Rajan 210 Cropped
Rajan 210 Cropped
A PROJECT REPORT
submitted in the partial fulfilment of the requirements
for the award of the degree of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
IN
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Submitted By:
RAJ KUMAR (2K21/ME/209)
RAJAN (2K21/ME/210)
DEEPAK (2K20/ME/075)
MAY 2025
1
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
DELHI TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
(Formerly Delhi College of Engineering)
Bawana Road, Delhi-110042
CANDIDATE’S DECLARATION
Place: Delhi
RAJ KUMAR
(2K21/ME/209)
RAJAN
Date: (2K21/ME/210)
May 2025 DEEPAK
(2K20/ME/075)
2
Department of Mechanical Engineering
DELHI TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
(Formerly Delhi College of
Engineering) Bawana Road,
Delhi:110042
CERTIFICATE
Place: Delhi
Date: May 2025
We extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Pushpendra Singh, our project supervisor, for his
invaluable guidance, technical expertise, and unwavering support throughout this
research. His constructive feedback and encouragement were instrumental in shaping the
direction and execution of this work.
RAJ KUMAR(2K21/ME/209)
RAJAN(2K21/ME/210)
DEEPAK(2K20/ME/075)
.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CANDIDATE'S DECLARATION 2
CERTIFICATE 3
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 4
ABSTRACT 6
LIST Of FIGURES 7
LIST Of SYMBOLS 8
1 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 9
4 CHAPTER 4: METHODOLOGY 22
6 CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION 29
7 CHAPTER 7: REFERENCES 31
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ABSTRACT
This research uses a technique that combines Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Internet
of Things (IoT) technologies, to explore the cooling rate and air temperature distribution in the
fresh food compartment of a domestic refrigerator (DR). The study focuses on the use of a
thermoelectric/Peltier cooler (TEC) to cool the compartments. The study analyzes the final set of
results from the CFD model in order to successfully visualize airflow patterns and temperature
fields in most domestic refrigerators; therefore it illustrates their thermal performance.
Furthermore, the integration of IoT technology is explored as a means to enhance cooling efficiency
and energy conservation. By integrating components such as thermoelectric modules, temperature
sensors, and IoT connectivity, the study aims to enable precise temperature control and introduce
smart management capabilities to the refrigerator system.
In its description of a IoT-enabled thermoelectric Peltier refrigerator, the paper goes into detail
about the importance of the thermoelectric modules, the microcontrollers, and temperature sensors,
revealing the details of refrigerator operation, showing the intricacies of how the operation of the
critical components interact in practical usage of the IoT benefits. The benefits of IoT-enabled
thermoelectric refrigerators include a blended capability of more efficient energy usage, improved
ability to regulate temperatures, and simple integration with smart home environment to improve
convenience of use and functionality of the complete system.
Concluding remarks of the paper look towards future research paths, with an emphasis on the
importance of further work in energy efficiency, intelligent control, and optimization strategies.
The paper also emphasized the integration of refrigeration systems into smart home networks, and
a vision of a future connected environment where cooling technology will not only preserve food
consumption but also perform energy sustainably. Overall, the findings in the paper aim to explore
transformative developments in cooling technology to provide energy-efficient and sustainable
food storage and preservation, and other applications for the years ahead.
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LIST OF FIGURES
7
List of Symbols, Abbreviations and Nomenclature
TEC: Thermoelectric
Refrigerator ANN:
Current
°C: Degrees
Celsius RH:
Relative Humidity
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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
Compressor: It is the heart of the system where the compressor draws low-pressure refrigerant vapor from the
evaporator and compresses it into high-pressure, high-temperature vapor [3].
Condenser: Usually mounted at the back or bottom of the refrigerator, the condenser coils enable the condensation
of the high-pressure vapor into a high-pressure liquid. This is as the heat absorbed by the interior of the refrigerator
is dissipated into the ambient air by the condenser [4].
