DESC:RELATED PATENT APPLICATION:
This application claims the priority to and benefit of Indian Patent Application No. 202411004013 filed on January 19, 2024; the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of renewable energy and electric power generation. Particularly, the present invention relates to the thermodynamic electric generator modules for harvesting power from low temperature differential of non-concentrated solar or thermal power. More particularly, the invention relates to a small thermodynamic electric generator module, which works on absorbing solar photons as well as ambient heat to generate electric power with efficiency comparable to existing solar panel technologies and minimal carbon footprint.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
There is an increasing demand for renewable energy sources, particularly solar power in order to address the issue of climate change and energy sustainability. This has led to the development of solar panels in every industry. To convert sunlight into electricity, solar panels are frequently employed, providing a cheap and plentiful source of energy.
Solar energy is a clean, renewable resource that can help us reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change. Photovoltaic conversion is the most practical way to convert solar energy into electricity. The demand for solar energy is growing rapidly, as people and businesses look for ways to reduce their energy costs and environmental impact. This demand is putting a strain on the solar energy industry's current technologies, but it is also driving innovation and new developments. Solar photovoltaic has traditionally been associated with expensive cost and high technology. In the field of solar industries, extracting maximum power from solar photovoltaic system under partial shading conditions has gained significant attention in recent years. Many researchers are providing solution to extract the maximum power output from the solar photovoltaic system.

