JP2005235958A - Thermoelectric transducer - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a thermoelectric transducer which facilitates the operation of attaching and detaching a thermoelectric conversion module or a module terminal, and also maintains high performance and high reliability when being electrically connected. <P>SOLUTION: In the thermoelectric transducer, a module terminal 20 is provided in each thermoelectric conversion module 11, 11a and 11b comprising a thermoelectric transducer 15, the module terminal 20 is divided into a first terminal 21 and a second terminal 22, and each divided first terminal 21 and second terminal 22 comprises means 23, 24, 25 and 28 of a freely connectable and separable configuration. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a thermoelectric conversion device including a thermoelectric conversion module that directly exchanges heat energy with electric energy or transfers heat from a low temperature side to a high temperature side by applying an electric current from the outside. The present invention relates to a thermoelectric conversion device that improves the performance and reliability of a thermoelectric conversion module by improving the module terminal for electrical connection with the thermoelectric conversion module.

  The thermoelectric conversion device is provided with a thermoelectric conversion unit that combines a thermoelectric conversion module or a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules.

  A thermoelectric conversion module is a combination of P-type semiconductor and N-type semiconductor thermoelectric conversion elements that directly convert thermal energy into electrical energy using thermal conduction conversion effects such as the Thomson effect, Peltier effect, and Seebeck effect. Yes.

  Conventionally, many inventions, such as Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2001-119076 and Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2003-179274, are disclosed by the thermoelectric converter.

In the disclosed thermoelectric conversion device, P-type and N-type semiconductor thermoelectric conversion elements are arranged in parallel between a ceramic substrate or an insulating resin, and an insulating resin is interposed between the thermoelectric conversion element and the adjacent thermoelectric conversion element. In order to reinforce each thermoelectric conversion element and connect the upper and lower ends to the electrode, a solder layer is used (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-119076), and a heat conduction plate is interposed at the boundary. The thermoelectric conversion elements are arranged in a laminated form to constitute a thermoelectric conversion element group, electrodes are provided on both sides of the thermoelectric conversion element group, and the electrodes are fixed by pressing means (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-179274).
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-119076 JP 2003-179274 A

  Conventionally, thermoelectric conversion devices directly convert electrical energy using the temperature difference between both ends of P-type and N-type semiconductor thermoelectric conversion elements constituting the thermoelectric conversion module, and take out the power outside the module. As an electrical connection structure between the conversion module and the outside, the structure shown in FIG. 15 has been implemented.

  That is, the thermoelectric conversion module 1 configures an electric circuit by sandwiching both ends of a thermoelectric conversion element 4 that makes a pair of a P-type semiconductor 2 and an N-type semiconductor 3 between electrodes 5, and electrically enters the end of the circuit. The lead wire 6 was connected to the electrode 5 as the output terminal 8 with the solder 7.

  In such an electrical connection of the conventional modules, when many modules are electrically connected in series or in parallel, the lead wires 6 of the different modules are cut to a required length and soldered each time. 7 had to be connected, and it took a long time.

  Also, it takes a long time to replace any of the connected module groups due to a failure or the like.

  In addition, when connecting a measuring instrument to the input / output terminal of a module for checking individual modules of the module group, etc., the position is unclear and it is difficult to measure using lead wires, etc. Had a problem.

  Further, the connecting portion of the lead wire on the module side is supported only by the solder, and its strength is weak. Therefore, when an external force is applied to the lead wire, there is a problem that the connecting portion is damaged. In particular, when the lead wire is long, there is a high risk of external force being applied to the lead wire, such as an inspector being caught for some reason.

  On the other hand, in Patent Document 1, a metal material exposed in a planar manner is used as an input / output terminal of a module without using lead wires. In this module, the terminal is connected to the signal lead pin using a wire (lead wire), solder, conductive paste, or conductive adhesive, so that the connection portion between the terminal and the signal lead pin can be easily repaired. ing.

  However, when connecting multiple modules electrically in series or in parallel, each terminal is still connected with a wire (lead wire) by soldering, so it takes a lot of time and trouble. Therefore, it took a lot of time to convert one of the connected modules.