Expansion Valve (or Capillary Tube): That serves to reduce the pressure of the high-pressure liquid refrigerant as it
flows through. The pressure drops, which in turn causes the refrigerant to cool and partially evaporate and forms a
mixture of low-pressure liquid and vapor [5].
Evaporator: Low-pressure refrigerant is passed into the evaporator coils inside the refrigerator chamber, where it
absorbs heat from inside. This absorption of heat causes the remaining liquid to evaporate completely into low-
pressure vapor, thus cooling the interior of the refrigerator [6].
Refrigerant: The working fluid in the cycle, typically a low-boiling-point substance, such as R-134a, R-600a, or
newer, eco-friendly alternatives like R-1234yf [7].
1. Compression: The compressor compresses the low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant vapor that it
receives from the evaporator and increases its pressure and temperature. Then, it emits the high temperature, high-
pressure vapor to the condenser [8].
2. Condensation:
● In the condenser, the high-pressure vapor emits heat to the external environment usually air or water and
turns into a high-pressure liquid.
3. Expansion: This high pressure liquid refrigerant passes through the expansion valve and causes a pressure
reduction. The refrigerant has to cool up and partly evaporate at the immediate fall in pressure, producing a low
pressure liquid with vapor mixture.
compressor, where it raises the vapor's temperature and pressure before pumping to the condenser.
2. In the condenser: The hot, high-pressure refrigerant vapor cools and condenses into a high-pressure
3. Through the Expansion Valve: ● High-pressure liquid refrigerant through the expansion valve passes
4. Inside the Evaporator: It absorbs heat from inside the refrigerator and changes into a low-pressure vapor
because it's cold, low pressure. Refrigerant vapor returns back to the compressor and restarts the cycle.
Wide Range Application It can be used in domestic or commercial areas and allows for a wide range of
temperature.
● Scalability: The components are flexible to various sizes and capacities of refrigeration systems.
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5. Environmental and Efficiency Issues
● The vapour compression cycle based refrigerator systems of today are designed to be as energy-efficient so
as to limit the impacts on the environment. Typically, they are equipped with variable speed compression cycles
and increased insulation[10].
The vapor compression refrigeration cycle is one of the most common cooling systems that offer effective cooling
with reliability and high efficiencies. Vapour compression refrigeration uses the laws of thermodynamics to
remove heat from the interior of a refrigerator or freezer to the surrounding air through a refrigeration cycle of
refrigerant compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. Because of its reliable cooling that can be
suited to a variety of applications, the vapour compression cycle will always be the basis of modern refrigeration
technology.
1. Top-Freezer Refrigerators: They have the freezer compartment at the top and the refrigerating section at the
bottom. They are fairly inexpensive and energy efficient and allow for plenty of space for frozen and fresh food to
be stored. They are suitable for small families and individual households with a small-sized kitchen[11].
2. Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators: This has a bottom freezer and a refrigerating section eye level. They are well-
suited for families that appreciate direct access to fresh food items, which are consumed the most, and they often
have drawer-style freezer compartments for better organization[12].
3. Side- by- Side Refrigerators The freezer and the fridge are conterminous to each other with
perpendicular doors[13].
Advantages Kitchen with a small space can accommodate small door openings Freezer and the fridge section
have access from both sides relatively frequently has fresh sections or shelves for arrangement Ideal for homes
4. French Door Refrigerators These have two side- by- side doors for the refrigerator portion and bottom-
freezer configuration[14].
Features are wide shelves and ample storehouse. satiny and ultramodern design.frequently features advanced
features like smart electronics, malleable shelves, and ice and water dispensers.
Stylish suited for Larger families and those who need advanced features and large storehouse capacity.
Energy Consumption: These freezers consume a lot of electricity, which contributes to global warming and
greenhouse gas emissions. Although energy-efficient models exist, the overall consumption of energy is still high.
2. Operational Limitations
Noise: Since the compressor is a mechanical product, it produces noise when in use. This can be problematic in quiet
environments such as houses or companies[16].