The silicon wafers based solar panels (simply known as solar panels or photovoltaic panels) collect energy from the sun in the form of sunlight and converts it into electricity and are available in different power ratings.
The production of popular solar panels is monopolized by one particular nation. This severely limits the ambitions of developing nations to shift to renewable sources of power. In addition, the said nation does not share the carbon implications or the ecological impact data of producing the panels.
The thermodynamic electric generator is one of the types of generators used to generate electric power. The thermodynamic electric generator is a four-stage thermodynamic cycle for gases. This cycle has been used in the past to generate power using high temperature differential and a slider crank mechanism. However, no one has attempted to develop a power-generating product using low temperature differential of non-concentrated solar power or ambient heat. Also, no one has made a generator based on this cycle using combinations of piezoelectric, electromagnetic and triboelectric energy harvesting systems.
Conventional systems and methods for the generation of electric power suffer from several drawbacks such as power generating thermodynamic modules has not been made small enough to be used at consumer level. They have not been made as modules, which can be installed easily like contemporary silicon panels; the focus has always been on making larger power plants greater than one kilowatt. These plants have never been designed to be repairable using common tools.
There have been solutions like the concentrated solar heat based electric generators. The problem with their adaption was due to need for dedicated space and large footprint. They required high maintenance and expensive repair. These systems dealt with very high temperatures and pressures, thereby requiring special tools and facilities for smooth operation. The effort benefit ratio was too high to sustain these designs.
US Patent No. US9404677B2 discloses inflatable linear heliostat concentrating solar module. It provides inflatable heliostat solar power collectors, which use a reflective surface or membrane “sandwiched” between two inflated chambers and attached solar power receivers which are of concentrating photovoltaic and optionally also concentrating solar thermal types.
US Patent No. US10852037B2 discloses a systems, methods, and devices including modular fixed and transportable structures incorporating solar and wind generation technologies for production of electricity. The system generates electricity using solar panels (and/or solar thermal units) and wind turbines, stores and converts electricity, and can be located in various locations either as fixed or portable embodiments including on land, on water, underwater, air and space.
US Publication No. US20060055175A1 discloses hybrid thermodynamic cycle and a hybrid energy system as a method of integration of incompatible types of energy, such as solar radiation, fossil fuel, kinetic energy of wind, of the ocean tide and wave, and of the river water. The integration process involves collection, conversion, operation, storage, and transmitting of incompatible energies using kinetic energy collectors, compressors, solar and air heat energy exchangers, air and thermal storages, piston and gas turbine heat engines, electrical generators, and air and electrical transmission lines. A hybrid thermodynamic cycle is a two-phase method of converting renewable energy into mechanical/electrical energy. In the first phase of operation, a low oscillating renewable kinetic energy is converted into heat energy in the phase of hot compressed air and additional air/oxygen is compressed and stored for future use. In the second phase of operation, heat energy is converted into mechanical and electrical energy.
However, said prior arts do not disclose a power generator using low differential of non-concentrated solar power or ambient heat. Also, none of the said prior arts is based on the thermodynamic cycle using piezoelectric or induction diaphragms.
Limitations of known art:
• Non-repairable.
• Not economical.
• Non-replaceable.
• Non-adjustable with the weather conditions.
• Large size.
• Contribute to large carbon footprint.
Therefore, there is a need to develop a power generator using low temperature differential of non-concentrated solar power or thermal heat/ambient heat and a small thermodynamic electric generator module, which works on absorbing solar photons as well as ambient heat to generate electric power. Further, there is need to develop the thermodynamic cycle using combinations of piezoelectric, electromagnetic and triboelectric energy harvesting systems.
Accordingly, the present invention provides a small thermodynamic electric generator module which works on absorbing solar photons as well as ambient heat to generate electric power. These modules are arranged as an array to add up the electric pulses to a feasible voltage. The voltages generated are added used to charge batteries or capacitors. Some of the power generated is used to run the internal components of generator while the rest is harvested.
The present invention can be completely made indigenously. In fact, developing country will be able to produce it and micro thermodynamic electric generator can be installed on or alongside the space and infrastructure dedicated to silicon-based solar panels. The thermodynamic electric generator module is completely repairable on site or off site. This means has far greater working life than current solar panels.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
A primary object of the present invention is to provide thermodynamic electric generator modules for harvesting power from low temperature differential of non-concentrated solar or thermal energy.
Another object of the present invention is to provide thermodynamic electric generator modules which use a simple thermodynamic cycle to convert heat of sun into electrical pulses.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a small thermodynamic electric generator module, which works on absorbing solar photons as well as ambient heat to generate electric power.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a thermodynamic electric generator module based on thermodynamic cycle using combinations of piezoelectric, electromagnetic and triboelectric energy harvesting systems.
Another object of the present invention is to provide thermodynamic electric generator module, which is a self-starting and self-sustaining thermodynamic electric generator, adjustable to available weather conditions.
Yet, another object of the present invention is to provide thermodynamic electric generator module, which is cost effective, repairable and replaceable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a thermodynamic electric generator module designed to convert solar and ambient heat into electrical energy efficiently. The module comprises a heat accumulator that absorbs solar photons and ambient heat, generating thermal energy. The heat accumulator features an upper and lower solar casing forming a vacuum chamber, a thermally conductive heat sink, evacuated heat tubes filled with vapor for efficient heat transfer, and a hot chamber for heating a working medium.
