Pellet Stove

This application claims the benefit of provisional application U.S. Ser. No. 63/637,421, titled PELLET STOVE, filed Apr. 23, 2024, of which is incorporated herein by reference.

A pellet stove is a stove that burns compressed wood or biomass pellets as fuel to generate heat, often for residential, recreational, and sometimes commercial/industrial spaces. A steady flow of fuel is provided from a storage container to the combustion chamber, which produces a steady heat source with little to no intervention by a user/operator. The amount of heat provided is often controlled by the flow rate of fuel, and/or an amount of combustion air provided into the combustion chamber. Some residential central heating systems can be operated using a wood pellet stove as a renewable energy source, some even achieving relatively high efficiency. Pellet stoves will release typical combustion exhaust gases and other products from burning biomass, such as COand other combustion gases, along with carbon and fly ash.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key factors or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

One or more techniques and systems are described herein for a remotely controlled pellet stove that can convert heat from burning pellets into electricity using a thermoelectric generator. By way of example, the stove can comprise a combustion chamber in which pellet fuel is combusted to generate heat at a heat exchanger. Combustion gas is exhausted out of the stove, and convection air is drawn across the heat exchanger to generate heated air that is vented out into the heated space. The combustion chamber can also transfer heat to a first thermoelectric portion, wherein the heat from the combustion chamber increases the temperature of the first thermoelectric portion, resulting in a temperature difference between the first thermoelectric portion and a second thermoelectric portion thermoelectrically coupled to the first thermoelectric portion. The temperature difference can create a voltage difference by way of the Seebeck effect, resulting in electricity production. In some implementations, the generated electricity can be used to power internal components, to output electricity to external sources, or to charge internal battery storages.

In one implementation of a pellet stove that provides heat to a heated space, the pellet stove can also convert heat from burning pellets into electricity using a thermoelectric generator. In this implementation, the thermoelectric generator comprises a first thermoelectric portion and a second thermoelectric portion coupled in thermoelectrical communication. The stove comprises a combustion chamber in which pellet fuel is combusted to generate heat at a heat exchanger. A portion of the heat generated at the combustion chamber can also be used to heat a first thermoelectric portion to generate electricity. During operation, as the first thermoelectric portion heats up, this results in a temperature difference between the first thermoelectric portion and the second thermoelectric portion. The temperature difference between the first thermoelectric portion and the second thermoelectric portion creates a voltage difference, causing electrons to move, inducing a current.

Further, the pellet fuel is provided to the chamber by an auger that transports fuel from a storage hopper. Combustion gas is exhausted out of the stove, and convection air is drawn across the heat exchanger to generate heated air that is vented out into the heated space. In further implementations, the stove has a control unit that comprises memory on which is resident programming that, when activated, provides functionality for the stove; and a processor that is used to process data and the programming to provide the functionality for the stove. Additionally, a wireless communications module is coupled with the control unit. The wireless communications module is operably, wirelessly coupled with a local or remote network to provide information to and receive information from a computing device such that a user can interact with the computing device to remotely control the functionality of the stove and receive status information for the stove.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the following description and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects may be employed. Other aspects, advantages and novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the annexed drawings.

The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are generally used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. It may be evident, however, that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the claimed subject matter.

In one aspect, a pellet stove can be devised that operates to provide heat, and also generates electrical energy. In some implementations, in this aspect, typical pellet stove technology can be included, such as a stove that comprises a burner box, where combustion of the fuel takes place, a fuel feeder component that provides fuel to the burner box at a predetermined rate, a fuel hopper that stores bulk fuel, and an exhaust system that removes exhaust gases created by combustion.

Additionally, in some implementations, a control unit can be used to exercise fine-grained control over the functions of the stove, based at least on user input, environmental conditions, and data indicative of conditions of the stove. Further, in some implementations, the control unit may be communicatively coupled with a local and/or remote device/system to provide remote control and allow a user to view settings and use conditions.

