Patent ID: 8304957
Filing Date: 2012-11-06
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A generator device for converting thermal energy to electric energy, comprising: a magnetic circuit including at least a portion made of a magnetic material; a temperature-varying device configured to vary a temperature in said portion made of the magnetic material alternately above and below a phase transition temperature of the magnetic material to thereby vary a reluctance of the magnetic circuit; a coil arranged around said magnetic circuit, in which electric energy is induced in response to a varying magnetic flux in said magnetic circuit; a magnetic flux generator configured to create a magnetic flux in said magnetic circuit; a controllable electric circuit device connected to said coil; and a control device provided for controlling the controllable electric circuit device, wherein said electric circuit device is configured to control a voltage and a current so as to have an inductive or capacitive component, and a resistive component, each of which being separately and individually controllable, and said control device is provided for separately controlling the inductance/capacitance and the resistance of the controllable electric circuit device.