Thermoelectric device

The present invention relates to a thermoelectric device according to Claim first

Under a thermoelectric generator (TEG), a heat exchanger is understood, which is equipped with thermoelectrically active material. If this material is subjected to a temperature difference, the TEG generates electric power. The temperature difference arises in the TEG in that hot (eg gas in a vehicle) are passed and cold media (eg cooling Mitel in a vehicle) to each other.

The pamphlets <patcit id="pcit0001" dnum="EP000001230475B1"><text>EP 000001230475B1</text></patcit>. <patcit id="pcit0002" dnum="EP000001475532A2"><text>EP 000001475532A2</text></patcit>. <patcit id="pcit0003" dnum="WO2007026432A"><text>WO 2007026432</text></patcit>. <patcit id="pcit0004" dnum="JP000010281015AA"><text>JP000010281015AA</text></patcit>. <patcit id="pcit0005" dnum="JP002000282960AA"><text>JP002000282960AA</text></patcit>. <patcit id="pcit0006" dnum="JP002004068608AA"><text>JP 002004068608AA</text></patcit>. <patcit id="pcit0007" dnum="JP002005083251AA"><text>JP 002005083251AA</text></patcit> or <patcit id="pcit0008" dnum="JP002005117836AA"><text>JP002005117836AA</text></patcit> Although disclose approaches using such a TEG, but these applications are not very efficient due to unfavorable connection of the thermoelectric modules to a heat exchanger.

It is the object of the present invention to provide an improved thermoelectric device that enables the generation of electrical energy from thermal energy, Advantageous embodiments of the thermoelectric device are defined by the dependent claims.

This object is achieved by a thermoelectric device according to Claim first

The present invention provides a thermoelectric device for generating electric energy from heat, the device comprising the following features:<ul><li>a thermoelectric module having a first major surface and a first major surface opposite second major surface, wherein the thermoelectric module comprises a plurality of elements having a thermoelectrically active material, extending substantially perpendicularly between the first and the second major surface of the thermoelectric module and which are further configured to provide electrical energy in a thermal contact with media of different temperature; and</li><li>a support structure, which is designed to guide a hot and a cold medium, and for holding the thermoelectric module, wherein the holding structure is further formed to guide the cold medium in such a way that it comes into thermal contact with the first main surface and the warm medium such to cause that it enters into thermal contact with the second major surface.</li></ul>

The present invention is based on the recognition that the thermoelectric materials are aligned in the thermoelectric module in the optimum heat flow between the hot and the cold medium when they are positioned substantially perpendicular to the Hauptoberfiächen of the thermoelectric module. As main surfaces of the thermoelectric module Oberflächenseitendes The thermoelectric module are considered, which are by far the highest compared to other surface sides of the thermoelectric module. In addition, it is ensured by the holding structure, that a thermal contact with the thermoelectric module of the main surfaces is carried out so that a very large heat exchange surface for heat transfer is composed of the elements with the thermoelectric material, wherein an optimal alignment of these elements for generating energy.

The present invention provides the advantage that compared with the prior art significantly better thermal contact and thus a much better utilization of the thermoelectric effect of the available heat is possible by contacting via the main surfaces of the thermoelectric module. At the same time, the invention can be technically simple unseeded because essentially only a favorable arrangement of the thermoelectric materials and a simple holding structure for guiding the media are to be provided with different temperature.

In a favorable embodiment of the invention, the thermoelectric module include an enveloping body which is formed to protect the elements of the thermoelectric material against influences or impurities from outside of the thermoelectric element, wherein the first and second major surfaces are formed by surfaces of the enveloping body. Such an embodiment of the invention provides the advantage that the thermoelectric module is optimally protected against Umweklteinflüsse, in particular fluidic environmental influences and also the positioning of the individual thermoelectric materials is ensured.

Also, the thermoelectric module may have at least one connecting member which protrudes from a surface of the thermoelectric module and which is configured to improve a mechanical connection between the thermoelectric module and the support structure. One such configuration thermoelectric module has a very good mounting ability on the support structure, whereby a high durability of the thermoelectric device is possible with very good uniform efficiency.

Further, also the first and / or second major surface having a profile. This allows a Turbulenzblidung example, when flowing over the corresponding major surfaces of the thermoelectric module by one of the media, so that an optimum heat or cold transfer from the medium corresponding to the thermoelectric module is possible.

Also, the support structure may comprise at least one pipe, which is adapted to guide one of the media, in particular the hot medium, wherein the first or second major surface dos thermoelectric module with the medium in the pipe is thermally contacted. In this way can be used by the warm or cold medium to the thermoelectric module advantageously the largest possible area for heat or cold transfer.

In order to allow a further improvement in the heat transfer, a turbulence insert may be placed and / or the tube at an outer side and / or on an inner side of the wall of the tube has a profiling in the tube or around the tube.

It is also favorable, if the tube has at least one opening, and wherein a thermoelectric module is arranged such that the opening through the thermoelectric module in substantially expended, or at least covered. This makes it possible that the warm or cold medium directly contacts the first or second major surface, whereby the heat needs a significantly lower thermal resistance than when the heat on another medium, such as a tube wall may have to be conducted.

Also the tube may be a flat tube and correspond to the width of the opening approximately to the width of the flat tube, in particular at least eighty percent of the width of the flat tube correspond. This ensures that the largest possible part of the inside of the pipe is lined by one of the main surfaces of the thermoelectric module, so that the medium in the tube the largest possible contact area to the thermal module "sees". This promotes a high heat transfer rate.

To achieve as compact as possible construction of the thermoelectric device, the flat tube can on two opposite larger (broad-) Fhachrohres sides of the one opening are each closed by at least a thermoelectric module in substantially or at least covered. This can be installed in a small space as large a number of thermoelectric modules in combination with the pipe.

