Liquid level sensing module, non-transitory computer readable medium, and device housing

Abstract

A liquid level sensing module, a non-transitory computer readable medium, and an equipment enclosure are provided. The liquid level sensing module has an equipment enclosure that houses an electronic equipment. The liquid level sensing module includes a liquid level sensor and a controller coupled to the liquid level sensor and configured to: receive a signal from the liquid level sensor indicative of a height of a dielectric liquid in the equipment enclosure; receive a signal from a pump controller indicative of a volume of dielectric liquid provided to the equipment enclosure; and generate a dielectric liquid volume map within the equipment enclosure from the signal from the liquid level sensor and the signal of the pump controller. The present invention is capable of overcoming at least one drawback of the prior art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to electronic devices immersed in liquid, and more specifically, to monitoring the volume of liquid in which a device is immersed. Background Technology

[0002] Many electronic devices generate heat during operation, thus requiring a cooling method to prevent overheating. One method is liquid immersion cooling, which involves immersing the electronic device in a non-conductive dielectric fluid. A typical liquid immersion cooling method involves circulating the dielectric fluid through the device housing and heat exchangers to transfer the heat generated by the electronic device. The heat generated by the electronic device can be maintained at a safe operating temperature through the transfer of heat via the dielectric fluid. Summary of the Invention

[0003] At least one aspect of the present invention relates to a liquid level sensing module for use with a liquid immersion cooling system, the liquid level sensing module having a device housing housing an electronic device, wherein the liquid level sensing module includes a liquid level sensor and a controller, the controller being coupled to the liquid level sensor and configured to: receive a signal from the liquid level sensor indicating a height of dielectric fluid in the device housing; receive a signal from a pump controller indicating a volume of dielectric fluid supplied to the device housing; and generate a dielectric fluid volume map within the device housing based on the signal from the liquid level sensor and the signal from the pump controller.

[0004] In one embodiment, the level sensing module includes a mounting bracket coupled to the controller and the level sensor, and configured to be mounted on the device housing. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to selectively send an alarm for dielectric fluid loss based on the signal from the level sensor.

[0005] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to receive a signal from a temperature sensor indicating a temperature of the dielectric fluid in the device housing. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to use the temperature of the dielectric fluid to determine the mass of the dielectric fluid in the device housing. In various embodiments, the controller is also configured to update the dielectric fluid volume map based on the temperature of the dielectric fluid to compensate for at least one of dielectric fluid expansion or contraction.

[0006] Another aspect of the invention relates to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a sequence of computer-executable instructions for monitoring the volume of a dielectric fluid in a liquid immersion cooling system having a device housing housing an electronic device. The sequence of computer-executable instructions includes instructions instructing at least one processor to perform the following operations: sending at least one first command to transfer a first volume of dielectric fluid into the device housing and measuring a first height of the dielectric fluid within the device housing; sending at least one second command to transfer a second volume of dielectric fluid into the device housing and measuring a second height of the dielectric fluid within the device housing; generating a dielectric fluid volume map within the device housing based on the first and second volumes, the measured first and second heights; measuring a total dielectric fluid height within the device housing; and selectively sending an alarm for dielectric fluid loss based on a comparison of the total dielectric fluid height and the dielectric fluid volume map.

[0007] In one embodiment, the sequence of instructions includes instructions to instruct at least one processor to perform the following operation: generate a dielectric fluid volume map by determining incremental height levels corresponding to the transfer of dielectric fluid in the first and second volumes. In some embodiments, the dielectric fluid in the first and second volumes respectively occupies a first region and a second region within the device housing. In various embodiments, the incremental height levels correspond to the levels of dielectric fluid displacement in the first and second regions.

[0008] In some embodiments, the sequence of instructions includes instructions to at least one processor to perform the following operation: identify which regions in the first and second regions are affected by dielectric loss based on the comparison of the total dielectric fluid height and the dielectric fluid volume map. In some embodiments, the sequence of instructions includes instructions to at least one processor to perform the following operation: send a dielectric fluid loss alarm if dielectric fluid loss affects the first region. In various embodiments, the sequence of instructions includes instructions to at least one processor to perform the following operation: measure a temperature of the dielectric fluid in the device housing. In some embodiments, the sequence of instructions includes instructions to at least one processor to perform the following operation: determine the mass of the dielectric fluid in the device housing using the temperature of the dielectric fluid.

[0009] Another aspect of the invention relates to a device housing for use in a liquid immersion cooling system, the device housing including an electronic device and a liquid level sensing module, the liquid level sensing module including a liquid level sensor and a controller coupled to the liquid level sensor, the controller being configured to: receive a signal from the liquid level sensor indicating a height of dielectric fluid in the device housing; receive a signal from a pump controller indicating a volume of dielectric fluid supplied to the device housing; and generate a dielectric fluid volume map within the device housing based on the signal from the liquid level sensor and the signal from the pump controller.

