THERMOELECTRIC BATTERY Russian patent published in 2006 - IPC H01L35/28 

FIELD: mechanical design of thermoelectric batteries.

SUBSTANCE: proposed thermoelectric battery has alternating p and n semiconductor branches connected in series to set up electric circuit by means of switching plates. Branches are electrically interconnected by bringing in contact p branch, switching plate, and n branch, where p branch contacts one of surfaces of switching plate through its end surface and n branch contacts its other surface. Each branch contacts two switching plates through its opposing end surfaces. Surface area of switching plates is slightly larger than cross-sectional area of p and n branches so that their ends protrude beyond surface of structure formed by thermoelectric battery branches. Ends of odd-numbered switching plates protrude beyond one surface of structure and those of even-numbered switching plates, beyond other surface. Ends of switching plates contact electrically isolated pads made in the form of metal or alloy films covering ceramic plates. Space confined between ceramic plates and surface of structure formed by thermoelectric battery branches is filled with heat insulation.

EFFECT: reduced heat load on switching plates, facilitated connection of the latter to cooled parts and heat dump system.

1 cl, 2 dwg