Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120111386 | ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS WITH THERMOELECTRIC GENERATORS - In some embodiments, an integrated power generation system includes a primary power source supplying power to a primary power user, a thermoelectric power generator system thermally coupled to a heat source, and an electronic controller unit. In certain embodiments, an electronic controller unit monitors the power output of the primary power source and operatively connects the thermoelectric power generating system to the primary power user when one or more power usage factors occurs. One power usage factor that can occur is the power output of the primary power source falling below a threshold power level. | 05-10-2012 |
20120305043 | THERMOELECTRIC DEVICES WITH REDUCTION OF INTERFACIAL LOSSES - In certain embodiments, a thermoelectric system can include a first thermoelectric assembly and a second thermoelectric assembly. Both the first and second thermoelectric assemblies can be configured to receive heat from at least one heat source and to transmit heat to at least one heat sink. The first and second thermoelectric assemblies can be in electrical communication with one another. The thermoelectric system can further include at least one electrically insulating element mechanically coupled to the first thermoelectric assembly and to the second thermoelectric assembly. The at least one electrically insulating element is not in a thermal path of either (i) heat flow from the at least one heat source to either the first thermoelectric assembly or the second thermoelectric assembly or (ii) heat flow to the at least one heat sink from either the first thermoelectric assembly or the second thermoelectric assembly. | 12-06-2012 |
20130037073 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REDUCING CURRENT AND INCREASING VOLTAGE IN THERMOELECTRIC SYSTEMS - A thermoelectric assembly and method are provided. The thermoelectric assembly can extend at least partially around a perimeter of a first fluid conduit. The thermoelectric assembly can include a plurality of thermoelectric sub-assemblies aligned with one another along the perimeter of the first fluid conduit. Each thermoelectric sub-assembly can include a plurality of thermoelectric elements in parallel electrical communication with one another, and a plurality of electrically insulating elements to prevent current flow in a plane perpendicular to the first direction between adjacent thermoelectric sub-assemblies. | 02-14-2013 |