[0010] In one embodiment, the device housing further includes a mounting bracket coupled to the level sensing module. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to selectively send an alarm for dielectric fluid loss based on the signal from the level sensor. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to receive a signal from a temperature sensor indicating a temperature of the dielectric fluid in the device housing. In various embodiments, the controller is configured to use the temperature of the dielectric fluid to determine the mass of the dielectric fluid in the device housing. In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to update the dielectric fluid volume map based on the temperature of the dielectric fluid to compensate for dielectric fluid expansion and / or contraction. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The following discussion of at least one embodiment is with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are not intended to be drawn to scale. The included drawings provide illustration and further understanding of the aspects and embodiments, and are incorporated in and form part of this specification, but are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The drawings and the remainder of the specification serve to explain the principles and operation of the described and claimed aspects and embodiments. In the drawings, each identical or substantially identical component shown in the various figures is represented by similar numbers. For clarity, not every component is labeled in every figure. In the drawings:

[0012] Figure 1A This is a functional block diagram of an example liquid immersion cooling system.

[0013] Figure 1B This is a functional block diagram of an example liquid immersion cooling system.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a functional block diagram of a liquid immersion cooling system according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing a liquid level assembly according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4AThis is a schematic diagram showing a device housing filled with dielectric fluid according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 4B This is a data table showing an example of measuring / calculating dielectric fluid values ​​according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4C This is a schematic diagram showing the volume of dielectric fluid inside the housing of a device according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 4D This is a data table showing an example of measuring / calculating dielectric fluid values ​​according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of mapping and monitoring the volume of dielectric fluid within a device housing according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a process for mapping and monitoring the volume of dielectric fluid within a device housing, according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The examples of methods and systems discussed herein are not limited to the construction details and component arrangements shown in the following description or the accompanying drawings. The methods and systems can be implemented in other embodiments and can be practiced or performed in various ways. The examples of specific implementations provided herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. In particular, actions, components, elements, and features discussed in conjunction with any one or more examples are not excluded from similar roles in any other examples.

[0023] Furthermore, the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. Any reference to examples, embodiments, components, elements, or actions of systems and methods mentioned herein in the singular may also include multiple embodiments, and any reference to any embodiment, component, element, or action mentioned herein in the plural may also include only the specific embodiment. References in the singular or plural form are not intended to limit the currently disclosed systems or methods, their components, actions, or elements. The use of “including,” “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and variations thereof in this document is intended to cover the items listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as other items. References to “or” may be interpreted inclusively, such that any term used with “or” may indicate a single, more than one, or any one of all the described terms. Additionally, in the event of any inconsistency between the terminology used herein and in documents incorporated herein by reference, the terminology used in the included references is supplementary to this document; in the event of any inconsistency, the terminology used herein shall prevail.

[0024] As mentioned above, electronic devices in operation generate a significant amount of heat. To maintain device functionality, various cooling methods are typically used to keep the device's operating temperature at an acceptable or desired level. Some examples include allowing heat to be transferred through a radiator and circulating air through or near the device. While these cooling methods have proven effective for some devices, they are insufficient to maintain an acceptable device temperature for many. Furthermore, these methods often require expensive cooling infrastructure (e.g., air cooling) and operate at high energy consumption rates.

[0025] As a result, the demand for efficient, high-performance cooling methods has increased. One existing method is called liquid immersion cooling. This method involves immersing or submerging an electronic device in a non-conductive dielectric liquid. In a single-phase change, the dielectric liquid is circulated by a pump within a housing containing the electronic device. The dielectric liquid is then pumped through a heat exchanger to transfer the heat generated by the electronic device. In a two-phase change, the dielectric liquid evaporates to transfer the heat generated by the electronic device. The gaseous dielectric liquid is then cooled by the heat exchanger and returned to the housing containing the electrons in liquid form.

[0026] Figure 1AAn example of a liquid immersion cooling system 100 is shown, comprising a device housing 102, a heat exchanger 104 within the device housing 102, a liquid reservoir 106, and a pump assembly 108. The device housing 102 is configured to hold a dielectric fluid such that a device 101 within the device housing 102 can be immersed in the dielectric fluid. The device may be a server or some other electronic device, such as a storage device, a networking device, or other types of high heat flux electronic equipment. In some embodiments, more than one device may be placed in the device housing 102 and immersed in the dielectric fluid.

[0027] The pump assembly 108 includes a pump 110 and a pump control module 112. The pump control module 112 operates the pump 110 to transfer the dielectric fluid from the reservoir 106 to the device housing 102. In some embodiments, the pump control module 112 may receive commands from a computing system, another control module, and / or a user.

[0028] The device housing 102 may include at least one internal pump 103 to circulate the dielectric fluid through the heat exchanger 104. For example... Figure 1A As shown, the dielectric fluid can circulate through the heat exchanger 104 to transfer heat generated by the device 101. Water or another liquid can circulate through the heat exchanger 104 to remove heat from the dielectric fluid and be discharged from the device housing 102. Figure 1B An example of a liquid immersion cooling system 150 is shown, wherein the dielectric fluid can circulate through an external heat exchanger 104, be transferred to a reservoir 106, and then return to the device housing 102. In some embodiments, the liquid immersion cooling system 150 may be a two-phase system.

