Liquid cooling unit and control method thereof

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of equipment cooling, and discloses a liquid cooling unit which comprises an evaporator, a condenser, a liquid return pipeline and a liquid outlet pipeline. The liquid return pipeline comprises a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path flows through the evaporator, and the second flow path flows through the condenser; the liquid outlet pipeline is in communication with the liquid outlet ends of the first flow path and the second flow path respectively, and a heat exchange medium circulates and flows through along the liquid return pipeline and the liquid outlet pipeline. In the application, the energy consumption can be reduced, the cooling cost of the liquid cooling unit can be reduced, the temperature of the heat exchange medium in a low-temperature environment can be accurately adjusted, and the cooling effect of the heat exchange medium can be guaranteed. The application further discloses a control method of the liquid cooling unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of equipment cooling technology, and in particular to a liquid cooling unit and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] In some computer rooms where equipment is placed, the equipment generates heat during operation. The continuous heat generated can cause the ambient temperature in the computer room to rise, affecting the normal operation of the equipment and increasing the failure rate of the equipment. Therefore, it is necessary to continuously and efficiently cool the equipment in the computer room to ensure that the equipment always operates at a suitable temperature.

[0003] A related technology includes a data center cooling system comprising a server rack and an outdoor cold source unit. The server rack is a closed enclosure housing electronic equipment. Cooling pipes are located on one side of the electronic equipment, with the inlet and outlet ends of the cooling pipes connected to the outdoor cold source unit. The outdoor cold source unit is a water-cooled module. Circulating water flows through the cooling pipes to cool the electronic equipment inside the closed enclosure and transfers heat from the closed enclosure to the outdoor cold source unit via the circulating water. When the outdoor ambient temperature is low, an electric heater is installed on the water-cooled module to heat the frozen circulating water, ensuring normal circulation and cooling of the closed enclosure.

[0004] In the process of implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, at least the following problems were found in the related art:

[0005] Heating circulating water in low-temperature environments using electric heating increases energy consumption and costs; moreover, electric heating makes it difficult to precisely control the temperature of the circulating water, affecting the cooling effect inside the enclosed cabinet.

[0006] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. This summary is not intended as a general commentary, nor is it intended to identify key / important components or describe the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0008] This disclosure provides a liquid cooling unit and its control method to reduce energy consumption, decrease the cooling cost of the liquid cooling unit, accurately regulate the temperature of the heat exchange medium in low-temperature environments, and ensure the cooling effect of the heat exchange medium.

[0009] In some embodiments, the liquid cooling unit includes: an evaporator, a condenser, a return liquid line, and an outlet liquid line. The return liquid line includes a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path flowing through the evaporator and the second flow path flowing through the condenser; the outlet liquid line is connected to the outlet ends of the first flow path and the second flow path respectively, and the heat exchange medium circulates along the return liquid line and the outlet liquid line.

[0010] In some embodiments, the control method for a liquid-cooled unit includes:

[0011] Obtain the ambient temperature of the liquid chiller unit;

[0012] The flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the liquid chiller is controlled according to the relationship between the ambient temperature and the first set temperature.

[0013] The liquid-cooled unit and its control method provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0014] The heat exchange medium flows out from the liquid outlet pipe to cool the modules requiring heat dissipation. After its temperature rises, the heat exchange medium flows back in from the liquid return pipe, passes through the evaporator via the first flow path for further cooling, and then flows out again from the liquid outlet pipe for further cooling. When the ambient temperature of the liquid chiller is low, the flow of the heat exchange medium may be affected. Therefore, the flow direction of the heat exchange medium is selectively controlled. In low-temperature operation, the heat exchange medium flows through the condenser via the second flow path, where it is heated. This ensures smooth flow of the heat exchange medium, reduces energy consumption, and lowers the cost of the liquid chiller. By heating the heat exchange medium in low-temperature environments through the condenser and controlling its flow direction according to the ambient temperature, the temperature of the heat exchange medium can be precisely adjusted, ensuring effective cooling.

