Thermoelectric; E.g., Peltier Effect Patents (Class 62/3.2)
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Patent number: 9428033Abstract: An air-conditioning apparatus may include an air conditioner that is provided at a rear of a rear seat in the vehicle and includes a thermoelectric element and a blower to produce conditioned air, an inlet duct that connects the air-conditioner to a passenger compartment to introduce air in the passenger compartment into the air-conditioner, an outlet duct that connects the air-conditioner to a roof above the rear seat in the passenger compartment to blow the conditioned air from the roof toward a passenger in the rear seat, and a radiator that is provided at a trunk room to radiate heat from the thermoelectric element.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2014Date of Patent: August 30, 2016Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corp.Inventors: June Kyu Park, Jae Woo Park, Man Ju Oh
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Patent number: 9412671Abstract: A method for controlling processing temperature in semiconductor fabrication is provided. The method includes detecting temperature in a first chamber configured to process a semiconductor wafer. The method further includes creating a flow of heat-exchange medium in a second chamber which is connected to the first chamber to cool the first chamber. The method also includes controlling the flow of heat-exchange medium according to the temperature detected in the first chamber by changing a covered area of a first ventilation unit which allows the entry of the heat-exchange medium to the second chamber.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2015Date of Patent: August 9, 2016Assignee: TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.Inventors: Hsien-Chie Tsai, Chang-Sheng Lee, Fu-Yuan Chang, Hung-Yin Lin, Wen-Che Chang, Chien-Pin Hsu
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Patent number: 9403323Abstract: In a method for producing form bodies for heat exchangers, comprising a thermomagnetic material, said form bodies having channels for passage of a fluid heat exchange medium, a powder of the thermomagnetic material is introduced into a binder, the resulting molding material is applied to a carrier by printing methods, and the binder and if appropriate a carrier are removed subsequently and the resulting green body is sintered.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2010Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: BASF SEInventors: Fabian Seeler, Georg Degen, Bernard Hendrik Reesink, Jurgen Kaczun
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Patent number: 9379167Abstract: There are provided a light emitting device and a method for manufacturing the same, which may effectively improve heat dissipation of the light emitting device and extend service life thereof. The light emitting device comprises a substrate (1) on which a light emitting section (2) is disposed, and the light emitting device further have a semiconductor thermoelectric refrigerating section (3) integrated thereon which is disposed on the light emitting section (2); the semiconductor refrigerating section (3) comprises a cold end (31) close to the light emitting section (2) and a hot end (32) away from the light emitting section (2).Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2012Date of Patent: June 28, 2016Assignee: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD.Inventor: Min Chen
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Patent number: 9377223Abstract: Method and apparatus for a conventional thermos bottle having a peltier mounted thereon wherein the peltier is operated by turning a crank handle on a generator assembly so that the peltier is actuated. The device is designed for use in emergency or survival situations where there is no electricity available. The device comprises a standard thermos bottle having a hole cut through the side thereon so as to receive a peltier therein. The peltier comprises an aluminum block that has fins milled out to in essence form a cooling or heating module to heat or cool liquid contained inside the thermos. The peltier is attached to the thermos using adhesives, screws or the like so as to firmly attach the aluminum block to the wall of the thermos.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2013Date of Patent: June 28, 2016Inventors: Dakota James Walker, Charles Welch
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Patent number: 9371744Abstract: A heat engine is provided which includes: a boiler unit including an evaporation chamber and a fluid-pool chamber, the evaporation chamber heating a working fluid by supplied heat and generating vapor of the fluid, and the fluid-pool chamber collecting the fluid supplied to the evaporation chamber; an output unit through which the vapor flows, and which converts energy of the vapor to mechanical energy; a condensation unit which condenses the vapor that has passed through the output unit, and refluxes the condensed fluid to the fluid-pool chamber; and a working fluid guide member which is disposed in the boiler unit, and which sucks the fluid in the fluid-pool chamber by using capillary force and supplies the fluid to the evaporation chamber. The evaporation chamber is separated from the fluid-pool chamber. Pressure in the evaporation chamber is higher than pressure in the fluid-pool chamber. The working fluid guide member satisfies (2?/r)·cos ?>PH?PL.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2010Date of Patent: June 21, 2016Assignee: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Norio Gouko, Masahiro Asano, Atusi Sakaida, Tomikazu Ishikawa, Keiji Okamoto