  In addition, the wire (lead wire) is likely to be subjected to external forces such as being caught on the feet of an inspector, etc., so the connection end of the wire connected with solder is easily damaged, and performance and reliability are completely I was worried.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve such problems, and is a troublesome work of electrically connecting a plurality of thermoelectric conversion modules and module terminals, and a troublesome work of removing and replacing one of the modules. An object of the present invention is to provide a thermoelectric conversion device that can reduce work and maintain high performance and high reliability in electrical connection between module terminals.

  In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is the thermoelectric conversion device in which a module terminal is provided in a thermoelectric conversion module including a thermoelectric conversion element, as described in claim 1. Is divided into a first terminal and a second terminal, and both of the divided first terminal and second terminal are provided with means having a structure that can be contacted and separated.

  In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is characterized in that, as described in claim 2, the means that can be contacted and separated includes a first base terminal and a spherical base end. The first electric contact having a shape and the second terminal are formed by a concave second electric contact.

  In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is characterized in that, as described in claim 3, the means having a detachable structure includes the first terminal as a polygonal base end and a ball. The first electric contact having a shape and the second terminal are formed by a concave second electric contact.

  Further, in order to achieve the above-described object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention has a configuration in which contact and separation are possible as described in claim 4, and the first terminal is chamfered at the corner. In addition to a quadrilateral base end and a spherical first electrical contact, the second terminal is a concave spherical second electrical contact.

  Further, in order to achieve the above-described object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention includes a first terminal and a base end portion having a columnar cross section as described in claim 5. The first electrical contact having a cylindrical cross-section that is relatively smaller than the base end portion, and the second terminal is composed of a spherically recessed second electrical contact.

  In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention has a L-shaped cross section as described in claim 6, wherein the first and second terminals are configured to be detachable. A first piece having a concave shape and a second piece having a spherical shape with a concave cross section, with a space in the middle, and a connection for connecting the first terminal across the second terminals of the module terminals of the adjacent thermoelectric conversion modules It has a piece.

  Moreover, in order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is such that the connection piece can be bent and has raised portions at both ends.

  Further, in order to achieve the above object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention has a fastener hole through which the first terminal, the second terminal, and the connection piece are inserted, as described in claim 8. It is equipped with.

  In order to achieve the above-described object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is configured such that the means having a detachable structure includes a first terminal as a tip and a bulging portion. The second terminal is constituted by a first piece having an L-shaped cross section and a second piece having a concave spherical surface, and has a space in the middle.

  In order to achieve the above-described object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention, as described in claim 10, is configured so that the first and second terminals can be connected to and separated from each other. It is comprised with the support piece provided with the insertion hole which penetrates a fastener in a part.

  In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is characterized in that the means having a detachable structure includes both the first terminal and the second terminal. And a connecting piece to be attached to the column body via a fastener.

  In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is characterized in that the means having a detachable configuration extends from each of the first terminal and the second terminal. The connecting piece is connected to the connecting piece extending from each of the first terminal and the second terminal of the module terminal of the adjacent thermoelectric conversion module.

  Moreover, in order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is the thermoelectric conversion device in which a module terminal is provided in a thermoelectric conversion module including a thermoelectric conversion element, as described in claim 13, The thermoelectric conversion module is formed in a mountain shape along the cross-sectional direction.

  Moreover, in order to achieve the above-described object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is the thermoelectric conversion device in which a module terminal is provided in a thermoelectric conversion module including a thermoelectric conversion element, as described in claim 14, The thermoelectric conversion module includes a recessed portion and a protruding piece.

  Moreover, in order to achieve the above-described object, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is the thermoelectric conversion device in which a module terminal is provided in a thermoelectric conversion module including a thermoelectric conversion element, as described in claim 15, The thermoelectric conversion module is provided with a protruding piece and a groove.

  In the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention, the module terminal is divided into the first terminal and the second terminal, and the divided first terminal and the second terminal are provided with means that can be connected to and separated from each other. The conversion module can be easily attached and detached, and high power and high reliability can be maintained in the electrical connection between the modules to ensure a stable power supply.

  DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the invention will be described with reference to the drawings and reference numerals attached to the drawings.