[0015] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0016] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations and drawings do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements. The drawings are not to be scaled. And wherein:

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a liquid cooling unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another liquid cooling unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0019] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the refrigerant coil structure of the evaporator and condenser provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a control method for a liquid-cooled unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0021] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another control method for a liquid-cooled unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another control method for a liquid-cooled unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0023] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another control method for a liquid-cooled unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another control method for a liquid-cooled unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a control device for a liquid cooling unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure label:

[0027] 100. Processor; 101. Memory; 102. Communication Interface; 103. Bus; 200. Evaporator; 210. First outer tube; 220. First inner tube; 230. First flow space; 300. Condenser; 310. Second outer tube; 320. Second inner tube; 330. Second flow space; 400. Return liquid line; 410. First flow path; 420. Second flow path; 430. Main return liquid line; 440. Three-way solenoid valve; 500. Discharge line; 600. Compressor; 700. Throttling device; 800. Cooling line; 900. Temperature sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To provide a more detailed understanding of the features and technical content of the embodiments of this disclosure, the implementation of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. In the following technical description, for ease of explanation, several details are used to provide a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, one or more embodiments may still be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices may be simplified in their depiction to simplify the drawings.

[0029] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this disclosure are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this disclosure described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0030] In this disclosure, the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "middle," "outer," "front," and "rear," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for better description of the embodiments of this disclosure and their implementations, and are not intended to limit the indicated devices, elements, or components to having a specific orientation, or to require them to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Furthermore, some of the aforementioned terms may be used to indicate other meanings besides orientation or positional relationship; for example, the term "upper" may in some cases indicate a dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0031] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "connect," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0032] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0033] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the present disclosure can be combined with each other.

[0034] Combination Figure 1-3 As shown in the figure, this disclosure provides a liquid cooling unit, including: an evaporator 200, a condenser 300, a return liquid pipeline 400, and an outlet liquid pipeline 500. The return liquid pipeline 400 includes a first flow path 410 and a second flow path 420, with the first flow path 410 flowing through the evaporator 200 and the second flow path 420 flowing through the condenser 300; the outlet liquid pipeline 500 is connected to the outlet ends of the first flow path 410 and the second flow path 420 respectively, and the heat exchange medium circulates along the return liquid pipeline 400 and the outlet liquid pipeline 500.

[0035] The liquid-cooled unit provided in this embodiment cools the modules requiring heat dissipation by flowing out of the outlet pipe 500. After the temperature rises, the heat exchange medium flows back in through the return pipe 400, passes through the evaporator 200 via the first flow path 410 for further cooling, and then flows out of the outlet pipe 500 again for cooling. When the ambient temperature of the liquid-cooled unit is low, the flow of the heat exchange medium may be affected. Therefore, the flow direction of the heat exchange medium is selectively controlled. In low-temperature operation, the heat exchange medium flows through the condenser 300 via the second flow path 420, where it is heated. This ensures smooth flow of the heat exchange medium, reduces energy consumption, and lowers the cost of the liquid-cooled unit. By heating the heat exchange medium in low-temperature environments through the condenser 300 and controlling its flow direction according to the ambient temperature, the temperature of the heat exchange medium in low-temperature environments can be precisely adjusted, ensuring the cooling effect of the heat exchange medium.

[0036] Optionally, the liquid cooling unit also includes a compressor 600. The compressor 600 has an exhaust pipe and a return pipe. The exhaust pipe is connected to the input end of the condenser 300, and the return pipe is connected to the output end of the evaporator 200. Thus, the compressor 600 compresses the refrigerant into a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, which is then discharged into the condenser 300 through the exhaust pipe. The high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant condenses and releases heat within the condenser 300. When the liquid cooling unit operates in a low-temperature environment, the heat exchange medium flows through the condenser 300 via the second flow path 420. The condenser 300 heats the flowing heat exchange medium, ensuring its normal flow. By adjusting the condensing temperature of the condenser 300, the heating temperature of the heat exchange medium can be precisely controlled, allowing for heating of the heat exchange medium in low-temperature environments while preventing excessively high temperatures from affecting its cooling and heat dissipation effects. After condensation and heat release, the refrigerant flows to the evaporator 200 to evaporate and absorb heat. The temperature of the heat exchange medium that returns through the return liquid line 400 increases. In non-low temperature environments, the heat exchange medium is controlled to flow through the first flow path 410 through the evaporator 200. The evaporator 200 absorbs the heat of the heat exchange medium, allowing the heat exchange medium to flow out again for cooling and heat dissipation.

