Heat exchange assembly for a pluggable module

Abstract

A pluggable module (106) includes a housing (160) having a top wall including an opening above a module cavity (178). The pluggable module includes a heat exchange assembly (200) separate and discrete from the housing and extending into the module cavity and through the opening. The heat exchange assembly includes a thermal bridge (201) having an upper thermal interface (228) and a lower thermal interface (268). The thermal bridge includes a plurality of interleaved plates (210, 250) arranged into a plate stack (212, 252), the plates being movable relative to each other in the plate stack. The lower thermal interface is in thermal communication with an electrical component (184) to dissipate heat from the electrical component. The thermal bridge extends through the opening, the upper thermal interface being exposed from above to dissipate heat from the heat exchange assembly.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The subject matter herein relates generally to a pluggable module assembly. BACKGROUND

[0002] Some communication systems utilize a transceiver or pluggable module as an I / O module for data communication. The pluggable module is pluggably received in a socket cage of a socket assembly to interconnect the pluggable module with a host circuit board, such as through a communication connector mounted to the host circuit board. During operation, the pluggable module generates heat. It is difficult to dissipate heat from the pluggable module. Some known communication systems include a heat sink, cold plate, or other heat transfer device coupled to the socket cage that interfaces with a housing of the pluggable module to dissipate heat from the pluggable module. However, at higher data rates, the known heat transfer devices prove to be inadequate.

[0003] There remains a need for a heat exchange assembly for a pluggable module to efficiently dissipate heat from the pluggable module. SUMMARY

[0004] According to the present invention, a pluggable module is provided. The pluggable module is configured to plug into a cage of a socket assembly. The pluggable module includes a housing having a top wall, a bottom wall, and a sidewall between the top wall and the bottom wall. The housing forms a module cavity. The top wall has an opening above the module cavity. The housing has a mating end configured to mate with a communication connector of the socket assembly. The pluggable module includes a module circuit board received in the module cavity. The module circuit board has electrical components mounted to an upper surface of the module circuit board. The pluggable module includes a heat exchange assembly separate and distinct from the housing. The heat exchange assembly is received in the opening and extends into the module cavity. The heat exchange assembly includes a thermal bridge having an upper thermal interface and a lower thermal interface. The thermal bridge includes a plurality of interleaved plates arranged in a plate stack, the plates being movable relative to each other in the plate stack. The lower thermal interface is in thermal communication with the electrical components to dissipate heat from the electrical components. The thermal bridge extends through the opening, the upper thermal interface being exposed above the housing to dissipate heat from the heat exchange assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 is a top perspective view of a communication system formed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0006] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a pluggable module in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0007] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of the pluggable module in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0008] Figure 4 is an exploded view of a heat exchange assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. is an exploded view of a heat exchange assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0009] Figure 5 is an assembly view of a heat exchange assembly according to an example embodiment.

[0010] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a heat exchange assembly according to an example embodiment.

[0011] Figure 7 is a side perspective view of a communication system according to an example embodiment showing a heat exchange assembly thermally coupled between an electrical component and a heat transfer device.

[0012] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a heat exchange assembly according to an example embodiment showing a heat exchange assembly configured to dissipate heat into air rather than into a heat transfer device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] Figure 1 is a top perspective view of a communication system 100 formed according to an example embodiment. The communication system 100 includes a circuit board 102 Figure 1 ) and a receptacle connector assembly 104 mounted to the circuit board 102. A pluggable module 106 Figure 1 ) is electrically connected to the receptacle connector assembly 104. The pluggable module 106 is electrically connected to the circuit board 102 through the receptacle connector assembly 104. The pluggable module 106 includes a heat exchange assembly 200 (as shown in Figure 4 ) to dissipate heat from components of the pluggable module 106. The heat exchange assembly 200 can dissipate heat into a heat sink of the receptacle connector assembly 104, or can dissipate heat directly into air surrounding the receptacle connector assembly 104.

[0014] In example embodiments, the receptacle connector assembly 104 includes a receptacle cage 110 and a communication connector 112 (shown in phantom) adjacent to the receptacle cage 110. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the communication connector 112 is received in the receptacle cage 110. In other various embodiments, the communication connector 112 can be located rearward of the receptacle cage 110.

