1206.5649 (Y. Apertet et al.)

Segmented thermoelectric generators: Impact of junction temperature
variation on the series circuit's properties    [PDF]

Y. Apertet, H. Ouerdane, C. Goupil, Ph. Lecoeur

We present and analyze a model of a system constituted of two thermoelectric generators (TEGs) thermally and electrically connected in series. For simplicity the parameters of both TEGs are assumed to be temperature-independent. The derivation of the equivalent electrical series resistance yields an unexpected term whose meaning and impact are discussed. We demonstrate that this term must exist as a consequence of thermal continuity at the interface, since it is related to the variation of the junction temperature between the two TEGs as the electrical current varies. We then derive an expression for the equivalent series figure of merit and use it to discuss the approach of thermoelectric compatibility. Finally we highlight the strong thermal/electrical symmetry between the parallel and series configurations.

View original: http://arxiv.org/abs/1206.5649