  Prior to the description of the thermoelectric converter according to the present invention, first, the general principle will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a thermoelectric conversion device.

  The thermoelectric conversion device 10 directly converts thermal energy into electrical energy using the Seebeck effect, or applies current from the outside using the Peltier effect to cause heat transfer from the low temperature side to the high temperature side. A thermoelectric conversion module 11 is provided for conversion.

  The thermoelectric conversion module 11 includes a thermoelectric conversion element group 15 provided between a high temperature side or heat absorption side insulating substrate 12 and a low temperature side or heat dissipation side insulating substrate 13.

  The high-temperature side and low-temperature side insulating substrates 12 and 13 are made of a heat-resistant material such as ceramics having electrical insulation characteristics excellent in thermal conductivity. The thermoelectric conversion element group 15 may be used by being embedded in an epoxy resin, for example, in addition to the case where the thermoelectric conversion element group 15 is sandwiched between heat-resistant materials made of ceramics. In this case, the resin in which the thermoelectric conversion element group 15 is embedded is referred to as an insulating material 14 below.

  The thermoelectric conversion element group 15 includes a plurality of P-type semiconductors 16 and N-type semiconductors 17 as a pair, and is configured by a large number of thermoelectric conversion elements, for example, arranged in a matrix. Each thermoelectric conversion element 15 (16, 17) has, for example, a cylindrical column shape, and one end is a high temperature surface or a heat absorption surface and the other end is a low temperature surface or a heat dissipation surface.

  Of each thermoelectric conversion element 15 (16, 17), the high temperature surface (heat absorption surface) side and the low temperature surface (heat radiation surface) side are both connected to the electrodes 18, 19. In addition, at least one of the electrode 18 provided on the high temperature surface side and the electrode 19 provided on the low temperature surface side of each thermoelectric conversion element 15 (16, 17) is connected via the solder layer 27. Alternatively, all of the thermoelectric conversion elements 15 (16, 17) and the electrodes 18, 19 are embedded in the insulating material 14.

  By the way, the thermoelectric conversion module 11 obtains an electromotive force based on the temperature difference between the high temperature surface (heat absorption surface) side and the low temperature surface (heat dissipation surface) side of each thermoelectric conversion element 15 (16, 17). Therefore, it is necessary to secure a high heat source in order to secure a high electromotive force. In this case, for example, in a power plant, a large amount of heat energy is released, so it is easy to secure a high heat source.

  In addition, the thermoelectric conversion module 11 has a high temperature surface (heat absorption surface) side electrode 18 and a low temperature surface (heat radiation surface) side electrode 19 provided in each thermoelectric conversion element 15 (16, 17) alternately in a zigzag shape. Alternatively, the electromotive force generated in each thermoelectric conversion element 15 (16, 17) is taken out as a power source (electric power load) via the module terminal 20 and arranged in a staggered manner. In order to secure a source, many thermoelectric conversion elements 15 (16, 17) are required.

  When a large number of thermoelectric conversion elements 15 (16, 17) are required, the thermoelectric conversion module 11 is easy to contact and separate individual modules, is excellent in strength without breakage or deformation, and has a large number of modules. From the inside, it is easy to attach and detach each unit, and in addition, it is required to have good electrical conduction.

  The thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention is made in consideration of such points, and is an improvement of the module terminal 20 of the thermoelectric conversion module 11. The module terminal 20 is divided into an input side and an output side, but the input side and the output side are reversed between the case where heat energy is converted into electric energy and the case where heat is transferred from the low temperature side to the high temperature side. Here, the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 are described.

  FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a first embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention provided with a module terminal 20.

  In FIG. 2, (a) is a plan view of a thermoelectric conversion module obtained by taking one out of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and (b) is adjacent to the thermoelectric conversion module taken out from many thermoelectric conversion modules. It is a figure which shows the connection with another thermoelectric conversion module.

  The thermoelectric conversion device according to the present embodiment includes a first terminal 21 and a first thermoelectric conversion module 11 for facilitating contact / separation work between one thermoelectric conversion module 11a and another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module 11b. The structure of each of the two terminals 22 is improved.