[0015] In various embodiments, the receptacle cage 110 is closed and provides electrical shielding for the communications connectors 112. The receptacle cage 110 is configured to surround at least a portion of the pluggable modules 106 and provide shielding for the pluggable modules 106. The receptacle cage 110 includes a plurality of cage walls 114 that define one or more module channels 116 for receiving corresponding pluggable modules 106. The cage walls 114 can be walls defined by solid pieces, perforated walls that allow airflow therethrough, walls with cutouts (e.g., for passing heat transfer devices such as heat sinks, heat spreaders, cold plates, etc. therethrough), or walls defined by rails or beams with relatively large openings (e.g., for passing airflow therethrough). In the illustrated embodiment, the receptacle cage 110 is a shielded, stamped cage member in which the cage walls 114 are shielded walls.

[0016] In the illustrated embodiment, the receptacle cage 110 includes a single module channel 116 for receiving a single pluggable module 106. The receptacle cage 110 has a port that is open at a front portion of the receptacle cage 110 to receive the pluggable module 106. In various embodiments, any number of module channels 116 can be provided. For example, in alternative embodiments, the receptacle cage 110 can constitute a stacked cage member with upper and lower module channels 116 to receive a plurality of pluggable modules 106 arranged in a stack. The upper and lower module channels 118 can be arranged in a single column, however, in alternative embodiments, the receptacle cage 110 can include multiple columns of grouped module channels 118 (e.g., 2x2, 3x2, 4x2, 4x3, etc.). In other various embodiments, rather than a stacked cage member, the receptacle cage 110 can include grouped module channels 116 arranged in a single row (e.g., 1x2, 1x4, etc.). Optionally, multiple communications connectors 112 can be arranged within the receptacle cage 110, such as when multiple columns or rows of module channels 116 are provided.

[0017] In example embodiments, cage walls 114 of receptacle cage 110 include a top wall 130, a bottom wall 132, a first side wall 134, a second side wall 136, and a back wall 138. Bottom wall 132 can rest on circuit board 102. However, in alternative embodiments, receptacle cage 110 can not be provided with a bottom wall 132. Receptacle cage 110 extends between a front end 140 and a back end 142. Port(s) are provided at front end 140 to receive pluggable modules 106 through front end 140. Cage walls 114 define a cavity. For example, the cavity can be defined by top wall 130, bottom wall 132, side walls 134, 136, and back wall 138. The cavity defines module passageways 116 that receive pluggable modules 106. The cavity receives communications connectors 112. Other cage walls 114 can partition or divide the cavity into multiple module passageways 116, such as stacked or grouped module passageways. For example, cage walls 114 can include partitions (not shown), such as horizontal partitions (e.g., partitions) between upper and lower module passageways 116, or vertical partitions (not shown), such as parallel to side walls 134, 136.

[0018] In example embodiments, receptacle connector assembly 104 includes a heat transfer device 150. Heat transfer device 150 is used to dissipate heat from pluggable modules 106. For example, heat transfer device 150 can be coupled to top wall 130 of receptacle cage 110 to engage a top of pluggable modules 106. Heat transfer device 150 can dissipate heat to an external environment, such as through airflow above heat transfer device 150. For example, heat transfer device 150 can include heat dissipation fins at the top, such as vertical plates or posts extending from the top. The fins allow airflow through heat transfer device 150. The fins increase the surface area of heat transfer device 150 to enhance heat dissipation to the external environment. In other various embodiments, heat transfer device 150 can dissipate heat to a cooling fluid, such as water or refrigerant through heat transfer device 150. For example, heat transfer device 150 can include channels and / or conduits. In various embodiments, heat transfer device 150 can be a solid block.

