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Thermoelectric module and method of controlling a thermoelectric module

  • US 5,705,770 A
  • Filed: 07/18/1995
  • Issued: 01/06/1998
  • Est. Priority Date: 07/21/1994
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A thermoelectric module comprising:

  • a first thermoelectric element for generating an electromotive force in response to a temperature difference thereacross;

    a second thermoelectric element for generating an electromotive force in response to a temperature difference thereacross;

    a switching circuit for switching an electrical connection between the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element between a series connection and a parallel connection;

    a voltage detecting circuit for detecting a voltage of the second thermoelectric element and controlling the switching circuit in accordance therewith; and

    a storage battery circuit electrically connected to the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element via the switching circuit for storing electricity utilizing the electromotive forces generated by the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element.

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