초록 ▼

A Vacuum Thermionic Converter is optimized for the most efficient generation of electricity by utilizing a cathode and anode of very low work function. The relationship of the work functions of cathode and anode are shown to be optimized when the cathode work function is the minimum value required t

A Vacuum Thermionic Converter is optimized for the most efficient generation of electricity by utilizing a cathode and anode of very low work function. The relationship of the work functions of cathode and anode are shown to be optimized when the cathode work function is the minimum value required to maintain current density saturation at the desired temperature, while the anode's work function is as low as possible, and in any case lower than the cathode's work function. When this relationship is obtained, the efficiency of the original device is improved. It is further shown that contact potential difference between cathode and anode may be set against the effects of space charge, resulting in an improved device whereby anode and cathode may be set at a greater distance from each other than has been previously envisaged.

대표청구항 ▼

[ I claim:] [1.] A method for building a thermionic converter comprising the steps of:a) forming a carbonaceous layer on a substrate forming a first electrode,b) establishing a separation means,c) forming another carbonaceous layer, separated from said electrode,d) adding another substrate to said s

[ I claim:] [1.] A method for building a thermionic converter comprising the steps of:a) forming a carbonaceous layer on a substrate forming a first electrode,b) establishing a separation means,c) forming another carbonaceous layer, separated from said electrode,d) adding another substrate to said second carbonaceous layer whereby a second electrode is formed.