Truck co-generation system based on combustion heated thermoelectric conversion

Among the micro-cogeneration systems using direct conversion of combustion heat into electricity (thermionic, thermoelectric converters) and fuel cells with an electric power of up to several kW, only the thermoelectric cogeneration systems have a demonstrated life-time of up to 10 years. This is one of the most important factors making these systems a more likely commercialization candidate. The report deals with a conceptual design of a combustion heated thermoelectric cogeneration system to be applied in vehicles. This paper deals with two options for the thermoelectric converter design: one of them using the planar geometry of thermoelectric batteries; and the other using a radial cylindrical thermoelectric battery configuration. The economic feasibility of the application is based on a considerable reduction in fuel consumption of a thermoelectric cogeneration system-equipped truck as compared to that of a conventional truck when the engine is idling. Another advantage is the prolongation of the engine´s service life