The operation of the compressor and moving parts may cause vibrations; it would continue to cause mechanical wear,
and eventually, it might shorten the lifespan and effectiveness of the appliance.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance is essential to ensure that the refrigerator operates effectively. This involves
checking the compressor, cleaning the condenser coils, and checking the refrigerant levels. Failure to maintain the
appliance may lead to reduced performance and possible breakdowns. The condenser coils located at the back or
bottom of the refrigerator play a crucial role in cooling the system by removing heat from it. The efficiency of these
coils in heat dissipation can be compromised with time due to the accumulation of dust, dirt, and debris.
3. Technical Challenge
Complexity: It comprises of numerous components including, but not limited to compressors, condensers, expansion
valves, and evaporators. This complexity might lead the component to failure more quickly and may even require
high-class experts to fix these problems. Efficiency at extreme temperatures: At extremely high and low
temperatures, vapor compression refrigerator efficiency would fall to a significant degree. Extremely low
temperatures can affect the viscosity and flow of the refrigerant, whereas high ambient temperatures may reduce the
condenser's heat-exchange efficiency[17].
Weight & Size: These refrigerators are generally large and heavy, which restricts their placement possibilities in
smaller living areas and makes them less appropriate for portable applications.
4. Economic Considerations
Initial Cost- a high-efficiency vapour compression refrigerator with advanced technological devices is expensive.
Depending upon the customer, cost outlay may be deter[18].
Operating Cost: The costs associated with running can add up over time, such as electricity used and routine
maintenance. Commercial freezers that operate continuously are particularly energy-intensive.
Refrigerant Management: The costs of ownership are increased because of the cost of safely handling and disposing
of outdated refrigerants. There can be substantial retrofitting costs incurred as well when switching over to more
modern, environmental-friendly refrigerants.
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5. Environmental Regulations and Compliance
Regulatory Changes: Energy efficiency and refrigerator-related environmental laws are constantly changing. This
means it will be required to replace or alter current systems to abide by the rules, hence costly and even complex.
Phase-out of Specific Refrigerants: The phase-out of specific high-GWP refrigerants required the use of substitutes,
which could not always work with current systems without major adjustments.
Vapor compression refrigerators are generally effective and are common in many applications, however, they all
have limitations that affect their effectiveness, economic viability, and environmental sustainability. These
limitations can be resolved by a combination of customer awareness, regulatory compliance, and technological
advancements. Future improvements may help to enhance the overall reliability and efficiency of this necessary
equipment, reduce environmental impact (through more environmentally friendly refrigerants), and improve
energy efficiency.
This effect involves absorbing heat at one junction and releasing it at another. The main parts of this process are as
follows:
The primary components of thermoelectric modules (TECs) are several pairs of p- and n-type semiconductors
coupled thermally in parallel and electrically in series. One side of the module cools (absorbs heat) while the other
side heats up (releases heat) in response to an applied DC voltage.
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Fans and Heat Sinks: The heat from the TECs' hot side is dissipated by heat sinks. The efficiency of heat
Power Supply: Supplies the DC voltage that provides the thermoelectric modules with the necessary supply
of electricity.
Temperature Sensors and Controllers: The temperature within is monitored and regulated through these
devices by varying the power supplied to the TECs.
2. Working Mechanism
These are the steps of the cyclic process that makes the thermoelectric Peltier refrigerator work.
Electric Current Flow: Heat is transferred from the cold side of the TEC to the n-type material by
electrons flowing out of the p-type material.
Heat Absorption: The cooler side of the TEC helps to cool the inner compartment by lowering the
temperature and absorbs heat from inside.
Heat Dissipation: By employing fans and heat sinks, the absorbed heat is transferred to the hot side of the
TEC and radiated into the surrounding air.
Temperature Control: The temperatures inside the fridge are sensed by temperature sensors. A controller
sends the information to the controller; it then changes the output of the TECs to support the desired
temperature.