A thermal engine, operatively connected to the heat accumulator, converts thermal energy into mechanical vibrations. The thermal engine utilizes a hot and cold diaphragm arrangement and a rotary valve system, including rotary and static discs, for controlling the flow of the working medium. The mechanical vibrations generated by the engine are harvested through a combination of triboelectric nanogenerators, piezoelectric transducers, and electromagnetic induction systems to produce electrical power.
The module operates on a Stirling cycle for enhanced thermodynamic efficiency, using helium or nitrogen gas as the working medium. A servo motor and gear drive mechanism ensures precise synchronization of the rotary valve system. The energy harvesting arrangement achieves up to 4 watts or more of electrical output, sufficient for charging batteries or capacitors.
Compact and modular, the module measures approximately 200 mm × 200 mm × 49 mm, making it suitable for integration into existing renewable energy systems. The heat accumulator includes a Bakelite adapter for secure connections, and the system emphasizes repairability with replaceable modular components.
The invention also supports scalability, enabling the creation of solar panel systems by arranging multiple modules in series or parallel for higher power output. Designed for sustainability, the module is manufacturable using indigenous materials and technologies. Additionally, the invention ensures efficient heat transfer with a copper alloy heat sink and silicone diaphragms for thermal resistance and flexibility, achieving surface temperatures exceeding 100°C under full solar exposure.
The generated energy supports internal operations and can be stored or used externally, offering a versatile and sustainable solution for renewable energy generation
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The drawings described herein are intended to provide a further understanding of the invention and are intended to be a part of the invention. However, the drawings as shown are representative and non-limiting the scope of the invention. In the drawings:
Figure 1 shows the orthogonal view of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100), illustrating the heat accumulator and thermal engine assembly.
Figure 2 shows the isometric view of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100).
Figure 3 shows the internal components and process flow diagram of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100), illustrating the conversion of solar energy into heat energy by the heat accumulator (101) and its subsequent transformation into electric energy by thermal engine (102) using Stirling cycle.
Figure 4 shows the diagram of the thermal engine (102) showing multiple Stirling cycles with phase differences, the rotary valve (F) system, and the flow of the pressurized working medium through various stages and cavities for efficient energy conversion.
Figure 5 shows the exploded view of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100).
Figure 6 shows the major dimensions of components of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100) of Figure 5.
Figure 7 shows the major dimensions of drawings of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100) of Figure 5.
Figure 8 (a-d) shows prototype images of parts of thermodynamic electric generator module (100) according to the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to thermodynamic electric generator modules (100) for harvesting power from low temperature differential of non-concentrated solar or thermal power.
The thermodynamic electric generator is one of the generators used to generate power. The thermodynamic electric generator is a four-stage thermodynamic cycle for gases. This cycle has been used in the past to generate power using high temperature differential and a slider crank mechanism. However, no one has attempted to develop a power-generating product using low temperature differential of non-concentrated solar power or ambient heat. Also, no one has made a generator based on this cycle using combinations of piezoelectric, electromagnetic and triboelectric energy harvesting systems.
Accordingly, the present invention provides thermodynamic electric generator module (100), which works on absorbing solar photons as well as ambient heat to generate electric power. These modules (100) are arranged as an array to add up the electric pulses to a feasible voltage. There are minimum of 6 such modules in the smallest solar panel made with these modules for generating an output of about 40 watt and creates a DC voltage pulse at a frequency of 2 hertz at peak exposure to sun. The voltages generated are added used to charge batteries or capacitors. Some of the power generated is used to run the internal components of generator while the rest is harvested.
The present invention can be completely made indigenously. In fact, developing country will be able to produce it and micro thermodynamic electric generator can be installed on or alongside the space and infrastructure dedicated to silicon-based solar panels. The thermodynamic electric generator is completely repairable on site or off site. This means has far greater working life than current solar panels.
In one aspect, the invention provides a small thermodynamic electric generator module (100), which is a compact and modular system designed for efficient energy harvesting from low-temperature differentials. The module (100) comprises two primary components: a heat accumulator (101) and a thermal engine (102). The overall dimensions of the module (100) are approximately 200 mm × 200 mm × 49 mm, making it comparable in size and form to conventional photovoltaic solar panels. This compactness allows for easy integration into existing renewable energy installations without requiring significant modifications to the infrastructure. The heat accumulator (101) has dimensions of 200 mm × 200 mm × 13 mm, and the thermal engine (102) measures 111 mm × 111 mm × 36 mm. These dimensions enable portability and scalability, allowing multiple modules (100) to be arranged in arrays to generate higher power outputs as required.
Figure 1 to 8 disclose the structure of a thermodynamic electric generator module (100).
Figure 1 shows the orthogonal view of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100) for harvesting power from low-temperature differential of non-concentrated solar or thermal power.
Figure 2 shows the isometric view of the main component of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100) for harvesting power low temperature differential of non-concentrated solar or thermal power.