Further, a better turbulence and thus a higher Wärmeaustauschmoglichkeit a flowing medium can be ensured in the region of thermoelektrisehen module when the fixed to the tube thermoelectric module enlarges or reduces a flow cross section for a in the pipe or a flowing around the pipe medium.

In order to ensure a very good and therefore stable attachment of the thermoelectric element on the tube, the tube may have at least one passage, a collar, a bead or a bonding sheet metal for mounting the thermoelectric module thereto.

Tolerance compensation by thermally induced Materiaibewegungen during operation of the thermoelectric device can be made possible that the tube or a bonding sheet metal having at least one embossing, folding, bending or a bead.

In order to ensure the best possible Wärmeubeftragung, the retaining structure may comprise a housing, in which housing the at least one tube is arranged such that, in the pipe having a first (in particular the warm) medium is feasible and between an outer wall of the at least one pipe and an inner wall of the housing a second medium is feasible (in particular the cold). This allows, for example, a cold medium can freely flow around the tubes, so that in the case the largest possible temperature difference to the one or more thermoelectric (s) module (s) around exists, whereby a high electric power efficiency can be provided by this ,

In a further of the present invention, the retaining structure may further comprise a diffuser, which is secured to the housing and which is adapted to collect the viable in the tube and in the medium to initiate at least one tube or auszuleiten from the tube. This enables a good distribution of the viable media through the tube so that the tubes are arranged in the housing as uniformly as possible flows through the medium. This favors the best possible use of the available heat difference between the two media.

Also, the holding structure can be a deflecting have formed, in order to deflect a flow of the cold medium to a wall of the tube, This provides the advantage that the cold medium flows over a very large area of ​​the surface of the pipe or of the thermoelectric module, so that a large heat transfer surface is covered. This allows a good utilization of the available thermal energy into electrical energy.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be explained with reference to the appended drawings, which:<dl id="dl0001"><dt>Fig. 1</dt><dd>a representation of an embodiment of a thermoelectric generator (TEG) cut in isometric view;</dd><dt>FIG. 2</dt><dd>a general sketch of a thermoelectric module (TEM) in cross section;</dd><dt>Fig. 3</dt><dd>a general outline of a TEM enveloping body in cross section;</dd><dt>Fig. 4</dt><dd>an external view of the TEM in an isometric view;</dd><dt>Fig. 5</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of a TEM with raised edge</dd><dt>Fig. 6</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of a TEM with edge-paragraph;</dd><dt>Fig. 7</dt><dd>an isometric external view of a TEM with exemplary profiling;</dd><dt>Fig. 8</dt><dd>an isometric external view of a tube with holes, by way of example with openings at top and bottom</dd><dt>Fig. 9</dt><dd>an isometric sectioned external view of a pipe with TEM, exemplified openings with ventilation; </dd><dt>Fig. 10</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of the pipe openings with ventilation and pickled TEM;</dd><dt>Fig. 11</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of openings of the pipe with ventilation and collar) and inserted TEM;</dd><dt>Fig. 12</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of the pipe openings with ventilation and bead and pickled TFM;</dd><dt>Fig. 13</dt><dd>Cross-sectional views of openings of the tube and be translated TEM;</dd><dt>Fig. 14</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of openings of the tube and inserted TEM with joining sheet;</dd><dt>Fig. 15</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of the pipe openings and attached TEM with bonding sheet metal;</dd><dt>Fig. 16</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of openings of the tube and inserted TEM with joining sheets;</dd><dt>Fig. 17</dt><dd>Representations of imprints, folds, bends or crimps in the pipe or in the bonding sheet metal;</dd><dt>Fig. 18</dt><dd>Cross-sectional views of openings of the tube and an inserted TEM with a two weldable sheath body;</dd><dt>Fig. 19</dt><dd>an isometric bottom view;</dd><dt>Fig. 20</dt><dd>an isometric view of the housing; </dd><dt>Fig. 21</dt><dd>an isometric view of turbulence inserts;</dd><dt>Fig. 22</dt><dd>a cross-sectional illustration of a first alternative embodiment of the present invention;</dd><dt>Fig. 23</dt><dd>an isometric view of a second alternative embodiment of the present invention;</dd><dt>Fig. 24</dt><dd>a side view of a third alternative embodiment of the present invention;</dd><dt>FIG. 25a-b</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of a fourth alternative embodiment of the present invention wherein the openings of the tube and an inserted TEM are shown;</dd><dt>Fig. 26a-d</dt><dd>Cross-sectional views of various forms of a fifth alternative embodiment of the present invention, of tubes with integrated TEM;</dd><dt>Fig. 27a</dt><dd>an isometric view of a housing with indentations;</dd><dt>Fig. 27b</dt><dd>a front view of a housing with indentations;</dd><dt>Fig. 28a</dt><dd>an isometric view of a housing with inspection forms;</dd><dt>Fig. 28b</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of a TEG-housing with inspection forms; </dd><dt>Fig. 29a</dt><dd>an isometric view of a housing with widenings;</dd><dt>Fig. 29b</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of a TEG-housing with widenings;</dd><dt>Fig. 30a</dt><dd>an isometric view of a TEG block with outside diversions;</dd><dt>Fig. 30b</dt><dd>an isometric view of the in <figref idrefs="f0020">Fig. 30a</figref> shown outside diversions;</dd><dt>Fig. 31a</dt><dd>an isometric view of a TEM;</dd><dt>Fig. 31b</dt><dd>an isometric view of a tube;</dd><dt>Fig. 31c</dt><dd>isometric view of a pipe with Teml;</dd><dt>Fig. 32</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of a TEM and a pipe;</dd><dt>Fig. 33</dt><dd>a further cross-sectional view of a TEM and a pipe;</dd><dt>Fig. 34</dt><dd>a further cross-sectional view of a TEM and a pipe;</dd><dt>Fig. 35a-b</dt><dd>Representations of a TEM isometric in section and an isometric detail of a TE-active material;</dd><dt>Fig. 36</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a TEM and a pipe;</dd><dt>Fig. 37</dt><dd>a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a TEM, a pipe and a side-form; </dd><dt>FIG. 38a-b</dt><dd>Representations of a furring in isometric view and a TEG in isometric longitudinal sectional view; and</dd><dt>Fig. 39</dt><dd>isometric views of a TEM with profiling.</dd></dl>

In the following description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, same or similar reference numerals are used for the elements shown in the various drawings and similarly acting, wherein a repeated description of these elements is omitted. Furthermore, various embodiments are described, wherein a relevant expert it is clear that these embodiments can be combined, even if one such combination is not explicitly described herein.

