Importance

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Abstract

A thermoelectric cooling system having an electric circuit including a direct current ('d.c.') power source providing direct current through the electric circuit, a thermoelectric module having at least one heat sink and at least one heat source capable of being cooled to a predetermined temperature range, and a control assembly. The d.c. power source, the control assembly, and the thermoelectric module being connected to each other in series. The control assembly comprising a thermostat control switch mechanism and a resistive element connected to each other in parallel. The thermostat control switch having a sensor generally coupled to the heat source of the thermoelectric module, the thermostat control switch mechanism being open in the predetermined temperature range. The resistive element having a predetermined resistance sufficient for a level of voltage to be provided to the thermoelectric module, when the thermostat control switch mechanism is open, sufficient to substantially prevent reversal of the heat source and the heat sink. The thermoelectric cooling system being used in a process comprising placing an article of interest on the heat source, setting the thermostat to a desired predetermined temperature range, actuating the d.c. power source, and cooling the article of interest through conduction. Alternatively, the article may be placed below the heat source and cooled by convection.

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First Claim