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Patent number: 9310109Abstract: Technologies are generally described herein for electrocaloric effect heat transfer devices and methods effective to facilitate thermal energy transfer while mitigating mechanical stresses caused by expansion or contraction of electrocaloric effect material layers during thermal energy transfer operations. Some example heat transfer devices may include heat transfer stacks with at least two electrocaloric effect materials. Expanding electrocaloric effect material and contracting electrocaloric effect material are utilized to cancel the aggregate longitudinal dimensional change during application of an electric field. Some example heat transfer devices may utilize segmented electrocaloric effect material layers with stress relief gaps separating segments to mitigate delamination stress caused by lateral expansion or contraction of the electrocaloric effect material.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2014Date of Patent: April 12, 2016Assignee: EMPIRE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT LLCInventor: Ezekiel Kruglick
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Patent number: 9303902Abstract: A thermoelectric assembly is disclosed, the assembly having a cold side and a hot side, where each of the hot side and cold side comprises a fan sink. Thermoelectric modules may be between the hot side and cold side and arranged in one circuit or multiple parallel circuits, and in direct thermal contact with both the hot side and the cold side. Each of the hot side and cold side has an air intake direction and an exhaust direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: April 5, 2016Assignee: Laird Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Dan Martin Gustav Karlstedt
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Patent number: 9267697Abstract: An air-conditioning system includes: a first duct through which air discharged from an electronic instrument passes; a water vapor retention chamber; an evaporator configured to be heated by the air passing through the first duct and thereby to generate water vapor inside the water vapor retention chamber; a desiccant rotor including an adsorbent to adsorb moisture and configured to be driven and rotated by a driving unit; a humidification chamber; a second duct configured to feed outdoor air introduced from an outdoor space into the humidification chamber; and a third duct configured to feed the air passing through the humidification chamber into a room where the electronic instrument is installed, wherein a portion of the desiccant rotor is located inside the water vapor retention chamber, and another portion of the desiccant rotor is located inside the humidification chamber.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2013Date of Patent: February 23, 2016Assignee: FUJITSU LIMITEDInventors: Hiroaki Yoshida, Hiroyuki Fukuda
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Patent number: 9260750Abstract: A mobile rapid test system for nucleic acid analysis. A method comprising the steps of amplification of the nucleic acids by means of rapid-PCR technology, conversion of a double-stranded amplification product into a single-stranded DNA fragment, hybridization with a labeled probe and detection of the nucleic acids on a lateral-flow test strip. A device comprising a reaction cavity which preferably consists of a thin film, inlet and outlet openings for the reaction cavity, one or more heatable sample blocks which are connected to miniaturized cooling bodies and a window for reading off the result. The lateral-flow test strip is a component of the mobile rapid test system. Operation of the instrument system requires no external power source, but only batteries or a rechargeable battery.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2012Date of Patent: February 16, 2016Assignee: AJ INNUSCREEN, GmbHInventors: Timo Hillebrand, Claus Knippschild, Benjamin Jaschinsky, Elmara Graser
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Patent number: 9255723Abstract: A device for converting heat into electrical power. The device comprises a base made of a heat conducting material. The base has a substantially flat bottom surface for being placed onto a flat outside surface of a heat source. At least a thermoelectric generator element is disposed onto a top surface of the base such that a high temperature surface of the thermoelectric generator element is in thermal contact with the top surface of the base. A heat sink structure is in thermal contact with a low temperature surface of the at least a thermoelectric generator element. Electrical circuitry is connected to the at least a thermoelectric generator element for receiving the electrical power therefrom. At least an electrical output port is connected to the electrical circuitry for providing the electrical power.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2013Date of Patent: February 9, 2016Inventor: Bradford Scott Sorrell
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Patent number: 9226427Abstract: A docking station suitable for a portable electronic device includes a base, a supporting component and a first fan. The base includes an airflow guiding slope. The supporting component is disposed on the base and has an airflow guiding structure, in which the portable electronic device is configured to be supported on the supporting component. The first fan is disposed in the base and provides a cooling airflow, in which the airflow guiding slope and the airflow guiding structure guide the cooling airflow to flow into the portable electronic device.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2012Date of Patent: December 29, 2015Assignee: COMPAL ELECTRONICS, INC.Inventors: Chung-Luen Liu, Jenq-Haur Pan, Chang-Yuan Wu, Ching-Ya Tu, Ching-Chung Chen
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Patent number: 9112109Abstract: A thermoelectric generator assembly may comprise a frame that may include a first frame member and a second frame member. The first frame member and the second frame member are adapted to retain one or more thermoelectric generator devices in position therebetween for transferring heat energy through the one or more thermoelectric generator devices from a heat source to a heat sink to generate electrical energy. The thermoelectric generator assembly may also include a spacer positioned between the first frame member and the second frame member. A power bus may be included to provide the electrical energy generated by the one or more thermoelectric generator devices for powering an electrical device.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2009Date of Patent: August 18, 2015Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: David W. Kwok, Jack W. Mauldin, James P. Huang, Namsoo P. Kim