<figref idrefs="f0001">Fig. 1</figref> shows an isometric section view of a first embodiment of a thermoelectric generator 1 (TEG) or, a thermoelectric device 1. The TEG 1 is in the following <figref idrefs="f0001">Fig. 1</figref> in longitudinal section (that is to say in the axial direction 9) shown. Its design exhibits constructive, thermodynamic point of view is a shell and tube heat exchangers. Instead of following frequently cited stainless steel materials, other metals such as aluminum or copper may be provided. Furthermore, the following figures are not to scale.

The in <figref idrefs="f0001">Fig. 1</figref> shown TEG 1 consists essentially of two pipes, are in which thermoelectric modules (TEM) mounted 3rd Further, possibly joining plates 4 for better support to the tubes 2 or 3 TEM be appropriate to enhance the connection between the tubes 2 and the TEM third In addition, trays 5 are provided to direct at least a medium into the pipes. The pipes 2 may be disposed in a housing 6, the diffusers or a collector 7 having to also collect a medium and to direct the tubes in the second To ensure a better turbulence and thus a better heat transfer behavior, can possibly also turbulence inserts 8 between the tubes 2 and the housing 6 or in the tubes 2 arranged to be (which, however,<figref idrefs="f0001">Fig. 1</figref> is not shown).

In principle, the device can be thermoeiektrische 1 used to make better use of the exhaust gas (for example, an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle) in the form of heat energy stored, which is often far removed to the environment unused. To increase the efficiency of the system (for example, the vehicle), and thus the CO₂to reduce emission during operation, a TEG 1 is implemented, which converts a portion of the heat into electrical energy and this leads back to the system. The TEG can be accommodated with different benefits at any point in the exhaust system or in the exhaust gas recirculation.

For general operating principle of a thermoelectric generator, the following can be carried out. In TEG 1 two media are, for example, passed at different temperatures along a heat transfer path 11 to one another, so that there is a heat transfer from the hot to the cold medium in co- or counter-current. The two media are separated, so that there is no mixing. When hot medium is, for example, exhaust gas, in cold medium, for example, a water-Glysantin mixture (coolant). The exhaust gas is taken as an internal combustion engine, the water-Glysantin mixture a coolant circuit for cooling various engine and, air-conditioning, or battery components.

The production of electric energy in TEG we can be described as follows. In the parting plane / Retail Space between hot and cold media in TEG 1 thermoelectric modules are introduced 3 (TEM). This means that one side 12 or 13 of the TEM 3 is in direct or indirect contact with the hot medium, and the other 13 or 12 in direct or indirect contact with the cold medium. The resulting pending temperature difference between the one and the other side 12, 13 of the TEM 3 calls thermal diffusion flows within the thermoelectrically active materials 14 (for example, semiconductor materials) in the TEM 3 forth, whereby an electrical voltage is formed (this is also Seebeck effect known). The electrical voltage can be tapped in the form of electric current. For this purpose, the electric current through the electric cable 15, which lead into the interior of the TEM 16 and connected there an electric load or an electrical storage outside the TEG 1 are supplied.

For innenseiteigen structure 16 a TEM 3 (for example, according <figref idrefs="f0001">FIG. 2</figref>) Can be carried out as follows: In the TEM 3 a variety of thermoelectrically active materials is alternately 14 (as n- and p-type semiconductor) via electrical conductors connected to one another. The geometric orientation of the thermoelectrically active material 14 has substantially in the direction of heat flow from the hot to the cold side 12 and 13 respectively 13 and 12. As a material of the thermoelectric (TE) -active materials is, for example, PbTe or BiTe in question.

To set the desired electrical voltages and power flows TEM internal semiconductor conductor materials can equal or be parallelverschaltet. This also applies to the electrical interconnection of the TEM 3 with each other.

For a possible sheath body 17 of the TEM 3 (for example, according <figref idrefs="f0002">Fig. 3</figref>) Can be carried out as follows; The thermoelectrically active material 14 and the conductor materials should be electrically insulated from the outside 9, 10th For this, the TEM is 3 conveniently surrounded on all sides 9, 10 of an electrically insulating cladding 17th This sheath body 17 is part of the TEM 3 and protects the electrical, interior components 16 also against the ingress of dirt and moisture and, if necessary, fluids.

As sheath body material 17, for example, is a ceramic material used. The sheath body 17 can be, for example, two parts 17a, b constructed. The two parts 17a, b should then be mutually laterally 27 sealed by a seal 18th This can for example take the form of bonding or soldering. One of the two enveloping body parts 17a or b can also take the form of a shell (like it in<figref idrefs="f0002">Fig. 3</figref> is shown), then the other part 17a or b inserted into this, so that the seal 18 of the envelope 17 can be laid 13 on the top or bottom 12. This may be advantageous for the further connection of the TEM to the heat exchanger 3 and the thermoelectric generator 1st

Another possibility would be a shell of a stainless steel, in which case between the thermoeiektrischen semiconductor conductor material and the stainless steel additional an electrically insulating layer should be introduced, this layer could be, for example, a plastic or natural stone film three-dimensionally deformed. Even the stainless steel casing body on the inside 16 may be coated (eg a ceramic coating).

