Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) and their applications have gained momentum for their ability to use waste thermal energy. More contemporary technology must offer more exceptional energy-efficient applications at a lower cost. New technology must also have an ability to generate electric power through the conversion of wasted heat. The TEG has demonstrated its efficiency and how it can offer increased potential by adding an MPPT algorithm to increase the power flow while decreasing the cost of operation. The limitations can be offset by the use of lower cost manufacturing materials and automated systems in the TEG units. It is also important to note the cost per watt found in using a thermoelectric generator is estimated to be $1/W for an installed device. To achieve this goal, the optimum operating point should be monitored by DC to DC converters. The DC to DC converters should also be driven through a generated pulse using an MPPT algorithm.
Part of the book: Renewable Energy
Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) technology can transfer electrical energy from a transmitter to a receiver wirelessly. Due to its many advantages, WPT technology is a more adequate and suitable solution for many industrial applications compared to the power transfer by wires. Using WPT technology will reduce the annoyance of wires, improve the power transfer mechanisms. Recently, the WPT gain enormous attention to charging the on-board batteries of the Electric Vehicle (EV). Several well-known car manufacturing companies start efforts to adopt WPT technology and enhance its features. Therefore, WPT can be achieved through the affordable inductive coupling between two coils named a transmitter and a receiver coil. In EV charging applications, transmitter coils are located underneath the road, and receiver coils are installed in the EV. The inductive WPT of resonant type is generally applied to medium-high power transfer applications like EV charging because it achieves better energy efficiency. In this chapter, various WPT technologies are discussed and tested in EV wireless charging applications. Furthermore, extensive information is given to developing an advanced WPT technology that can transfer maximum power by achieving maximum efficiency.
Part of the book: Wireless Power Transfer