Figure 3 shows the process flow diagram of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100), illustrating the conversion of solar energy into heat energy by the heat accumulator (101) and its subsequent transformation into electric energy by thermal engine (101) using Stirling cycle.
The thermodynamic electric generator module (100) captures solar energy and converts it into heat energy using a specially designed heat accumulator (101). This accumulated heat is then transferred to a thermal engine (102), which operates on the Stirling cycle to convert the heat energy into mechanical motion. The mechanical motion is further transformed into electrical energy through a combination of triboelectric, piezoelectric, and electromagnetic induction harvesters integrated within the thermal engine. Utilizing this process, the module (100), with its compact dimensions, is capable of producing up to 4 watts or more of electrical power. The thermodynamic electric generator module (100) is made up of two main parts –
Heat Accumulator (101)
The heat accumulator (101) is responsible for trapping photons from the sun's rays and converting them into heat energy. It is constructed as a vacuum chamber (A) composed of two polycarbonate casings – an upper solar casing (1) and a lower solar casing (3) – fused together to provide protection from external environmental conditions. Inside the heat accumulator, a heat sink (2) made of thin copper alloy plates is fused with evacuated heat tubes (C), which efficiently absorb solar radiation and transfer the heat. The heat tubes (C), filled with vapor, rapidly conduct the absorbed heat to a central hot chamber (D). At full solar exposure, the surface temperature of the hot chamber (D) can exceed 100°C. This heat is then used to heat the working medium, which consists of helium or nitrogen gas. A Bakelite adapter (4) securely connects the heat accumulator (101) to the thermal engine (102), enabling the transfer of the heated working medium.
Thermal Engine (102)
The thermal engine (102) converts the heat energy supplied by the heat accumulator (101) into electrical pulses using the principles of the Stirling engine cycle. The Stirling engine operates as a four-stage, closed-loop thermodynamic cycle in which the working medium, typically helium or nitrogen, is repeatedly used to convert heat into mechanical work.
In the first stage, the heated and pressurized working medium is directed into the expansion cavity (K) within the hot shell (13) via rotary valves (F). The expanding gas pushes the hot diaphragm (12), which in turn compresses the energy harvesting arrangement (G) within the thermal engine (102).
In the second stage, the rotary valves (F) transfer the working medium to a compression cavity (H) through a regenerator (I), uniquely located and completely concealed within the central shell (8). This innovative placement minimizes thermal losses by shielding the regenerator from external heat dissipation pathways. Constructed from a high-performance thermal insulating material, the regenerator (I) ensures efficient thermal energy recovery, enhancing the energy efficiency of the module.
During the third stage, the gas in the compression cavity (H) is compressed by the cold diaphragm (12b), allowing the rejected heat to be absorbed by the cold shell (14).
In the final stage, the working medium is once again passed through the regenerator (I) and redirected to the hot chamber (D) via the rotary valves (F). This cyclic process is repeated continuously, generating mechanical vibrations in the hot diaphragm (12a). These vibrations are harvested through an advanced energy harvesting system, converting them into usable electrical energy.
This novel design enables efficient energy conversion while maintaining a compact and modular structure. The system's reliance on low-temperature differentials and its ability to sustain operations autonomously make it a cost-effective and sustainable solution for renewable energy generation.
Figure 4 illustrates the thermal engine (102), showcasing the operation of multiple Stirling cycles with precisely managed phase differences. The diagram highlights the innovative rotary valve system, which regulates the movement of the pressurized working medium (helium or nitrogen) through various stages and cavities. This configuration enables efficient energy transfer and conversion, optimizing the performance of the thermal engine for enhanced power generation.
Multiple Phases in the Thermal Engine (102)
The thermal engine is designed to operate with multiple Stirling cycles functioning at specific phase differences. These phase differences allow certain stages, such as Stage 3 (refer to Figure 4), to draw power for compression from the expansion phase of another Stirling cycle. This innovative approach enhances the efficiency of the engine (102) and is a unique feature of its design. The phase differentiation is achieved through specially built cavities in the central shell (8). The movement of the pressurized working medium across the various stages is depicted in Figure 4, illustrating how this synchronized operation optimizes the energy conversion process.
Role of Rotary Valves (F) in the Thermal Engine (102)
A distinctive aspect of the thermal engine (102) is its rotary valve (F) system, which facilitates the movement of the working medium between different chambers and cavities. The system comprises two rotary discs and two static discs, each equipped with holes and conduits. These components align in various configurations, as shown in Figure 4, to efficiently transfer the working medium (helium or nitrogen) at high speeds.
The upper static disc (6) is drilled with holes aligned to the phase differences of the Stirling cycles and connects the assembly to the hot shell (13). The upper rotary disc (7) and lower rotary disc (9) feature additional holes and conduits that guide the medium through the system. These rotary discs are driven in tandem by a servo motor (5) via an arrangement of gears. The lower static disc (10) provides a connection to the cold shell (14). The entire rotary valve assembly is mounted on the central shell (8) and secured by end plugs (11) on both ends, ensuring precise and reliable operation. This configuration plays a critical role in the seamless cycling of the working medium, enhancing the thermal engine's overall performance.
Energy Harvesting Arrangement (G) inside the Thermal Engine (102)
The mechanical vibrations generated by the hot diaphragm (12a) are effectively converted into electrical energy using a combination of advanced energy harvesting technologies. These include:
1. Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENG): Utilize contact electrification to produce electrical energy.
2. Piezoelectric Generators: Convert mechanical stress into electric charges.
3. Electromagnetic Induction Systems: Generate electricity through magnetic field interactions.