  That is, the thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) includes the thermoelectric conversion elements 15 (16, 17), electrodes (not shown) connecting the thermoelectric conversion elements 15 (16, 17), and the thermoelectric conversion elements 15 ( 16 and 17), the insulating material 14, the first terminal 21, and the second terminal 22 are provided.

  Of the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22, the first terminal 21 is configured as a male part 26 and includes a rectangular base end part 23 at one end and a spherical first electrical contact 24 at the other end. And the base end portion 23 and the first electric contact 24 are connected to each other integrally or continuously via a connecting piece 25.

  Moreover, the 2nd terminal 22 is comprised as the female part 27, and has a structure provided with the 2nd electrical contact 28 formed in a concave spherical shape.

  On the other hand, when the insulating material 14 is used as a substrate, a ceramic material such as alumina is used, and when each thermoelectric conversion element 15 (16, 17) is embedded with an insulating resin, an epoxy resin or the like is used.

  The first electrical contact 24 of the first terminal 21 and the second electrical contact 28 of the second terminal 22 are both made of a conductive material such as copper or aluminum, while being plated with nickel, chromium or the like. To prevent oxidation and reduce contact resistance.

  Thus, this embodiment comprises the 1st terminal 21 as the male part 26 among the 1st terminal 21 and the 2nd terminal 22 provided in one thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b), and is a base end part. 23 and a spherical first electrical contact 24, the second terminal 22 is configured as a female portion 27, and the second electrical contact 28 is formed in a concave spherical shape. Among them, when connecting and disconnecting another thermoelectric conversion module 11b adjacent to one thermoelectric conversion module 11a, the second terminal 22 is fitted to the first terminal 21 so that the module can be easily attached and detached. It can be carried out easily and can be supplied with a stable electric power at the time of installation, and can be supplied to the module by an inspector like a conventional lead wire. It without giving the wound under the electric stable supply, thereby improving the reliability.

  In the present embodiment, the base end portion 23 of the first terminal 21 is rectangular. However, the present invention is not limited to this example, and the base end portion 23 is polygonal as shown in FIGS. However, the attachment may be strengthened, or as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the base end 23 may be a square with a spherical chamfer 29 processed at the corner. Further, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the base end portion 23 of the first terminal 21 is formed into a relatively large cross-sectional columnar shape, and the first electric contactor 24 is integrated or via a connecting piece 25. It is possible to form a relatively small cross-sectional columnar shape as compared with the base end portion 23.

  These shapes can alleviate local concentration of stress generated during use, increase the strength of the base end portion 23, and improve reliability.

  FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a fifth embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention provided with a module terminal 20.

  In FIG. 6, (a) is a plan view of a thermoelectric conversion module obtained by taking one out of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and (b) straddles one thermoelectric conversion module and another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module. The perspective view which shows the connection piece connected by (c) is a figure which shows the connection of the thermoelectric conversion module taken out from many thermoelectric conversion modules, and the other thermoelectric conversion module adjacent.

  In the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present embodiment, one thermoelectric conversion module 11 can be operated even if an unexpected external force is applied for some reason during operation of another thermoelectric conversion module 11b adjacent to one thermoelectric conversion module 11a. The structure of each of the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 is improved so that another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module 11b is not separated from the conversion module 11a.

  That is, both the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 provided in the thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) have the same structural shape and are configured as the female portion 27, and the first piece 30 having the L-shaped cross section has a cross section. A second piece 31 having a concave spherical shape is connected, and a space 32 is provided between the first piece 30 and the second piece 31, and a connecting piece of a foldable elastic material shown in FIG. It has a structure that accommodates 33 in a freely detachable manner.

  In addition, the 1st terminal 21 and the 2nd terminal 22 are arrange | positioned so that the cross-section concave spherical surface side of the 2nd piece 31 may mutually oppose.