[0037] Specifically, the output end of the condenser 300 is connected to the input end of the evaporator 200. In this way, the refrigerant that has released heat after condensation in the condenser 300 flows from the output end to the input end of the evaporator 200. The refrigerant flowing into the evaporator 200 evaporates and absorbs heat in the evaporator 200. The gaseous refrigerant that has absorbed heat after evaporation flows from the return pipe into the compressor 600 for compression again, completing one refrigerant cycle.

[0038] Specifically, a throttling device 700 is connected between the output end of the condenser 300 and the input end of the evaporator 200. In this way, the refrigerant flowing out of the condenser 300 is throttled and depressurized by the throttling device 700, so that the refrigerant flowing into the evaporator 200 can evaporate and absorb heat better.

[0039] Specifically, the heat exchange medium is water, and this liquid-cooled unit is a water-cooled unit.

[0040] Optionally, such as Figure 2 As shown, the liquid cooling unit also includes a cooling pipe 800. The cooling pipe 800 is installed in the equipment for cooling it. One end of the cooling pipe 800 is connected to the liquid outlet pipe 500, and the other end is connected to the liquid return pipe 400. The heat exchange medium circulates between the cooling pipe 800, the liquid return pipe 400, and the liquid outlet pipe 500. Thus, the heat exchange medium flowing out of the liquid outlet pipe 500 flows into the cooling pipe 800. Since the cooling pipe 800 is located in the equipment requiring heat dissipation and cooling, the heat exchange medium flowing into the cooling pipe 800 absorbs the heat generated by the equipment, thus cooling it. The heat-absorbing heat exchange medium flows into the liquid return pipe 400 and then flows through the first flow path 410 into the evaporator 200 for cooling, facilitating its subsequent return to the cooling pipe 800 for further cooling. However, when the ambient temperature is low, the heat exchange medium can flow through the second flow path 420 to the condenser 300 for heating, ensuring smooth flow of the heat exchange medium.

[0041] Understandably, the equipment consists of heat-generating devices such as servers and terminals in the computer room. The cooling pipes 800 can be installed inside the equipment or in the computer room to cool the environment inside the computer room.

[0042] Optionally, the return liquid line 400 also includes a main return liquid line 430, which is connected to the inlet ends of the first flow path 410 and the second flow path 420 respectively. In this way, after absorbing heat, the heat exchange medium in the cooling line 800 flows into the main return liquid line 430. Then, according to the ambient temperature, the flow of the heat exchange medium in the main return liquid line 430 into the first flow path 410 or the second flow path 420 is controlled, thereby controlling the flow of the heat exchange medium to the evaporator 200 for cooling or to the condenser 300 for heating, thus better controlling the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the return liquid line 400.

[0043] For example, the outlet end of the main return pipe 430 is connected to the inlet end of the first flow path 410 and the second flow path 420 respectively, forming a three-way connection, so that the heat exchange medium in the main return pipe 430 can selectively flow to the first flow path 410 or the second flow path 420.

[0044] Optionally, a three-way solenoid valve 440 is provided at the connection point between the main return pipe 430 and the first flow path 410 and the second flow path 420. This valve can simultaneously open the first flow path 410 and block the second flow path 420, or simultaneously block the first flow path 410 and open the second flow path 420. Thus, by controlling the opening and closing of the first flow path 410 and the second flow path 420 through the three-way solenoid valve 440, the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the main return pipe 430 can be more precisely controlled. When it is necessary to control the flow of the heat exchange medium in the main return pipe 430 to the evaporator 200 for cooling, the three-way solenoid valve 440 is controlled to open the first flow path 410 and block the second flow path 420, allowing the heat exchange medium in the main return pipe 430 to flow to the evaporator 200 for cooling. When it is necessary to control the flow of heat exchange medium in the main return pipe 430 to the condenser 300 for heating, the three-way solenoid valve 440 is controlled to block the first flow path 410 and open the second flow path 420, so that the heat exchange medium in the main return pipe 430 flows to the condenser 300 for heating.