Various embodiments of the TEM 3 are used, particularly in a ceramic or non-metallic sheath body 17:

In the following will no longer distinguish between a 17- or multi-part 17a, b enveloping body. The described embodiments relate generally to the enveloping body 17, and thus relate to a single or multi-part casing body 17a, b alike.

The exterior 17 of the TEM 3, ie in particular its Hullkörper 17 is designed mainly flat and resembles a plate or a disc. <figref idrefs="f0002">Fig. 4</figref> shows an example of such a TEM 3. The width 20 and length 19 of the TEM 3 thus generally does not exceed the height of 21. The TEM 3 can in a flat view lxw approximately circular or oval or polygonal quadrangle be designed hexagon. In a preferred design, the TEM 3 corresponds to a flat cube (see<figref idrefs="f0002">Fig. 4</figref>), The corners can be partially strongly rounded or chamfered.

There may be used three different ausgestalte TEM;<ol><li>1. The TEM 3 is performed without other features.</li><li>2. The TEM 3 may include one or both sides 12 in the edge region 13 (for example, according <figref idrefs="f0003">Fig. 5</figref>) Increases to be 22 to 23 and / or increase the effective joint surfaces with the tube 2, or its passages with the joining plates 4th</li><li>3. The TEM 3 may in the outer region a one or two-sided 12, 13, paragraph 24 include (for example corresponding to <figref idrefs="f0003">Fig. 6</figref>).</li><li>4. The outwardly leading electric cable 15 of the TEM 3 may be 12, 13 or side 27 disposed above or below each other.</li><li>5. To increase the Wärmübergang, it may be advantageous to the TEM 3 above and / or the underside 12 to profile 13 25 (eg in accordance with a ribbing <figref idrefs="f0003">Fig. 7</figref>). The profiling 25 can be performed on the envelope 17 or applied subsequently.</li></ol>

The special case of a metallic casing body 17 a TEM 3, as well as its structural design and integration into the TEG 1 is described in more detail below.

Next, some embodiments follow to the tubes 2. The tubes 2 separate the two streams (ie media) along the heat transfer path 11, that is radially 10th

The tubes 2 are preferably Hachrohre or flat ducts of a high temperature-resistant stainless steel material. These tubes 2 are usually made of a thin-walled sheet metal, the sheet is cut first, then bent and can be finally welded. In principle, however, other shapes, such as a round pipe or an oval pipe are conceivable.

In the tubes 2, the hot or a cold medium is passed along the heat transfer distance eleventh Preference is given to the interior 12 of the pipe 2 is assigned to the fabric guide of the hot medium, in which case the outside 13 of the tube 2 is in thermal contact with the cold medium.

As the TEM 3 can also pipes 2 partially or completely profiled or ribbed (eg by a winglet structure). For this purpose, the pipes 2 is a corresponding inner and / or outer embossing structure. This structuring can be in three ways affect the flowing media:<ol><li>A. breaking the laminar boundary layer The ribbing is flown in the turbulent region, thereby improving the heat transfer from the medium to the wall.</li><li>B. swirling flow The molecules of the medium flow no longer primarily one-dimensionally along the transmission Warne Streeke, but in three dimensions at a example spiral-shaped flow pattern. The thickness of the laminar boundary layer is partially reduced. The ranges of the velocity with max./min. Temperature will be brought closer to the pipe wall. Ultimately Also thereby the heat transfer improves.</li><li>C. increasing the heat-transferring surface of the wall</li></ol>

The length of the tubes 2 corresponds to the heat transfer path 11 in the TEG 1. The beginning and the end of the tubes 2 illustrates the inlet and outlet of a medium preferred the hot medium in the heat transfer path 11 inside 12 of the tube 2 is,

The tubes 2 may be stacked in any number of superimposed. The tubes can also be arranged in any number of side by side. Outside 13 of the tubes 2, ie between the individual Rohrlagen- and columns, the other medium flows preferably the cold medium, which is why the pipes 2 each do not need to touch.

On the pipe surface nub-like protruding structures can be embossed, which ensure a mutual support of the two pipes to each other. Thus, there is contact between the tubes 2 in this position.

To join the pipe 2 with the TEM 3 can perform the following activities. The wall of the tubes 2, the top and / or bottom, or side lying openings / breakthroughs 26, as exemplified in<figref idrefs="f0004">Fig. 8</figref> is shown. The overhead and bottom openings 26 are preferred. In a mounting step, the tubes 2 and 3 are brought together, the TEM. The TEM 3 are in this case fitted / inserted into the openings 26 on or off. Consequently, the shape of the openings 26 is three coordinated structurally and functionally to the shape of the TEM.

For example, one or more openings depending tube 2 are provided. The openings can be one behind the other and / or next to each other may be arranged. In each of the openings a TEM is attached. That is, the number and arrangement of the openings corresponds to that of TEM. In a preferred embodiment the apertures are arranged consecutively along the pipe-course, wherein the distance from orifice to orifice is kept as small as possible, and the width of the opening approximately corresponds to the width of the tube, that is as wide as possible. For example, there are the openings on the top and bottom of the tube alike.

The tubes 2 are connected to the TEM 3 in the area of ​​the openings 26 as exemplified in <figref idrefs="f0004">Fig. 9</figref> is shown. The compound is produced, for example via an adhesive or cohesive than soldering (eg by means of glass solder). This applies especially to the use of a non-metallic material of the TEM-shell 17 such as a ceramic, When using a metal, so that both tube 2 and TEM-shell 17 are metallic, may also be a weld (for example, laser welding) as a connection technique may be advantageous.