Compact and Lightweight: Since TECs are small and light, designs for refrigeration could be made to be
more portable and compact.
An electric current adjustable with precision makes it possible to fine-tune temperature management. This
is particularly useful for applications that require precise temperatures.
Eco-Friendly: TECs eliminate the potential dangers of harmful refrigerants through the adoption of solid-
state technology.
Durability: TECs could have a longer life span because they have no moving parts and are less susceptible
to mechanical wear and tear.
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Low cooling capability: TEC's are limited and may not be able to keep a chamber low temperature when
larger chambers are selected or high loads are applied; therefore, they are suited for small scale cooling
applications.
Difficulties with Heat Dissipation: Very hard to dissipate heat properly on the hot side of the TEC's, which can
be a worrying matter in warmer climates.
More Expensive for Large Applications: TEC's are fairly cheap for small, portable devices; but the cost of all
of the devices and additional cooling systems can become expensive for larger applications.
5. Applications
Many of the applications of thermoelectric Peltier freezers where direct refrigeration would not be necessary
include:
Portable coolers are very useful for camping and road trips, because they are lightweight and easy to carry.
Medical and scientific equipment are examples of sensitive instruments and environmentally controlled samples
where temperature accuracy is affected by thermal loads; hence they need active refrigeration.
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CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
A.1 Examined airflow and temperature distribution within domestic refrigerators (DRs).
António and Afonso et al. (2011) have conducted a comprehensive research experiment to measure and evaluate
temperatures in a residential refrigerator, or DR. The aim was to determine the reliability of the temperature
prediction by means of Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Fluent code, and a popular CFD software. The
experiment included measurement of the inside temperature of the refrigerator for a set of different operating
conditions. To create an extensive thermal map, António and Afonso collected temperature readings from a few
sensors that were placed judiciously around the DR[1]. This in vitro data collection was necessary to ensure the
accuracy and validity of the temperature readings they later used for their comparative analysis. They coded Fluent
using this empirical data to reproduce exactly the same scenarios. his extremely complex CFD tool, Fluent, solved
the governing fluid dynamics and heat transfer equations to provide comprehensive insights into airflows and
temperature distributions. This solution process though quite efficient in general remains rather costly in terms of
computations, and its outcome highly dependent on the quality of physical models involved and the input
boundary conditions of the simulations. Concomitantly, António and Afonso built an Artificial Neural Network
which simulated the temperature distribution in the refrigerator. As the ANNs are computer models based on the
neural networks found in the human brain, they are very good at picking up patterns and relationships from the
data. This is what made me utilize empirical temperature data obtained from the refrigerator to train the ANN.
After training, the ANN was able to predict temperature distributions as a response to new input conditions. Their
comparative analysis came up with some surprising results. For temperature predictions, the ANN always yielded
smaller absolute errors compared to Fluent's CFD predictions[2]. This indicated that the complex, nonlinear
interlinks governing the refrigerator's temperature distribution were better captured by the ANN. Given enough
training data, ANNs may be able to provide more accurate predictions, as indicated by the decreasing absolute
error.
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Many studies have conducted simulations and experiments under empty refrigerator conditions. This does not fully
represent real-world usage where refrigerators are filled with food items that affect airflow and temperature
distribution.
A majority of studies are conducted under steady-state conditions. More studies are needed during unsteady or
dynamic conditions to better understand how temperature and airflow distribution alters in response to varying loads
and operational patterns[6].
Although a few studies provide new designs or modifications, there has not been a complete optimization of all
areas of refrigerator performance including energy efficiency, refrigeration capacity, and usability.
The identified gaps in the literature elucidate a couple of areas for future investigations relating to thermoelectric
Peltier refrigerators, particularly airflow and temperature distribution aspects of the operation. Furthermore, the
inclusion of IoT devices for performance enhancement, as well as studies pertaining to realistic investigations held
under dynamic conditions would give a more complete understanding and possibly yield significant design and
efficiency improvements of thermoelectric refrigerators[7].
