Multiphysics simulation of corona discharge induced ionic wind

Keywords

SC4I/Digitization, Innovation, and Competitiveness of the Production System
Code:
30/2013
Title:
Multiphysics simulation of corona discharge induced ionic wind
Date:
Thursday 4th July 2013
Author(s):
Cagnoni, D.; Agostini, F.; Christen, T.; de Falco, C.; Parolini, N.; Stefanovic, I.
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Abstract:
Ionic wind devices or electrostatic fluid accelerators are becoming of increasing interest as tools for thermal management, in particular for semiconductor devices. In this work, we present a numerical model for predicting the performance of such devices, whose main bene t is the ability to accurately predict the amount of charge injected at the corona electrode. Our multiphysics numerical model consists of a highly nonlinear strongly coupled set of PDEs including the Navier-Stokes equations for fluid flow, Poisson s equation for electrostatic potential, charge continuity and heat transfer equations. To solve this system we employ a staggered solution algorithm that generalizes Gummel s algorithm for charge transport in semiconductors. Predictions of our simulations are validated by comparison with experimental measurements and are shown to closely match. Finally, our simulation tool is used to estimate the eff ectiveness of the design of an electrohydrodynamic cooling apparatus for power electronics applications.
This report, or a modified version of it, has been also submitted to, or published on
Journal of Applied Physics