To increase the effectiveness of the TEG 1, it also can be advantageous if the superficial regions of the pipe 2 on one 12 side or the other 13 which are not occupied by a TEM 3, are provided with a thermal resistance-increasing coating or appropriately way covers (eg two-peel-like, together geklippter plastic coating or coated.

Below are some embodiments of the openings 26 of the tubes 2 with a link mechanism pipe 2-TEM are described. 3<ol><li>1. The opening 26 may be made according to the illustration <figref idrefs="f0005">Fig. 10</figref> be performed with a swipe 23rd The passage 23 may go up 13 and / or the bottom 12 have. The TEM 3 is connected to the passage 23 with the tube. 2 Thus, the outer lateral portion 27 of the TEM 3 is primarily connected to the pipe-passage 23, while the top 13 and bottom 12 is not tethered, or is mostly not tethered. In the favorable embodiment, the interior 12 of the tube 2 is passed through with hot exhaust gas. Then, the passages 23, for example, to the outside 13. The compound lay closer to the cold medium than the warm, which is why the connection is thermally and thermomechanically less burdened.</li><li>2. The passages 23 of the immediately preceding paragraph 1, according to the end with a curved collar 28 <figref idrefs="f0005">Fig. 11</figref> be provided in order to obtain an additional connection- and / or support surface on the top 13 or bottom 12 of the TEM 3, and if necessary to facilitate the assembly.</li><li>(For example, be provided with a bead 29) 3. The passages 23 of the immediately preceding paragraph 1, can be bent at the top. The distance from the hot medium to connect passage 23-TEM 3 is enlarged. In addition, a thermal separation is created in that the joint is washed down by the cold medium in the bead 29th In addition, the mounting is facilitated, if necessary. The bead 29 may also be regarded as a compensating element to compensate for the induced by temperature differences or changes in length to prevent vibration transmission to the TEM.</li><li>4. The opening 26 is performed without any special additional features. The TEM 3 is then not inserted into the opening 26, but (for example, as shown<figref idrefs="f0006">Fig. 13</figref>) On the inner 12 or outer side 13 of the tube 2 in the area of ​​the opening 26 centrally mounted, in which case the TEM 3 may be wider 20 and longer 19 than the opening 26. The TEM 3 is on its support surface on the pipe 2 with this connected.</li><li>5. The TEM 3 is in the outer region peripherally connected to a bonding sheet metal 4 as exemplified in <figref idrefs="f0007">Fig. 14</figref> is shown. The connection can be on the top 13 or bottom 12 and / or consist at the end faces 27th The joining plate 4 extends beyond the TEM 3 on all sides. The bonding sheet metal 4 can be repeatedly bent / broken. The TEM-bonding sheet metal assembly 3, 4 is inserted into the opening 26 of the tube second Of the TEM 3 laterally superior region of the joining plate 4 is connected to the pipe 2 (for example, by laser welding). If the edge of the TEM be 3 increased 22, surrounds the connecting area of ​​the joining sheet 4 this 22nd</li><li>6. In one embodiment according to the immediately preceding paragraph 5. TEM 3 need not, however, in the opening 26 of the tube 2 can be used, but may be placed 4th as in the previous section on the slightly smaller opening (see <figref idrefs="f0007">Fig. 15</figref>).</li><li>However, 7. In a variant according to the immediately preceding paragraph 5. TEM 3 can both sides 12, 13 are connected to the joining plates 4a, b, as exemplified in <figref idrefs="f0008">Fig. 16</figref> is shown. The joining sheets 4a, b may be linked together (eg, by welding). One or both joining plates 4a, b are connected to the pipe 2 (for example by welding). The hot side facing bonding sheet metal 4a or b may loose or positively rest on the TEM 3, so that at least one thermal insulation layer ( "dead water") for connecting the TEM 3 with the other bonding sheet metal 4a or b is provided, the space between the two joining plates 4a, b in this case represents the insulation layer.</li><li>8. In the joining plates 4 and / or in areas in the tube 2 adjacent the openings 26 Coins, folds, bends or beads 30 according to from the Darstefllungen <figref idrefs="f0008">Fig. 17</figref> be provided to the function of a corrugated bellows have thermal, thermo-mechanical and mechanical Kornpensationselement.</li></ol>

The foregoing described embodiments relate primarily, but not exclusively, to the joining of a TEM 3 with a TEM enveloping body 17 which consists of a one- or two-piece ceramic material, and can not be welded to a metal plate.

Next, a further embodiment of the present invention is described, which aims primarily to a weld between pipe 2 and TEM 3:<ul><li>9. The casing body 17 of the TEM 3 (z, B. Stainless steel) can be imported or exported in two parts, as in <figref idrefs="f0009">Fig. 18</figref> is exemplified. In a two-part design, one of the two enveloping body parts 17a, b, the shape of a shell (corresponding<figref idrefs="f0009">Fig. 18</figref>) Have, in which case the other part 17a or b attached thereto. The seal at the joint 18 between the two 17a, b may, for example. be brought about through a weld in the side area 27th One of the two TEM Hulltelle 17a or b is after the TEM 3 inserted into the opening 26 of the tube 2, or is set, with the pipe 2 above or under or side welded.</li></ul>

The above mentioned embodiments 1 - 9 can be with respect to their stated features overlap or be combined, so that it can even lead to further intermediate variants.

It may have different insertion depth of the TEM are 3 legal in the opening 26th The TEM 3 can be used in the form in the apertures 26 of the pipe 2, so that the outer 13 or inner 12 Strömungsquerchnitt of the respective medium is penetrated (TEM 3 protrudes). This means that the lower or upper side 12, 13 of the TEM 3 the pipe wall 2 extends beyond, since the height 21 of the TEM 3 generally does not exceed the thickness of the wall of the tube the second

It is also possible that the TEM 3 are used in the form in the apertures 26 of the pipe 2 that the outer 13 or inner 12 Strömungsdes respective medium is increased in this area. This is the case when the TEM 3 based on this point to the pipe wall inwards 2 12 or 13 away back stands.

