Radiator

Abstract

The heat sink includes a first coolant passage and a second coolant passage. The first coolant passage includes a first inflow section and is adapted to direct a first coolant flow. The second coolant passage includes a second inflow section and is adapted to direct a second coolant flow. The heat sink includes a first distribution section providing a fluid connection between the first inflow sections, a second distribution section providing a fluid connection between the second inflow sections, and a common outflow section for the first coolant flow and the second coolant flow. The heat sink includes a lateral passage between the first coolant passage and the second coolant passage to direct at least a portion of the second coolant flow into the first coolant flow.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to heat sinks, and more particularly to heat sinks having internal passages for a cooling fluid such as water, such as heat sinks used to cool power electronics or photovoltaic devices. Background Art

[0002] In high-power electronics such as inverters for electric vehicles, wind or solar power plants, electronic components such as transistors are heated at 100W / cm 2 Similar power densities occur in high power photovoltaic devices such as high power solid state / diode lasers or in concentrating solar cells, or in computing devices such as processors.

[0003] Waste heat increases the temperature of the individual components, for example, the temperature of transistors or diode lasers. The temperature increase deteriorates the performance of the components and may even lead to damage to the components if the temperature increase is excessive. Therefore, a heat sink is usually applied in thermal contact with the individual components in order to cool the individual components and limit the temperature increase of the individual components.

[0004] Conventional heat sinks use their outer surfaces to transfer waste heat from components to the environment, typically to the ambient air, via the outer surfaces. This process can be enhanced with a fan to drive convective heat flow away from the outer surfaces.

[0005] A radiator with internal channels for a cooling fluid (such as water) can be used to achieve faster waste heat transfer. The corresponding radiator can be connected to a pump that drives the cooling fluid through the channels. The radiator transfers waste heat from the component to the internal channels of the radiator. The waste heat is transferred to the cooling fluid in the channels and moves away from the radiator as the cooling fluid flows.

[0006] The efficiency of the transfer of waste heat depends on the arrangement of the channels. In addition, this arrangement determines how evenly the radiator and / or components in thermal contact with the radiator are cooled. In addition, the arrangement of the channels determines their flow resistance to the flow of the cooling fluid and therefore the power consumption of the cooling, for example, the power to continuously operate a pump. Summary of the invention

[0007] In view of the above technical problems, there is a need to improve a radiator with channels and the operation of the radiator. This object is achieved by a radiator according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 14.

[0008] In a first aspect, a radiator includes a first coolant channel and a second coolant channel. The first coolant channel includes a first inflow section and is adapted to guide a first coolant flow. The second coolant channel includes a second inflow section and is adapted to guide a second coolant flow. The radiator includes a first distribution section providing a fluid connection between the first inflow sections, a second distribution section providing a fluid connection between the second inflow sections, and a common outflow section for the first coolant flow and the second coolant flow. The radiator includes a lateral channel between the first coolant channel and the second coolant channel to guide at least a portion of the second coolant flow into the first coolant flow.

[0009] The inventor has recognized that, in the radiator with passage, the thermal resistance layer tends to form along the inner surface of passage.The thermal resistance layer is related to the velocity distribution of the coolant in the passage, and the minimum velocity is closest to the inner surface of passage.This small velocity limits the flow of the coolant along the inner surface of passage, causing the temperature of the coolant on the inner surface of passage to be higher.The waste heat transfer from the radiator to the coolant in the passage depends on the temperature difference between (hot) passage wall and the coolant and this waste heat transfer is reduced.In other words, the coolant that slowly flows (longitudinally) at the inner surface of the passage forms a thermal resistance layer.

[0010] In order to solve this problem, the radiator according to the present disclosure includes two types of coolant channels (e.g., the first coolant channel and the second coolant channel) and the lateral channel that guides the flow from one type to another type. The lateral channel guides the flow passing through them (i.e., the flow across the coolant channel). The flow passing through the lateral channel destroys the thermal resistance layer at the inner surface of the first coolant channel and the second coolant channel, and thus improves heat transfer. In order to ensure that the flow is caused to pass through the lateral channel along the desired direction (i.e., from the second coolant channel into the first coolant channel), the channel of the corresponding type supplies fluid from the corresponding distribution section. The distribution section for the first channel / second channel can be provided with a suitable relative coolant flow velocity or a suitable (different) coolant pressure to ensure the direction of the lateral flow entering the first coolant channel from the second coolant channel.

