Simple method to support optimization of layouts for vacuum insulation panels (VIPs) for refrigerators

Abstract

We proposed a technique of analysis that supports the optimization of layouts for vacuum insulation panels (VIPs) for refrigerators, using a one-dimensional technique of calculation to simulate the heat loss caused by VIP envelope materials. VIP thermal characteristics were described by approximating system efficiency by using the panels' average length (Lp). We compared this simplified method to three-dimensional numerical analysis of 1 to 6 μm thick, vacuum-packed aluminum foil and 1.5 to 6 mW/mK thermally conductive heat-insulated core materials, and verified them to be within a 1% margin of error. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.