Effective Thermal Management of a MEMS Rotating Disk Gyroscope Utilizing ZrO2-Water Nanofluids and Surface Modifications for Consumer Electronics

Micro rotating disk gyroscopes (μRDGs) have emerged as a contender for replacing vibratory gyroscopes as crucial components in consumer electronics due to their high accuracy, precision, stability and wide dynamic range in motion sensing, image stabilisation, etc. However, effective thermal management remains a challenge in maximising their performance and reliability, especially at high heat loads, thus helping downsize μRDGs and enabling them as a potential component in consumer electronics. This study investigates the potential of using nanofluids for thermal performance enhancement of μRDGs. The research examines Zirconium dioxide nanoparticles dispersed in water as the base fluid. Five concentrations of ZrO₂ nanoparticles – 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8% and 1% – have been investigated. Moreover, the study incorporates five varying rotational speeds across all five concentrations. Additionally, surface roughness values of 0.025, 0.05 and 0.1, represented in dimensionless form, are examined in conjunction with the ensuing speeds and concentrations of nanoparticles. The utilisation of nanoparticles is observed to enhance the heat dissipation capability. Notably, at an angular velocity of 1000 rad/s and a nanoparticle concentration of 1%, the maximum enhancement in heat dissipation reaches approximately 27%. Surface roughness demonstrates minimal impact regardless of its values, with a maximum heat dissipation increase of 0.31%. Additionally, graphical representations of various performance indices are provided. The findings of this research indicate promising prospects for improving the thermal performance of μRDGs by utilising nanofluids in conjunction with angular speeds at high heat loads of 500 W/cm², thus helping in the miniaturisation of these components for viable use in consumer electronics.

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