Applied Thermoelectric Solutions

Abstract

Applied Thermoelectric Solutions (ATS) is a Nevada based company created to utilize thermoelectric devices in advancing and aiding automotive power systems in the effort to reduce oil dependencies and harmful emissions. Amidst economic and global crisis, the need for renewable energy is an ever growing concern. It is estimated that the world’s remaining oil supply will run dry in 40 years, according to experts from RFE/RL website. To combat this issue, research into renewable energy is becoming more prevalent. Currently there are several alternative fuel methods being researched for use in mass transit. As of now, gasoline/electric hybrid technology is being utilized to bridge the gap between current and future “green” technologies. Ultimately, society needs to become less fossil fuel dependent and more energy efficient. Also, with the nation in a current economic decline, the desire for luxury or extravagant items is less desirable. Considering the ramifications of global warming on the environment and the current economic crisis, “green” technology will become a high growth industry. Our product is designed to take advantage of the current economic crisis and launch “green” technology to the next level. ATS will manufacture and market a patented mount and existing thermoelectric technology in an assembly, created to provide alternative energy to hybrid and electric automotives. The assembly converts frictional heating from vehicle brake pads to electrical energy. This conversion from mechanical energy to electrical energy can be used for a portion of the power input into a vehicle battery, thus improving hybrid and electrical automotive consumers’ gas mileage. ATS is a new S Corporation getting ready to enter the market. Started by seven senior Mechanical Engineering students from the University of Nevada-Reno, ATS offers fresh and innovative ideas to acquire an advantage in a competitive market. Currently, ATS has created and tested a working prototype of the thermoelectric assembly. All engineering analysis has been conducted using analysis software, provided by the University of Nevada-Reno. The University of Nevada-Reno has granted ATS $350 dollars in the development of the prototype. ATS is in the process of obtaining a patent for the thermoelectric assembly. The patent will provide protection of the assembly and manufactured brake mount.