In some implementations, a pellet stove comprises a combustion chamber, inside which is disposed a fire pot. Combustion occurs in the fire pot and is supported by outside air that is introduced into the combustion chamber and fuel introduced into the fire pot. In some implementations, combustion air will be introduced into the combustion chamber at the top of the stove door, for example, to help keep ash and debris from accumulating on the door, and obscure visibility. An exhaust blower draws combustion products from the combustion chamber and directs it out of venting, such as at the rear or top of the stove. The venting is typically coupled with a vent/chimney that leads to the outside of an occupied space.

A hopper or storage bin can be disposed in, or coupled with, the stove, where bulk fuel material can be stored. The hopper is typically tapered toward the bottom to allow the fuel pellets to flow downward. An auger is disposed in an auger tube, and rotation of the auger collects fuel from the hopper and transfers it to a fuel chute that leads to the fire pot. That is, fuel pellets can be lifted from the bottom of the hopper, and dropped into a fuel chute that leads to the fire pot. The pellets are dropped into the fire pot where combustion occurs and is sustained. In some implementations, a convection blower can propagate air (e.g., from outside, and/or recirculated from the occupied space) along the outside of the combustion chamber, where it is heated from the heat of the chamber and is directed into the occupied space to provide heat. The convection blown air is not mixed with combustion gases, and merely passes along heated places in the stove to become heated air.

In a further implementation, the combustion chamber can also transfer heat to a thermoelectric generator positioned within the stove. In such an implementation, the thermoelectric generator comprises a first thermoelectric portion and a second thermoelectric portion, wherein the heat from the combustion chamber is transferred to first thermoelectric portion, resulting in a temperature difference between the first thermoelectric portion and the second thermoelectric portion. The temperature difference creates a voltage difference by way of the Seebeck effect, resulting in electricity production. The first and second thermoelectric portions can be composed of high-efficiency thermoelectric materials, including but not limited to bismuth telluride, lead telluride, silicon germanium, carbon allotropes, copper chalcogenides and other half-Heusler compounds, specifically chosen for their superior thermoelectric performance and durability under high-temperature conditions. These materials can be arranged in a series of thermocouples which can convert heat directly into electrical power.

The first thermoelectric portion can be oriented near the stove's combustion chamber, where the temperatures are high, to exploit the thermal energy produced during pellet combustion. In a further implementation, the second thermoelectric portion can be thermally coupled to a heat dissipation system. The heat dissipation system can include a heat sink and a fan configured to cool the second thermoelectric portion, maintaining the desired temperature gradient for continuous and optimal electricity production between the first thermoelectric portion and the second thermoelectric portion (hereafter when together referred to as the “TEG modules”).

In one implementation, the control unit of the stove can be designed to manage the operation of the thermoelectric generator alongside the primary heating function. The control unit can monitor the temperature differential across the thermoelectric modules, adjusting the stove's combustion rate and the cooling system's activity to optimize electricity generation without compromising heating efficiency. This control unit functionality allows for a dynamic response to changes in stove usage or ambient conditions, ensuring that the electricity generation is optimized under varying operational conditions.

In further implementations, the electrical power generated by the TEG modules can be managed by a power management unit (PMU), which can include a microcontroller-based system for real-time monitoring and control. This unit can include maximum power point tracking (MPPT) technology to ensure that the TEG modules operate at their most efficient point despite fluctuations in the temperature gradient. Thus, the PMU can efficiently convert the generated power to the required voltage and current specifications for direct use in household applications, charging batteries, or powering the stove's internal components. The power management unit may include protective circuits to safeguard against overvoltage, overcurrent, and thermal overload conditions.

In one implementation, the hopper can be filled with appropriate fuel pellets, and power to the unit can be activated, such as by engaging a button or the like, to begin activation of the stove. In this implementation, the stove comprises a control unit that comprises a microcontroller, memory and at least one processor. Data indicative of one or more programs can be stored in the memory, where the programs are configured to operably direct the stove to perform specific functions, based on preprogrammed events, and/or data indicative of real-time information from the environment, the stove, and/or user input. The processor(s) can be configured to operably run the program(s) using input data, which may comprise timed events, sensor data, user input, etc. As an example, when the power button is operated, thereby powering up the stove, the following programs may be run, resulting in certain functions in the stove.