Based on an abundant research survey, these research objectives have been derived. The objective of the
research study on combining Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Internet of Things (IoT) technology in
thermoelectric Peltier refrigerators has several goals to address some areas of interest and improvement:
1. Primary Objective:
1.1 Investigate Cooling Efficiency and Air Temperature Distribution:
To accurately model and analyze the airflow and temperature distribution within a fresh food compartment of a
domestic refrigerator cooled by a thermoelectric Peltier cooler (TEC) using CFD techniques. This involves
visualizing airflow patterns and temperature fields to understand and optimize the cooling performance[8].
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2. Secondary Objectives:
2.1 Evaluate and Compare Cooling Technologies:
To investigate the performance of thermoelectric Peltier cooling systems with traditional vapor compression
refrigeration systems to better understand their cooling performance, energy consumption, and temperature
uniformity[9].
2.2 Integrate IoT Technology for Enhanced Control:
To investigate the application of IoT applications for improved cooling technology and energy efficiency in
thermoelectric refrigerators. As an example, the IoT-enabled refrigerator includes thermoelectric modules,
temperature sensors, and IoT connectivity, to enable targeted temperature control, and smart management. [10].
To create and implement advanced control systems using IoT-enabled devices that permit realtime monitoring,
data collection, and remote control of the refrigerator's cooling performance [11].
3 Long-Term Goals:
3.1 Transform Cooling Technology:
3.2 Aims to help in revolutionizing cooling technology by providing sustainable and energyefficient food
preservation and other application solutions[14].
3.3 Ecosystems of Smart Homes Integration [15]:
3.4 To study how smart refrigerators can be incorporated into smart homes ecosystems seamlessly and
facilitate user convenience and energy management [16].
The research will explore the applicability of precise CFD to simulate and IoT to understand the
thermoelectric Peltier cooling systems in residential refrigerators. This will open opportunities to improve
energy efficiency, improve cooling efficacy and potentially futurize available systems through new
sustainable refrigerating concepts[17]. The project aims at accessible solutions that can be included in a future
design of refrigerators through the IoT's capabilities to control temperature accurately and manage smartly.
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CHAPTER 3
EXPERIMENTAL SETUP
The thermoelectric Peltier module is the core component of the cooling system, leveraging the Peltier effect to
create a temperature differential between its two sides. Principle of Operation:
Peltier Effect: Discovered by Jean Charles Athanase Peltier in 1834 [2], the Peltier effect is a thermoelectric
phenomenon where an electric current passing through two different types of semiconductors causes heat to be
absorbed at one junction and released at the other.
Module Composition: The module typically consists of semiconductors made of bismuth telluride or similar
materials [3]. These semiconductors are arranged thermally in series and electrically in parallel, forming a compact,
efficient cooling device.
Functionality:
Direct Current (DC) Voltage: When a DC voltage causing a flow of electrons through the semiconductor in the
thermoelectric (TE) module and consequently a transfer of heat [4].
Temperature Gradient: The flow of electrons creates a temperature gradient across the two junctions. After
applying a DC voltage, one side of the module becomes the cold side which absorbs heat from its environment,
and the other side becomes the hot side which releases heat to the environment [5].
Application in Refrigerators:
Heat Absorption and Transfer: In a refrigerator, the cold side of the Peltier module is installed inside the
refrigerator compartment to absorb heat and cool the interior, while the hot side has a heat sink and fan that
dissipates the absorbed heat to the air outside the compartment[6].
b) ESP32 Microcontroller
The ESP32 microcontroller is a powerful and versatile device that serves as the brain of the IoTenabled
refrigerator. It handles data processing, communication, and control functions Features:
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ESP32 w/ Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Capability: The ESP32's integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow for wireless
connections to other IoT devices and networks[16].
Sharp Processing Power: The Dual-core CPU has plenty of processing power to handle complex tasks and to
process data in real time.
