An optimal approach with genetic algorithm for thermal performance of heat sink/TEC assembly

In the present study, a semi-empirical method that combines theoretical and experimental data for exploring the thermal performance of a heat sink with or without integrating TEC has been successfully established. By employing the genetic optimization technique, a series of constrained optimal designs have been performed. The independent variables for optimization search are the pumping capacity of the TEC (Q _c), the electric current of the TEC (I) and the external thermal resistance between hot side of the TEC and ambient (R_ext ). The present objective for the optimization search is the maximum temperature difference between heat sinks with and without integrating TEC. The results show that optimal value of DeltaT_b-c is 21.3degC, with boundary limits of Q_c =10W, I=10A and R_ext=0.25 degC/W. However, this design results in a poor coefficient of performance (COP), say COP=0.17. Under a given constraint of COPsquare2, the optimal value of DeltaT_b-c can be obtained to be 9.1 degC with the corresponding Q_c=14.8W, I=3.4A and R_ext=0.25degC/W. Comparisons between the results by the present optimal design and those obtained by the semi-empirical method have been made with a satisfactory agreement. The present optimal design shows that a heat sink/TEC assembly can provide an effective temperature reduction with high COP and extend the upper limits of air-cooled heat sinks