FIELD: heat-to-power converters; thermionic converter reactors. SUBSTANCE: thermionic power-generating assembly has series- connected power generating elements each incorporating fuel-emitter unit in the form of short cylinder whose side and one of end parts function as thermionic converter emitter; collector built of two parts of which one is made in the from of cylindrical can and other, in the form of flat base; collector insulation and case common for all power-generating elements; power-generating elements disposed at edges of power-generating assembly have height of fuel-emitter unit and length of collector part in the form of cylindrical can greater than respective height of fuel-emitter unit and length of collector part of power-generating element disposed in center of power-generating assembly. Ratio of height of fuel-emitter units for power-generating elements disposed at edges of fuel assembly to that of fuel-emitter units of elements disposed in center of power-generating assembly is found from relevant expression. EFFECT: enhanced operating efficiency. 2 cl, 1 dwg