Low Power Consumption: The design of ESP32 is suitable for continuous use in refrigeration systems due to the
low power consumption.
Role in System:
Data Collection: To monitor the fridge's inner conditions, ESP32 collects data through a series of sensors. This
includes temperature sensors.
Control Mechanism: The ESP32 controls the power given to the Peltier modules based on sensor data, thus
altering the cooling performance[15].
Connectivity: It allows remote monitoring and control through IoT networks, so customers can operate the
refrigerator from smartphones or other connected devices.
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Temperature Range: The temperature sensors can measure significant temperature ranges so they can be used
for both the cold interior and the warmer ambient conditions outside the refrigerator.
Accuracy: K-type sensors will constantly supply accurate temperature readings to needed to make keeping
optimal cooling performance and be energy efficient.
Integration:
Placement: Sensors are strategically placed inside the refrigerator to monitor the internal temperature and
ensure uniform cooling.
Data Transmission: Temperature data is transmitted to the ESP32 microcontroller, which processes the
information and adjusts the cooling system accordingly.
B. Software Implementation
The Internet of Things enabled refrigerator system is coded using the Arduino IDE software platform. Here, the
ESP32 microcontroller performs several functions including communication, processing, and data
collection[18].
Essential Roles:
Sensor Data Acquisition: The code frequently reads temperature data from K-type sensors.
Control Logic The microcontroller controls the amount of voltage fed through the Peltier modules to maintain
the desired cooling level by accepting data from the temperature sensor.
IoT Communication: The code allows the ESP32 to send and receive data via Wi-Fi allowing the ESP32 to be
controlled and monitored remotely, again through a specific web interface or mobile app[16].
Features:
User Interface: The Internet of Things system comes equipped with a user-friendly interface to remotely
change settings and monitor the performance of the refrigerator[14].
Alerts and Notifications: In case of temperature fluctuations or equipment failure, the system can send
notifications to users and raise an alarm.
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CHAPTER 4
METHODOLOGY
1. Hardware Components
1.1 Control System
The main processor of the control system for the Internet of effects enabled thermoelectric Peltier refrigerator is the
ESP32 microcontroller[2]. It collects temperature data from detectors and evaluates it in order to calculate the
quantum of cooling force needed. The control system changes the power force to the thermoelectric modules,
therefore furnishing guests with a choice of how important cooling they need.
Modules of Thermoelectric
The thermoelectric modules are the main factors of a thermoelectric Peltier refrigerator. These modules correspond
of a number of dyads of semiconductor accoutrements , n- type and p- type, that display the Peltier effect in the
presence of an electric current[1].
Fig.6-Thermoelectric Modules
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This mechanism causes heat to flow or transfer from one side of the module to the other side, thereby forming a
temperature gradient. The thermoelectric modules are mounted next to the cooling compartment to transfer heat
from the inside of the module to the outside. The temperature of the cooling compartment is made adjustable by
modifying the electric current flowing through the modules[4]. The thermoelectric Peltier devices are designed
into two parallel configurations of 12 V and 6 A..
They report to the control system in real time, allowing it to control the temperature accurately are reported
continuously in the cooling chamber with temperature sensors suitably located therein..
They provide the control system with data in real time, enabling it to accurately regulate temperature. The
temperature sensors also monitor changes in temperature and send this information to the management system, which
adjusts the power supply to the thermoelectric modules to maintain the appropriate temperature in the refrigerator.
A "cooling capacity test" was used to determine the amount of time it would take the compartment to cool. In this
test, for every 90 liters of volume, 4.5 kg of warm test packages was used, and the amount of time it took to bring
down the temperature of the packages to 8°C from 25°C was recorded. Testing took place in a climate room set at:
relative humidity = 35%-50% ambient temperature = 27.0 ± 0.5°C The air temperatures were monitored to ensure
that none of the goal compartment temperatures were exceeded.
The chosen goal compartment temperature was +4.0°C. During testing, the average refrigerator power
consumption was maintained at 224.6 W[7].