[0045] Specifically, the three-way valve has an input end and two output ends. The input end is connected to the outlet end of the main return pipe 430, and one of the two output ends is connected to the inlet end of the first flow path 410, and the other is connected to the inlet end of the second flow path 420.

[0046] Optionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the liquid cooling unit also includes a temperature sensor 900. The temperature sensor 900 is located in the environment where the evaporator 200 is situated, and is electrically connected to a three-way solenoid valve 440. Thus, the temperature sensor 900 can acquire the ambient temperature in real time, and control the opening state of the three-way solenoid valve 440 based on the ambient temperature, thereby controlling the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the main return pipe 430. Since the evaporator 200 is used to cool the heat exchange medium, placing the temperature sensor 900 in the environment where the evaporator 200 is situated allows for more accurate determination of whether the ambient temperature of the heat exchange medium necessitates heating.

[0047] Combination Figure 3As shown, in one embodiment, the refrigerant coil of the evaporator 200 is divided into a first outer tube 210 and a first inner tube 220. The first outer tube 210 is sleeved around the outer periphery of the first inner tube 220, and a first flow space 230 is defined between the inner peripheral wall of the first outer tube 210 and the outer peripheral wall of the first inner tube 220. The refrigerant of the evaporator 200 flows within the first flow space 230, and the first inner tube 220 is connected to the first flow path 410. In this way, by configuring the refrigerant coil of the evaporator 200 such that the first outer tube 210 wraps around the first inner tube 220, the refrigerant in the evaporator 200 flows within the first flow space 230, and the heat exchange medium flows within the first inner tube 220, the evaporating and heat-absorbing refrigerant forms a wrapping effect on the heat exchange medium, increasing the heat exchange area and heat exchange efficiency. When the heat exchange medium needs to flow through the evaporator 200 for cooling, the cooling efficiency of the heat exchange medium can be improved.

[0048] Optionally, both the first outer tube 210 and the first inner tube 220 are circular tubes, and they are arranged concentrically. This makes the first flow space 230 defined between the inner peripheral wall of the first outer tube 210 and the outer peripheral wall of the first inner tube 220 more uniform, allowing the refrigerant to flow more smoothly within the first flow space 230, thereby improving heat exchange with the heat exchange medium flowing within the first inner tube 220.

[0049] For example, when the heat exchange medium flowing in the first flow path 410 flows through the evaporator 200, it first flows into the liquid inlet of the first inner tube 220, and then flows out again from the liquid outlet of the first inner tube 220 into the first flow path 410. The heat exchange medium participates in heat exchange throughout the entire process of flowing through the evaporator 200.

[0050] Optionally, the refrigerant coil of the condenser 300 is divided into a second outer tube 310 and a second inner tube 320. The second outer tube 310 is fitted around the outer periphery of the second inner tube 320, and a second flow space 330 is defined between the inner peripheral wall of the second outer tube 310 and the outer peripheral wall of the second inner tube 320. The refrigerant of the condenser 300 flows within the second flow space 330, and the second inner tube 320 is connected to the second flow path 420. In this way, by configuring the refrigerant coil of the condenser 300 such that the second outer tube 310 wraps around the second inner tube 320, and the refrigerant in the condenser 300 flows within the second flow space 330 while the heat exchange medium flows within the second inner tube 320, the refrigerant releasing heat during condensation effectively surrounds the heat exchange medium, increasing the heat exchange area and efficiency. When the heat exchange medium needs to flow through the condenser 300 for heating and condensation, the heating efficiency of the heat exchange medium can be improved.