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Patent number: 9093730Abstract: A battery pack includes a number of battery modules, a case, a circulation unit and a control unit. The case accommodates the plurality of battery modules therein. The circulation unit is positioned in the case so as to circulate heat generated from the plurality of battery modules. The control unit selects one or more of the number of battery modules and operates the circulation unit using power of the selected battery modules. Accordingly, the temperature equilibrium of the battery pack is implemented by conducting heat from a high-temperature battery module to a low-temperature battery module, so that it is possible to decrease the degree of deterioration and to extend the lifetime of the battery pack.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: July 28, 2015Assignee: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.Inventor: Sang-Kyu Ahn
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Patent number: 9079054Abstract: The invention relates to an inert gas fire-extinguishing system for reducing the risk of and extinguishing fires in a protected room. So as to have the inerting of the protected room ensue according to different variable sequences of events, the inert gas fire-extinguishing system includes a pressure-reducing device having at least two parallel branches, wherein each parallel branch has a pressure-reducing mechanism. Each parallel branch is connectable to a high-pressure collecting line and a low-pressure extinguishing line via a controllable valve, whereby each pressure-reducing mechanism is designed to reduce a high input pressure to a low output pressure according to a known pressure-reducing characteristic curve.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2009Date of Patent: July 14, 2015Assignee: AMRONA AGInventors: Thomas Claessen, Ernst-Werner Wagner
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Publication number: 20150143818Abstract: In some embodiments, a temperature-controlled container for use within a refrigeration device includes: one or more sections of insulation material substantially defining one or more walls of a temperature-controlled container, the temperature-controlled container including an internal region; a thermally-insulated partition dividing the internal region to form a storage region and a phase change material region internal to the container, the thermally-insulated partition including a conduit between the storage region and the phase change material region; a thermal control device within the conduit; an aperture within a section of the insulation material substantially defining the container, the aperture between the phase change material region internal to the container and an external surface of the container; and a unidirectional thermal conductor positioned within the aperture, the unidirectional thermal conductor configured to transmit heat in a direction from the phase change material region to the exterType: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2013Publication date: May 28, 2015Inventors: Philip A. Eckhoff, Lawrence Morgan Fowler, William Gates, Jennifer Ezu Hu, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Nels R. Peterson, Clarence T. Tegreene, Maurizio Vecchione, Lowell L. Wood, JR., Victoria Y.H. Wood
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Patent number: 9038400Abstract: Certain disclosed embodiments pertain to controlling temperature in a passenger compartment of a vehicle. For example, a temperature control system (TCS) can include an air channel configured to deliver airflow to the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The TCS can include a one thermal energy source and a heat transfer device connected to the air channel. A first fluid circuit can circulate coolant to the thermal energy source and a thermoelectric device (TED). A second fluid circuit can circulate coolant to the TED and the heat transfer device. A bypass circuit can connect the thermal energy source to the heat transfer device. An actuator can cause coolant to circulate selectively in either the bypass circuit or the first fluid circuit and the second fluid circuit. A control device can operate the actuator when it is determined that the thermal energy source is ready to provide heat to the airflow.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2010Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: Gentherm IncorporatedInventor: Lakhi Nandlal Goenka
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Patent number: 9027360Abstract: Apparatus and method are provided for facilitating cooling of an electronic component. The apparatus includes a liquid-cooled structure, a thermal conduction path coupling the electronic component and the liquid-cooled structure, a coolant loop in fluid communication with a coolant-carrying channel of the liquid-cooled structure, and an outdoor-air-cooled heat exchange unit coupled to facilitate heat transfer from the liquid-cooled structure via, at least in part, the coolant loop. The thermoelectric array facilitates transfer of heat from the electronic component to the liquid-cooled structure, and the heat exchange unit cools coolant passing through the coolant loop by dissipating heat from the coolant to outdoor ambient air. In one implementation, temperature of coolant entering the liquid-cooled structure is greater than temperature of the outdoor ambient air to which heat is dissipated.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2011Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Timothy J. Chainer, David P. Graybill, Madhusudan K. Iyengar, Vinod Kamath, Bejoy J. Kochuparambil, Roger R. Schmidt, Mark E. Steinke