The forward or backward standing of Term 3 in relation to the pipe wall 2 may be advantageous, as characterized blasts are indicated in the flow, because this is damaging in its course.

Also, the top or bottom 12, 13 of the TEM 3 be flush with the pipe wall. 2

In summary it can be said that the TEM 13 is, for example, via their lateral outer contour (lateral extent 27) and / or their peripheral portions of the upper and lower surfaces 12, 13 connected to the pipe 2 or a bonding sheet metal 4, during the entire or at least predominantly middle portion of the upper and lower surfaces 12, 13 is exposed to direct contact with the flowing media, Furthermore, the TEM 3 can in the pipe 2 forward or backward are or may be flush with the wall 2 under or top 12,. 13

Concerning the bottom 5 may be noted the following: The bottom 5 separates the two streams media at the front side of the heat transfer path 11, ie at the inlet and outlet, and thus in the axial direction. 9

The bottom 5 consists for example of a shaped sheet-metal (eg stainless steel), for example, corresponding to the illustration of <figref idrefs="f0010">Fig. 19</figref>, It is conveniently equipped with a plurality of recesses 31 that the tubes 2 corresponding in number, arrangement and shape, which are connected to the recesses 31 of the bottom 5 (for example, by laser welding), given by the tubes 2 earlier in the recesses 31 of the bottom 5 inserted. There is a base 5 on the pipe-inlet and outlet 2 is added, for example, respectively. The recesses 31 and the circumferential outer contour 32 of the bottom 5 may be provided with through trains 33rd The circumferential contour 32 is connected to the housing 6 and / or the diffuser 7, for example, laser welding.

With respect to the housing 6 may be noted the following: The housing 6 with respect to its shape, for example, a round or polygonal tube with a correspondingly large diameter (see <figref idrefs="f0011">Fig. 20</figref>). The housing 6 may be discontinued several times in the axial direction 9, one of the media is guided along the heat transfer path 11 between the outside of the tubes 13, 2 and the inside of the casing 13, 6, preferably the cold. The housing 6 thus separates this material stream radially 10 along the heat transfer path 11 from the surrounding atmosphere. A housing upstream 6 and downstream collection of this material stream is not therefore necessary. The housing 6 is radially and 10 equipped in the vicinity of the axial ends in each case with an opening 9 34th This opening 34 can be provided with a passage, the openings 34 are connected to connecting lines. Via the openings 34 the cold medium is preferably also guided into or in the housing. 6 The ends in the axial direction 9 of the housing 6 are lnnen- or via its outside diameter with the bottoms 5 or with the diffusers 7 is connected (eg, by laser welding).

In the radial direction 10, another small aperture 35 is provided in the housing 6 through which the one or more electrical cables 15 of the TEM can be guided 3rd The opening 35 should be sealed appropriately (eg adhesively).

With respect to the diffuser 7 can perform the following activities. The diffuser 7 consists for example of a formed and / or welded plate, he has, for example, two openings on one side (first opening) of the diffuser with a connecting cable is connected, on the other side (second opening) to the base 5 and / or to the casing 6. The openings differ by nature and generally in diameter. The diffuser is designed aerodynamically advantageously. The space between Dlffusor inner wall 7 and the bottom 5 forms a chamber to which the medium that communicates with the tubes 2, before entry and after exit Collect. Accordingly, two diffusers 7 are provided for each TEG. 1

For a turbulence insert 8 may be noted the following: In order to heat transfer in the TEG 1 tube inside 2, 12 - to increase and / or pipe outside 2 to increase 13, and thereby the effective wall temperature Differzen between medium 1 and medium 2, it may be advantageous to incorporate into the currents additionally enhancing turbulence inserts 8, as exemplified in <figref idrefs="f0011">Fig. 21</figref> are shown. These inserts 8 can for example be punched sheets, the rib-like or trimmed winglet-like, are shaped or textured. These ribs can rotated advantageously be so bent upward. A frequently bent or helical wire or a twisted-contained sheet can be used for this purpose, the turbulence insert 8 is inserted into the tubes 2 and / or between the pipes. 2 You can substance- with any component in the TEG 1, form, or be positively connected, or be introduced even less.

Also, alternative embodiments of the invention may be provided:

A first alternative may be characterized in that this is not a shell and tube heat exchanger. The media are conducted in co- or parallel flow<figref idrefs="f0012">Fig. 22</figref> shows a cross-sectional view of the first alternative embodiment of the invention.

The first medium is conducted in one or more tubes, which are arranged side by side. The second medium is fed into one or more tubes, which are arranged side by side, which, for example may comprise a plurality of channels. The tubular composite for the first medium and the pipe-composite for the second medium are ühereinadergelegt therebetween another location with TEM is introduced, a sheet can still be introduced between the TEM and the tubes. TEM and pipes, or TEM, and sheets may be bonded or glued stöffschlüssig connected.

This structure can be as often layered so that both the first and the second medium is distributed on a plurality of layers.

The media associated pipes are respectively connected to lines in the inlet and outlet. These lines are combined in each case in the main lines.

A second alternative embodiment of the invention is in <figref idrefs="f0013">Fig. 23</figref> reproduced in isometric schnittdzrstelllung, This is not about a shell and tube heat exchanger. The media are conducted in crosscurrent

The pipes for the first medium corresponding to the above description for the first embodiment with respect to the <figref idrefs="f0004 f0005 f0006 f0007 f0008 f0009">Figures 8 -18</figref>, The second medium is also performed in tubes, which the also the descriptions of<figref idrefs="f0004 f0005 f0006 f0007 f0008 f0009">Figures 8-18</figref> can meet. The TEM are inserted on one side in the openings of the tubes for the first medium or on / placed, and on the other side in the openings of the pipes for the second medium. The joint mechanisms and joint forms of TEM tube correspond in both cases, for example, to respect the<figref idrefs="f0004 f0005 f0006 f0007 f0008 f0009">Figures 8 to 18</figref> Connection mechanisms described. Thus, the TEM are linked to two different pipes on both sides up and down, and not as previously only one thing on one page.