[0051] Optionally, both the second outer tube 310 and the second inner tube 320 are circular tubes, and the second outer tube 310 and the second inner tube 320 are concentrically arranged. This makes the second flow space 330 defined between the inner peripheral wall of the second outer tube 310 and the outer peripheral wall of the second inner tube 320 more uniform, allowing the refrigerant to flow more smoothly in the second flow space 330, thereby better exchanging heat with the heat exchange medium flowing in the second inner tube 320.

[0052] For example, when the heat exchange medium flowing in the second flow path 420 flows through the condenser 300, it first flows into the liquid inlet of the second inner tube 320, and then flows out again from the liquid outlet of the second inner tube 320 into the second flow path 420. The heat exchange medium participates in heat exchange throughout the entire process of flowing through the condenser 300.

[0053] Combination Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the control method for the liquid-cooled unit includes:

[0054] S01, the processor obtains the ambient temperature of the liquid cooling unit;

[0055] S02, the processor controls the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the liquid chiller unit according to the relationship between the ambient temperature and the first set temperature.

[0056] The control method for the liquid-cooled unit provided in this disclosure involves the heat exchange medium flowing out of the outlet pipe to cool the modules requiring heat dissipation. After its temperature rises, the heat exchange medium flows back in through the return pipe, passes through the evaporator via the first flow path for further cooling, and then flows out again through the outlet pipe for further cooling. When the ambient temperature of the liquid-cooled unit is low, the flow of the heat exchange medium may be affected. Therefore, the flow direction of the heat exchange medium is selectively controlled. In low-temperature operation, the heat exchange medium flows through the condenser via the second flow path, where it is heated. This ensures smooth flow of the heat exchange medium, reduces energy consumption, and lowers the cost of the liquid-cooled unit. By heating the heat exchange medium in a low-temperature environment through the condenser and controlling its flow direction according to the ambient temperature, the temperature of the heat exchange medium in a low-temperature environment can be precisely adjusted, ensuring the cooling effect of the heat exchange medium.

[0057] Optionally, the processor acquires the ambient temperature of the liquid cooling unit by acquiring the ambient temperature of the evaporator within the liquid cooling unit. Since the evaporator is used to cool the heat exchange medium in this liquid cooling unit, acquiring the ambient temperature of the evaporator provides a more direct reflection of the ambient temperature of the heat exchange medium. Controlling the flow direction of the heat exchange medium based on the ambient temperature of the evaporator allows for more precise control and improves the operational stability of the liquid cooling unit.

[0058] Optionally, the processor acquires the ambient temperature of the evaporator in the liquid cooling unit by acquiring the ambient temperature sent by a temperature sensor located in the environment where the evaporator is situated. This simplifies the ambient temperature acquisition process and improves the accuracy of the acquired temperature by acquiring the ambient temperature sent by the temperature sensor.

[0059] Optionally, the processor controls the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the liquid cooling unit based on the relationship between the ambient temperature and the first set temperature, including: the processor controlling the on / off state of the three-way solenoid valve in the return liquid line based on the relationship between the ambient temperature and the first set temperature. Thus, since the flow direction of the heat exchange medium is controlled by the three-way solenoid valve, the processor controls the on / off state of the three-way solenoid valve based on the relationship between the ambient temperature and the first set temperature, thereby controlling the flow direction of the heat exchange medium more precisely and efficiently.

[0060] Specifically, the conduction states of the three-way solenoid valve include: a first conduction state and a second conduction state; wherein, in the first conduction state, the first flow path is conducted while the second flow path is blocked, and in the second conduction state, the first flow path is blocked while the second flow path is conducted.

[0061] Combination Figure 5 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the control method for the liquid-cooled unit includes:

[0062] S01, the processor obtains the ambient temperature of the liquid cooling unit;

[0063] S021, when the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first set temperature, the processor controls the flow of the heat exchange medium to the evaporator.

[0064] Using the control method for the liquid-cooled unit provided in this embodiment, when the acquired ambient temperature is greater than or equal to a first set temperature, the ambient temperature is relatively high, allowing the heat exchange medium to flow smoothly within the liquid-cooled unit. However, when the heat exchange medium absorbs heat and its temperature rises, it needs to be cooled to ensure its cooling effect. Therefore, the flow of the heat exchange medium is controlled to the evaporator, which is used to cool the heated heat exchange medium.