In some implementations, a cleaning cycle can be activated, where one or more components (e.g., fans, actuators, etc.) actively remove (e.g., draw out) dust, ash and other remnants from the fire pot. In this way, a substantially clean fire pot is positioned to begin a new combustion cycle. A fuel feeding cycle can begin, where the auger is operated to draw pellets from the hopper to the chute, and into the (clean) fire pot. As an example, depending on the type and size of stove, the cycle may run for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 1-20 mins.) sufficient to provide enough pellets to the fire pots to begin and initially sustain combustion. A lighting cycle can operate, where an ignition source is provided to the fire pot.

As an example, an electrically powered hot surface can be operated to heat the pellets to their combustion point in the fire pot. In other example, a gas-powered flame, a plasma arc, or other ignition source may be provided. In this example, the ignition source can be operated for a sufficient amount of time to generate sufficient combustion of the fuel. In one implementation, the temperature of the exhaust gases (e.g., smoke) can be detected, and when a threshold temperature is met that is indicative of sufficient combustion (e.g., sufficient to continue to burn), the ignitor cycle may be ended. That is, for example, a temperature sensor may be disposed in the exhaust flue, and the temperature sensor can send data indicative of the temperature to the control unit. The control unit can use the data to determine when to turn the ignitor cycle off (e.g., using the program running on the processor). In some examples, the ignition cycle may run for about 8 minutes.

Further, in some implementations, a stabilization cycle may begin. In this implementation, the stove/heater can use a preselected temperature (e.g., preprogrammed, and/or from user input) to fine tune the output of the stove/heater. That is, for example, the user may select a desired temperature output (e.g., using a remote, connected device, or on stove user interface (UI)), and/or a desired temperature for the occupied space, and the stove/heater can set operation of the stove components to settings that are configured to achieve the preselected temperature. For example, the flow rate of fuel, that is the amount of fuel moved from the hopper to the fire pot per time unit (e.g., pounds per hour) can be adjusted to meet the desired temperature (e.g., based on predetermined calibration); the flow rate/amount of combustion air introduced to the combustion chamber can be adjusted; the flow rate of the exhaust flow; and the flow rate of the convection air can all be adjusted to meet the desired temperature.

Powering down the unit can be undertaken, for example by engaging the power button or some other appropriate means, in order to power down the pellet stove. In some implementations, the stove can progress through a shut-down procedure, such as one stored in memory and processed by the processor on the control unit. In this example, fuel remaining in the fire pot can continue to burn and produce heat and flame. The auger that directs fuel to the fire pot from the hopper will discontinue operation so that no new fuel is added to the fire pot. After a period of time (e.g., 5-8 minutes) the fuel in the fire pot may be depleted, and the heat exchanger may begin to cool. Further, in this example, once the stove temperature has reached a predetermined threshold temperature (e.g., cooled to a desired point), a message can be displayed on the display screen that alerts the user that the shutdown has completed (e.g., “shut down complete;” “goodbye;” etc.).

In some implementations, the stove may be a “smart stove” with wireless communications capabilities. That is, for example, the stove may comprise a Wi-Fi (e.g., or Bluetooth, or other short-range communications protocol) communications module that is coupled with the control unit. In this way, for example, the stove can be communicatively coupled with a local and/or remote network to send and receive data from a coupled device (e.g., computer, portable smart device, server, cloud-based application, etc.). As an example, the local or remote communication may provide enhanced capabilities for the use of the stove by a user.

In one example, the stove may be monitored, controlled, and/or programmed by using a “smart stove” application on a user's smart device (e.g., phone). The application may be resident on a remote server and available for the user to download or access through a remote communications protocol (e.g., the Internet, cloud-based services, etc.). In this implementation, the user may be provided a unique identification (e.g., password) for the stove, which enables them to access features of the stove remotely. As an example, the communications module on the stove, in conjunction with the control unit, can help pair the stove with the local network, and with the local device using the unique identification.

