of one type of conductivity applied one opposite the other onto opposite sides of the substrate. Between the branches the substrate has a row of through holes and commutation buses which interconnect the branches, said buses being arranged on both sides of said row and electrically connected to each other through said holes. Disclosure is further made of a thermopile band upon the proposed thermoelement, which thermopile has a flexible substrate and is accordian-pleated along the rows of holes.

Abstract: Very compact thermoelectric microgenerator providing a high output voltage (10 V) and having high efficiency, comprising a great number of thermocouples arranged in rows connected together so as to form a continuous conductor of deposited thin layers on a thin insulating support. The cold and hot sources are fitting provided with low walls parallel to one another and orthogonal to the rows of thermocouples. The even junctions of the thermocouples are placed in the vicinity of the low walls of the cold source and the odd junctions are placed in the vicinity of the low walls of the hot source. Application is to implanted medical appliances.

Abstract: Thermopile mounting comprising elongated thermoelectric elements with insulation therebetween arrayed into a thermopile block, electrical interconnections for said elements, a hot plate and a cold plate at each end of the thermopile and a plurality of tensioned wires extending from the hot plate to the cold plate in a manner to transfer the stress of the wires to the thermopile to place same under compression, said wires having a strength to thermal conductivity ratio of greater than 250,000.

Abstract: Thermoelectric long-lasting microgenerator which may be implanted in the human body, using a cylinder containing a radioactive isotope as a heat source and the human body as a cold source. The connection between the heat source and the thermoelectric element is effected by means of a supple substance which is a poor conductor of electricity. The rest of the heat source is surrounded by a volume affording a very high impedance to the propagation of heat.

Abstract: A thermoelectric assembly including a plurality of N-type and P-type semiconductor bodies interconnected by junction bridge elements. The junction bridge elements are in the form of thin sheets or plates of conductive material disposed edgewise with respect to the bodies and connected thereto by means of lips or tabs which extend perpendicular to the plane of the junction bridge element. A frame for directly engaging and holding the junction bridge elements and heat dissipating and absorbing means cooperate with the edges of the bridge elements.