[0011] The radiator may comprise an alternating arrangement of the first coolant channels and the second coolant channels.Alternatively or additionally, the radiator may comprise a common channel wall of the first coolant channels and the second coolant channels.

[0012] Corresponding embodiments may provide enhanced flow through the lateral channels and effectively disrupt the thermal resistance layer.

[0013] The lateral channels may be formed along at least 30% or at least 50% or at least 70% of the length extension of the first coolant channel and / or of the second coolant channel and / or of the length extension of the common channel wall.

[0014] The lateral channel may be formed at each boundary of the first coolant channel and the second coolant channel (eg, formed in each common channel wall).

[0015] For example, the arrangement of the first coolant channel and the second coolant channel can alternate along a direction perpendicular to the main direction of the first coolant flow and / or the main direction of the second coolant flow. The lateral channels can be formed at an angle of up to 45° relative to the direction of the second channel or relative to the main direction of the first coolant flow and / or the second coolant flow.

[0016] The common channel wall can separate a section of the first coolant channel from a section of the second coolant channel. In other words, the first coolant channel can be separated from the second coolant channel by the common channel wall.

[0017] The common channel wall may include lateral channels.

[0018] The directions of the first coolant channels may be parallel to each other. Alternatively or additionally, the directions of the second coolant channels may be parallel to each other. Alternatively or additionally, the directions of the first coolant channels may be parallel to the directions of the second coolant channels. Alternatively or additionally, a reference plane perpendicular to at least one of the first coolant channels or perpendicular to at least one of the second coolant channels may intersect the first coolant channels and the second coolant channels.

[0019] Corresponding embodiments may provide particularly uniform cooling of the volume or area covered by the channel.

[0020] The reference plane may be perpendicular to any or all of the first coolant channels.Alternatively or additionally, the reference plane may be perpendicular to any or all of the second coolant channels.

[0021] The second coolant channel may extend parallel to the first coolant channel, for example along at least half of their respective lengths or along at least 80% of their respective lengths or along their entire respective lengths.

[0022] The direction of the first coolant channel (or the second coolant channel) may refer to the direction along which the first coolant channel (or the second coolant channel) extends and / or refer to the main flow direction of the first coolant flow (or the second coolant flow).

[0023] The first coolant channel and / or the second coolant channel may be arranged along a second reference plane, wherein the second reference plane includes a direction of at least one of the first coolant channels and / or a direction of at least one of the second coolant channels. In other words, the second reference plane may intersect the first coolant channel and / or the second coolant channel (i.e., any one of the corresponding coolant channels) and may be arranged along at least one of the first coolant channel and / or the second coolant channel.

[0024] The first coolant passages may be at least three first coolant passages or at least four first coolant passages.

[0025] The second coolant passages may be at least three second coolant passages or at least four second coolant passages.

[0026] The length of the first coolant channel and / or the length of the second coolant channel may be at least 30 mm or at least 40 mm or at least 80 mm, respectively.

[0027] The coolant may be, for example, a 1:1 ratio fluid such as air, or water, or a mixture of water and ethylene glycol. The coolant passage may be fluid-tight to the coolant.

[0028] The heat sink may further include a heat dissipation body.

[0029] The heat dissipation body may include a first coolant channel and / or a second coolant channel. In other words, the first coolant channel and / or the second coolant channel may be inside the heat sink, in particular inside the heat dissipation body.

[0030] The heat dissipation body may include a first inflow section and / or a second inflow section.

[0031] The heat dissipating body may include a first distribution section and / or a second distribution section and / or a common outflow section.

