Optimal architecture of heat generating pieces in a fin

This paper documents the optimal architecture of heat generating pieces connected to and cooled in a circular-shaped fin. Relying on the constructal theory, the optimal distribution of multiple heat sources is obtained by minimizing the thermal resistance of the fin. Since the heat sources are contemplated as electronic devices with uniform heat generation, the minimization of the thermal resistance is indicated by minimization of the hot spot (peak) temperature. Temperature fields in the fin and in the heat sources are calculated using a finite elements approach of MATLAB PDE toolbox. Comparison among the considered configurations reveals that the regular configurations of the heat sources commonly used in cooling industry are not optimal and must be avoided. Optimal configurations such as triangular arrangement of heat sources are proposed to replace the unfavorable configurations.