[0065] Specifically, the processor controls the flow of the heat exchange medium to the evaporator, including: the processor controls the three-way solenoid valve in the return liquid line to be in the first open state. When the three-way solenoid valve is in the first open state, the first flow path is open, the second flow path is blocked, and the heat exchange medium flows through the first flow path to the evaporator for cooling.

[0066] Combination Figure 6 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the control method for the liquid-cooled unit includes:

[0067] S01, the processor obtains the ambient temperature of the liquid cooling unit;

[0068] S022, when the ambient temperature is lower than the first set temperature, the processor controls the flow of the heat exchange medium to the condenser.

[0069] The control method for the liquid-cooled unit provided in this embodiment addresses the risk of condensation of the heat exchange medium in the liquid-cooled unit when the ambient temperature is lower than a first set temperature. Therefore, the heat exchange medium is directed to the condenser for heating to ensure smooth flow. Because the ambient temperature is low, even the heat exchange medium heated by the condenser is much lower than the internal temperature of the equipment, thus dissipating heat as it flows through the cooling pipes arranged within the equipment.

[0070] Specifically, the processor controls the flow of the heat exchange medium to the condenser, including: the processor controls the three-way solenoid valve in the return line to a second open state. In this second open state, the three-way solenoid valve blocks the first flow path and opens the second flow path, allowing the heat exchange medium to flow into the condenser through the second flow path for heating.

[0071] Specifically, the first set temperature is 2℃. Thus, when the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to 2℃, there is no risk of condensation in the heat exchange medium, so the flow of the heat exchange medium after heat absorption is controlled to the evaporator for cooling. When the ambient temperature is less than 2℃, there is a risk of condensation in the heat exchange medium, so the flow of the heat exchange medium after heat absorption is controlled to the condenser for heating.

[0072] Combination Figure 7 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the control method for the liquid-cooled unit includes:

[0073] S01, the processor obtains the ambient temperature of the liquid cooling unit;

[0074] S022, when the ambient temperature is lower than the first set temperature, the processor controls the flow of the heat exchange medium to the condenser;

[0075] S03, the processor determines the magnitude relationship between the ambient temperature and the second set temperature;

[0076] S04, when the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the second set temperature, the processor controls the compressor of the liquid cooling unit to stop;

[0077] The second set temperature is lower than the first set temperature.

[0078] Using the control method for the liquid-cooled unit provided in this disclosure, after controlling the flow of the heat exchange medium to the condenser, the processor again determines the relationship between the ambient temperature and the second set temperature. Since the second set temperature is lower than the first set temperature, when the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the second set temperature but less than the first set temperature, although the ambient temperature is relatively low, the risk of condensation of the heat exchange medium is low, and there is no need to heat the heat exchange medium. The relatively low ambient temperature can be used to cool the heat exchange medium, thus controlling the compressor to stop and utilizing the heat exchange medium's heat exchange with the environment as it flows through the condenser for cooling. This ensures the cooling effect of the heat exchange medium while further reducing energy consumption.

[0079] Optionally, when the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to a second set temperature, the processor controls the compressor of the liquid cooling unit to stop while simultaneously increasing the speed of the condenser fan. Thus, when the processor controls the compressor to stop, to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange medium flowing through the condenser and exchanging heat with the environment, the processor increases the speed of the condenser fan, thereby accelerating the heat exchange between the heat exchange medium in the condenser and the environment, and improving the cooling efficiency of the heat exchange medium.

[0080] Specifically, the second set temperature is -6°C. Thus, when the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to -6°C, although there is a risk of condensation in the heat exchange medium, the risk is relatively small, and the compressor can be shut down to reduce energy consumption. When the ambient temperature is less than -6°C, the risk of condensation in the heat exchange medium is relatively high due to the low ambient temperature.

