Manipulating local heat flux with different patterns

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new transformation theory for designing layered thermal metamaterials that can convert heat flux patterns without disturbing the external flow, enabling precise heat flow control.

Contribution

It proposes a novel layered device with anisotropic conductivities based on a new transformation approach for manipulating heat flux patterns.

Findings

Finite-element simulations confirm heat flux conversion capabilities.

The device maintains external heat flow undisturbed.

The method offers a new way to control heat flow patterns.

Abstract

Since the thermal conduction equation has form invariance under coordinate transformation, one can design thermal metamaterials with novel functions by tailoring materials' thermal conductivities. In this work, we establish a different transformation theory, and propose a layered device with anisotropic thermal conductivities. The device is able to convert heat flux from parallel patterns into non-parallel patterns and vice versa. In the mean time, the heat flux pattern outside the device keeps undisturbed as if this device is absent. We perform finite-element simulations to confirm the converting behavior. This work paves a different way to manipulate the flow of heat at will.