Russell McMahon wrote:
> Voltage is calculated from Seebeck effect coefficients for the
> substances used.
> TEG resistance is the sum of N cells in series used to get realistic
> voltages.
> Resistance is N x cell resistances plus n-1 bridges between them plus
> connecting wires.
> voltage increases with temperature differential but the substances
> with best Seebeck coefficient tend to melt /die at lower temperatures.

OK, so what about a thermionic generator instead?  Sufficiently high
temperatures on a small area are within reach of the backyard mechanic.  A
parabolic dish and a stack of razor blades should be good enough.  Creating
a good vacuum and cathode coating is more difficult but no beyond reach.
This should also be light weight enough to put at the focus of a small
parabolic dish and move the whole assembly to track the sun.


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