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Patent number: 9016070Abstract: A bottom mount refrigerator is provided including a thermal battery or phase change material positioned within the refrigerator or freezer in order to increase energy efficiency and compartment sizes of the refrigerator. The thermal battery can be used with an ice maker to aid in removing heat from the water in the ice maker to produce ice. Furthermore, the phase change material or thermal battery may be used with a thermoelectric cooler to aid in ice production. The phase change material may be tuned to various temperatures according to the desired use of the phase change material, as well as the location of the thermal battery or phase change material. Other embodiments include positioning the phase change material in the liner of the compartments or in thermal storage units in order to further increase the energy efficiency of the refrigerator.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2012Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventor: Patrick J. Boarman
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Patent number: 9010129Abstract: A space efficient system especially suited for use as an entirely self-contained stand-alone unit usable in any of multiple contexts where heating or cooling of a defined-volume or enclosure is required. Hot or cold sides of the thermoelectric assemblies face toward one another into a central airflow that enters and exits a housing through a top or bottom of the housing that faces into the enclosure, and the opposite sides of the thermoelectric modules face into channels on opposite sides of the central airflow. The channels can be connected to intake and exhaust air through a common end of the housing, or be separated to individually intake and exhaust air at opposing ends of the housing. Fastener-free mounting of components between insulation shells that cooperate with the thermoelectric assemblies to define the channel boundaries results in tool-free configurability of components for servicing, maintaining, reconfiguring, scaling or customizing of the system.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2010Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Inventor: Harvey D. Lilke
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Publication number: 20150101353Abstract: An air conditioning system of a high voltage battery for a vehicle and an air conditioning method using the same include a first heat exchanger arranged in a housing of the high-voltage battery and a first blower for blowing air around the first heat exchanger. A second heat exchanger is arranged on an external upper part of the housing of the high-voltage battery, and a second blower blows air around the second heat exchanger. A first surface of a Peltier cooler is in contact with the second heat exchanger. Cooling water circulates through a cooling line, and a first part of which is in contact with a second surface of the Peltier cooler extending downward, and a second part of the cooling line is connected to the first heat exchanger to exchange heat.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2013Publication date: April 16, 2015Applicant: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANYInventors: Man Ju OH, Jae Woong KIM, Jae Woo PARK
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Publication number: 20150101354Abstract: Air conditioning system and method for a high-voltage battery of a vehicle includes a first heat exchanger provided in a battery housing, and a first blower for supplying air to the first heat exchanger. A second heat exchanger is provided in an air extractor of a trunk room, and a second blower supplies air to the second heat exchanger, thereby discharging air inside the trunk room to the outside after performing heat exchange. A peltier element is combined with the second heat exchanger such that a first surface thereof is in contact with the second heat exchanger. A cooling line arranged in such a way that a first end is in contact with a second surface of the peltier element, and a second end thereof exchanges heat between the second end and the first heat exchanger.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2013Publication date: April 16, 2015Applicant: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Man Ju OH, Jae Woong KIM, Jae Woo PARK, Jae Hoon KIM
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Publication number: 20150101355Abstract: Air conditioning system and method for a high-voltage battery of a vehicle are provided. The system includes a first heat exchanger that is disposed within a battery housing and a first blower that supplies air to the first heat exchanger. A peltier element is combined with the first heat exchanger and a first surface of the peltier element comes into contact with the first heat exchanger. A second heat exchanger is disposed in an air extraction unit of a trunk room and a second blower supplies air to the second heat exchanger, to discharge air inside the trunk room to an exterior after performing heat exchange. A cooling line operates as a coolant circulating line, and a first end of the cooling line comes into contact with a second surface of the peltier element and a second end performs heat exchange between the second end and the second heat exchanger.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2013Publication date: April 16, 2015Applicant: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Man Ju Oh, Jae Woong Kim, Jae Woo Park, Jae Hoon Kim
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Patent number: 8997502Abstract: In one embodiment, a system includes a first thermoelectric assembly that includes a first set of thermoelectric elements and a first plate and a second plate are coupled to the first set of thermoelectric elements. A second thermoelectric assembly is spaced apart from the first thermoelectric assembly. It includes a second set of thermoelectric elements and a third plate and a fourth plate are coupled to the second set of thermoelectric elements. A first set of fins is coupled to the first plate and a second set of fins is coupled to the third plate. A third set of fins is coupled to the second plate and a fourth set of fins is coupled to the fourth plate. A fan is coupled to the first and second sets of fins and is substantially centered with respect to a gap between the first and second sets of fins.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2013Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignee: Marlow Industries, Inc.Inventors: Steven M. Ayres, Overton L. Parish, IV