[0029] The dielectric fluid can be one of several different types of non-conductive liquids. In this document, "non-conductive" means that it cannot conduct electricity at a level that could damage or harm the immersion device 101. In some embodiments, the dielectric fluid can be an engineered fluid with properties optimized for heat transfer. In one embodiment, the type of dielectric fluid used can be selected based on the device 101 within the device housing 102. In another embodiment, the type of dielectric fluid used can be selected based on the environment of the immersion cooling system 100. Examples of dielectric fluids that can be used include engineered fluids, mineral oils, deionized water, etc.

[0030] During operation of the immersion cooling system 100, the device housing 102 may experience dielectric fluid loss, thereby reducing the volume of dielectric fluid within the device housing 102. For example, the dielectric fluid may seep through or leak out of seals in the device housing 102. In another embodiment, the device housing 102 may experience dielectric fluid leakage in vapor form through seals that separate dielectric vapor from another interface. In some embodiments, the device housing 102 may be opened for repair or maintenance, thereby allowing the dielectric fluid to evaporate into the air.

[0031] Because the device is immersed in the dielectric fluid, this will cause the fluid to shift or displace, making it difficult to accurately monitor the fluid volume within the device housing 102 in existing systems. Furthermore, many devices have irregular geometries, which can present additional challenges when attempting to monitor fluid volume, such as errors in fluid volume calculations based solely on fluid height. Inaccurate monitoring of fluid volume can lead to the inability to properly identify and assess potential problems (e.g., fluid loss), thereby risking the immersed device 101 exceeding acceptable operating temperatures. Additionally, attempting to correct problems discovered using incorrect monitoring techniques can result in costly and wasteful use of the dielectric fluid.

[0032] This document provides a system and method for accurately monitoring dielectric fluid volume in a fluid immersion cooling system. In at least one embodiment, a high-resolution map of the dielectric fluid volume within a housing housing an electronic device is generated. More specifically, the dielectric fluid volume is mapped relative to the dielectric fluid height, thereby enabling accurate monitoring of volume changes to assess overall system performance, identify potential leaks, and reduce operating costs.

[0033] Figure 2 An example of a liquid immersion cooling system 200 is shown. The liquid immersion cooling system 200 includes a liquid level sensing module 202. In one embodiment, the liquid level sensing module 202 is mounted within the device housing 102. However, in other embodiments, the liquid level sensing module 202 may be mounted externally to the device housing 102. In some embodiments, the liquid level sensing module 202 may be shared among multiple device housings and configured to provide similar functionality for each device housing.

[0034] The level sensing module 202 can communicate with the pump control module 112 of the pump assembly 108. In one embodiment, the level sensing module 202 can control the operation of the pump 110 by communicating with the pump control module 112. Similarly, the pump control module 112 can communicate with the level sensing module 202 to provide information to the level sensing module 202. In some embodiments, the pump control module 112 can provide information such as pump / flow rate and dielectric fluid parameters to the level sensing module 202. In some embodiments, the level sensing module 202 can be configured to communicate with one or more pump control modules to control multiple pumps associated with different device housings.

[0035] As explained in more detail below, the liquid level sensing module 202 can control the operation of the pump 110 and obtain a measurement of the dielectric liquid height from the liquid level sensor to map and monitor the amount of dielectric liquid within the device housing 102.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a fluid level assembly 300. The fluid level assembly 300 can be used as, for example... Figure 2 The liquid level sensing module 202 is shown in the liquid immersion cooling system 200. The fluid level assembly 300 includes a controller 302 and a liquid level sensor 304. In one embodiment, the liquid level sensor 304 is mounted to the controller 302, and the controller 302 is mounted to a mounting bracket 306 inside the device housing (e.g., device housing 102). In other embodiments, the liquid level sensor 304 may be mounted inside the device housing 102, and the controller 302 may be located outside the device housing 102.

[0037] In various embodiments, the controller 302 may include one or more general-purpose computing processors, dedicated processors, or microcontrollers. The controller 302 may include specially programmed dedicated hardware, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or more generally designed hardware, such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or a general-purpose processor. In some embodiments, the controller 302 may be connected to one or more storage devices, such as disk drives, memory, flash memory, embedded or on-chip memory, or other devices for storing data. In some embodiments, the controller 302 may be one or more controllers, including one or more components, such as one or more processors.

