Thermal Measurements and Inverse Techniques

The use of inverse problems constitutes a new research paradigm in which groups of theoretical, computational, and experimental researchers synergistically interact to better understand the physical phenomena being studied. This book presents a comprehensive research-based survey of modern inverse techniques and their applications to engineering heat transfer. Written by top-notch contributors, the text provides a concise, single-source reference on the mathematical modeling, measurements, and solution of inverse problems in heat transfer. It covers topics such as multiscale modeling, thermophysical properties, heat flux, and temperature measurements.

With its uncommon presentation of instructional material regarding mathematical modeling, measurements, and solution of inverse problems, Thermal Measurements and Inverse Techniques is a one-stop reference for those dealing with various aspects of heat transfer.

Progress in mathematical modeling of complex industrial and environmental systems has enabled numerical simulations of most physical phenomena. In addition, recent advances in thermal instrumentation and heat transfer modeling have improved experimental procedures and indirect measurements for heat transfer research of both natural phenomena and manmade applications. These new resources and methods help theoretical, computational, and experimental researchers synergistically interact to better understand the physical phenomena being studied. This book explores how inverse analysis can be used to increase understanding of interactions between technological systems and nature, by bridging the gap between data derived from measurements and information from theoretical predictions.

Assembled in three parts—Modeling and Measurements in Heat Transfer, Inverse Heat Transfer Problems, and Applications—this self-contained resource:

• Explores theoretical background and examples
• Outlines practical applications, including sample test cases
• Presents inverse techniques to estimate spatially and time-varying functions (such as heat sources, fluxes, and thermophysical properties), as well as constant parameters in heat transfer problems

Written by international experts, this book assumes basic heat transfer knowledge, presenting a balanced approach suitable for advanced undergraduates and graduate students, as well as practicing engineers and academic and industrial researchers. With coverage of modeling at the micro- and nanoscales, this book covers classic and novel approaches to help readers understand and solve heat transfer problems of all kinds.