In parallel, the heat transfer coefficients over a heated flat surface are measured for a set of piezoelectric fans of different blade lengths and thicknesses to obtain insight into piezoelectric fans’ cooling enhancements normalized by power consumptions. A mechanical model is next developed to theoretically partition the fraction of power transferred to the surrounding air and that portion consumed by the piezoelectric actuator. Powers consumed by a commercially available piezoelectric fan and by its piezoelectric actuator (with the fan blade cut off) are measured separately as a function of frequency and bias input voltage.
A combined experimental and modeling study is conducted to help elucidate the mechanism of power dissipation in piezoelectric fans, and correlate them with heat transfer performance. Although piezoelectric fans have been commercially available for over a decade, systematic study of their power consumption mechanism has been limited. Piezoelectric fans, which typically consist of flexible blades mechanically fixed to piezoelectric actuators, are promising alternatives to rotary fans because they have simpler structures, produce less noise, and require less power consumption. Conventional rotary fans are difficult to scale down and power-inefficient when miniaturized.
Piezo electric cooling portable#
Recent developments in electronic and optoelectronic devices, especially in the highly power-sensitive areas of portable and wearable applications, have led to increased challenges in their thermal management.