Controlled random search technique for estimation of convective heat transfer coefficient

This paper is concerned with a method for solving inverse heat conduction problem. The method is based on the controlled random search (CRS) technique in conjunction with modified Newton–Raphson method. The random search procedure does not need the computation of derivative of the function to be evaluated. Therefore, it is independent of the calculation of the sensitivity coefficient for nonlinear parameter estimation. The algorithm does not depend on the future-temperature information and can predict convective heat transfer coefficient with random errors in the input temperature data. The technique is first validated against an analytical solution of heat conduction equation for a typical rocket nozzle. Comparison with an earlier analysis of inverse heat conduction problem of a similar experiment shows that the present method provides solutions, which are fully consistent with the earlier results. Once validated, the technique is used to investigate another estimation of heat transfer coefficient for an experiment of short duration, high heating rate, and employing indepth temperature measurement. The CRS procedure, in conjunction with modified Newton–Raphson method, is quite useful in estimating the value of the convective heat-transfer coefficient from the measured transient temperature data on the outer surface or imbedded thermocouple inside the rocket nozzle. Some practical examples are illustrated, which demonstrate the stability and accuracy of the method to predict the surface heat flux.