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Patent number: 8991194Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to controlling multiple Thermoelectric Coolers (TECs) to maintain a set point temperature of a chamber. In one embodiment, a controller receives temperature data corresponding to a temperature of the chamber. Based on the temperature data, the controller selectively controls two or more subsets of the TECs to maintain the temperature of the chamber at a desired set point temperature. In this manner, the controller is enabled to control the TECs such that the TECs operate to efficiently maintain the temperature of the chamber at the set point temperature. In another embodiment, the controller selects one or more control schemes enabled by the controller based on temperature data and a desired performance profile. The controller then independently controls one or more subsets of the TECs according to the selected control scheme(s).Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Phononic Devices, Inc.Inventors: Jesse W. Edwards, M. Sean June, Robert Joseph Therrien, Abhishek Yadav
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Patent number: 8991203Abstract: It is an object to provide an electrostatic atomizing apparatus which is simply structured, is easy to assemble, is low in cost, has clogging resistance against foreign matter, can be used for a long time, and is highly reliable, or a home electrical appliance such as a refrigerator, air conditioner, etc. including the electrostatic atomizing apparatus. A discharge electrode formed of foam metal, whereto water that attaches to a surface is supplied by capillary action, a counter electrode provided so as to be opposed to the discharge electrode, and a water supply that is provided directly above the discharge electrode via a predetermined clearance, supplying water to the discharge electrode or the electrode holding part, are included.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Makoto Okabe, Katsumasa Sakamoto, Reiji Morioka, Masumi Handa, Hiroshi Nakashima
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Publication number: 20150075184Abstract: At least one forced convection unit added to a passive heat transport system is operated during transient heat loading periods but not operated under steady state conditions for cooling and maintaining a set point temperature of a chamber or surface. Forced convection is selectively employed based on temperature data and/or set point temperature values. A reject heat transport system includes first and second reject heat sinks each coupled via main and crossover transport tubes to first and second reject heat exchangers, permitting both heat sinks to dissipate heat from first and second thermoelectric heat pumps regardless of whether the first, the second, or the first and second heat pumps are in operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2014Publication date: March 19, 2015Inventors: Jesse W. Edwards, Paul B. McCain
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Patent number: 8973377Abstract: An electric power generation system employs a thermoelectric generator placed between an aircraft inner skin and an aircraft outer skin. The thermoelectric generator is configured to utilize a thermal differential between the inner and outer skin to generate electricity. An electrical interface is provided for access to the electricity generated by said thermoelectric generator.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2012Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Nathan D. Hiller
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Publication number: 20150059361Abstract: Methods and structures for thermoelectric cooling of 3D semiconductor structures are disclosed. Thermoelectric vias (TEVs) to form a thermoelectric cooling structure. The TEVs are formed with an etch process similar to that used in forming electrically active through-silicon vias (TSVs). However, the etched cavities are filled with materials that exhibit the thermoelectric effect, instead of a conductive metal as with a traditional electrically active TSV. The thermoelectric materials are arranged such that when a voltage is applied to them, the thermoelectric cooling structure carries heat away from the interior of the structure from the junction where the thermoelectric materials are electrically connected.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2014Publication date: March 5, 2015Applicant: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Mukta G. Farooq, Emily Kinser, JoAnn M. Rolick-DiGiacomio, Charu Tejwani
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Publication number: 20150059359Abstract: A rotary body of a printing press, in particular a printing press cylinder or a printing press roller, is disclosed. The rotary body includes a shaft, which is rotatably mountable on a printing press frame via bearings, and an outer surface which is temperature controllable. The outer surface is temperature controllable via at least one Peltier element integrated in the rotary body of a printing press, namely coolable and/or heatable.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2014Publication date: March 5, 2015Applicant: Manroland Web Systems GmbHInventors: Josef HAMMER, Thomas EISENSTEGER
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Publication number: 20150060431Abstract: A mirror assembly can include a mirror secured to a housing portion. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly can include a heating element disposed between the housing portion and the mirror. The heating element can heat a surface of the mirror to a pre-determined temperature, preferably above the dew point.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2014Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventors: Frank Yang, David Wolbert, Guy Cohen, Joseph Sandor, Orlando Cardenas, Frederick N. Bushroe