Using the application, a user may be able to change the name and/or identification of the stove, which may be useful if the user has more than one stove or smart device connected in the application. In some implementations, the connection with the stove may be shared with other devices by sending the connection information to a third-party. Using the application, the user can select a predetermined temperature and/or operation setting for the stove, which can be programmed into the control unit remotely. For example, the user can select a desired room temperature, and the stove will be programmed to operate (e.g., feed fuel, run the fans, etc.) at least until the desired temperature is met (e.g., determined using a temperature sensor that communicates with the control unit). In some implementations the stove and application may have an “ECO Mode” that be selected to conserve fuel and/or electricity while maintaining the desired predetermined temperature. For example, selecting the ECO Mode button on the application (e.g., or external user interface of the stove) can put the stove into “ECO Mode.” In this made, the stove will shut off when the desired temperature is reached and turn back on when the temperature drops to a preset factory setting. In a second ECO mode, the stove can activate a minimum power setting that provides enough electrical power to minimally operate once the stove has reached the desired temperature. When it drops to the preset factory level, a higher power setting can be activated until the desired temperature is met once more.

In some implementations, the stove's setting using that remote communication may comprise a preset number of configurations. For example, the various configuration may adjust the speed of the combustion fan and the room air circulation fan to adjust the amount of power and fuel used. As one example, a preset #1 may comprise maximum power use; preset #2 may comprise medium power use; preset #3 may comprise low power use; and preset #4 may comprise minimum power use.

, are component diagrams that illustrate one example implementation of a pellet stove, as described herein. In conjunction with the description above, the pellet stovetypically comprises an outer metal housing, and a doorthat sometimes has a window. A fire potis disposed inside the combustion chamber(e.g., or firebox), and the fuel chuteleads fuel pelletsfrom the augerto the fire pot. The hopperis used for bulk storage of fuel pelletsand has an opening in the bottom to release pellets from bulk storage to the auger, where they are taken up by the and dropped into the chute. The augeris a rotating screw with thread-like protrusions to drive the fuel upward, which is operated by an electrically power motor. The hoppercan comprise a shape that tapers from the top to the bottom to provide for more reliable pellet transfer to the auger.

Further, in this implementation, combustion or intake aircan be drawn in to the combustion chamberfrom an intake ventthat leads from outside the stove (e.g., from the surrounding environment (room) or outside the heated space). Exhaust gasesare expelled from the combustion and drawn out of the stove, and out of the heated space, to the outside (e.g., out of the building) through an exhaust vent. An exhaust fanoperates to help draw the exhaust gasesout through the exhaust vent. In some implementations, an exhaust sensor module can be configured to detect conditions of the exhaust gases, such as temperature, constituent chemicals (e.g., CO, CO, O, particulate, etc.). As an example, the collected sensor data may be used by the control unitto update or alter stove settings, such as fuel consumption (e.g., auger motor speed/timing), fan speed (e.g., intake and exhaust), and other settings; and may be part of monitoring data (e.g., temperature of combustion) sent to the user's remote device. Additionally, the exhaust sensor data may provide early warning that combustion is not performing within a desired or predetermined manner (e.g., incomplete), which may indicate a problem with the stove's operation.

The stove can also comprise a convection or room air fanthat draws air in from the surrounding area (e.g., the heated space), such as through vents and openings in the housingand directs it around the outside of the combustion chamber/firebox. In this way, for example, the room air becomes heated airat a heat exchange areaand is directed out of heating ventsinto the heated space. In some implementations, a room heat sensor module may be used to detect the temperature (e.g., and other characteristics such as constituents) of the heated air. As an example, the heated air data can be used to adjust settings of the stove, and/or be provided to the user on a display screenor the remote device. In some implementations, door ventscan be disposed at a perimeter of the doorto allow make-up airto be drawn over the inside of the door to mitigate buildup of soot, carbon, fly ash, smoke, etc.

are diagrams illustrating an example display screenthat may be disposed in/on a pellet stove described herein. In this example implementation, the display screen may be resident on a top or side portion of the stove such that a user may be able to readily access and view the screen. As an example, the display screen may be disposed proximate the control unit (e.g.,of) in an area of the stove that is subjected to less heat than other portions of the stove (e.g., above the hopper). In this example, a display screencan comprise a touch-enabled screen that displays information, widgets, and other portions of a user interface (UI) that enables a user to view information and interact with elements on the screen. In other implementations, the screen may comprise a display portion and an interaction portion that utilizes physical buttons or switches instead of on-screen interactive elements.

