New Physical Model for Thermoelectric Generators

In this paper we describe a new analytical physical model for thermoelectric generators (TEGs). The model includes the Thomson effect, the Peltier heat, a parameterization of the Joule heat, as well as all thermal and electrical resistances. Geometry optimization and investigations of the influence of Peltier heat and the heat source, as well as heat sink conditions and the load resistance, which affect the output power, are presented. The results are compared with measurements of commercially available thermoelectric generators and the fundamental thermodynamic limit. A comparison between the generators is performed.