[0038] The controller 302 can be configured to communicate with an external pump (e.g., pump 110) for transferring dielectric fluid into the device housing 102. The controller 302 can store the volumetric flow rate of pump 110 in memory and control the operation of pump 110 (e.g., start and stop). The controller 302 can be configured to communicate with other devices and equipment, such as user interface devices. In one embodiment, the controller 302 can communicate with a user interface device to enable the user to control the operation of pump 110. In some embodiments, the controller 302 can be configured to communicate with devices and equipment using a communication protocol such as I2C, SPI, CANbus, or any other bidirectional protocol. In some embodiments, the controller 302 can communicate via a wired connection including a wired network. In other embodiments, the controller 302 can communicate via a wireless connection including a wireless network.

[0039] The controller 302 can be configured to communicate with the level sensor 304 to receive a measurement of the dielectric fluid height within the device housing 102. In one embodiment, the level sensor 304 includes a mechanical float and a strain gauge. A variable force is applied to the strain gauge from the attached float immersed in the dielectric fluid, the magnitude of which depends on the percentage of the float immersed. Thus, as the dielectric fluid enters the device housing 102, the fluid level increases around the fixed float, and buoyancy (i.e., the variable force) is applied to the strain gauge. The controller 302 can know the density of the dielectric fluid and can use the known density of the dielectric fluid to convert the buoyancy into a fluid height value. In one embodiment, the controller 302 can store the measured fluid height value in a memory. In some embodiments, the controller 302 can send the measured fluid height value to another device or interface, such as a user interface.

[0040] In some embodiments, the level component 300 may be configured to monitor the level of dielectric fluid in a multi-device housing containing multiple electronic devices. For example, the level component 300 may be configured to monitor the level of dielectric fluid in multiple device housings located within a device housing (e.g., a server housing). Each device housing may include a level sensor 304 coupled to the controller 302, and the controller 302 may be configured to monitor the level of dielectric fluid in each device housing in parallel.

[0041] In some embodiments, the level assembly 300 may include additional sensors. For example, the level assembly 300 may include a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the dielectric fluid, the device housing 102, and / or the device 101. In one embodiment, the controller 302 may know the thermophysical properties of the dielectric fluid and may use these known thermophysical properties in conjunction with the temperature sensor to increase the accuracy of the level measurement. In some embodiments, the density of the dielectric fluid may vary with temperature, and the controller 302 may adjust or calibrate the values ​​measured using the level sensor 304. For example, for the same level, a colder, denser dielectric fluid may be hotter, and a denser dielectric fluid exerts greater buoyancy on the strain gauge.

[0042] In some embodiments, the level assembly 300 may include a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure of the dielectric fluid applied to the base of the device housing 102. In some embodiments, the controller 302 may use the pressure measurement to increase the accuracy of the level measurement. In one embodiment, the pressure sensor may be an absolute pressure sensor. However, in other embodiments, the pressure sensor may be any other type of pressure sensor.

[0043] The embodiments discussed herein are not limited to specific methods for fluid level measurement, and the mechanical float-based method described herein is provided as an example for illustrative purposes only. For example, the level sensor 304 may utilize buoyancy, strain, optical, ultrasonic, capacitive, or any other level sensing method. Various types of level sensors and implementations of level measurement can be used, and they are all within the scope of this invention.

[0044] In one embodiment, fluid levels can be obtained to generate a high-resolution map of the dielectric fluid volume within the device housing that houses the electronic device. Figure 4A Figure 400 shows an example of a housing (e.g., device housing 102) containing a device (e.g., device 101) immersed in a dielectric fluid. During initial filling, the dielectric fluid can be incrementally transferred into the device housing 102, and the total fluid level can be measured after each subsequent transfer. For example, the fluid level of a first fluid increment 402 transferred into the device housing 102 can be measured, as can the combined fluid level of the first fluid increment 402 and the second fluid increment 404 transferred into the device housing 102, etc.

[0045] In one embodiment, each fluid increment may have a predetermined volume. In some embodiments, the volume of each fluid increment may be the same. However, in other embodiments, the fluid increments may have different volumes. In one embodiment, each fluid increment is delivered by operating a pump (e.g., pump 110) for an amount of time corresponding to a predetermined volume and flow rate of the pump. In another embodiment, the fluid increment is defined as a time interval, and the amount of fluid delivered during each interval is determined by the flow rate of the pump. In some embodiments, the dielectric fluid may be continuously pumped into the device housing 102, and the volume of fluid delivered to the device housing 102 may be sampled continuously or at any time interval. The samples of the fluid volume can be used to define the fluid increment. For example, a fluid increment may be defined as the volume of fluid transferred into the device housing 102 between two or more samples.

[0046] By measuring the total fluid level after each incremental transfer, the fluid height (Δ) corresponding to each fluid increment can be determined. h The change in Δ corresponds to each fluid increment. h The value can be used to indicate the fluid displacement level due to the immersion of the device 101 in the device housing 102. For example, Δ corresponds to the fluid increment 406. h The value can be higher than Δ corresponding to a fluid increment of 404. h The value indicates the fluid discharge rate at higher liquid levels. Each fluid increment occupies a volume area within the device housing 102, and each Δ... h The value can be used to determine the proximity of each area to the immersion device 101.