[0019] The heat transfer device 150 includes a thermal interface 152 at the bottom of the heat transfer device 150 for interfacing with the pluggable module 106. In various embodiments, the thermal interface 152 can be planar. In various embodiments, a thermal interface material (TIM) can be disposed at the thermal interface 152. The heat transfer device 150 can extend through an opening 154 in the top wall 130 to directly engage the pluggable module 106. The heat transfer device 150 can be a ride-on heat sink that is spring-biased downward to maintain positive pressure against the pluggable module 106 and ensure that the heat transfer device 150 remains in direct thermal contact with the pluggable module 106. In alternative embodiments, other types of heat transfer devices can be used, such as heat sinks, cold plates with liquid cooling loops, etc. In other various embodiments, the receptacle connector assembly 104 is not provided with a heat transfer device 150. Rather, the heat exchange assembly 200 of the pluggable module 106 extends to an external environment to dissipate heat directly into the air surrounding the receptacle cage 110. For example, the heat exchange assembly 200 can include heat dissipation fins instead of providing heat dissipation fins or a separate heat transfer device.

[0020] In example embodiments, the communication connector 112 is received in a cavity of the receptacle cage 110, such as proximate the rear wall 138. However, in alternative embodiments, the communication connector 112 can be located behind the rear wall 138 outside of the receptacle cage 110 and extend into the cavity to interface with the pluggable module(s) 106. For example, the rear wall 138 can include an opening to receive components therethrough.

[0021] In example embodiments, the pluggable module 106 is loaded into the receptacle cage 110 through the front end 140 to mate with the communication connector 112. The shield cage wall 114 of the receptacle cage 110 provides electrical shielding around the communication connector 112 and the pluggable module 106, such as around the mating interface between the communication connector 112 and the pluggable module 106.

[0022] In various embodiments, a grommet (not shown) can be provided at the front end 140 to interface with the pluggable module 106. For example, a grommet finger can interface with the pluggable module 106 to make the receptacle cage 110 and the pluggable module 106 common potential. The grommet finger spans any space between the cage wall 114 and the pluggable module 106 to prevent EMI leakage along the cage wall 114 and / or a wall of the pluggable module 106. The grommet can interface with an external component, such as a panel or rack that receives the receptacle cage 110.

[0023] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a pluggable module 106 according to example embodiments. Figure 3is a close-up view of a portion of the pluggable module 106. The pluggable module 106 has a housing 160 and a heat exchange assembly 200 coupled to the housing 160. The heat exchange assembly 200 is used to dissipate heat from electrical components of the pluggable module 106. The heat exchange assembly 200 is configured to thermally couple to the heat transfer device 150 (as shown in Figure 1 FIG. 1). In an example embodiment, the heat exchange assembly 200 has a flexible interface to interface with the electrical components of the pluggable module 106 and the heat transfer device 150. The heat exchange assembly 200 is made of a thermally conductive material for efficient heat transfer between the electrical components of the pluggable module 106 and the heat transfer device 150.

[0024] The housing 160 is defined by one or more shells, such as an upper shell 166 and a lower shell 168. The housing 160 can be thermally conductive and / or can be electrically conductive, such as to provide EMI shielding for the pluggable module 106. The housing 160 includes a mating end 162 and an opposite front end 164. The mating end 162 is configured to be inserted into a corresponding module passage 116 (as shown in Figure 1 FIG. 1). The front end 164 is configured to extend from a front end of the outlet cage 110 (as shown in Figure 1 FIG. 1) when the pluggable module 106 is plugged into the outlet cage 110. The front end 164 can be a cable end having a cable extending therefrom to another component within the system.

[0025] The housing 160 includes a top wall 170, a bottom wall 172, a first side wall 174 extending between the top wall 170 and the bottom wall 172, and a second side wall 176 extending between the top wall 170 and the bottom wall 172. The top wall 170 is part of the upper shell 166 and the bottom wall 172 is part of the lower shell 168. The first side wall 174 can be defined by the upper shell 166 and / or the lower shell 168. The second side wall 176 can be defined by the upper shell 166 and / or the lower shell 168. For example, in an example embodiment, the upper shell 166 and the lower shell 168 meet at an interface that is generally centered along the side walls 174, 176. The housing 160 surrounds a module cavity 178. The module cavity 178 houses electrical components of the pluggable module 106. A cable can extend into the module cavity 178 to terminate to the electrical components.