[0032] The heat sink may further include a first coolant inlet and a first fluid connection between the first coolant inlet and the first distribution section to provide a first coolant flow to the first coolant channel. The heat sink may further include a second coolant inlet and a second fluid connection between the second coolant inlet and the second distribution section to provide a second coolant flow to the second coolant channel. In an embodiment including a heat sink body, the first coolant inlet and the second coolant inlet may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other on the heat sink body, for example, spaced apart from each other on an outer surface of the heat sink body.

[0033] The first coolant inlet may be in direct contact with the first distribution section.

[0034] The second coolant inlet may be in direct contact with the second distribution section.

[0035] The first coolant inlet and / or the first fluid connection may be separated from the second coolant inlet and / or the second fluid connection, for example in a fluid-tight manner.

[0036] The first distribution section can be separated from the second distribution section, for example in a fluid-tight manner.

[0037] The radiator may comprise a coolant flow distributor adapted to control the relative coolant flow through the first coolant inlet and the second coolant inlet.Alternatively or additionally, the coolant flow distributor may be adapted to control the pressure of the coolant at the first coolant inlet and the second coolant inlet.

[0038] The heat dissipation system may comprise a radiator according to one of the above embodiments and a first pump, wherein the first pump is fluidly connected to the first coolant inlet and is adapted to drive the first coolant flow.

[0039] The heat dissipation system may further include a second pump, wherein the second pump is fluidly connected to the second coolant inlet and is adapted to support a second coolant flow.

[0040] Alternatively, the heat dissipation system may include a coolant flow distributor, which is fluidly connected to the first pump and arranged downstream of the first pump. The coolant flow distributor may be fluidly connected to the first coolant inlet and / or the second coolant inlet.

[0041] The first coolant channel may extend from the first distribution section to the common outflow section.

[0042] The second coolant channel may extend from the second distribution section to the common outflow section.

[0043] The direction of the lateral channel may be inclined relative to the direction of the second coolant channel. Alternatively, the direction of the lateral channel may be inclined at an acute angle relative to the direction of the second coolant channel.

[0044] The corresponding arrangement can also help ensure the flow from the second channel through the lateral channel into the first channel. Therefore, the thermal resistance layer is reliably destroyed.

[0045] The width of the lateral channel may be smaller than the width of the first coolant channel and / or smaller than the width of the second coolant channel.

[0046] The lateral channel may be adapted to gradually direct at least a portion of the second coolant flow into the first coolant flow.

[0047] The lateral channels may include at least two lateral channels or at least three lateral channels or at least four lateral channels or at least five lateral channels between one of the first coolant channels and an adjacent second coolant channel (particularly between the corresponding first coolant channel and each of the two second coolant channels adjacent to the corresponding first coolant channel). Each of the corresponding lateral channels may be adapted to direct at least a portion of the corresponding second coolant flow (i.e., passing through the corresponding second coolant channel) into the corresponding first coolant flow (i.e., passing through the corresponding first coolant channel). Therefore, any first channel adjacent to a second channel or any first channel adjacent to two second channels may be characterized accordingly.

[0048] The lateral channel may be adapted to gradually direct the second coolant flow into the first coolant flow, or to gradually direct the entire second coolant flow into the first coolant flow.

[0049] For example, the width of the lateral channel may be at least 1.5 times or at least 2 times smaller than the width of the first coolant channel and / or the width of the second coolant channel.

[0050] The lateral channel between the first coolant channel and the second coolant channel can be adapted to guide the second coolant flow into the first coolant flow, i.e., guide the entire second coolant flow into the first coolant flow. Alternatively or additionally, the end of the second coolant channel opposite to the first inflow section can be closed. Alternatively or additionally, along the direction of the second coolant channel, the second coolant channel can be closed at both ends.

[0051] The heat sink may further comprise a guide surface in the second coolant channel, the guide surface being adapted to guide at least a portion of the second coolant flow to and / or into the side channel.

[0052] The corresponding arrangement can also help ensure the flow from the second channel through the lateral channel into the first coolant channel. Therefore, the thermal resistance layer is reliably destroyed.