  On the other hand, a connecting piece 33 of a bendable elastic material, which is configured as a male part 26 that is connected to the second terminal 22 across the first terminal 21, is formed in a U-shaped piece 34 and is formed at the end of the piece 34. A raised portion 35 formed outward is provided.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 provided in one thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) are both configured as the female portion 27, and the first piece having an L-shaped cross section is formed. 30 is connected to a second piece 31 having a spherical section that is concave in section, and a space 32 is provided between the first piece 30 and the second piece 31, and the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 are straddling the space 32. A connecting piece 33 of elastic material that can be connected to each other is formed by a piece 34 having a U-shaped cross section, and a protruding portion 35 is provided at an end of the piece 34, and the protruding portion 35 and the second piece 31 have a spherical shape with a recessed section. Since the frictional force with the surface is used, even if an unexpected external force is applied during operation, separation of one adjacent thermoelectric conversion module 11b from one thermoelectric conversion module 11a can be reliably prevented. .

  In the present embodiment, when one thermoelectric conversion module 11a and another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module 11b are connected, the connection piece 33 that is connected to the second terminal 22 across the first terminal 21 is provided. Not limited to this example, fastener holes 36 such as bolts are formed in each of the first terminal 21, the second terminal 22, and the connection piece 33 as shown in FIGS. For example, a fastener 37 such as a bolt may be inserted into the fastener hole 36.

  Further, instead of the fastener 37 shown in FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C, for example, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the first terminal 21 as the male portion 26 is used. Is composed of a connecting piece 39 made of a bendable elastic material provided with a raised portion 35 at the tip, and the second terminal 22 as the female portion 27 is connected to a first piece 30 having an L-shaped section and a spherical section having a recessed section. When the thermoelectric conversion modules 11a and 11b are connected to each other, the connecting piece 39 of the first terminal 21 is bent, and the raised portion 35 of the bent connecting piece 39 is connected to the first piece of the second terminal 22. You may accommodate and contact in the space 32 formed by 30 and the 2nd piece 31. FIG.

  FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing a sixth embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention provided with a module terminal 20.

  In FIG. 7, (a) is a perspective view showing a first terminal and a second terminal applied to one of the thermoelectric conversion modules adjacent to one of the thermoelectric conversion modules, and (b) shows a number of thermoelectric conversion modules. The top view of the thermoelectric conversion module which took out one from the inside, (c) is a figure which shows the connection of the thermoelectric conversion module taken out out of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and the other adjacent thermoelectric conversion module.

  The thermoelectric conversion device according to the present embodiment includes a first terminal 21 and a thermoelectric conversion module 11 in order to more reliably connect one thermoelectric conversion module 11a and another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module 11b. Each of the second terminals 22 is improved.

  That is, both the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 provided in the thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) have the same structure and shape, and serve as a support piece 39a having a flange 38 at the tip. The insertion hole 40 is provided in the collar portion 38.

  In addition, the 1st terminal 21 and the 2nd terminal 22 are arrange | positioned so that the collar parts 38 and 38 may face in the opposite direction.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, both the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 provided in one thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) are configured as the support piece 39a including the flange portion 38, and the support piece 39a. Since the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 are connected to each other using a fastener 37 such as a bolt, for example, through the insertion hole 40 provided in the other hole, another one adjacent to one thermoelectric conversion module 11a is used. The thermoelectric conversion module 11b can be reliably connected.

  FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram showing a seventh embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention provided with a module terminal 20.

  8A is a perspective view showing a connection piece for connecting one thermoelectric conversion module and another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module, and FIG. 8B is one thermoelectric conversion module and another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module. The perspective view which shows each of the 1st terminal provided in each of each, and the 2nd terminal, (c) is a figure which shows the connection with the other thermoelectric conversion module which adjoins the thermoelectric conversion module taken out from many thermoelectric conversion modules It is.

  As in the sixth embodiment, the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present embodiment is configured to make the connection between one thermoelectric conversion module 11a and another thermoelectric conversion module 11b adjacent to the thermoelectric conversion module 11 even more reliable. The first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 are improved.

  That is, the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 provided in the thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) have the same structure and shape, and include a fastener hole 41 into which a fastener 44 such as a bolt is screwed. For example, a prismatic column 42 is formed.

  For example, a rectangular connecting piece 43 having a fastener hole 41 is attached to the column body 42 that is configured as the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22, and the column body 42 is supported through the fastener 44 so as to be freely contacted and separated.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, both the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 provided in one thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) are configured as the column body 42, and the connection piece 43 attached to the column body 42 is provided. Since the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 are connected to each other by the fastener 44 via the fastener, the other thermoelectric conversion module 11b adjacent to the one thermoelectric conversion module 11a is securely connected. Can be connected to.