[0026] In an example embodiment, the pluggable module 106 includes a module circuit board 180 in the module cavity 178. The module circuit board 180 can be accessible at the mating end 162. The module circuit board 180 is configured to be communicatively coupled to the communication connector 112 (as shown in Figure 1The mating edge 182 of the module circuit board 180 can be plugged into the communication connector 112, for example in a card slot of the communication connector 112. The module circuit board 180 includes electrical components 184 for operating and / or using the pluggable module 106. For example, the module circuit board 180 can have conductors, traces, pads, electronics, sensors, controllers, switches, inputs, outputs, etc. associated with the module circuit board 180 that can be mounted to the module circuit board 180 to form various circuits. The electrical component(s) 184 are heat-generating components. For example, the electrical components 184 can generate heat when transmitting data. In example embodiments, the electrical components 184 can include processors, memory modules, electronic packages, chips, etc.

[0027] In example embodiments, the heat exchange assembly 200 provides heat transfer for the module circuit board 180 and the electrical components 184 on the module circuit board 180. For example, the module circuit board 180 is in thermal communication with the heat exchange assembly 200, and the heat exchange assembly 200 transfers heat away from the module circuit board 180 and the electrical components 184. The heat exchange assembly 200 can be thermally coupled to the electrical components 184 through the heat exchanger 186. In various embodiments, the heat exchanger 186 can be defined by the electrical components 184. For example, the heat exchange assembly 200 can directly engage one or more of the electrical components 184 to dissipate heat from the electrical components 184. In other various embodiments, the heat exchanger 186 can be thermally coupled to the electrical components 184 through an indirect thermal connection, for example through the housing 160 or other intermediate thermally conductive structure.

[0028] The pluggable module 106 includes a latch 190 for releasing the pluggable module 106 from the receptacle cage 110. The latch 190 includes a pull tab 194 extending between slider walls 192. A tether (not shown) can extend rearwardly from the pull tab 194. The pull tab 194 is configured to be pulled rearwardly to release the latch 190 and allow the pluggable module 106 to be removed from the receptacle cage 110.

[0029] Figure 4 is an exploded view of a heat exchange assembly 200 according to example embodiments. Figure 5 is a side view of a heat exchange assembly 200 in an assembled state according to example embodiments. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a heat exchange assembly 200 according to example embodiments. The heat exchange assembly 200 includes a thermal bridge 201 and a bridge frame 300 for holding the thermal bridge 201. The bridge frame 300 can be coupled to the housing 160 of the pluggable module 106 (as Figure 2 shown) to position the thermal bridge 201 in thermal communication with the heat exchanger 186 and the heat transfer device 150 (as Figure 1(As shown) docking. In an alternative embodiment, thermal bridge 201 may extend from heat exchanger 186 into the external environment to dissipate heat directly into the air, instead of docking with heat transfer device 150.

[0030] In an exemplary embodiment, the thermal bridge 201 includes an upper bridge element 202, a lower bridge element 204, and a spring element 320 located between the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204. The lower bridge element 204 is configured to thermally engage the heat exchanger 186. The upper bridge element 202 is configured to engage the heat transfer device 150. The upper bridge element 202 is in thermal communication with the lower bridge element 204 and dissipates heat from the lower bridge element 204 to cool the heat exchanger 186 and thereby cool the electrical components 184. Optionally, the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204 may be positioned relative to each other to allow some airflow through the thermal bridge 201. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204 may be movable relative to each other, for example, allowing the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204 to be aligned with the heat transfer device 150 and the heat exchanger 186, respectively. The upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204 are movable to allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the heat exchanger 186 and / or the heat transfer device 150.

