Thermoelectric device with make-before-break high frequency converter

Abstract

An improved circular multi-element semiconductor thermoelectric hybrid utilizes a make-before-break high frequency switching output component to provide nominal alternating current voltage outputs. Overall efficiency of heat conversion is improved by coupling a chiller to the thermoelectric generator where exhaust heat produces chilled liquid or air that is conveyed to the cold side of the thermoelectric device. The thermoelectric generator is used in a variety of transportation vehicles including manufactured vehicles, retrofitted vehicles and vehicle power combinations.

We claim: 
     
         1 - 62 . (canceled) 
     
     
         63 . A method of desalting seawater utilizing a thermoelectric chiller wherein pure water is frozen from salt water and the energy used to freeze ice is recovered by melting said ice to cool fins being heated in said thermoelectric chiller.