Simulation of flexible thermoelectric generators with different geometry

Abstract

The paper presents the results of modeling and comparative analysis of the output parameters of thermoelectric generators with two types of geometry. The first is based on a Y-structure with a flexible substrate, the second is based on a P-structure with a flexible base. The results of modeling at different temperature conditions and the comparison of output parameters for the Y and P structures are presented. The following results were obtained: the maximum output power of the generator based on the Y-structure at ΔT = 22 K was Pmax = 14.3 μW, for the P-structure Pmax = 5.6 μW. The specific maximum output power for the Y-structure was Pmax / S = 0.54 μW / mm2, for the P-structure Pmax / S = 0.21 μW / mm2. Thus, a thermoelectric generator built on the basis of a Y-structure has a specific output power almost three times higher than that of a similar one with a P-structure.