A Fast Computational Method for the Optimal Thermal Design of Anisotropic Multilayer Structures with Discrete Heat Sources for Electrified Propulsion Systems

This work investigates the effect of the anisotropy on the heat transfer properties of layered composite materials with discrete heat sources, that are used in the power electronics of hybrid-electric propulsion systems. An analytical method, based on closed-form expressions structured on Fourier expansion series, is proposed for the solution of the Laplace's steady-state anisotropic heat equation. The physical presence of electrical components is replaced by externally applied power sources. The method provides an accurate prediction of the temperature distribution and of the heat transfer across perfect layer-to-layer adhesion or finite conductance interfaces; its use is therefore encouraged for the optimization of composite substrates. Code verification has been employed on test cases for which the analytical solution was available.