[0031] Spring element 320 is located between upper bridge element 202 and lower bridge element 204. In an exemplary embodiment, spring element 320 is located at the front end 206 of thermal bridge 201 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown) and the rear end 208 of the thermal bridge 201. In alternative embodiments, other locations are possible. The spring element 320 pushes the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204 away from each other. The spring element 320 pushes the upper bridge element 202 in a first bias direction, for example, upward, toward the heat transfer device 150. For example, the spring element 320 pushes the upper bridge element 202 into thermal contact with the heat transfer device 150. The spring element 320 pushes the lower bridge element 204 in a second bias direction, for example, downward, toward the heat exchanger 186. For example, the spring element 320 pushes the lower bridge element 204 into thermal contact with the heat exchanger 186.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, each spring element 320 is a stamped part. The spring element 320 may be made of a thin metal material, making it flexible. The spring element 320 includes an upper spring arm 322, a lower spring arm 324, and a folded portion 326 between the upper spring arm 322 and the lower spring arm 324. In various embodiments, the folded portion 326 may be U-shaped or V-shaped. The folded portion 326 is flexible and configured to separate the upper spring arm 322 and the lower spring arm 324 when the folded portion is bent or compressed.

[0033] Upon installation, the upper spring arms 322 are biased upward against the upper bridge element 202, and the lower spring arms 322 are biased downward against the lower bridge element 204. The spring element 320 is compressible and expandable. For example, the upper spring arms 322 and the lower spring arms 324 can be compressed relatively toward one another, and can be expanded relatively away from one another. In various embodiments, the upper spring arms 322 and / or the lower spring arms 324 and / or the folded portion 326 can be segmented to allow relatively independent motion between segments.

[0034] In example embodiments, the bridge elements 202, 204 each include a plurality of plates arranged together in a plate stack. The plates are interleaved with one another to achieve thermal communication between the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204. The individual plates are movable relative to one another such that the plates can individually articulate to conform to the upper surface of the heat exchanger 186 and the lower surface of the heat transfer device 150 to improve contact and / or proximity of the thermal bridge 201 with the heat exchanger 186 and the heat transfer device 150.

[0035] In example embodiments, the upper bridge element 202 includes a plurality of upper plates 210 arranged in an upper plate stack 212. Each upper plate 210 has a side 214 extending between an inner end 216 or lower end and an outer end or upper end 218 of the upper plate 210. The inner end 216 faces the lower bridge element 204. The upper end 218 faces the heat transfer device 150. Optionally, the individual upper plates 210 can have different heights between the inner end 216 and the upper end 218. For example, some of the upper plates 210 can be taller to form upper fin plates 220 for the thermal bridge 201, while some of the upper plates 210 can be shorter to form upper spacer plates 222. The upper spacer plates 222 are located between the upper fin plates 220. The upper fin plates 220 form upper channels 224 therebetween. The upper spacer plates 222 are received in corresponding upper channels 224.

[0036] In example embodiments, each upper fin plate 220 includes a base 226 at the upper end 218. The base 226 is aligned with the upper spacer plates 222. The side 214 of the upper fin plate 220 at the base 226 faces the side 214 of the upper spacer plate 222. The upper spacer plate 222 is thermally coupled to the base 226 of the upper fin plate 220 to transfer heat across the entire upper end of the upper bridge element 202 to efficiently transfer heat to the heat transfer device 150. The upper end of the upper bridge element 202 defines an upper thermal interface 228 for interfacing with the heat transfer device 150. For example, the upper ends 218 of the upper plates 210 are stacked together to define the upper thermal interface 228. In alternative embodiments, the upper thermal interface 228 can dissipate heat directly to an external environment, rather than interfacing with a separate heat transfer device 150. For example, the upper fin plates 220 can extend above the upper surface of the spacer plates 222 to form a heat dissipating fin for the thermal bridge 201.

[0037] In example embodiments, the lower bridge element 204 includes a plurality of lower plates 250 arranged in a lower plate stack 252. The lower plates 250 have sides 254 extending between an upper or inner end 256 and a lower or outer end 258 of the lower plates 250. The inner ends 256 face the upper bridge element 202. The lower ends 258 face the heat exchanger 186. Optionally, individual lower plates 250 can have different heights between the inner ends 256 and the outer ends 258. For example, some lower plates 250 can be taller to form lower fin plates 260 for the thermal bridge 201, while some lower plates 250 can be shorter to form lower spacer plates 262. The lower spacer plates 262 are located between the lower fin plates 260. The lower fin plates 260 form lower channels 264 therebetween. The lower spacer plates 262 are received in corresponding lower channels 264.

