Simulation-based design optimization methodologies applied to CFD [heat sink example]

Finding the optimal physical design for an electronic system is extremely time-consuming. In this paper we describe a sequential global optimization methodology that can lead to better designs in less time, and illustrate its use by optimizing the design of a heat sink for a simple system. The results show the need for a global approach, the insights that can be gained through automated design optimization, and illustrate the efficiency of the reported methodology in finding the optimum design.