  In the present embodiment, when one thermoelectric conversion module 11a is connected to another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module 11b, a first terminal provided in each of the one thermoelectric conversion module 11a and another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module. 21 and the second terminal 22 are both configured as a column body 42 and are supported by the column body 42 with a fastener 44 via a connection piece 43. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, FIGS. As shown in (c), the thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) is provided with, for example, a flat plate-like first terminal 21 and second terminal 22, and extended from each of the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22. As shown in FIG. 10 (b), the connecting pieces 45 are provided on the vertical plane and connected with the fasteners 44, or the provided connecting pieces 45 are As shown in 0 (c), it may be connected by fasteners 44 are overlapped in cross-section by bending.

  In the present embodiment, the connection piece 45 is provided so as to extend to each of the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22, and the provided connection piece 45 is made flexible. The conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) can be moved and fully dealt with.

  FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing an eleventh embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention provided with a module terminal 20.

  In FIG. 12, (a) is a plan view of a thermoelectric conversion module obtained by taking one out of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and (b) is adjacent to the thermoelectric conversion module taken out from many thermoelectric conversion modules. It is a figure which shows the connection with another thermoelectric conversion module.

  In the thermoelectric conversion device according to the present embodiment, one thermoelectric conversion module 11a and another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module 11b among the thermoelectric conversion modules 11 are arranged in alignment without shifting to a predetermined position. The thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) is improved.

  That is, the thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) is formed in a quadrilateral shape, and of the quadrilateral sides 46a, 46b, 46c, 46d, two sides of the sides 46b, 46d are formed in a mountain shape along the cross-sectional direction. Of the remaining sides 46a and 46c, lead wires 47a and 47b are connected to the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 provided on the side 46a, respectively, and a chevron shape is formed on the sides 46b and 46d. This is used for positioning.

  In addition, the code | symbol 48 is the connection line 48 which electrically connects the other thermoelectric conversion module 11b adjacent to the one thermoelectric conversion module 11a.

  As described above, this embodiment is formed by forming the sides 46b and 46d in a mountain shape along the cross-sectional direction among the sides 46a to 46d of the thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a and 11b) formed in a quadrilateral shape. Since the thermoelectric conversion modules 11 (11a, 11b) are arranged in order by using the mountain shape for positioning, the thermoelectric conversion modules 11 (11a, 11b) are sequentially aligned without deviating from a predetermined position. The thermoelectric conversion module 11 (11a, 11b) is not reversed.

  In this embodiment, when arranging another thermoelectric conversion module 11b adjacent to one thermoelectric conversion module 11a, the sides 46b and 46d of the thermoelectric conversion modules 11a and 11b are formed in a mountain shape along the cross-sectional direction. Although the mountain-shaped sides 46b and 46d are used for positioning, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, as shown in FIGS. 13 (a) and 13 (b), each of the thermoelectric conversion modules 11a and 11b has a raised portion 48 and A recessed portion 49 may be provided, and the raised portion 48 of one thermoelectric conversion module 11a may be fitted and connected to the recessed portion 49 of another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module 11b, or FIGS. 14 (a) and 14 (b). As shown in (c), each thermoelectric conversion module 11a, 11b is provided with a protruding piece 50 provided on each surface and a groove 51 provided on the back surface thereof, and one thermoelectric conversion module. The protruding piece 50 of the Le 11a may be connected to overlap the laminated fitted into the groove 51 of another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module 11b shape.

