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The constructal law of structure formation in natural systems with internal flows

Publication ,  Journal Article
Bejan, A
Published in: American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Advanced Energy Systems Division (Publication) AES
December 1, 1997

This paper outlines a series of recent developments that provide a theoretical basis for the formation of shape and structure in nonequilibrium (flow) systems subjected to overall constraints. It is shown that geometrical form can be deduced from a single principle: the geometric minimization of resistance to flow. This is illustrated in two ways: by minimizing the flow resistance between a finite volume and one point, and by minimizing the time of travel between a finite area and one point. The discovery is that any volume element can have its shape optimized such that its flow resistance is minimal. This principle applies at any volume scale. The given volume is covered in successive steps of optimization and construction. Optimally shaped elements are grouped into a "construct," and then the shape of the construct is optimized. The more visible portion of the optimized volume-to-point flow path that emerges is a tree network that is completely deterministic. This solution has a definite time direction: from small to large, hence the name "constructal." Small size and slow and shapeless flow (diffusion) come first, and larger sizes and organized flows (streams) come later.

Duke Scholars

Published In

American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Advanced Energy Systems Division (Publication) AES

Publication Date

December 1, 1997

Volume

37

Start / End Page

257 / 264

Related Subject Headings

  • Biomedical Engineering
 

Citation

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Bejan, A. (1997). The constructal law of structure formation in natural systems with internal flows. American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Advanced Energy Systems Division (Publication) AES, 37, 257–264.
Bejan, A. “The constructal law of structure formation in natural systems with internal flows.” American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Advanced Energy Systems Division (Publication) AES 37 (December 1, 1997): 257–64.
Bejan A. The constructal law of structure formation in natural systems with internal flows. American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Advanced Energy Systems Division (Publication) AES. 1997 Dec 1;37:257–64.
Bejan, A. “The constructal law of structure formation in natural systems with internal flows.” American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Advanced Energy Systems Division (Publication) AES, vol. 37, Dec. 1997, pp. 257–64.
Bejan A. The constructal law of structure formation in natural systems with internal flows. American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Advanced Energy Systems Division (Publication) AES. 1997 Dec 1;37:257–264.

Published In

American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Advanced Energy Systems Division (Publication) AES

Publication Date

December 1, 1997

Volume

37

Start / End Page

257 / 264

Related Subject Headings

  • Biomedical Engineering