[0047] Figure 4B This is an example data table 420 showing the measurement and calculation values ​​of the initial filling of the device housing 102. Figure 4A Column 422 represents each fluid increment. Column 424 represents the volume of each fluid increment transferred into the device housing 102. Column 426 represents the total measured fluid level after each fluid increment transfer. Column 428 indicates the fluid height (Δ) corresponding to each respective fluid increment. h The change in fluid level. In one embodiment, the Δ for each fluid increment can be calculated by subtracting the total measured fluid level before transmission from the total measured fluid level after transmission. h Value. Column 430 represents the total volume of fluid in the device housing 102 after each fluid increment. In some embodiments, the total volume of fluid can be calculated by cumulatively adding the volume transferred to the device housing 102 for each corresponding fluid increment (i.e., the cumulative sum of column 424).

[0048] Column 428 shows the calculated Δ hThe value can be used to generate a high-resolution map of the dielectric fluid volume inside the device housing 102. Figure 4C An example of a digital map 440 displaying a device housing 102. The digital map 440 can provide a realistic representation of the volume of dielectric fluid within the device housing 102, including the immersed device 101. The digital map 440 can map the dielectric fluid volume relative to the dimensions (i.e., length, width, height) of the device housing 102. In one embodiment, Δ in column 428 of data table 420... h The value can be correlated with the density level within the device housing 102 and is represented by the digital image 440. The color scale (or grayscale scale) in the digital image 440 represents the concentration level per increment, where dark areas represent high density (high Δ). h Bright areas represent low density (low Δ), while bright areas represent low density (low Δ). h High density indicates that the fluid increase area is at least partially occupied by the immersion device 101. Similarly, low density indicates that the fluid increase area is not directly adjacent to the immersion device 101.

[0049] Optionally, in some embodiments, during the initial filling of the device housing 102, the dielectric fluid can be transferred in predetermined height increments, and the fluid volume for each increment can be determined by monitoring the pump time and flow rate. In one embodiment, the dielectric fluid height within the device housing 102 can be measured to detect the fluid height (Δ) for each fluid increment. h () changes that are scheduled or anticipated. Figure 4D Example data table 460 (column 428) shows measured and calculated values ​​obtained from the initial filling of device housing 102 using predetermined fluid height increments. The calculated fluid volume increments shown in column 424 of data table 460 can be used to generate a high-resolution map of the dielectric fluid volume within device housing 102, similar to digital image 440. In one embodiment, the incremental volume values ​​in column 424 of data table 460 can be correlated with density levels within device housing 102 and represented by a digital image. For example, high-density areas can correspond to low incremental volume values, and low-density areas can correspond to high incremental volume values.

[0050] For illustrative purposes, a visual representation of digital image 440 is provided herein. In some embodiments, digital image 440 may be generated as a database, table, or any other digital data format. In one example, digital image 440 may be stored in a storage device such as the storage device of controller 302. In some embodiments, digital image 440 may also be generated (e.g., Figure 4C The visual representation of the dielectric fluid is provided to the user interface. By generating a digital image 440 of the dielectric fluid volume, the accuracy of monitoring the dielectric fluid flow within the housing 102 of the device can be improved.

[0051] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a process 500 that displays and monitors the fluid volume in a liquid immersion cooling system (e.g., liquid immersion cooling system 200). In one embodiment, process 500 may utilize a level sensing module 202 to generate a digital image of the dielectric fluid volume and monitor the dielectric fluid. The level sensing module 202 may be, for example, a level assembly 300 (such as...). Figure 3 (As shown).

[0052] In step 502, the controller 302 receives a command to begin initial filling of the dielectric fluid into the device housing 102. In one embodiment, the user can initiate the initial filling process via a user interface. In other embodiments, the initial filling process can be initiated automatically using sensors, timers, etc. In step 504, after receiving the command to begin the initial filling process, the controller 302 communicates with the pump assembly 108 via the pump control module 112 and controls the pump 110 to start.

[0053] In step 506, pump 110 delivers a first increment of dielectric fluid into device housing 102. The controller 302 monitors pump 110 to determine when the first increment of dielectric fluid has been delivered into device housing 102. In one embodiment, the controller 302 may be provided with a volumetric flow rate of pump 110, and this volumetric flow rate can be used to determine the amount of fluid delivered into device housing 102 based on the operating time of pump 110. In another embodiment, the controller 302 may communicate with a flow sensor configured to measure the volumetric flow rate of pump 110 to determine the amount of fluid delivered into device housing 102.