As shown in Figure 3, the cavity between the hot diaphragm (12a) and the central shell (8) houses the energy harvesting arrangement. This arrangement enables the efficient conversion of vibrations into electrical energy. Working in tandem, these systems generate up to and beyond 4 watts of electrical power from a single module. This integration of multiple energy harvesting mechanisms ensures robust and reliable energy output, making the thermal engine (102) a highly efficient component of the generator module.
Figure 5 provides an exploded view of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100), designed to harvest power from low-temperature differentials using non-concentrated solar or thermal energy. The illustration showcases the detailed assembly of the module (100) and its key components, each contributing to the functionality and efficiency of the system.
The upper solar casing (1) forms the protective outer shell of the heat accumulator (101), constructed from 1 mm thick polycarbonate. This durable and lightweight material safeguards the internal components from environmental conditions. The heat sink (2), made of copper alloy for its excellent thermal conductivity, efficiently absorbs and transfers heat from solar radiation. The lower solar casing (3) complements the upper casing, completing the sealed vacuum chamber (A) of the heat accumulator.
The adaptor (4) connects the heat accumulator (101) to the thermal engine (102), ensuring seamless transfer of the heated working medium. Within the thermal engine (102), the gear drive and servo (5) play a crucial role. This mechanism, comprising nylon gears on a stainless steel shaft, is driven by a servo motor to control the rotary discs, ensuring precise regulation of the working medium's flow. The rotary valve (F) system includes the upper static disc (6), upper rotary disc (7), lower rotary disc (9), and lower static disc (10), all made of self-lubricating nylon to minimize friction and ensure smooth operation. These discs work in tandem, housed within the central shell (8), a robust Bakelite structure that forms the core of the thermal engine (102).
The end plugs (11), made of aluminum alloy, secure the rotary valve (F) assembly in place, ensuring proper alignment and sealing. The piezoelectric/induction diaphragms (12), comprising hot diaphragms (12a) connected to the hot shell (13) and cold diaphragms (12b) connected to the cold shell (14), are embedded with piezoelectric and induction transducers. These diaphragms expand and contract under pressure to generate mechanical vibrations, which are then converted into electrical energy. The energy harvesting system (17) combines triboelectric nanogenerators, piezoelectric transducers, and electromagnetic induction technologies, ensuring efficient energy conversion.
Finally, the end cap (19) encloses the rotary valve drive mechanism for added protection and stability, while screws (20), made of mild steel (M4x16), are used to securely assemble the components.
Materials and Quantities
The materials chosen for the module are optimized for functionality, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Polycarbonate is used for the upper and lower solar casings (1 and 2) due to its strength and lightweight properties. Copper alloy, with its superior thermal conductivity, is ideal for the heat sink (2), while Bakelite provides structural integrity and insulation for the central shell (8) and adaptor (4). The rotary (7 and 9) and static (6 and 10) discs are crafted from nylon, which is self-lubricating and wear-resistant. Structural components like the shells (13 and 14), end plugs (11), and end caps (19) are made of aluminum alloy, which is lightweight and corrosion-resistant. The diaphragms (12) are constructed from silicone for flexibility and heat resistance, while mildsteel is used for screws (20) due to its strength and ease of manufacturing.
Each component's quantity is carefully calculated for a single module (100). For instance, one unit each of the casings, heat sink, and shell is required, while two diaphragms are essential for hot and cold cycles. Multiple screws ensure secure assembly. This optimized configuration contributes to the module's high performance, durability, and ease of maintenance.
Figure 5 effectively illustrates how the integration of these components enables the thermodynamic electric generator module (100) to deliver efficient, reliable, and sustainable energy conversion.
The table below provides a detailed list of components used in the construction of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100), along with descriptions, materials, and quantities. Here’s an explanation of the table –
PART NAME DESCRIPTION MATERIAL QTY.
Upper Solar Casing (1) A 1 mm thick protective shell that forms the upper part of the heat accumulator. Protects internal components from environmental conditions. Polycarbonate 1
Heat Sink (2) A copper alloy component designed to efficiently absorb and conduct heat from solar radiation. Copper alloy 1
Lower Solar Casing (3) A 1 mm thick shell forming the lower part of the heat accumulator. It complements the upper casing to form a sealed vacuum chamber. Polycarbonate 1
Adaptor (4) A connecting component that links the heat accumulator to the thermal engine. Bakelite 1
Gear Drive and Servo (5) A mechanism consisting of nylon gears on a stainless steel (SS) shaft, driven by a servo motor. It controls the rotary discs for managing the flow of the working medium. Various materials 1
Upper Static Disc (6) A fixed disc made of self-lubricating nylon, forming part of the rotary valve system. Nylon 1
Upper Rotary Disc (7) A rotating disc made of self-lubricating nylon, enabling precise movement of the working medium through the thermal engine. Nylon 1
Central Shell (8) A structural component made of Bakelite, housing the rotary valve assembly and other internal parts of the thermal engine. Bakelite 1
Lower Rotary Disc (9) A rotating disc made of self-lubricating nylon, similar to the upper rotary disc, facilitating medium transfer within the thermal engine. Nylon 1
Lower Static Disc (10) A fixed disc made of self-lubricating nylon, positioned below the rotary discs. Nylon 1
End Plugs (11) Aluminum alloy components that secure the rotary valve assembly in place, ensuring proper alignment and sealing. Aluminum alloy 2
Hot/Cold Diaphragm (12) Silicone diaphragms that expand and contract under pressure, converting thermal energy into mechanical vibrations. Silicone 2
Hot Shell (13) An aluminum alloy casing that contains and supports the hot chamber of the thermal engine. Aluminum alloy 1
Cold Shell (14) An aluminum alloy casing that contains and supports the cold chamber of the thermal engine. Aluminum alloy 1
Energy Harvesting System (17) A system incorporating triboelectric nanogenerators, piezoelectric transducers, and electromagnetic induction to convert mechanical vibrations into electrical energy. Various materials 1
End Cap (19) An aluminum alloy component enclosing the rotary valve drive mechanism for protection and sealing. Aluminum alloy 1
Screws (20) Standard screws used to assemble various parts. Each screw is M4x16 in size. Mild Steel (MS) 8

