24-639   Special Topics: Thermal Systems Analysis and Design

This course guides entry-level engineers through the design process of a thermal system. The course plan assumes a mastery of the fundamentals of fluid mechanics and heat transfer at the undergraduate level. Lecture topics include heat sinks, heat pipes, compact heat exchangers, sensors and instrumentation, thermoelectric devices, and special topics closely related to the theme of the design activity for the semester. Design activity is conducted in teams and includes several cycles of oral presentations, class discussions, and a final report writeup. System design and analysis of performance are based on computer-aided design tools and simulation means. Student performance in this course is evaluated based on individual homework assignments on the various topics presented in class and on a team design project.