[0054] In step 508, once the controller 302 has determined that the first increment of dielectric fluid has been transferred to the device housing 102, the controller 302 uses the level sensor 304 to measure the height of the dielectric fluid in the device housing 102. In step 510, the controller 302 stores the measured fluid height level and the volume of fluid transferred to the device housing 102. In one embodiment, the controller 302 may maintain a database or data table (e.g., data table 420) of the stored measurements. The controller 302 then checks in step 512 whether the measured fluid height level is at the maximum fluid height level. In one embodiment, the maximum fluid height level may be determined based on the position of the level sensor 304 in the device housing 102. In some embodiments, the device housing 102 may be completely filled with dielectric fluid, and the maximum fluid height level may be a dimension of the device housing 102 (e.g., housing height). In other embodiments, the maximum fluid height level may be provided to the controller 302 by the user. If the measured fluid level is at the maximum fluid level, the controller 302 controls the pump 110 to shut down in step 514; otherwise, the controller 302 returns to step 506 and transfers a second incremental dielectric fluid into the device housing 102.

[0055] After each subsequent transfer repetition, incremental dielectric fluid is transferred into the device housing 102, and the corresponding fluid height level is measured until the maximum fluid height level is reached, at which point pump 110 is shut off. After each predetermined volume transfer, the controller 302 can calculate the fluid height (Δ) corresponding to each transfer by storing the measured fluid height and total fluid volume in the device housing 102. h The controller 302 can use the calculated Δ to change. h The value is used to generate a digital image (e.g., digital image 440) of the dielectric fluid volume within the device housing 102. In one embodiment, the calculated Δ h This can be related to the density liquid level within the equipment housing 102. For example, low Δ h The value can correspond to the low-density area of ​​the device housing 102, that is, the area unoccupied by the immersion device 101. Similarly, a higher Δh value can correspond to the high-density area of ​​the device housing 102, that is, the area occupied by the immersion device 101.

[0056] Once the device housing 102 has been filled and the controller 302 has generated a digital image 440, the controller 302 monitors the dielectric fluid in the device housing 102. In step 516, the controller 302 uses a level sensor 304 to measure the height of the dielectric fluid in the device housing 102. In step 518, the processor 302 records the measured fluid level and can use the digital image 440 to determine additional parameters. For example, the controller 302 can use the measured fluid level and the digital image 440 to determine the current volume of the dielectric fluid in the device housing 102. In some examples, the controller 302 can use the measured fluid level, the digital image 440, and the properties of the dielectric fluid (e.g., temperature) to determine additional parameters, such as the current mass of the dielectric fluid in the device housing 102. In some embodiments, the controller 302 can provide the measured fluid level and / or additional fluid parameters for display on a user interface.

[0057] In step 520, the controller 302 checks whether the measured liquid level is acceptable. In one embodiment, the controller 302 may use a digital image 440 to determine whether the measured fluid level is acceptable. For example, the controller 302 may identify a measured liquid level indicating dielectric fluid loss. The controller 302 may use the digital image 440 of the device housing 102 to assess the amount of risk or urgency associated with dielectric fluid loss. The digital image 440 may indicate that dielectric fluid loss corresponds to fluid loss in a low-density area; therefore, not directly adjacent to the immersion device 101. In some embodiments, such an indication may not require an immediate response. However, the digital image 440 may indicate that dielectric fluid loss corresponds to fluid loss in a high-density area; therefore, the digital image 440 may indicate dielectric fluid loss, i.e., near the immersion device 101, which may require an immediate response to prevent the immersion device 101 from exceeding an acceptable operating temperature. In step 522, the controller 302 sends an alarm in response to determining that the liquid level is unacceptable; otherwise, the process returns to step 516, and the controller 302 continues to monitor the dielectric fluid in the device housing 102.

[0058] As described above, in another embodiment, during the initial filling of the device housing 102, the dielectric fluid can be transferred according to predetermined height increments, and the fluid volume for each increment can be determined by monitoring the pump's timing and flow rate. Thus, Figure 5The process 500 can be modified accordingly. For example, in step 506, pump 110 transfers dielectric fluid into the device housing 102. In step 508, controller 302 can use the level sensor 304 to measure the height of the dielectric fluid in the device housing 102 to determine when a first increment of dielectric fluid has been transferred into the device housing 102. Once controller 302 determines that the first increment of dielectric fluid has been transferred into the device housing 102, controller 302 can calculate or measure the volume of the first increment of dielectric fluid. In one embodiment, controller 302 may be provided with a volumetric flow rate of pump 110, and the volumetric flow rate can be used based on the operating time of pump 110 to determine the amount of fluid transferred into the device housing 102. In another embodiment, controller 302 may communicate with a flow sensor configured to measure the volumetric flow rate of pump 110 to determine the amount of fluid transferred into the device housing 102.

[0059] In step 510, the controller 302 may store the calculated / measured volume and measured fluid level of the dielectric fluid transferred to the device housing 102. In one embodiment, the controller 302 may maintain a database or data table of stored measurements (e.g., data table 460). Then, the controller 302 may check in step 512 whether the measured fluid level is at the maximum fluid level. If the measured fluid level is at the maximum fluid level, the controller 302 may control the pump 110 to shut down in step 514; otherwise, the controller 302 returns to step 506 and transfers a second increment of dielectric fluid to the device housing 102. After each subsequent transfer, the process of transferring an increment of dielectric fluid to the device housing 102 and calculating / measuring the corresponding fluid volume is repeated until the maximum fluid level is reached, at which point the pump 110 is shut down in step 514. The controller 302 can use the calculated / measured volume value to generate a digital image (e.g., digital image 440) of the dielectric fluid inside the device housing 102.