[0038] In example embodiments, each lower fin plate 260 includes a base 266 at the lower end 258. The base 266 is aligned with a lower spacer plate 262. The sides 254 of the lower fin plate 260 at the base 266 face the sides 254 of the lower spacer plate 262. The lower spacer plate 262 is thermally coupled to the base 266 of the lower fin plate 260 to transfer heat across the entire lower end of the lower bridge element 204 for efficient heat transfer from the heat exchanger 186. The lower end of the lower bridge element 204 defines a lower thermal interface 268 for interfacing with the heat exchanger 186. For example, the lower ends 258 of the lower plates 250 are stacked together to define the lower thermal interface 268.

[0039] When assembled, the upper plates 210 are interleaved with the lower plates 250. The upper plates 210 and the lower plates 250 are held in the frame 300, for example, stacked or clamped together between opposing sides and ends of the frame 300. The upper plates 210 and the lower plates 250 are held in the frame in a vertical orientation. The upper fin plates 220 are received in the lower channels 264 and the lower fin plates 260 are received in the upper channels 224. For example, the upper fin plates 220 can be aligned across the lower channels 264 with the lower spacer plates 262 and the lower fin plates 260 can be aligned across the upper channels 224 with the upper spacer plates 222.

[0040] In an example embodiment, the upper fin plate 220 interfaces with the lower fin plate 260 at the thermal bridge interface 280. The upper bridge element 202 is thermally coupled to the lower bridge element 204 at the thermal bridge interface 280. At the thermal bridge interface 280, the side 214 faces the side 254. The sides 214, 254 overlap with sufficient overlap distance to allow efficient heat transfer between the lower plate 250 and the upper plate 210. The sides 214, 254 can slide relative to each other to allow movement between the upper plate 210 and the lower plate 250 and to change the overlap distance. In an example embodiment, at the thermal bridge interface 280, the upper fin plate 220 is movable relative to the lower fin plate 260, for example during mating of the upper plate 210 with the heat transfer device 150, and / or during thermal expansion and thermal contraction of the heat exchanger 186 and / or the heat transfer device 150. The upper channels 224 and the lower channels 264 accommodate relative movement of the upper fin plate 220 and the lower fin plate 260.

[0041] During assembly, the spring elements 320 are positioned between the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204, for example in the upper spring pockets 330 and the lower spring pockets 332 of the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204, respectively. The spring pockets 330, 332 can be positioned proximate the front end 206 of the thermal bridge 201 and proximate the rear end 208 of the thermal bridge 201 to receive the corresponding spring elements 320. The spring elements 320 function to position the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204 relative to each other for mounting to the heat transfer device 150 and the heat exchanger 186, respectively. The spring elements 320 urge the upper bridge element 202 into the heat transfer device 150 and urge the lower bridge element 204 into the heat exchanger 186. The folded portion 326 is flexible and configured to separate the upper spring arm 322 and the lower spring arm 324 to provide an outward biasing force on the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204. The upper spring arm 322 is configured to engage each of the upper plates 210. The lower spring arm 324 is configured to engage each of the lower plates 250.

[0042] The bridge frame 300 functions to hold the thermal bridge 201 together. The bridge frame 300 holds the upper plates 210 and the upper plate stack 212. The bridge frame 300 holds the lower plates 250 in the lower plate stack 252. The bridge frame 300 holds the upper plates 210 interleaved with the lower plates 250. The bridge frame 300 maintains the overall structure of the thermal bridge 201.

