On the Use of Spreadsheets in Heat Conduction Analysis

Abstract

Detailed methodology and different techniques for simply utilizing the widely available and user friendly spreadsheet programs in heat conduction analysis are presented. Evaluation of analytical and numerical solution of heat conduction problems via spreadsheets is investigated. Detailed techniques of obtaining spreadsheet numerical solutions for one- and two-dimensional steady and transient heat conduction problems are introduced. A new technique of marching the transient numerical solution with time, in a single layer spreadsheet, for one- and two-dimensional heat conduction is explained. Creating macros that automate the spreadsheet processes, particularly calculations, is detailed. Utilization of the powerful graphical facility that is built in the spreadsheets to graphically represent the obtained solutions is outlined.

Teaching Computational Fluid Dynamics Using Spreadsheets

“…Student reaction to these computational assignments was very encouraging, with the students reporting increased confidence and greater understanding of the issues. Also concentrating on heat conduction, Mokheimer and Antar [16,17] provide detailed instructions on how to set up calculations in one, two and three dimensions, both steady state and transient.…”

Spreadsheets for understanding seismic energy partitioning equations

“…Spreadsheets provide a constructive learning environment as compared to multimedia educational packages which generally place the learner in a passive role [2]. Today spreadsheets are virtually used in all fields of science and engineering education, such as electrical [3][4][5][6], mechanical [7][8][9], civil [10], chemical [11], and environmental engineering [12]. In addition, they are extensively used in geosciences and geotechnical engineering [13][14][15][16][17][18].…”

Study of Dynamic Thermal Response and Implementation of Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) Controllers in Buildings Using Spreadsheet Models

“…Also, students are given the chance to explore some of the difficulties and dangers of employing finitedifference methods. Thermal conduction, including transient effects, has also been modelled in two [7] and three dimensions [8]. Fraser and Thorpe [9] have applied spreadsheets to heat transfer and other mechanical engineering applications in fluid flow, solid-body mechanics and motor dynamics.…”