CFD analysis of a notebook computer thermal management solution

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Tezin Türü: Yüksek Lisans

Tezin Yürütüldüğü Kurum: Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi, Mühendislik Fakültesi, Makina Mühendisliği Bölümü, Türkiye

Tezin Onay Tarihi: 2008

Öğrenci: FİDAN SEZA YALÇIN

Eş Danışman: İLKER TARI, CÜNEYT SERT

Özet:

In this study, the thermal management system of a notebook computer is investigated by using a commercial finite volume Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software. After taking the computer apart, all dimensions are measured and all major components are modeled as accurately as possible. Heat dissipation values and necessary characteristics of the components are obtained from the manufacturer's specifications. The different heat dissipation paths that are utilized in the design are investigated. Two active fans and aluminum heat dissipation plates as well as the heat pipe system are modeled according to their specifications. The first and second order discretization schemes as well as two different mesh densities are investigated as modeling choices. Under different operating powers, adequacy of the existing thermal management system is observed. Average and maximum temperatures of the internal components are reported in the form of tables. Thermal resistance networks for five different operating conditions are obtained from the analysis of the CFD simulation results. Temperature distributions on the top surface of the chassis where the keyboard and touchpad are located are investigated considering the user comfort.