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Publication number: 20150059360Abstract: A liquid cooling device having a diversion mechanism, connected with a heat source, includes a thermoelectric cooler, a first water block, a second water block and a pump. The thermoelectric cooler has a cold end and a hot end. The first water block is disposed between the heat source and the cold end of the thermoelectric cooler. The second water block is disposed on one side of the hot end of the thermoelectric cooler. The pump connects the first water block and the second water block via a water pipe. Thereby, the temperature of an inner fluid is reduced and the overall heat dissipation effect of the device is improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2014Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventors: Chun-Hung LIN, Shui-Fa TSAI
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Publication number: 20150059358Abstract: A controlling method for a thermoelectric cooling device is provided. The thermoelectric cooling device has a cold side and a hot side. After the thermoelectric cooling device is enabled, a temperature of the cold side and an ambient temperature around the thermoelectric cooling device are acquired. By judging whether the ambient temperature is higher than or equal to a preset reference temperature, an initial value of a duty cycle corresponding to an electric energy to be received by the thermoelectric cooling device is set. Then, a judging step is performed to judge whether the temperature of the cold side is higher than or equal to the ambient temperature. If the judging condition is satisfied, the duty cycle is increased by a specified percentage. If the judging condition is not satisfied and the duty cycle is higher than 0%, the duty cycle is decreased by the specified percentage.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2014Publication date: March 5, 2015Applicant: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.Inventor: Meng-Sheng Chang
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Publication number: 20150054894Abstract: A temperature adjusting member includes: a thermoelectric conversion module; a casing which contains the thermoelectric conversion module; an exterior pipe which contains the casing; and a support body which brings the casing into contact with an inner wall of the exterior pipe. The support body includes a holding portion, a connecting portion and a support portion. The holding portion holds the casing; the connecting portion is connected to the holding portion; and the support portion supports the holding portion by the connecting portion. The connecting portion is connected to the support portion such that the holding portion is movable toward the inner wall of the exterior pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2014Publication date: February 26, 2015Inventor: Masaaki KIKUGAWA
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Patent number: 8962968Abstract: A device for producing electrical power in a gas turbine or the like of an aircraft, the device including a plurality of thermoelectric cells having a face surrounding a hot source. A cold source is constituted by a cold fluid flowing over the other face of the thermoelectric cells.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2010Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: TurbomecaInventor: Christophe Brillet
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Patent number: 8955336Abstract: A temperature control system (400) for a liquid comprises two sets of temperature control elements oppositely disposed to one another and define between them a temperature control zone. A conduit system within the temperature control zone defines a liquid flow path (300, 302) that is configured to have one or more first segments in proximity to and in heat-conducting association with one of the two sets and one or more second segments in proximity to and in heat-conducting association with the other of the two sets. The temperature control system (400) may be used as a liquid cooling or heating module in a cold liquid dispensing device or system, such as a drinking water or other beverage dispensing device.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2010Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Strauss Water Ltd.Inventors: Haim Wilder, Rami Ronen, Eyal Krystal, Omri Bar-On
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Publication number: 20150040583Abstract: A heat dissipation device for electronic controllers, is provided and includes a housing that has a hollow portion into which a working fluid for heat transfer and dissipation is filled. The housing of the electronic controller is formed to have the hollow portion using the material containing the heat-conductive filler and the heat transfer working fluid is filled in the hollow portion, to improve the cooling efficiency and achieving the weight reduction. By forming the condensation unit that condenses the vaporized working fluid in the upper end portion relative to the working fluid filled in the hollow portion of the housing, the heat exchange effect of the working fluid may be maximized.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2013Publication date: February 12, 2015Applicant: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Jin Woo Kwak, Kyong Hwa Song, Gyung Bok Kim, In Chang Chu
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Publication number: 20150041459Abstract: A cup or plate for heating food or beverages is disclosed. The cup/plate contains a heating component, which may keep consumable goods, such as food and beverages at a desired temperature. An insulated external layer may be placed between the heating component and the external portion of the cup/plate. A wireless power receiver may be coupled to the heater component to receive an electrical power source and transfer it to the heater component. A transmitter element may form pockets of energy at the location of the different receivers to be used as power sources.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2013Publication date: February 12, 2015Applicant: DvineWave Inc.Inventors: Michael A. Leabman, Gregory Scott Brewer