This structure can be as often layered so that both the first and the second is distributed to a plurality of layers.

The electrical cables are fed out in the ambient atmosphere at the side of the TEM.

Here, since the second medium is guided in tubes, and not, as with respect to the description of the <figref idrefs="f0004 f0005 f0006 f0007 f0008 f0009">Figures 8 to 18</figref> flows in the housing, eliminating the need of a housing. Instead, four floors and four diffusers are required to collect the first and second media respectively the inlet and outlet,

The structure of a third alternative embodiment of the invention is in <figref idrefs="f0014">Fig. 24</figref> described. This structure corresponds to the structure of the second alternative Ausführ5ungsbeispiels, the media are not led in cross flow, but are conducted in co- or parallel flow.

There are two bottom and two diffusers provided to collect one of the media in the inlet and outlet. The other medium can not be collected in this way. The this medium associated pipes are connected to lines in the inlet and outlet. These lines are merged into one main pipe.

In <figref idrefs="f0014">Fig. 25a</figref> and <figref idrefs="f0015">25b</figref> Two embodiments are shown in accordance with a fourth alternative embodiment of the invention In these embodiments, the tubes are substantially in accordance with the <figref idrefs="f0004 f0005 f0006 f0007 f0008 f0009">Figures 8 to 18</figref> established, however, the tubes are not provided with openings. The TEM be applied on the inside or outside of the tubes, whereby the upper or lower side of the TEM is connected to the tubes. The tube may be deformed in the area of ​​the joint pipe TEM inward or outward / arched.

In the <figref idrefs="f0015 f0016">Figures 26a to 26c</figref> Embodiments are illustrated in accordance with a fifth alternative embodiment of the present invention, In these embodiments, the tubes are again substantially according to the <figref idrefs="f0004 f0005 f0006 f0007 f0008 f0009">Figures 8 to 18</figref> configured, but the pipes are, however, not provided with openings. In addition, the wall of the tubes comprises a two-shell double pipe. Thus, the tube has a double wall / shell, an inner shell and an outer shell. The thermoelectrically active material is in the wall, and thus introduced between inner shell and an outer shell. The pipe wall thus forms at the same time the enveloping body of the TEM. The tube can be ceramic or metallic. This alternative is a combination of a tube and the TEM. It can be carried out in each case one or more parts, both the inner shell and the outer shell, as exemplified in the illustrations of<figref idrefs="f0015 f0016 f0017">Fig. 26</figref> is depicted.

In another embodiment of a housing 6 is in <figref idrefs="f0017">Fig. 27a</figref> illustrated in which the housing is provided with indentations 36, wherein in the pipe 2, a hot gas (flue gas on its inside 12) flows and on the inside 13 of the casing 6, ie, the coolant flows on the outside 13 of the tube second The indentations 36 in the housing 6 ensure that in the lateral region of the tubes 2 on the outer side 13 flows little or no coolant. This is advantageous when small TEM 12 3 are mounted in the side area of ​​the tubes (2) on the inside. In<figref idrefs="f0017">Fig. 27b</figref> is shown a front view of such a structure.

Another embodiment of the present invention is in the <figref idrefs="f0018">Fig. 28a</figref> The illustrated trunking 37 forms in the housing 6 of this embodiment to ensure that the coolant on the outside 13 in the inlet and outlet region 34 can be guided between the pipes second This is particularly necessary when the housing 6 along the axial Warmeubertragungsstrecke 9 is applied in the lateral region of the tubes 2, and thus can flow little or no coolant.<figref idrefs="f0018">Fig. 28b</figref> shows a cross-sectional view of such an embodiment.

As an alternative to the in <figref idrefs="f0017">Fig. 27</figref> illustrated embodiment, for a housing, the supply and discharge of the coolant 13 are also accomplished in that the housing 6 is widened in the initial and end region 38 so that the coolant on the outside 13 in the inlet and outlet regions 34 is guided between the tubes 2 can be. Such an embodiment is in the<figref idrefs="f0019">Fig. 29a</figref> in isometric view and in the <figref idrefs="f0019">Fig. 29b</figref> shown in a cross-sectional view.

Especially at very high and very short 9 TEGs 1 it may be advantageous deflections 39 bring on the outside. 13 Thereby a more uniform mass flow density is ensured and the tubes 2 / TEM 3 applied over a larger area with the flowing medium 13, because dead water can thus be minimized. In addition, the heat exchanging length is increased. The deflections be 39 Can punched and bent plates which are partially connected to the pipes. 2 In<figref idrefs="f0020">Fig. 30a</figref> is shown an isometric external view of such an embodiment. In<figref idrefs="f0021">Fig. 30b</figref> is an isometric view illustrating a potentially usable deflection 39 for the above purpose.

In order to keep the temperature difference along the Wärmaustauschfiäche 9 as high as possible, and thus to increase the efficiency of the TEG 1, it is advantageous to the TEM 3 so execute and to order that the tubes are 2 possible area occupied by TEM. 3 Given the TEM 3 are made, for example according to the isometric view<figref idrefs="f0021">Fig. 31a</figref> or <figref idrefs="f0022">31b</figref> either sequentially touching 9 or at least arranged very closely following. In addition, the TEM 3 20 executed as wide (the width of the pipe 2 accordingly). In addition, it may be advantageous to only a TEM to arrange longitudinally 9 3, but this is as long as possible to carry out 19th<figref idrefs="f0022">Fig. 31c</figref> shows a cross-sectional view of such an embodiment.