[0043] The bridge frame 300 is configured to be coupled to the upper bridge element 202 and / or the lower bridge element 204. The bridge frame 300 is used to hold the upper bridge element 202 relative to the lower bridge element 204. Optionally, the bridge frame 300 limits lateral movement of the upper bridge element 202 and / or the lower bridge element 204. The bridge frame 300 can be used to limit lateral movement of the upper bridge element 202 and / or the lower bridge element 204. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper bridge element 202 and / or the lower bridge element 204 can move vertically within the bridge frame 300, for example, to allow thermal expansion and contraction of the heat exchanger 186 and / or the heat transfer device 150. For example, the bridge frame 300 can allow a limited amount of floating movement of the upper bridge element 202 and / or the lower bridge element 204 within the bridge frame 300.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the bridge frame 300 includes a front end rail 302, a rear end rail 304, a first side rail 306, and a second side rail 308. The side rails 306, 308 extend between the end rails 302, 304. The side rails 306, 308 extend generally parallel to the plates 210, 250. The side rails 306, 308 closely hold the plates 210, 250 in an aligned configuration. The end rails 302, 304 support the front and rear ends of the plates 210, 250 while allowing a limited amount of floating movement of the plates 210, 250 relative to each other and the bridge frame 300.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the front end rail 302 includes an upper cap 310 and a lower cap 312, and the rear end rail 304 includes an upper cap 314 and a lower cap 316. Spaces are provided between the caps 310, 312 and the caps 314, 316 that receive and hold the plates 210, 250 therein. For example, the upper plate 210 can include a front locating finger 230 and a rear locating finger 232. The lower plate 250 includes a front locating finger 270 and a rear locating finger 272. The front locating fingers 230, 270 are received in the spaces between the caps 310, 312 at the front. The rear locating fingers 232, 272 are received in the spaces between the caps 314, 316 at the rear. The end rails 302, 304 allow limited floating movement of the upper plate 210 and / or the lower plate 250. For example, the caps 310, 312 can be spaced apart a distance that allows the upper plate 210 and the lower plate 250 to be spaced apart from each other by a spring element 320. The caps 310, 312, 314, 316 define external stops for movement of the upper plate 210 and the lower plate 250. The upper plate 210 and / or the lower plate 250 can be compressed within the end rails 302, 304 to allow the plates 210, 250 to move relative to each other. For example, the locating fingers 230, 232, 270, 272 can move within the spaces between the caps 310, 312, 314, 316.

[0046] Figure 7is a side perspective view of a heat exchanger assembly 200 that is part of a communication system 100 according to an example embodiment, showing a heat exchanger 186 thermally coupled between the heat exchanger assembly 200 and a heat transfer device 150. A thermal bridge 201 thermally couples the heat transfer device 150 with the heat exchanger 186 to dissipate heat from the heat exchanger 186. An upper bridge element 202 is thermally coupled to a lower bridge element 204 at a thermal bridge interface 280.

[0047] A spring element 320 is positioned between the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204 to press the upper bridge element 202 outward against the heat transfer device 150. The spring element 320 is disposed in spring pockets 330, 332 between the upper plate 210 and the lower plate 250.

[0048] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger assembly 200 according to an example embodiment, showing a heat exchanger assembly configured to dissipate heat into air rather than into a heat transfer device 150 (as shown in Figure 6 The thermal bridge 201 of the heat exchanger assembly 200 includes an upper bridge element 202 and a lower bridge element 204. The lower bridge element 204 is configured to thermally engage the heat exchanger 186. The upper bridge element 202 includes heat dissipating fins 234 configured to dissipate heat into air outside of the socket cage 110. The heat dissipating fins 234 are separated by airflow channels 236 to allow air to flow between the heat dissipating fins 234. In example embodiments, the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204 are movable relative to each other, for example to allow the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204 to align with the heat exchanger 186. The upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204 can be movable to allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the plates of the heat exchanger 186 and / or the thermal bridge 201.

[0049] The bridge elements 202, 204 include upper plates 210 and lower plates 250 arranged as a stack of plates. The plates 210, 250 are interleaved with each other to achieve thermal communication between the upper bridge element 202 and the lower bridge element 204. The individual plates 210, 250 are movable relative to each other such that the plates 210, 250 can individually articulate to conform to an upper surface of the heat exchanger 186 to improve contact and / or proximity of the thermal bridge 201 to the heat exchanger 186.

[0050] In example embodiments, the upper plates 210 include upper fin plates 220 and upper spacer plates 222. The upper spacer plates 222 are positioned between the upper fin plates 220. The upper spacer plates 222 are received in upper channels 224 between the upper fin plates 220. The upper fin plates 220 include heat dissipating fins 234 at an upper end of the upper plates 210. The upper fin plates 220 extend above an upper end of the upper spacer plates 222 to form airflow channels 236.

