The Design of a Thermoelectric Generator and Its Medical Applications

Abstract

Growing energy demands are driving people to generate power in every possible way. New energy sources are needed to plug the energy gap. There is a growing interest in distributed energy generation due to its remarkable advantages such as flexibility, reliability, adaptability and minimal transmission losses. Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) are one such distributed power source that relies on thermal energy for electricity generation. The current review focusses on the design and optimization of TEGs to maximize the power output from the available thermal sources. The basic principle of thermoelectricity generation and suitable architecture for specific applications are explained with an overview of materials and manufacturing processes. Various cooling techniques to dissipate heat from the cold side and their influence on overall efficiency are reviewed in this work. Applications of TEGs for powering biomedical sensors have been discussed in detail. Recent advancements in TEGs for various implantable devices and their power requirements are evaluated. The exploitation of TEGs to generate power for wearable sensors has been presented, along with published experimental data. It is envisioned that this study will provide profound knowledge on TEG design for specific applications, which will be helpful for future endeavours.

A Subthreshold Cross-Coupled Hybrid Charge Pump for 50-mV Cold-Start

“…By comparing (6) and (5) for equal voltage parameters and assuming identical coefficients for the NMOS and PMOS transistors, we find that the numerator of (6) is slightly lower than that of (5), while the denominator of (6) is at least 4 times lower than that of (5); hence, we find that the value predicted by (6) is about four times greater than the value given by (5).…”

Thermoelectric Materials—Strategies for Improving Device Performance and Its Medical Applications

“…Unlike TE materials, where a universal quantity ZT could be a good performance indicator, device consideration requires a holistic approach. The various fabrication process of thermoelectric materials was compiled by Mohan [13] as categorized into seven different types. i.e., template-assisted electrodeposition, The on-film formation of nanowires method, hydrothermal synthesis, galvanic displacement method, Lithography, Vapor liquid solid growth and electroless etching method.…”

Testing of proposed design of stove-powered thermoelectric generator using natural and forced air cooling

“…2 The TEGs can be applied in many areas, for example, space exploration, automobiles, ships, locomotives, buildings, decentralised domestic power and microelectronics, etc. 5,6,[9][10][11] Additionally, such a generator can also be used to power a light or a radio, charge a mobile phone, or meet other requirements.…”