Numerical simulation and optimization of heat transfer in solar box cookers: a pathway to Sustainable cooking

Solar box cookers offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional cooking methods, harnessing solar energy to generate heat for food preparation. A solar box cooker consists of an insulated box with a transparent cover that allows sunlight to enter, where it is then trapped and converted into heat, similar to the greenhouse effect. This simple yet effective design can reach sufficient temperatures to cook meals without the need for fossil fuels or electricity. Box solar cookers are especially beneficial in regions with abundant sunlight, as they provide a cost-effective, renewable way to cook food while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on non-renewable energy sources. In this study, a comprehensive mathematical model was developed for a solar box cooker equipped with multi-step inner reflectors, aimed at simulating its thermal performance. The model incorporates various heat transfer mechanisms, including conduction, convection, and radiation, across key components such as the double-glazed cover and reflectors positioned at specific angles (30°, 45°, and 75°). By solving a system of nonlinear differential equations, the temperature distribution across the cooker’s components was predicted over time. A statistical surface design was also applied to assess and optimize critical factors, including reflector angles, material properties, and ambient conditions, revealing key variables that enhance the cooker’s overall performance. The findings highlight the potential of this design to improve the efficiency of solar cooking systems and promote their use as a viable solution for sustainable food preparation, particularly in sun- rich regions.