Comprehensive Study and Realizing an Enhanced Efficiency of the Thermoelectric Generator Along with Its Thermomechanical Properties

This paper proposes a real-time simulation model to simplify the research and outcome of a portable thermoelectric generator (TEG) system in real conditions. Consequently, the model is divided into three parts: conventional, segmented, and hybrid TEG systems. The conventional TEG system consisted of Bi2Te3 as the p-type and the n-type materials, whereas the segmented and the hybrid TEG systems consisted of a different combination of materials, including PbTe and Sb2Te3. The optimization of the TEG system length was carried out to achieve the highest power output, which was found to be 2 mm. In addition, thermomechanical stress distribution analysis of the module was conducted to determine the maximum load the TEG system could withstand before undergoing fracture, depending upon the yield strength of the material. The stress was analyzed in all three TEG systems, and the results were evaluated. Results were observed from the optimized length at 2 mm. The conventional, segmented, and hybrid TEG systems showed maximum power output of 147.122 mW, 171.934 mW, and 550 mW, respectively, with a temperature difference at 50 K.

Automated summary

This paper presents a real-time simulation model to study and simplify a portable thermoelectric generator system, including conventional, segmented, and hybrid types. By optimizing the length of the TEG system, thermomechanical stress analysis was conducted to determine the maximum load the system could bear before fracture, with the best results observed at an optimized length of 2mm.