[0081] Combination Figure 8 As shown, in some optional embodiments, the control method for the liquid-cooled unit includes:

[0082] S01, the processor obtains the ambient temperature of the liquid cooling unit;

[0083] S022, when the ambient temperature is lower than the first set temperature, the processor controls the flow of the heat exchange medium to the condenser;

[0084] S03, the processor determines the magnitude relationship between the ambient temperature and the second set temperature;

[0085] S05, when the ambient temperature is lower than the second set temperature, the processor controls the compressor of the liquid cooling unit to operate at the set power.

[0086] The control method for the liquid-cooled unit provided in this embodiment involves the processor controlling the flow of the heat exchange medium to the condenser. It then determines the relationship between the ambient temperature and a second set temperature. When the ambient temperature is lower than the second set temperature, the risk of condensation of the heat exchange medium is high. Therefore, the compressor is controlled to operate, heating the flowing heat exchange medium through the condenser to ensure smooth flow. Since the heat exchange medium needs to flow to the equipment for cooling after passing through the condenser, the heating temperature of the condenser should not be too high. Therefore, the compressor is controlled to operate at a set power, ensuring that the condenser can appropriately heat the heat exchange medium to ensure smooth flow while maintaining good cooling performance after heating.

[0087] Specifically, when the compressor operates at its set power, the temperature of the heat exchange medium flowing through the condenser fluctuates within a range of 6°C or higher and 10°C or lower. This ensures that the temperature of the heat exchange medium heated by the condenser is between 6 and 10°C, providing both good flowability and effective cooling and heat dissipation.

[0088] Combination Figure 9 As shown, this disclosure provides a control device for a liquid-cooled unit, including a processor 100 and a memory 101. Optionally, the device may further include a communication interface 102 and a bus 103. The processor 100, communication interface 102, and memory 101 can communicate with each other via the bus 103. The communication interface 102 can be used for information transmission. The processor 100 can call logical instructions in the memory 101 to execute the control method of the liquid-cooled unit described in the above embodiment.

[0089] Furthermore, the logic instructions in the aforementioned memory 101 can be implemented as software functional units and, when sold or used as independent products, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium.

[0090] The memory 101, as a computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store software programs and computer-executable programs, such as program instructions / modules corresponding to the methods in the embodiments of this disclosure. The processor 100 executes functional applications and data processing by running the program instructions / modules stored in the memory 101, thereby implementing the control method for the liquid-cooled unit in the above embodiments.

[0091] The memory 101 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system and applications required for at least one function; the data storage area may store data created based on the use of the terminal device. Furthermore, the memory 101 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory.

[0092] This disclosure provides a liquid cooling unit, including the control device for the liquid cooling unit described above.

[0093] This disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions configured to execute the control method for the liquid-cooled unit described above.

[0094] This disclosure provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program stored on a computer-readable storage medium. The computer program includes program instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the control method for the liquid-cooled unit described above.

[0095] The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium may be a transient computer-readable storage medium or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0096] The technical solutions of this disclosure can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes one or more instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the method described in this disclosure. The aforementioned storage medium can be a non-transitory storage medium, including: a USB flash drive, a portable hard drive, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk, and other media capable of storing program code; it can also be a transient storage medium.

[0097] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate embodiments of this disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural, logical, electrical, procedural, and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included in or replace parts and features of other embodiments. Moreover, the terminology used in this application is for describing embodiments only and is not intended to limit the claims. As used in the description of embodiments and claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to equally include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the term “and / or” as used in this application means including one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations thereof. Additionally, when used in this application, the term "comprise" and its variations "comprises" and / or "comprising" refer to the presence of stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprises a..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, or apparatus that includes said element. In this document, each embodiment may focus on the differences from other embodiments, and similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. For methods, products, etc., disclosed in the embodiments, if they correspond to the method section disclosed in the embodiments, the relevant parts can be referred to the description of the method section.

[0098] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the embodiments of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0099] The methods and products (including but not limited to devices and equipment) disclosed in the embodiments herein can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of units may be merely a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. In addition, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection between the shown or discussed units may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units may be selected to implement this embodiment according to actual needs. Furthermore, the functional units in the embodiments of this disclosure may be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit may exist physically separately, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit.

