Geometry Optimization of a Segmented Thermoelectric Generator Based on Multi-parameter and Nonlinear Optimization Method

As no single thermoelectric material has presented a high figure-of-merit (ZT) over a very wide temperature range, segmented thermoelectric generators (STEGs), where the p- and n-legs are formed of different thermoelectric material segments joined in series, have been developed to improve the performance of thermoelectric generators. A crucial but difficult problem in a STEG design is to determine the optimal values of the geometrical parameters, like the relative lengths of each segment and the cross-sectional area ratio of the n- and p-legs. Herein, a multi-parameter and nonlinear optimization method, based on the Improved Powell Algorithm in conjunction with the discrete numerical model, was implemented to solve the STEG's geometrical optimization problem. The multi-parameter optimal results were validated by comparison with the optimal outcomes obtained from the single-parameter optimization method. Finally, the effect of the hot- and cold-junction temperatures on the geometry optimization was investigated. Results show that the optimal geometry parameters for maximizing the specific output power of a STEG are different from those for maximizing the conversion efficiency. Data also suggest that the optimal geometry parameters and the interfacial temperatures of the adjacent segments optimized for maximum specific output power or conversion efficiency vary with changing hot- and cold-junction temperatures. Through the geometry optimization, the CoSb3/Bi2Te3-based STEG can obtain a maximum specific output power up to 1725.3 W/kg and a maximum efficiency of 13.4% when operating at a hot-junction temperature of 823 K and a cold-junction temperature of 298 K.