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Publication number: 20150007583Abstract: A temperature adjustment apparatus has a Peltier element supplied with electric power to allow heat exchange between an electronic device mounted on a vehicle and a heat exchange portion of the vehicle, and a Peltier element control section that controls electric power supplied to the Peltier element. When the temperature difference between a first surface of the Peltier element serving as an exothermic surface and a second surface of the Peltier element serving as an endothermic surface becomes larger than a first predetermined value as a result of supply of electric power to the Peltier element, the Peltier element control section stops supply of electric power to the Peltier element.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 10, 2012Publication date: January 8, 2015Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takashi Murata, Kuniaki Kuwahara
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Patent number: 8925333Abstract: Thermoelectric-enhanced air and liquid cooling of an electronic system is provided by a cooling apparatus which includes a liquid-cooled structure in thermal communication with an electronic component(s), and liquid-to-liquid and air-to-liquid heat exchangers coupled in series fluid communication via a coolant loop, which includes first and second loop portions coupled in parallel. The liquid-cooled structure is supplied coolant via the first loop portion, and a thermoelectric array is disposed with the first and second loop portions in thermal contact with first and second sides of the array. The thermoelectric array operates to transfer heat from coolant passing through the first loop portion to coolant passing through the second loop portion, and cools coolant passing through the first loop portion before the coolant passes through the liquid-cooled structure. Coolant passing through the first and second loop portions passes through the series-coupled heat exchangers, one of which functions as heat sink.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2012Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Levi A. Campbell, Richard C. Chu, Milnes P. David, Michael J. Ellsworth, Jr., Madhusudan K. Iyengar, Roger R. Schmidt, Robert E. Simons
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Publication number: 20150000308Abstract: A thermoelectric temperature control unit having at least one first Peltier element, which includes a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface is disposed adjoining or opposite the second surface, wherein the first surface of the Peltier element is connected to a first cover plate and the second surface is connected to a second cover plate, wherein heat can be supplied at least via one of the cover plates and dissipated via the other cover plate, wherein at least one of the cover plates has a variable material thickness along one or both of the extension directions thereof, whereby at least one region having a maximal material thickness and one region having a minimal material thickness are formed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2014Publication date: January 1, 2015Inventors: Peter ROLL, Juergen GRUENWALD, Holger SCHROTH, Florin MOLDOVAN, Martin STEINBACH
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Publication number: 20150000307Abstract: A thermoelectric temperature control unit with a first Peltier element and a second Peltier element, each of which has a first surface and a second surface, whereby the first surface is arranged adjacent or opposite to the second surface, whereby the Peltier elements are each connected with the first surface to a first cover plate and are connected with the respective second surface to a second cover plate, whereby heat can be supplied at least via one of the cover plates and heat can be removed via the other cover plate, whereby the first and/or the second cover plate have an expansion joint and/or a spring structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2014Publication date: January 1, 2015Inventors: Peter ROLL, Juergen GRUENWALD, Holger SCHROTH, Florin MOLDOVAN, Martin STEINBACH
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Patent number: 8919138Abstract: A packaged beverage temperature adjustment apparatus includes: a temperature adjustment section configured to hold a packaged beverage, and adjust a temperature of the packaged beverage; and a rotation driving section configured to rotate the temperature adjustment section, the temperature adjustment section including at least one temperature adjustment unit abutting on a side face of the packaged beverage.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2011Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Tex E.G. Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takahide Kobayashi
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Patent number: 8917503Abstract: A heat dissipation device is mounted in a chassis of an information handling apparatus. The heat dissipation device includes a box and a cooling member, a first heat sink, a second heat sink, and a fan received in the box. A partitioning plate mounted inside the box. The box includes defines two air passage arranged at opposite sides of the partitioning plate. The cooling member is fixed to the partitioning plate. The first and second heat sinks are respectively received in the first and second air passages, and respectively abut cold and hot sides of the cooling member. The fan drives air to flow into the box through the first air passage to be cooled by the first heat sink. At the same time, the fan drives air to flow into the box through the second air passage to absorb heat from the second heat sink.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2012Date of Patent: December 23, 2014Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Qiang Chen