The conceptual diagram explaining the schematic structure of a thermoelectric conversion apparatus. 1 shows a first embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention having a module terminal, wherein (a) is a plan view of a thermoelectric conversion module obtained by taking out one of many thermoelectric conversion modules, (b). FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a connection between a thermoelectric conversion module taken out from a large number of thermoelectric conversion modules and another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module. The 2nd Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention provided with the module terminal is shown, (a) is a perspective view which shows a module terminal, (b) took out one out of many thermoelectric conversion modules The top view of a thermoelectric conversion module. The 3rd Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention provided with the module terminal is shown, (a) is a perspective view which shows a module terminal, (b) took out one out of many thermoelectric conversion modules. The top view of a thermoelectric conversion module. The 4th Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention provided with the module terminal is shown, (a) is a perspective view which shows a module terminal, (b) took out one out of many thermoelectric conversion modules. The top view of a thermoelectric conversion module. 5 shows a fifth embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention provided with a module terminal, wherein (a) is a plan view of a thermoelectric conversion module obtained by taking out one of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and (b) is The perspective view which shows the connection piece which straddles and connects one thermoelectric conversion module and the other adjacent thermoelectric conversion module, (c) is another thermoelectric conversion adjacent to the thermoelectric conversion module taken out from many thermoelectric conversion modules The figure which shows the connection with a module. 6 shows a sixth embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention provided with a module terminal, wherein (a) shows a first terminal and a second terminal applied to each of the other thermoelectric conversion modules adjacent to one thermoelectric conversion module. The perspective view which shows a terminal, (b) is a top view of the thermoelectric conversion module which took out one from many thermoelectric conversion modules, (c) is adjacent to the thermoelectric conversion module taken out from many thermoelectric conversion modules The figure which shows the connection with another thermoelectric conversion module. 7 shows a seventh embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention having a module terminal, (a) is a perspective view showing a connection piece for connecting one thermoelectric conversion module and another adjacent thermoelectric conversion module; (B) is a perspective view which shows each of the 1st terminal and 2nd terminal which were provided in each of one thermoelectric conversion module and other adjacent thermoelectric conversion modules, (c) was taken out from many thermoelectric conversion modules The figure which shows the connection with the other thermoelectric conversion module adjacent to a thermoelectric conversion module. The 8th Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on this invention provided with the module terminal is shown, (a) is a perspective view which shows the connection piece which connects the other thermoelectric conversion module adjacent to one thermoelectric conversion module, (B) is a perspective view which shows each of the 1st terminal and 2nd terminal which were provided in each of one thermoelectric conversion module and other adjacent thermoelectric conversion modules, (c) was taken out from many thermoelectric conversion modules The figure which shows the connection with the other thermoelectric conversion module adjacent to a thermoelectric conversion module. 9 shows a ninth embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention provided with a module terminal, wherein (a) is a plan view of a thermoelectric conversion module obtained by taking one out of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and (b) is a plan view. The figure which shows the connection of the thermoelectric conversion module taken out from many thermoelectric conversion modules, and the other adjacent thermoelectric conversion module, (c) is another other adjacent to the thermoelectric conversion module taken out from many thermoelectric conversion modules The figure which shows the connection with a thermoelectric conversion module. 10 shows a tenth embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention provided with a module terminal, wherein (a) is a plan view of a thermoelectric conversion module obtained by taking one out of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and (b) is a plan view. The figure which shows the connection of the thermoelectric conversion module taken out out of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and the other adjacent thermoelectric conversion module. 11 shows an eleventh embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention provided with a module terminal, wherein (a) is a plan view of a thermoelectric conversion module obtained by taking one out of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and (b) is The figure which shows the connection of the thermoelectric conversion module taken out out of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and the other adjacent thermoelectric conversion module. The 12th Embodiment of the thermoelectric conversion apparatus based on this invention provided with the module terminal is shown, (a) is a top view of the thermoelectric conversion module which took out one out of many thermoelectric conversion modules, (b) is The figure which shows the connection of the thermoelectric conversion module taken out out of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and the other adjacent thermoelectric conversion module. 13 shows a thirteenth embodiment of a thermoelectric conversion device according to the present invention having a module terminal, wherein (a) is a plan view of a thermoelectric conversion module obtained by taking out one of many thermoelectric conversion modules, and (b) is The top view seen from the back surface of (a), (c) is a figure which shows the connection with the other thermoelectric conversion module adjacent to the thermoelectric conversion module taken out from many thermoelectric conversion modules. The partial view which shows the conventional thermoelectric conversion apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Thermoelectric conversion module 2 P-type semiconductor 3 N-type semiconductor 4 Thermoelectric conversion element 5 Electrode 6 Lead wire 7 Solder 8 Input / output terminal 10 Thermoelectric conversion device 11, 11a, 11b Thermoelectric conversion module 12 Heat absorption side insulating substrate 13 Heat radiation side insulating substrate 14 Insulating substance 15 Thermoelectric conversion element 15a Thermoelectric conversion element group 16 P-type semiconductor 17 N-type semiconductor 18 Electrode 19 Electrode 20 Module terminal 21 First terminal 22 Second terminal 23 Base end 24 First electric contactor 25 Connection piece 26 Male Portion 27 female portion 28 second electrical contact 29 chamfer 30 first piece 31 second piece 32 space 33 connecting piece 34 piece 35 raised portion 36 fastener hole 37 fastener 38 collar portion 39 connecting piece 39a support piece 40 insertion hole 41 Fastener hole 42 Column 43 Connection piece 44 Fastener 45 Connection piece 46a, 46b, 46c, 46d Side 47a, 47b Lead wire 48 Raised part 49 Recess 50, protruding piece 51, groove