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These sensors, with masses of 25 g ± 5%, were inserted into the centers of Cu cylinders made of brass or copper
coated in tin.
Table 1 lists the sensors used for measurements along with their accuracies.
The warm packages were inserted into the Fresh Food Compartment (FFC) in the prescribed order after the target
compartment temperatures reached a steady state and met compliance requirements. A total of 15 parcels weighing
7.5 kg were spaced equally among three shelves (shelf 1 being the uppermost shelf), with temperature sensors
installed on each shelf. Out of these, two packages on each shelf were identified as M- packages for measurement
purposes. The warm packages were kept at a temperature of 25.0 ± 0.5°C before insertion.
Other systems provided temperature, relative humidity, and TEC run time data, while a networkbased system
collected power and voltage measurements. Overall, relative humidity accuracy was less than 5%
due to high-precision sensors. Within the compartment and climate chamber, temperature measurements were
recorded by T-type thermocouples with an error of ±0.2°C. With tolerances of ±2 mm for mass and
±2% for size, the chemical composition of the test packages matched those in the standard. Air velocity was
measured with a resolution of 0.01 ms^1 and accuracy of ±0.5°C with a thermal anemometer, low in velocity. For
determining the cooling time performance, temperature readings for the packages were acquired every minute with
the abovementioned thermocouples[8]. An uncertainty analysis for these readings was conducted, and the overall
uncertainty at each point was calculated by taking the square root of the sum of squares of the random error and
sensor uncertainty, considering the ±0.2°C uncertainty related to the temperature sensors used for measurements.
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CHAPTER 5
Uncertainties were extensively analyzed in the test results, which are presented in
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Figure. The temperature measurements for each test package were repeated three
times and the standard deviations of the measurements at each minute were
calculated to analyze the measurement errors. Additionally, the combined uncertainty
at every point in Figure was determined by summing the random error and sensor
uncertainty, considering the temperature sensors' ±0.2°C uncertainty[4]. The mean
cooling time was 146.5 minutes or 2.44 hours, which is very promising considering
that it is stronglycompared to commercial products[18].
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CHAPTER 6
CONCLUSIONS
In the course of our study, we tested various heat sink designs such as rectangular, square, and
cascade shapes. Following careful research on the options considered, we chose the square shape
for the heat sink as being the best design of all of them. Based on this work, we proposed several
strategies to make the operational performance of the refrigerator system even better than before.
This meant integrating state-of- the-art IoT technologies with control strategies based on Pulse
Width Modulation. Along with this strategic mix comes several more advanced features that
promise optimum utilization of energy. One very significant feature of our proposed solution
would be smooth user engagement, through built-in connectivity for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. It
provides users with communication channels at those crucial times when they are likely to need
to make prompt action, based on necessary knowledge[8].
Our objective is to integrate the latest IoT technology with efficient PWM control techniques
that enhance the performance of refrigerators and improve the users' experience. This novel
technique is a significant advancement in refrigeration and indicates significant functional and
efficiency gains as well as high user convenience. To design an increasingly intelligent and
effective refrigeration system, our research delves into the potential of integration of IoT
technology with thermoelectric Peltier modules. We researched different heat sink arrangements
and their impact on the cooling performance using both experimental research and
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations[9].
The primary aim was to utilize smart management capabilities in order to enhance user
interaction, reduce energy economy, and attain precise temperature control[17].
Important Outcomes IoT with Thermoelectric Cooling Peltier Thermoelectric Modules The
modules had demonstrated the thermoelectric cooling of good efficiency that can easily regulate
temperature in the compartments of the refrigerator. They offered a solution that included
variable cooling, where the heat can flow in reverse to allow different load conditions to be
applied and/or located electronically[8].