[0100] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to embodiments of this disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the blocks may occur in a different order than that shown in the drawings. For example, two consecutive blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. In the descriptions corresponding to the flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings, the operations or steps corresponding to different blocks may also occur in a different order than disclosed in the description, and sometimes there is no specific order between different operations or steps. For example, two consecutive operations or steps may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. Each block in a block diagram and / or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in a block diagram and / or flowchart, can be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

Claims

1. A liquid-cooled unit, characterized in that, include: Evaporator (200); Condenser (300); The return line (400) includes a first flow path (410) and a second flow path (420), the first flow path (410) flows through the evaporator (200), and the second flow path (420) flows through the condenser (300); The liquid outlet pipe (500) is connected to the liquid outlet ends of the first flow path (410) and the second flow path (420) respectively, and the heat exchange medium circulates along the return liquid pipe (400) and the liquid outlet pipe (500); The heat exchange medium flowing out of the liquid outlet pipe (500) can flow into the evaporator (200) through the first flow path (410) for cooling, or flow into the condenser (300) through the second flow path (420) for heating.

2. The liquid-cooled unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A cooling pipe (800) is installed in the equipment for cooling the equipment. One end of the cooling pipe (800) is connected to the liquid outlet pipe (500), and the other end is connected to the liquid return pipe (400). The heat exchange medium circulates between the cooling pipe (800), the liquid return pipe (400), and the liquid outlet pipe (500).

3. The liquid-cooled unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The return line (400) also includes a main return line (430), which is connected to the inlet ends of the first flow path (410) and the second flow path (420) respectively.

4. The liquid-cooled unit according to claim 3, characterized in that, A three-way solenoid valve (440) is provided at the position where the main return pipe (430) connects to the first flow path (410) and the second flow path (420), which can block the second flow path (420) while opening the first flow path (410), or open the second flow path (420) while blocking the first flow path (410).

5. The liquid-cooled unit according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: A temperature sensor (900) is installed in the environment where the evaporator (200) is located, and the temperature sensor (900) is electrically connected to the three-way solenoid valve (440).

6. The liquid-cooled unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The refrigerant coil of the evaporator (200) is divided into a first outer tube (210) and a first inner tube (220). The first outer tube (210) is sleeved on the outer periphery of the first inner tube (220). A first flow space (230) is defined between the inner peripheral wall of the first outer tube (210) and the outer peripheral wall of the first inner tube (220). The refrigerant of the evaporator (200) flows in the first flow space (230). The first inner tube (220) is connected to the first flow path (410).

7. The liquid-cooled unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The refrigerant coil of the condenser (300) is divided into a second outer tube (310) and a second inner tube (320). The second outer tube (310) is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second inner tube (320). A second flow space (330) is defined between the inner peripheral wall of the second outer tube (310) and the outer peripheral wall of the second inner tube (320). The refrigerant of the condenser (300) flows in the second flow space (330). The second inner tube (320) is connected to the second flow path (420).

8. A control method for a liquid-cooled unit, applied to the liquid-cooled unit as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, include: Obtain the ambient temperature of the liquid cooling unit; The flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the liquid chiller is controlled according to the relationship between the ambient temperature and the first set temperature. The step of controlling the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the liquid chiller unit based on the relationship between the ambient temperature and the first set temperature includes: When the ambient temperature is lower than the first set temperature, the flow of the heat exchange medium to the condenser is controlled.

9. The control method for a liquid-cooled unit according to claim 8, characterized in that, The method of controlling the flow direction of the heat exchange medium in the liquid chiller unit based on the relationship between the ambient temperature and the first set temperature further includes: When the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the first set temperature, the flow of the heat exchange medium to the evaporator is controlled.

10. The control method for a liquid-cooled unit according to claim 9, characterized in that, After controlling the flow of the heat exchange medium to the condenser, the method further includes: Determine the magnitude relationship between the ambient temperature and the second set temperature; When the ambient temperature is greater than or equal to the second set temperature, the compressor of the liquid cooling unit is controlled to stop. The second set temperature is lower than the first set temperature.

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