An Introduction to System-Level, Steady-State and Transient Modeling and Optimization of High-Power-Density Thermoelectric Generator Devices Made of Segmented Thermoelectric Elements

Abstract

High-power-density, segmented, thermoelectric (TE) elements have been intimately integrated into heat exchangers, eliminating many of the loss mechanisms of conventional TE assemblies, including the ceramic electrical isolation layer. Numerical models comprising simultaneously solved, nonlinear, energy balance equations have been created to simulate these novel architectures. Both steady-state and transient models have been created in a MATLAB/Simulink environment. The models predict data from experiments in various configurations and applications over a broad range of temperature, flow, and current conditions for power produced, efficiency, and a variety of other important outputs. Using the validated models, devices and systems are optimized using advanced multiparameter optimization techniques. Devices optimized for particular steady-state operating conditions can then be dynamically simulated in a transient operating model. The transient model can simulate a variety of operating conditions including automotive and truck drive cycles.

Improved thermoelectric cooling based on the Thomson effect

“…The method has been experimentally verified 20 and shown to reproduce results using a more traditional finite element results but with less computational complexity. This method has been incorporated into several engineering models such as those used by NASA for Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators 21 and Amerigon/BSST for automotive applications 20,22 . Consider an infinitesimal section of thermoelectric leg in a temperature gradient and an electric field.…”

Simulation of Fuel Economy Effectiveness of Exhaust Heat Recovery System Using Thermoelectric Generator in a Series Hybrid

“…Methods for optimizing TEG specifications have begun to be proposed in recent years with a view to TEG application in automobiles [1,2]. One such method that has been proposed is simulation capable of optimizing the TEG specifications so that it will yield maximum power or maximum efficiency [2].…”

“…One such method that has been proposed is simulation capable of optimizing the TEG specifications so that it will yield maximum power or maximum efficiency [2]. When installing exhaust heat recovery systems employing TEG in automobiles, not only are factors that enhance fuel economy engendered by power generation, but at the same time, factors that result in deterioration in fuel economy, such as increased pressure loss in the exhaust system and increased vehicle weight, are also created.…”

Model building of thermoelectric generator exposed to dynamic transient sources

“…According to Nguyen and Pochiraju in [3], although there are a number of papers discussing TEG modules, including analytical and numerical steady state models, fully coupled and complete transient analyses of TEG are often not been discussed. Crane [4] also discussed on the transient operating model for the application of segmented thermoelectric elements. An examination on the behavior of a TEG has been studied by Carmo et.al [5] and Hsu et.al [6] but still solitude on single TEG.…”