Development of miniature personal thermoelectric generator

Abstract

This paper outlines research toward the degree of Masters in Engineering (M.Eng) in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Dublin City University. The thesis focuses on experimental and analytical investigations on the dynamics of thermocouples and thermopiles reaction to low temperature (less than 400°C or waste heat) for the feasibility and purpose of generating electricity. Thermocouples generate unique voltages at relative set temperatures. It is with this voltage that the development applications of conductive heat flow and radiation in waste heat electro generation for miniature personal thermoelectric generation is considered. The process involves a thermal heat source (the body) extracting the necessary power between the temperature differences into electrical power. Both passive and active properties of this thermal generator are investigated by measuring the mechanical and electrical properties of the couples and piles and the electro motive force produced during this electrogeneration process. The thesis work consists of the design, construction, processing and analyzing to understand the process and characterization of the device for application.