Claims (15)

In a thermoelectric conversion device in which a module terminal is provided in a thermoelectric conversion module having a thermoelectric conversion element, the module terminal is divided into a first terminal and a second terminal, and both the divided first terminal and second terminal are connected and separated. A thermoelectric conversion device comprising means having a freely configured structure. The first and second terminals have a rectangular base end and a spherical first electric contact, and the second terminal is a concave spherical second electric contact. The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 1. The means of the structure which can be contacted / separated comprised the 1st terminal with the polygonal base end part and the spherical first electric contact, and the second terminal with the concave spherical second electric contact. The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 1. The means of contactable / detachable configuration includes a first terminal having a quadrilateral base end portion chamfered at a corner and a spherical first electric contact, and a second terminal having a concave spherical shape. The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the thermoelectric conversion device is constituted by a second electric contact. The means of contactable / detachable configuration includes a first terminal, a base end portion having a columnar cross-section, and a first electric contact having a columnar cross-section relatively smaller than the base end portion, and a second end. 2. The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the terminal is constituted by a spherically recessed second electric contactor. The first and second terminals are configured by a first piece having an L-shaped cross section and a second piece having a concave spherical surface, and has a space in the middle. The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, further comprising a connection piece for connecting the terminal across the second terminal of the module terminals of the adjacent thermoelectric conversion modules. The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 6, wherein the connection piece is bendable and has a raised portion at both ends. The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 6, wherein each of the first terminal, the second terminal, and the connection piece includes a fastener hole through which the fastener is inserted. The means having a detachable structure is configured such that the first terminal is a foldable connecting piece having a raised portion at the tip, and the second terminal is a first piece having an L-shaped cross section and a second piece having a concave concave spherical shape. The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the thermoelectric conversion device includes a piece and a space in the middle. 2. The thermoelectric conversion according to claim 1, wherein both the first terminal and the second terminal are configured by a support piece having an insertion hole through which a fastener is inserted in the flange at the tip. apparatus. The means of detachable configuration is characterized in that both the first terminal and the second terminal are constituted by a column body provided with a fastener hole and a connection piece attached to the column body via a fastener. The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 1. The means having a detachable structure includes a connection piece extending from each of the first terminal and the second terminal, and a connection piece extending from each of the first terminal and the second terminal in the module terminal of the adjacent thermoelectric conversion module. The thermoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein a fastener is inserted into and connected to the piece. The thermoelectric conversion apparatus which provided the module terminal in the thermoelectric conversion module provided with the thermoelectric conversion element WHEREIN: The said thermoelectric conversion module was formed in the mountain shape along the cross-sectional direction, The thermoelectric conversion apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. The thermoelectric conversion apparatus which provided the module terminal in the thermoelectric conversion module provided with the thermoelectric conversion element, The said thermoelectric conversion module was provided with the recessed part and the protrusion piece, The thermoelectric conversion apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. The thermoelectric conversion apparatus which provided the module terminal in the thermoelectric conversion module provided with the thermoelectric conversion element, The said thermoelectric conversion module was provided with the protrusion piece and the groove | channel, The thermoelectric conversion apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned.

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