Topography optimisation using a reduced-dimensional model for convective heat transfer between plates with varying channel height and constant temperature

Abstract This paper proposes a reduced-dimensional model for the structural optimisation of conjugate heat transfer between parallel plates with constant temperature and fluid channel varying height. The considers conduction convection through planar version convection-diffusion equation. To significantly reduce computational time process, assumptions on through-thickness velocity fields are made, allowing to transform three-dimensional problem two-dimensional one. accuracy limitations investigated an in-depth parametric analysis seen be acceptable in context when considering reduced cost. allow topology topography, local height is linearly interpolated based design field. parametrisation combined provides physical meaning intermediate variables removes traditional requirement 0–1 discrete solutions optimisation. allows free switch topography optimisation, but it illustrated various examples that only changes relevant treated problems. Two examples, square exchanger manifold exchanger, demonstrate sufficiently accurate applied In comparison shape using full model, demonstrated can achieve equivalent optimised designs at lower Graphical abstract