[0060] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating another exemplary embodiment of displaying the volume of fluid in a liquid immersion cooling system (e.g., liquid immersion cooling system 200). In one embodiment, process 500 may utilize a level sensing module 202 to generate a digital image of the dielectric fluid volume and monitor the dielectric fluid. The level sensing module 202 may be, for example, a level assembly 300 (such as...). Figure 3 (As shown).

[0061] In step 602, the controller 302 receives a command to begin initial filling of the dielectric fluid into the device housing 102. In step 604, after receiving the command to begin the initial filling process, the controller 302 communicates with the pump assembly 108 via the pump control module 112 and controls the pump 110 to start. In step 606, the controller 302 uses the level sensor 304 to measure the height of the dielectric fluid in the device housing 102.

[0062] In step 610, the controller 302 stores the measured fluid level and the volume of fluid transferred into the device housing 102. The controller 302 can use the stored fluid level to generate and / or update a digital image (e.g., digital image 440) representing the volume of dielectric fluid within the device housing 102. In step 610, the controller 302 checks whether the digital image 440 indicates that the dielectric fluid level in the device housing 102 is acceptable. In step 612, the controller 302 sends an alarm in response to determining that the level is unacceptable; otherwise, the process returns to step 606, and the controller 302 continues to measure the dielectric fluid level in the device housing 102.

[0063] Processes 500 and 600 both describe generating a digital image 440 representing the volume of the dielectric fluid and using the digital image 440 to monitor the dielectric fluid within the device housing 102. The digital image 440 provides a representation of the volume of the dielectric fluid within the device housing 102, taking into account fluid displacement caused by immersion of the device 101. By using the digital image 440 to monitor the dielectric fluid, fluid loss can be accurately detected, and the need for any corrective actions can be identified and initiated.

[0064] In some embodiments, the digital image 440 may be updated during monitoring of the dielectric fluid. The controller 302 may be configured to update the digital image 440 based on known properties of the fluid to account for anticipated changes in fluid volume. For example, the controller 302 may receive or detect the temperature of the fluid and adjust the digital image 440 to account for thermal expansion / contraction of the fluid within the device housing 102. Such adjustments can improve the accuracy of fluid monitoring and reduce the likelihood of unnecessary corrective actions that could lead to waste of dielectric fluid. In some embodiments, the controller 302 may also consider environmental parameters, such as the temperature of the environment in which the immersion cooling system 200 is located, during the generation of the digital image 440.

[0065] Additionally, in various embodiments, the controller 302 can track the performance of the dielectric fluid over time. For example, the controller 302 can report performance metrics such as total fluid loss, fluid temperature, and fluid volume changes to another device or interface (such as a user interface). In some embodiments, the controller 302 can record the occurrence of events such as corrective actions and can monitor the performance of the dielectric fluid to assess the impact or effectiveness of the corrective actions.

[0066] As described above, this paper provides a system and method for accurately monitoring the volume of dielectric fluid in a liquid immersion cooling system. A high-resolution map of the dielectric fluid volume within the housing of an electronic device can be generated and used to monitor the dielectric fluid. By mapping the dielectric fluid volume relative to the dielectric fluid height, volume changes can be accurately monitored to assess overall system performance, identify potential leaks, and reduce operating costs.

[0067] Therefore, having described several aspects of at least one embodiment of the invention, various changes, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Such changes, modifications, and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure and are intended to fall within the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the foregoing description and drawings are merely illustrative.

Claims

1. A liquid immersion cooling system comprising a housing for accommodating an electronic device, characterized in that: The liquid immersion cooling system includes: A liquid level sensor; A controller, coupled to the level sensor and configured to: Receive a signal from the liquid level sensor that indicates a height of the dielectric liquid in the device housing; Receive a signal from a pump controller indicating a volume of dielectric fluid supplied to the housing of the device; and Based on the signals from the liquid level sensor and the pump controller, a dielectric liquid volume diagram is generated within the device housing; and A heat exchanger is configured to receive the dielectric liquid from the housing of the device, convert the dielectric liquid into a gaseous state, cool the gaseous dielectric liquid, convert the gaseous dielectric liquid back into a liquid state after cooling, and deliver the liquid dielectric liquid to a pump, the pump being controlled by the pump controller. A first volume of dielectric fluid is configured to be transferred into the device housing, and a first height of the dielectric fluid inside the device housing is measured; a second volume of dielectric fluid is configured to be transferred into the device housing, and a second height of the dielectric fluid inside the device housing is measured. The dielectric fluid volume diagram is generated by determining the incremental height level corresponding to the dielectric fluid displacement of the first volume and the second volume.