Claims

1. A pluggable module (106) configured to be plugged into a cage (110) of a receptacle assembly (104), the pluggable module comprising: The housing (160) has a top wall (170), a bottom wall (172), and side walls (174, 176) between the top wall and the bottom wall. The housing forms a module cavity (178). The top wall has an opening (154) above the module cavity. The housing has a mating end (162) configured to mate with a communication connector (112) of the socket assembly. A module circuit board (180) is received in the module cavity, the module circuit board having electrical components (184) mounted to the upper surface of the module circuit board; as well as A heat exchange assembly (200) separate from and independent of the housing is received in the opening and extends into the module cavity. The heat exchange assembly includes a thermal bridge (201) having an upper thermal interface (228) and a lower thermal interface (268). The thermal bridge includes a plurality of staggered plates (210, 250) arranged in a plate stack (212, 252) movable relative to each other in the plate stack. The lower thermal interface is in thermal communication with the electrical component to dissipate heat from the electrical component. The thermal bridge extends through the opening, and the upper thermal interface is exposed above the housing to dissipate heat from the heat exchange assembly.

2. The pluggable module (106) of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge (201) is flexible to conform to the electrical component (184) to form a thermal path between the electrical component and the upper thermal interface (228).

3. The pluggable module (106) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge (201) is compressible to displace the relative positions of the lower thermal interface (268) and the upper thermal interface (228).

4. The pluggable module (106) of claim 1, wherein the front portion of the thermal bridge (201) includes an angled ramp surface configured to engage at least one of the cage (110) or the heat transfer device to compress the heat device.

5. The pluggable module (106) of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge (201) includes an upper bridge element (202) defining the upper thermal interface (228) and a lower bridge element (204) defining the lower thermal interface (268), the upper bridge element being movable relative to the lower bridge element and thermally coupled to the lower bridge element.

6. The pluggable module (106) of claim 5, wherein the upper bridge element (202) includes an upper plate (210) arranged as an upper plate stack (212), the upper bridge element including an upper channel (224) between corresponding upper plates, and wherein the lower bridge element (204) includes a lower plate (250) arranged as a lower plate stack (252), the lower bridge element including a lower channel (264) between corresponding lower plates, the lower plate being received in a corresponding upper channel and the upper plate being received in a corresponding lower channel, such that the upper plate and the lower plate are staggered to allow heat exchange between the lower bridge element and the upper bridge element.

7. The pluggable module (106) of claim 6, wherein the upper plate (210) includes an upper fin plate (220) and an upper spacer (222) between corresponding upper fin plates, the upper spacer being shorter than the upper fin plates to define the upper channel (224) between the upper fin plates, and wherein the lower plate (250) includes a lower fin plate (260) and a lower spacer (262) between corresponding lower fin plates, the lower spacer being shorter than the lower fin plates to define the lower channel (264) between the lower fin plates, the upper fin plates being thermally coupled to the lower fin plates.

8. The pluggable module (106) of claim 5, wherein the thermal bridge (201) includes a spring element (320) between the upper bridge element (202) and the lower bridge element (204), the spring element biasing the upper bridge element away from the lower bridge element by a spring force, overcoming the spring force of the spring element to allow relative movement between the upper bridge element and the lower bridge element.

9. The pluggable module (106) of claim 8, wherein the upper bridge element (202) includes an upper spring sleeve (330), and the lower bridge element (204) includes a lower spring sleeve (332) aligned with the upper spring sleeve to receive the spring element (320).

10. The pluggable module (106) of claim 1, wherein the upper thermal interface (228) is configured to dock with a heat transfer device associated with the cage, and when docked with the heat transfer device of the socket assembly, the upper thermal interface is compressible toward the module cavity.

11. The pluggable module (106) of claim 1, wherein the upper thermal interface (228) includes heat dissipation fins configured to extend outside the cage (110) to dissipate heat to the external environment.

12. The pluggable module (106) of claim 1, wherein the housing (160) includes an upper housing (166) and a lower housing (168), the upper housing defining the top wall (170), the lower housing defining the bottom wall (172), the electrical components being held between the upper housing and the lower housing, and the heat exchange assembly (200) being received in the upper housing and held by the upper housing.

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