As illustrated, a first displayon the screencomprises a number of informational elements and some interactive elements. In this implementation, a desired temperature(e.g., as preset by the user) can be displayed to show a temperature preference. In one example, to select the desired temperaturethe user can press their finger on the outer ring of the temperature widget(e.g., displaying the actual, current temperature) and rotate around the wheel to the selected, desired temperature. In this way, the desired temperature provides an interactive and informational element. Further, a power activation element(e.g., button) can be pressed to power on the stove and pressed to power off the stove.

A temperature status buttoncan be used to view temperature readings of the stove, and can display the exhaust vent temperature, the hopper protection temperature, and a number of hours that the stove has run. A setting buttoncan be activated to enter a settings mode for the stove, described below. Further, when in the settings menu, the user can select between different modes of operation for the stove, such as ECO mode, set stir time for the hopper, along with exhaust fan and blower settings. A scheduling buttoncan be selected to enter desired run times for the stove, selected from a separate menu. A lock buttonmay be used to activate a lock screen, and/or may illuminate when the displayis locked in a programming mode. An Auger buttoncan be used to directly engage the auger, such as to add or stop adding more fuel to the fire pot, for example, to pre-feed the pot or load the auger with fuel prior to lighting. A wireless connection elementcan be illuminated when the stove has a wireless connection with a local or remote network. A rate select elementcan be used to toggle between a plurality of configurable heating presets, with the currently set preset displayed in the element between the up and down buttons. The up and down buttons may be used to alter settings of the heating presets, and/or select a desired preset.

illustrates the screenwith a user menu. The user menu can display interactive elements and information that a user may utilize to adjust the settings of the stove, such as the temperature, mode of operation, battery usage, auger operation and stir times of the hopper, exhaust fan settings, convection blower setting, amongst others.

In some implementations, the stove can comprise local or remote network communications, such as to a local network and local smart device, and/or to a remote network (e.g., Internet, Wi-Fi, cellular network) for remote access using a computer or smart device. The stove may be networked to a local (e.g., or remote) network using one or more settings (e.g., presets) that can be accessed from the display screen. Once a network connection is established with the stove, a user can utilize an application on their smart device to control and adjust some functionality of the stove. For example, the name of the device can be edited to create one that the user may recognize or organize multiple stoves. Further, the connection with the stove can be shared with third parties by sending identification information to those parties, who could access the stove through the app using their own smart device.

illustrate one or more portions of one example of a thermoelectric generatorin an example pellet stove. In one implementation, heat generated in the combustion chambercan be transferred to the thermoelectric generatorpositioned within the stove. The thermoelectric generatorcan be thermally coupled to (e.g., directed engaged with) a first heat sinkhaving a first surface, a second surfaceopposite to the first surface, and a thicknessextending between the first surfaceand the second surface, wherein the first surfaceis thermally coupled to and configured to receive heat from the combustion chamber. During operation the first heat sinkcan transfer heat conductively from the first surfacethrough the thicknessand to the second surface. In a further implementation, a first thermoelectric portioncan be thermally coupled to the second surfacewherein the first thermoelectric portion is configured to conductively receive heat from the second surface.

In some implementations, the first heat sinkcan be made from one or more materials with high thermal conductivity. Such materials can include but are not limited to aluminum, copper, brass, iron, steel, zinc, nickel, tungsten, silver, alloys thereof, or other metals or alloys with high thermal conductivity. In some implementations the first heat sinkcan be partially surrounded by insulationto isolate or focus heat transfer from the first heat sinkto the first thermoelectric portion, and to mitigate loss of heat energy. Such insulationcan include Manniglas insulation, fiberglass insulation, mineral wool, ceramic insulation or other high heat insulators.

