DESIGN THEORY OF THERMOELECTRIC MODULES FOR ELECTRICAL-POWER GENERATION

One of main requirements in the design of a thermoelectric module is t o determine the optimum module geometry, based upon available thermoel ectric material and manufacturing technology, which meets the given ap plication specifications. In order to assist in determining the approp riate module geometry for thermoelectric generation, its relationship to the power output and conversion efficiency is examined. A practical procedure for optimising module geometry guided by the 'economic fact or' is described, together with formulae and graphs which form the fou ndations of thermoelectric module design.