The tubes 2 in the middle, the side area between two TEM 3 can be executed with a fold 30, as for example in accordance with the representations made <figref idrefs="f0023">Fig. 32</figref> is shown. This allows, firstly, a thermal separation between the inner side 12 and an outer side 13 of the tube, secondly, the bellows can act as a thermal, thermo-mechanical and mechanical compensating element.

Also, according to according to the illustrations <figref idrefs="f0024">Fig. 33</figref> the tubes 2 in two parts 2a, b running and connected in the middle, the side area (for example, by laser welding) are. The two parts 2a, b can be designed such that in the area of ​​the junction, a thermal separation between the tube inner side 12 and the outside of the tube 13 is formed,

In a further embodiment, the in <figref idrefs="f0024">Fig. 34</figref> is shown, the TEM will be 3 in the lateral region 27 in the width 20 executed with an increase in the edge region 22nd This increase 22 is designed so that the upper TEM 3 in the tube 2 and the lower 3 TEM touch approximately in the pipe. 2 In addition, 3 may be slightly smaller than the width 20 of the TEM, than the width of the tube 20 on the inner side 12, so that a gap 41 between the tube 2 and TEM 3 forms. By these measures, in the lateral region of the tube 2, the heat exchange 13 to 12 are reduced,

It is further noted that the orientation of the TE-active materials 14 in the TEM is 3 in all embodiments is arbitrary, this case, the arrangement of the TE-active materials 14 both in axial and in the radial direction 9 10 have. In addition, the number of TE-active materials 14 in axial and radial 9 19 direction is arbitrary. Embodiments of such, alignment of the TE-active materials are in<figref idrefs="f0025">FIG. 35a and 35b</figref> shown.

Also, the tube 2 may be made in multiple parts as shown in <figref idrefs="f0026">Fig. 36</figref> is shown.

In the lateral area of ​​the pipe 2, this may be constructed of two-shell for thermal separation. These side-form 42 may be connected in the region of the ends of the tube 2 with the tube 2, so that no or little inboard 12 medium flows into the gap 41st Such an embodiment is in<figref idrefs="f0026">Fig. 37</figref> shown,

Also, according to another embodiment, the facing layer, 43, for example, a formed sheet metal and are placed in front of the floor 5 in the diffuser. 7 According to the notches at 31 then recesses may be provided in the furring 44th The area between the notches 44 may be advantageously formed / bent so that the flowing medium is proceeding led by the diffuser 7 with little additional pressure drop in the pipe-TEM block 2, 3 12 The furring 43 can with the diffuser 7 , housing 6, floor 5, TEM 3 or tube can be 2 partially connected. Preferably, the facing layer 43 is partially connected to the housing. 6 Thus, the base 5 and tube 2 and possibly also the connection between the pipe 2 and 3 TEM largely protected against high Temperaturdiffereizen and resulting thermal stresses, when this on the outside 13 the cold medium is passed.<figref idrefs="f0027">Fig. 38a</figref> shows an isometric view of furring. <figref idrefs="f0028">Fig. 38b</figref> shows a TEG 1 isometric longitudinal section.

The TEM 3 can also according to the exemplary illustrations of <figref idrefs="f0028">Fig. 39</figref> profiled his 25th

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

<dl id="dl0002" compact="compact"><dt>1</dt><dd>Thermoelectric Generator TEG</dd><dt>2</dt><dd>pipe</dd><dt>3</dt><dd>Thermoelekrinsches module TEM</dd><dt>4</dt><dd>bonding sheet metal</dd><dt>5</dt><dd>ground</dd><dt>6</dt><dd>housing</dd><dt>7</dt><dd>diffuser</dd><dt>8th</dt><dd>Turbulenzetnlage</dd><dt>9</dt><dd>Axial direction</dd><dt>10</dt><dd>Radial direction</dd><dt>11</dt><dd>Warm transmission path</dd><dt>12</dt><dd>Inside: medium 1</dd><dt>13</dt><dd>Exterior: Medium 2</dd><dt>14</dt><dd>thermoelectric (TE) active materials</dd><dt>15</dt><dd>Electric cable</dd><dt>16</dt><dd>Interior of the TEM</dd><dt>17</dt><dd>Enveloping body of the TEM</dd><dt>18</dt><dd>Sealing of the TEM</dd><dt>19</dt><dd>length TEM</dd><dt>20</dt><dd>width TEM</dd><dt>21</dt><dd>height TEM</dd><dt>22</dt><dd>Increase in the edge region of the TEM</dd><dt>23</dt><dd>Through trains this tube</dd><dt>24</dt><dd>Paragraph in the edge region of the TEM</dd><dt>25</dt><dd>Profiling of the TEM</dd><dt>26</dt><dd>Openings in the pipe </dd><dt>27</dt><dd>lateral portions of the TEM</dd><dt>28</dt><dd>Collar: curved passage</dd><dt>29</dt><dd>Bead in a draft</dd><dt>30</dt><dd>Folding the sheet</dd><dt>31</dt><dd>The notches at</dd><dt>32</dt><dd>Outer contour of the bottom</dd><dt>33</dt><dd>Passages in the soil</dd><dt>34</dt><dd>Opening in the housing for connecting cables</dd><dt>35</dt><dd>Opening in the housing for electrical Katbel</dd><dt>36</dt><dd>Engraving in the housing</dd><dt>37</dt><dd>Distribution characteristics in the housing</dd><dt>38</dt><dd>Expansions in the start and end of the housing</dd><dt>39</dt><dd>deflections</dd><dt>40</dt><dd>Connecting surface pipe with TEM</dd><dt>41</dt><dd>Gap between TEM and tube on the inside</dd><dt>42</dt><dd>side-form</dd><dt>43</dt><dd>furring</dd><dt>44</dt><dd>Recesses in the facing layer</dd></dl>