In some implementations, the first heat sinkcan further comprise an extenderconnected to the second surface. The extender can comprise a first extender surface, a second extender surfaceopposite to the first extender surface, and an extender thicknesstherebetween the first extender surfaceand the second extender surface. The first extender surfaceis thermally coupled to and configured to receive heat from the second surface. During operation, the heat can transfer conductively from the second extender surface, through the extender thickness, and to the second extender surface. In such an implementation, the first thermoelectric portioncan be thermally coupled to the second extender surface, where the first thermoelectric portionis configured to conductively receive heat from the second extender surface.

In further implementations, the thermoelectric generatorcan further comprise a second thermoelectric portionthermoelectrically coupled to the first thermoelectric portion. During operation, in this implementation, some of the heat from the combustion chamberis transferred to the first thermoelectric portion, resulting in a temperature difference between the first thermoelectric portionand the second thermoelectric portion. The temperature difference creates a voltage difference by way of the Seebeck effect, resulting in electricity production. The first and second thermoelectric portions,can be thermoelectrically coupled to positive elementsand negative elementscomprising high-efficiency thermoelectric materials, including but not limited to bismuth telluride, lead telluride, silicon germanium, carbon allotropes, copper chalcogenides and other half-Heusler compounds, specifically chosen for their superior thermoelectric performance and durability under high-temperature conditions. These materials can be arranged in a series of thermocoupleswhich can convert heat directly to electricity.

In various implementations, the first thermoelectric portioncan be located near or proximate to the stove's combustion chamber, where the temperatures are higher, in order to take advantage of the thermal energy produced during pellet combustion. In other implementations, the first thermoelectric portion andcan be positioned in or proximate to the exhaust ventwherein the first thermoelectric portion can receive heat from the hot exhaust gasses instead of directly from the combustion chamber.

In some implementations, the second thermoelectric portioncan be thermally coupled to a heat dissipation system. The heat dissipation systemcan further comprise a cooling sinkin thermodynamic fluid communication with a cooling fan. The cooling fancan draw air in from the surrounding area (e.g., the heated space) such as through vents and openings in the housingand direct cool air through the cooling sinkin order to facilitate convective heat transfer. In this way, for example, the room air becomes heated airand is directed out of heating ventsinto the heated space.

In operation, this action dissipates heat from the second thermoelectric portionin order to maintain a desired temperature differential between the first thermoelectric portionand the second thermoelectric portionfor continuous electricity production. Furthermore, after the cool air passes through the cooling sinkand undergoes heat transfer with the cooling sink, the air becomes heated airthat can be directed out of the stove and into the external environment through the heating ventsand into the heated space.

Further, the cooling sinkcan be comprised of various types and shapes including but not limited to active flow, flat plate, flat fin, pin fin, vortex. Additionally, the cooling sinkcan be made out of materials including but not limited to: aluminum, copper, composite materials, copper metal alloys, alloys thereof, or other aluminum metal alloys. The cooling sinkmay be configured to operate in a temperature range betweenanddegrees Celsius. Furthermore, the cooling fancan be mounted directly on the cooling sink(e.g., top mounted or inline mounted), or in other implementations the cooling fancan be positioned upstream of the heat sink such that it directs air through a duct and through the cooling sink. In other implementations the cooling fancan be positioned downstream of the cooling sinksuch that it pulls air through a duct and through the cooling sink.

In implementations the cooling sinkcan be coupled to the second thermoelectric portionby a fastener. Further, the cooling sinkcan comprise at least one openingto receive the fastener. The fastenercan further include a screw, a spring washer, a flat washer, and a nylon or PTFE shoulder washerrated for high temperatures. In some implementations the cooling sinkmay be coupled to the second thermoelectric portionusing thermally conductive tape, epoxy, wire-form z clips, flat spring clips, standoff spacers, push pins, or spring-loaded screws and clips.