IoT Connectivity: The refrigerator system was to be monitored and controlled remotely, through
the advent of AoT capability. It allowed for near real-time data of temperature changes and
overall system performance, with the ability to operate seamlessly with sensors and other related
devices due to the ESP32 microcontrollers (S veya N). This increased awareness of quick energy
management situations, and contributed to use cases where interactions between connected
devices were defined as being intelligenter[12].
Hardware and Software: The ESP32 was selected as the microcontroller for controlling the
refrigerator operation due to the dual-core processor and available peripheral modules The
cooling operation was extremely controlled due to the K-type thermocouples' accuracy and
reliability of temperature reading over a very broad range[15].
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Arduino IDE: The development process was made easier and compatibility with a variety of
hardware components was ensured by using the Arduino IDE to write the control algorithms and
supervise sensor data gathering[11].
Energy Efficiency and Cooling Time: Experimental Verification Measurements of cooling times
revealed that the system had sufficient ability to drop test package temperatures from 25°C down
to 8°C in reasonable periods, comparable to commercial refrigeration units. During the entire
experimental testing, the average power consumption of the system remained at 224.6 W,
indicating its efficiency in terms of energy use[2].
CFD Models: Simulations in ANSYS FLUENT gave insights into temperature and airflow inside
the compartments of the refrigerator. The successful design was square-shaped heat sink that
prompted effective thermal management and simplified the airflow. Models guided the
optimization of configurations for heat sinks and agreed with the experiments.
Optimization of Heat Sink Design: Square Heat Sink: Among the three types that were
considered, the square-shaped heat sink performed better than the rectangle and cascading
designs. It was the best option for our system because of its streamlined flow pattern, which
promoted even heat dissipation and improved cooling performance[6].
Conclusion and Future Directions A promising direction for the future of refrigeration
technology is the integration of thermoelectric Peltier cooling modules with Internet of Things
technologies. Our research has shown the potential benefits of such systems, including enhanced
energy efficiency[5], smart management capabilities, and precise temperature control. The
findings indicate that optimizing heat sink designs and utilizing advanced CFD models are
essential to achieving maximum performance.
Future Research Directions: Better Energy Efficiency: The prime objectives of future research
must be the enhanced qualities of the materials and advanced algorithms for controlling the
thermoelectric modules in order to optimize the consumption of power by the modules. Other
semiconductor materials may be explored in order to get better efficiency. Smarter energy
utilization can be achieved due to machine learning algorithms that predict cooling loads and
make dynamic adjustments to the system. The refrigerator will be made to perform better by
using adaptive control techniques and real-time data analysis. The future designs should focus on
sustainability with eco-friendly materials and reduced carbon footprint for the entire refrigerator
system[7]. The environmental friendliness of the system can be enhanced further by
incorporating renewable sources for power supply.
In short, integrating IoT technology with thermoelectric Peltier cooling would be the most
revolutionary way towards achieving a better level of sustainability, user-friendliness, and
efficiency in refrigeration. Ongoing research and development will be able to satisfy the demand
for smart, energy-efficient appliances by providing new and innovative cooling solutions[11].
29
CHAPTER 7
REFERENCES
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APPENDICES
32
Appendix B: Experimental Data Sheets
B.1 Temperature Recording Data
Time (min) Shelf 1 Temp Shelf 2 Temp Shelf 3 Temp Ambient
(°C) (°C) (°C) Temp
0 25.0 25.0 25.0 27.0
30 18.2 17.8 19.1 27.1
60 12.4 11.9 13.2 27.0
90 8.5 8.1 9.3 27.2
120 6.2 5.9 7.1 27.1
33
Appendix C: CFD Simulation Parameters
Thermal
Specific Heat
Material Density (kg/m³) Conductivity
(J/kg·K)
(W/m·K)
Air 1.225 1006 0.0242
Aluminum (Heat
2710 871 202
Sink)
Bismuth Telluride 7700 154 1.5
ABS
1040 1420 0.17
(Refrigerator Body)
34
Appendix D: Safety and Maintenance Guidelines
35
Appendix E: Bill of Materials
36