A Liquid Fuel Pocket-Sized Thermoelectric Generator for Battery Replacement

The proposed work will explore possibilities for a less than 100 Watt-hour, pocket-sized, Trymer-"Type", thermoelectric generator that converts high energy-density fuels into electrical power for small system usage. Computer models and an actual small-scale working generator will be developed in Phase I and used to study and test the concept. Scavenged heat from an engine-exhaust manifold will also be a part of the small generator study, converting part of the exhaust heat energy into electrical energy to power small systems. Trymer developed a novel one-sized thermoelectric technology through SBIR and is currently manufacturing and selling a 27 pound, 5kW, 120 VAC generator worldwide for home use, recreation, construction and rural electrification. The proposed work will study the practicality of developing a much smaller unit, for dedicated, built-in power, for a variety of defense and commercial applications.