Optimization of a segmented generating leg

Abstract

A precise method for calculating segmented legs for thermoelectric generators in a one-dimensional approximation by the method of thermal balance with effective values of the thermoelectric parameters is proposed. This method allows one to accurately take into consideration the temperature dependences of the electrical conductivity, the Seebeck coefficient, and thermal conductivity. The effect of contact resistance on the resulting power-conversion efficiency is also taken into account. The procedure of segmented leg calculation is demonstrated, and a method of transitioning from leg calculation to thermoelement calculation is proposed.