Conceptual design of a thermoelectric Edu-Kitchen system

Abstract

Woodburning kitchen stoves provide a potential source of power to bring electric lighting, pollution control and water sterilization to underprivileged communities around the world. The conceptual design of a thermoelectric power generation system is described. A DC fan powered by a rechargeable battery drives air into the stove, optimizing the fuel-air ratio to improve heat release and reduce smoke, soot and other pollutants. A 5-watt light emitting diode floodlamp provides steady lighting so that a child may learn in the kitchen. A milliwatt LED is used to sterilize drinking water. A 13-watt thermoelectric converter module operating at 225 degrees Celsius recharges the battery using the heat from the fire. Fan power is regulated using a feedback control circuit that uses a thermocouple sensor to maximize the heat release in the stove.