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Patent number: 8904809Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to a thermoelectric device comprising a thermoelectric element, a first heat switch and a second heat switch. The thermoelectric element may comprise a first component in electrical contact with a second component at an interface. The first component may comprise a first material and the second component may comprise a second material different from the first material. The first heat switch may comprise a first terminal in thermal contact with the interface and a second terminal in thermal contact with a thermal reservoir. The second heat switch may comprise a first terminal in thermal contact with the interface and a second terminal in thermal contact with a thermal load.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2011Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: The Aerospace CorporationInventors: Sidney W. K. Yuan, Tung T. Lam
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Patent number: 8904808Abstract: In various embodiments of the present invention, a thermoelectric cooling device with a thermoelectric device, heat pipe and a heat sink is provided. The thermoelectric device is connected to a chamber through a metal standoff. The chamber contains a fluid that needs to be cooled. The metal standoff has a shape, e.g. a bevel shape, to minimize heat leakage into the fluid. The heat pipes are preferably connected to the thermoelectric device with a Thermal Interface Material (TIM). In one embodiment, the heat pipes are attached to the thermoelectric device through screws which have an insulating standoff so as to minimize heat leakage into the fluid. In another embodiment of the present invention, two stage thermoelectric cooling devices with multiple heat pipes and common heat sink are provided to cool the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2010Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Sheetak, Inc.Inventors: Uttam Ghoshal, Ayan Guha
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Publication number: 20140352325Abstract: An electronic coldpack and method of use are provided. The coldpack includes one or more thermoelectric components (e.g., thermocouples) that absorb heat at one surface and dissipate heat at another surface when energized (i.e., when electrical power is applied to the component). Multiple thermoelectric components may be aligned in a grid or other pattern, and sensors (e.g., temperature, optical, infrared) may be included in the coldpack and placed in proximity to some or all of the thermoelectric components. The sensors may monitor temperature output of the coldpack, monitor a temperature of an object to which the coldpack is applied (e.g., a body part), detect a skin condition (e.g., by skin color or temperature), or operate in some other way. In one mode of operation, the coldpack provides long-term uninterrupted cooling of the object. In another mode of operation, the coldpack is used to perform cryosurgery on a skin condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2014Publication date: December 4, 2014Inventor: Wendell Brown
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Patent number: 8898928Abstract: An apparatus for delamination drying a substrate is provided. A chamber for receiving a substrate is provided. A chuck supports and clamps the substrate within the chamber. A temperature controller controls the temperature of the substrate and is able to cool the substrate. A vacuum pump is in fluid connection with the chamber. A tilting mechanism is able to tilt the chuck at least 90 degrees.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2012Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignee: Lam Research CorporationInventors: Stephen M. Sirard, Diane Hymes, Alan M. Schoepp, Ratchana Limary
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Patent number: 8899052Abstract: Apparatus and method are provided for facilitating cooling of an electronic component of varying heat load. The apparatus includes a refrigerant evaporator coupled in thermal communication with the electronic component, a refrigerant loop coupled in fluid communication with the refrigerant evaporator for facilitating flow of refrigerant through the evaporator, and a thermoelectric array disposed in thermal communication with the evaporator. The thermoelectric array includes one or more thermoelectric elements, and is powered by a voltage and by a current of switchable polarity, which are controlled to maintain heat load on refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant evaporator within a steady state range, notwithstanding varying of the heat load applied to the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant by the at least one electronic component.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2010Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Levi A. Campbell, Richard C. Chu, Michael J. Ellsworth, Jr., Madhusudan K. Iyengar, Robert E. Simons
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Patent number: 8893513Abstract: A thermoelectric heat exchanger component includes a circuit board and multiple thermoelectric devices attached to the circuit board. Heights of at least two of the thermoelectric devices are different due to, for example, tolerances in a manufacturing process for the thermoelectric devices. The thermoelectric heat exchanger component also includes a first heat spreading lid over a first surface of the thermoelectric devices and a second heat spreading lid over a second surface of the thermoelectric devices. A thermal interface material is present between each one of the thermoelectric devices and the first and second heat spreading lids. The first heat spreading lid and the second heat spreading lid are oriented such that the thickness of the thermal interface material, and thus a thermal interface resistance, is optimized for the thermoelectric devices.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2013Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: Phononic Device, Inc.Inventors: M. Sean June, Robert Joseph Therrien, Abhishek Yadav, Jesse W. Edwards