Design and Multiphysics Coupled Analysis of an in Situ Seebeck-Effect-Based Power Generator for Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Environments

The energy supply bottleneck for long-term in situ observation of deep-sea hydrothermal systems has driven urgent demand for sustainable power solutions. This study proposes an innovative Seebeck-effect-based power generator that harvests MW-level waste heat naturally released from hydrothermal vents to achieve eco-friendly power generation. A progressive methodology integrating theoretical modeling, structural design, and multiphysics validation was implemented: thermoelectric coupling conversion mechanisms were analytically decoupled to design the device architecture; multiphysics-coupled simulations systematically revealed unsteady heat transfer dynamics and buoyancy-driven flow patterns within the device. The system achieves a theoretical power output of 120W, providing critical guidance for designing and optimizing in situ energy recovery systems.