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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Thermoelectric refrigerator having improved temperature stabilization means

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6430980
A control system for thermoelectric refrigerators is disclosed. The thermoelectric refrigerator includes at least one thermoelectric element that undergoes a first order change at a predetermined critical temperature. The element functions as a thermoelectric refrigerator element above the critical temperature, but discontinuously ceases to function as a thermoelectric refrigerator element below the critical temperature. One example of such an arrangement includes thermoelectric refrigerator elements which are superconductors. The transition temperature of one of the superconductor elements is selected as the temperature control point of the refrigerator. When the refrigerator attempts to cool below the point, the metals become superconductors losing their ability to perform as a thermoelectric refrigerator. An extremely accurate, first-order control is realized.
Assignee:
Dept. of Energy
Patent Number(s):
US 4362023
OSTI ID:
6430980
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English