Ultra-efficient Thermoelectric Cooling Module for Satellite Thermal Management

ABSTRACT: Due to the high cost and long lead time of space based thermal management systems, there is an increased need for a space qualified thermal network system which can maintain critical components within an acceptable range during operation. SA Photonics has developed an updated design of their Thermoelectric Matrix (TECM), which is a compact, modular system which can efficiently control thermal energy within an electronic subassembly. Our new hybrid Thermoelectric Matrix configuration allows for low power networking of the thermal energy as well as zone maintained temperature control. In addition, our updated matrix includes optimized energy generation through thermal offsets. The SA Photonics iTEM system combines complimentary thermal control and energy generation in a compact package for efficient package level thermal energy management. BENEFIT: The main benefit of the SA Photonics iTEM system is the ability to monitor and control critical components within acceptable temperature ranges by the control of heat flow (thermal networking). The compact iTEM design will thermally network components and heat sinks together within electronic subassemblies maintaining temperature control through at a coefficient of performance of 10 or greater. In addition to temperature control, the iTEM system will also include thermal offset energy generation. The temperature control and energy generation are optimized to minimize performance loss in either operating characteristic.