Figure 6 shows the components drawings of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100) for harvesting power low temperature differential of non-concentrated solar or thermal power, as depicted in Figure 5. The components include: Upper solar casing (1), heat sink (2), lower solar casing (3), adaptor (4), gear drive and servo (5), upper static disc (6), upper rotary disc (7), lower rotary disc (9), lower static disc (10), end plugs (11) and screw (20).
Figure 7 shows the components drawings of the thermodynamic electric generator module (100) for harvesting power low temperature differential of non-concentrated solar or thermal power, as depicted in Figure 5. The components include: hot/cold diaphragm (12), hot shell (13), cold shell (14) and energy harvesting system (17).
Figure 8 (a-d) shows prototype images of parts of thermodynamic electric generator module (100) according to the present invention.

Thus, the present invention provides a small thermodynamic electric generator module (100) which works on absorbing solar photons as well as ambient heat to generate electric power. These modules are arranged as an array to add up the electric pulses to a feasible voltage. The voltage generated are added used to charge batteries or capacitors. Some of the power generated is used to run the internal components of generator while the rest is harvested.
Unique Features and Advantages
The present invention introduces several novel features that distinguish it from existing technologies:
• Modular Design: The solar panel system’s modularity allows for easy installation, maintenance, and scalability, enabling it to replace or complement conventional solar panels.
• Innovative Energy Harvesting: The combination of TENGs, piezoelectric generators, and electromagnetic induction systems is unprecedented in this context.
• Repairability: All components are designed for on-site replacement using commonly available tools, ensuring long-term sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
• Indigenous Manufacturing: The module (100) is constructed using locally available materials and technologies, reducing reliance on imports and promoting domestic production.
• Optimized Thermodynamic Efficiency: The use of a phase-shifted Stirling cycle improves energy conversion rates, making the module highly efficient at harvesting low-temperature differentials.