2. The liquid immersion cooling system as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The liquid immersion cooling system also includes a mounting bracket coupled to the controller and the liquid level sensor, and configured to be mounted on the device housing.

3. The liquid immersion cooling system as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The controller is configured to selectively send an alarm for dielectric fluid loss based on the signal from the level sensor.

4. The liquid immersion cooling system as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The controller is configured to receive a signal from a temperature sensor that indicates the temperature of a dielectric fluid in the device housing.

5. The liquid immersion cooling system as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The controller is configured to use a temperature of the dielectric fluid to determine the mass of the dielectric fluid in the device housing.

6. The liquid immersion cooling system as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The controller is also configured to update the dielectric fluid volume map based on a temperature of the dielectric fluid to compensate for at least one of dielectric fluid expansion or contraction.

7. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a sequence of computer-executable instructions for monitoring the volume of a dielectric fluid in a liquid immersion cooling system, the liquid immersion cooling system having a housing for accommodating an electronic device, characterized in that: The sequence of computer-executable instructions includes instructions that instruct at least one processor to perform the following operations: Send at least one first command to transfer a first volume of dielectric fluid into the device housing, and measure a first height of the dielectric fluid inside the device housing; Send at least one second command to transfer a second volume of dielectric fluid into the device housing, and measure a second height of the dielectric fluid inside the device housing; Based on the first volume and the second volume, and the measured first height and the second height, a dielectric fluid volume diagram is generated within the device housing; Measure the total dielectric fluid height inside the housing of the device; Based on a comparison of the total dielectric fluid height and the dielectric fluid volume diagram, an alarm for dielectric fluid loss is selectively sent; and A command is sent to convert the dielectric liquid into a gaseous state, the gaseous dielectric liquid is cooled, the gaseous dielectric liquid is converted into a liquid state after cooling, and the liquid dielectric liquid is supplied to a pump. The dielectric fluid volume diagram is generated by determining the incremental height level corresponding to the dielectric fluid displacement of the first volume and the second volume.

8. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that: The dielectric liquid in the first volume and the second volume respectively occupies a first region and a second region within the housing of the device.

9. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that: The incremental height liquid level corresponds to the liquid level of the dielectric liquid displacement in the first region and the second region.

10. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that: The sequence of instructions includes instructions that instruct at least one processor to perform the following operations: Based on the comparison of the total dielectric fluid height and the dielectric fluid volume diagram, identify which regions in the first and second regions are affected by dielectric fluid loss.

11. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that: The sequence of instructions includes instructions that instruct at least one processor to perform the following operations: If dielectric loss affects the first region, an alarm for dielectric loss is sent.

12. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that: The sequence of instructions includes instructions that instruct at least one processor to perform the following operations: Measure the temperature of the dielectric fluid in the housing of the device.

13. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that: The sequence of instructions includes instructions that instruct at least one processor to perform the following operations: The mass of the dielectric fluid in the device housing is determined using the temperature of the dielectric fluid.

14. A housing for use in a liquid immersion cooling system, characterized in that: The device housing includes: An electronic device; A liquid level sensing module includes a liquid level sensor and a controller coupled to the liquid level sensor, wherein the controller is configured as follows: Receive a signal from the liquid level sensor that indicates a height of the dielectric liquid in the device housing; Receive a signal from a pump controller indicating a volume of dielectric fluid supplied to the housing of the device; and Based on the signals from the liquid level sensor and the pump controller, a dielectric liquid volume diagram is generated within the device housing; and A heat exchanger is configured to receive the dielectric liquid from the housing of the device, convert the dielectric liquid into a gaseous state, cool the gaseous dielectric liquid, convert the gaseous dielectric liquid back into a liquid state after cooling, and deliver the liquid dielectric liquid to a pump, the pump being controlled by the pump controller. A first volume of dielectric fluid is configured to be transferred into the device housing, and a first height of the dielectric fluid inside the device housing is measured; a second volume of dielectric fluid is configured to be transferred into the device housing, and a second height of the dielectric fluid inside the device housing is measured. The dielectric fluid volume diagram is generated by determining the incremental height level corresponding to the dielectric fluid displacement of the first volume and the second volume.

15. The equipment housing as described in claim 14, characterized in that: The device housing also includes a mounting bracket, which is coupled to the liquid level sensing module.

16. The equipment housing as described in claim 14, characterized in that: The controller is configured to selectively send an alarm for dielectric fluid loss based on the signal from the level sensor.

17. The equipment housing as described in claim 14, characterized in that: The controller is configured to receive a signal from a temperature sensor that indicates the temperature of a dielectric fluid in the device housing.

18. The equipment housing as described in claim 17, characterized in that: The controller is configured to use a temperature of the dielectric fluid to determine the mass of the dielectric fluid in the device housing.

19. The equipment housing as described in claim 17, characterized in that: The controller is also configured to update the dielectric fluid volume map based on a temperature of the dielectric fluid to compensate for dielectric fluid expansion and / or contraction.

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