Leg Geometry Optimization of Thermoelectric Cooler to Maximize COP through Gaussian Process Modelling

Abstract

Various researchers have studied how to increase the performance of thermoelectric cooling devices by optimizing their module design. In the present study, the researchers investigate whether a truncated square pyramid leg geometry results to a higher COP than a symmetrical rectangular leg by varying the middle and contact areas. The values of the input parameters for the thermal-electric analysis were generated using a sphere packing design. Then, the different leg geometries were modelled in FUSION 360 and simulated in ANSYS to determine the COP from the resulting hot and cold side temperatures. Afterward, a mathematical model was generated using Gaussian Process modelling to model COP as a function of the middle and contact areas. By maximizing the desirability function of the model, results show that for the experimental design space considered for this study (contact area: 0.108 mm2 < AC < 1.000 mm2; middle area: 1.150 mm2 < AM < 2.560 mm2), the highest COP was attained at AC = 1.000 mm2 and AM = 1.150 mm2. The researchers therefore conclude that an asymmetrical truncated square pyramid leg geometry yields a higher COP compared to a symmetrical rectangular leg geometry, which is consistent with the results of past studies.