In a further implementation, the control unitcan be configured to manage the operation of the thermoelectric generatoralong with (e.g., or separate from) the primary heating function. The control unitcan be in electrical communication with various temperature and voltage sensors to monitor the status and temperature differential across the thermoelectric portions,, wherein the control unitcan adjust the stove's combustion rate and/or the heat dissipation system'sactivity (e.g., the cooling fan speed) to improve electricity generation without compromising the overall heating efficiency. The control unitallows for a dynamic response to changes in stove usage or ambient conditions, providing for a high electricity generation under varying operational environments.

In some implementations, the stove can include a battery management systemin electrical communication with the control unit. The battery management systemcan be in electrical communication with at least one battery, wherein the battery management systemcontrols and monitors the charging and discharging of rechargeable batteries, for example. At least one batterycan be of various types and compositions, including but not limited to: non-rechargeable, lithium ion, sodium-ion, lithium-sulfur, lithium-metal, and liquid electrolyte flow batteries.

In some implementations, the electrical power generated by the thermoelectric generatorcan be managed or controlled by a power management unit(PMU) within the control unit, wherein the power management unitfurther comprises a microcontroller—for real-time monitoring and control. The PMUcan be in electrical communication with various temperature and voltage sensors and can implement maximum power point tracking (MPPT) technology to ensure that the TEG modules operate at their most efficient point despite fluctuations in the temperature gradient. Furthermore, the PMUcan convert the thermoelectrically generated power to the required voltage and current specifications for charging the at least one battery, and/or powering the stove's internal components—including but not limited to the control unit, the battery management system, the pellet auger, and the heat dissipation system. Additionally, the PM Ucan also include protective circuits to safeguard against overvoltage, overcurrent, and thermal overload conditions.

In some implementations, thermal compoundcan be added for enhanced heat transfer between the surface interfaces. The thermal compoundcan include various types of thermal paste including but not limited to metal-based thermal paste with metals such as aluminum and silver, liquid metal-based thermal paste such as gallium, ceramic-based thermal paste, carbon-based thermal paste, diamond-carbon based thermal paste, and silicon-based thermal paste.

illustrates schematic of an example implementation of a thermoelectric generation circuit for a thermoelectric generator. In some implementations, the first thermoelectric portionand the second thermoelectric portioncan be thermoelectrically coupled to a plurality of thermoelectric materials including positive elementsand negative elements, wherein negative elementscan comprise a negative charge carrier semiconductor and a positive elementcon comprise a positive charge carrier semiconductor.

is a flow diagram illustrating the heat transfer processof a pellet stove with thermoelectric generation for an example pellet stove implementation. In this example process, the transfer of heat to and from the thermoelectric generator (e.g.,) is highlighted. In this example process, as described above, the first thermoelectric portion (e.g.,) can be disposed proximate the stove's combustion chamber (e.g.,), such as where the produced heat temperatures are highest, to exploit the thermal energy produced during pellet combustion. As such, the heat from the combustion chamber is transferred to the heat sink (e.g.,), at. Further, at, the heat may be conductively transferred through the heat sink to the first thermoelectric portion (e.g.,), which is thermally coupled to the heat sink. The heat transfer to the first thermoelectric portion can induce a voltage potential, at, due to the temperature difference between the first thermoelectric portion and the second thermoelectric portion (e.g.,), such as using the Seebeck effect).

Further, in this example process, the second thermoelectric portion can be thermally coupled (e.g., engaged with) to the cooling sink (e.g.,). As such, the at, conduction cooling can occur between the second thermoelectric portion and the cooling sink. Additionally, the cooling sink is in fluid communication with a cooling fan (e.g.,), such that the cooling fan can direct cool air to cool the second thermoelectric portion, at, providing conductive cooling to the cooling sink. This can help maintain the desired temperature gradient for continuous and optimal electricity production between the first thermoelectric portion and the second thermoelectric portion. In this example process, the cooling fan can be configured to direct air from the cooling sink and to the external environment, at.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. Further, at least one of A and B and/or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims may generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form.