The law of thermoelectric induction and its application for extending the capabilities of thermoelectricity

Generalization of the Maxwell´s equations for nonisothermal processes leads to the generalization of the Faraday´s law of electromagnetic induction and, as a consequence, to the law of thermoelectric induction of currents. Using the law of thermoelectric induction allows to describe within the uniform treatment the processes of thermoelectric energy conversion, to create generalized thermoelement models, and to determine on their basis new ways of thermoelectricity advancement. Using the law of thermoelectric induction of currents, combined with the methods for control of spatial distribution of currents in thermoelectric medium allowed to create computer technologies for devising new thermoelement types that extend basic elements in thermoelectricity and new capabilities of practical applications in measuring technique and power engineering. Among new thermoelement types of special interest are eddy thermoelements made in the form of spiral structures. Their advent in thermoelectricity is due to the uniform approach in creating energy converters for electrical engineering and thermoelectricity based on the induction of currents in conformity with the generalized Faraday´s law. Promising in this connection is research on thermoelectric energy conversion under combined effect of temperature and electromagnetic fields. Besides, there is a bright outlook for further research on optimally inhomogeneous structures with spatial distribution of heat sources and sinks for improvement of thermoelectric energy conversion efficiency.