Industrial Applicability
The invention is suitable for a wide range of applications, including residential, commercial, and off-grid energy solutions. Its compact size and modular design make it ideal for integration into existing solar energy systems, particularly in regions where space and resources are limited.
The ability to manufacture the modules indigenously further enhances their applicability in developing countries, where affordable and sustainable energy solutions are in high demand. Additionally, the repairable design ensures a longer operational lifespan, reducing waste and promoting environmental sustainability.

Example Configuration and Operation
A single module (100), when exposed to sunlight, heats the working gas in the heat accumulator (101) to temperatures exceeding 100°C. The gas is then cycled through the thermal engine (102), where its expansion and compression drive the diaphragms. These mechanical movements are converted into electrical energy through the energy-harvesting mechanisms.

For larger installations, multiple modules can be connected in series or parallel configurations to achieve the desired power output. The compact and uniform design of the modules allows for seamless integration into rooftop arrays, ground-mounted systems, or hybrid installations alongside conventional solar panel system (i.e., PV panels).

The present invention, as described above, the present invention represents a significant advancement in renewable energy technology. By addressing the limitations of existing systems and introducing innovative features, it offers a practical and sustainable solution for meeting the growing demand for clean energy
,CLAIMS:
1. A thermodynamic electric generator module (100) for converting heat energy into electrical energy with a generated electrical power capable of charging batteries or capacitors, comprising:
o a heat accumulator (101) for absorbing solar photons and ambient heat to generate thermal energy, wherein the heat accumulator (101) comprises:
? an upper (1) and lower (3) solar casing forming a vacuum chamber (A);
? a heat sink (2) made of thermally conductive material;
? evacuated heat tubes (C) filled with vapor for efficient heat transfer; and
? a hot chamber (D) for heating a working medium;
o a thermal engine (102) operatively connected to the heat accumulator (101), the thermal engine (102) comprises:
? a hot diaphragm (12a) and a cold diaphragm (12b) for converting heat energy into mechanical vibrations;
? a rotary valve (F) system comprising rotary discs (7 and 9) and static discs (6 and 10) for controlling the flow of the working medium;
? an energy harvesting arrangement (G) comprising triboelectric nanogenerators, piezoelectric transducers, and electromagnetic induction systems; and
? a regenerator (I) uniquely located and completely concealed inside a central shell (8).

2. The thermodynamic electric generator module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the thermal engine (102) operates on a Stirling cycle with multiple phase-shifted cycles to enhance energy conversion efficiency.

3. The thermodynamic electric generator module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the working medium is selected from helium or nitrogen gas for optimal thermodynamic performance.

4. The thermodynamic electric generator module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rotary valve (F) system comprises:
o an upper static disc (6), an upper rotary disc (7), a lower rotary disc (9), and a lower static disc (10), each with conduits and holes for directing the working medium; and
o a servo motor and gear drive (5) mechanism to synchronize the rotation of the rotary discs.

5. The thermodynamic electric generator module (100)as claimed in claim 1, wherein the energy harvesting arrangement (G) combines triboelectric nanogenerators, piezoelectric transducers, and electromagnetic induction systems to generate up to 4 watts or more of electrical power.

6. The thermodynamic electric generator module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the module (100) is compact with dimensions approximately 200 mm × 200 mm × 49 mm, enabling easy integration into existing renewable energy systems.

7. The thermodynamic electric generator module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the heat accumulator (101) includes a Bakelite adapter (4) for securely connecting to the thermal engine (102), ensuring efficient transfer of the heated working medium.

8. The thermodynamic electric generator module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the module (100) is manufacturable using indigenous materials and technologies to promote local production and sustainability.

9. The thermodynamic electric generator module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the heat sink (2) is made of copper alloy for its high thermal conductivity, ensuring efficient heat transfer from solar radiation.

10. The thermodynamic electric generator module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hot diaphragm (12a) and cold diaphragm (12b) are made of silicone for flexibility and thermal resistance.

11. The thermodynamic electric generator module (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the regenerator (I) is constructed from a thermal insulating material, minimizing heat loss to the surrounding during operation.

12. A solar panel system, comprising an array of thermodynamic electric generator modules (100) as claimed in claim 1, arranged in series or parallel to achieve a desired power output.

13. The solar panel system as claimed in claim 12, wherein the system is designed for repairability, with modular components replaceable on-site using commonly available tools.

14. A method for generating electrical energy using the thermodynamic electric generator module (100), comprising the steps of:
o absorbing solar photons and ambient heat through the heat accumulator (101);
o transferring the heat energy to the thermal engine (102);
o operating the thermal engine (102) on a Stirling cycle to produce mechanical vibrations; and
o harvesting the mechanical vibrations using the energy harvesting arrangement (G) to generate electrical power.

15. The method for generating electrical energy as claimed in claim 14, wherein the module (100) can achieve a surface temperature of the hot chamber (D) exceeding 100°C under full solar exposure.

16. The method for generating electrical energy as claimed in claim 14, wherein the generated electrical energy supports internal operations of the module (100), with surplus energy stored or used externally.