[0053] The guide surface may extend into the second coolant channel and / or the guide surface may be inclined relative to the direction of the second coolant channel, or the guide surface may be inclined at an acute angle relative to the direction of the second coolant channel.

[0054] The guide surface may be inclined, in particular at an acute angle, relative to the main direction of the second coolant flow.

[0055] The heat sink may further include a protrusion protruding from an inner surface of the second coolant passage, wherein the guide surface is disposed on the protrusion.

[0056] The first coolant passage may provide a Reynolds number between 3000 and 5000. Alternatively or additionally, the second coolant passage may provide a Reynolds number between 3000 and 5000.

[0057] The corresponding Reynolds number may refer to the Reynolds number of the first coolant flow (or respectively the second coolant flow) with water or a mixture of water and ethylene glycol in a 1:1 ratio as coolant.

[0058] The corresponding Reynolds number may refer to the Reynolds number of the first coolant flow (or respectively the second coolant flow) at room temperature (eg, at 295K).

[0059] Corresponding embodiments may ensure turbulent flow in the first coolant channel and / or the second coolant channel, which may further help to break down the thermal resistance layer.

[0060] The total flow resistance of the second coolant channel may exceed the total flow resistance of the first coolant channel.Alternatively or additionally, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second coolant channel may decrease as the second coolant channel extends away from the second inflow section.

[0061] The corresponding device can also help to ensure the flow from the second coolant channel through the lateral channel into the first coolant channel. Therefore, the thermal resistance layer is reliably destroyed.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the lateral channel further away from the second inflow section comprises a cross-sectional area or width or diameter that is different from the cross-sectional area or width or diameter of the lateral channel close to the second inflow section. In other words, the cross-sectional area or width or diameter of the lateral channel along the direction of the second coolant channel or along the main direction of the second coolant flow, respectively, changes as the second coolant channel extends away from the second inflow section.

[0063] The heat sink may further include a cooling surface. At least a section of the first coolant channel may extend parallel to the cooling surface; and / or at least a section of the second coolant channel may extend parallel to the cooling surface; and / or the heat sink may include a heat conductive material arranged between the cooling surface and the first coolant channel and / or the second coolant channel, wherein the thickness of the heat conductive material between the cooling surface and the first coolant channel and / or the second coolant channel is at least 4 mm, at least 6 mm, at least 7 mm, or at least 8 mm.

[0064] A corresponding arrangement improves the temperature uniformity at the cooling surface.

[0065] The first coolant channel and / or the second coolant channel may extend parallel to the cooling surface along at least half of their respective length, or along at least 80% of their respective length, or along their entire respective length.

[0066] The cooling surface may be arranged on the heat dissipating body.

[0067] The cooling surface may be planar and / or may be adapted for mounting a component to be cooled thereon.

[0068] The cooling surface may be in thermal contact with the first coolant channel and / or the second coolant channel.

[0069] The thickness of the heat conducting material between the cooling surface and the first coolant channel and / or the second coolant channel may be at most 20 mm or at most 15 mm or at most 12 mm.

[0070] The thermally conductive material may be a metallic material, and / or may include or consist of aluminum or copper.

[0071] The heat sink may include a cooling surface and a second cooling surface opposite to the cooling surface. For example, the cooling surface and the second cooling surface may be arranged on opposite sides of the heat dissipation body. The second cooling surface may have features corresponding to the features described above in the context of the cooling surface.

[0072] The second aspect relates to a method for operating a radiator. The radiator includes a first coolant channel and a second coolant channel. The first coolant channel includes a first inflow section and is suitable for guiding a first coolant flow. The second coolant channel includes a second inflow section and is suitable for guiding a second coolant flow. The radiator also includes a first distribution section, a second distribution section, a common outflow section and a lateral channel, wherein the first distribution section provides a fluid connection between the first inflow sections, the second distribution section provides a fluid connection between the second inflow sections, the common outflow section is used for the first coolant flow and the second coolant flow, and the lateral channel is between the first coolant channel and the second coolant channel. The method includes: adjusting the first coolant flow through the first distribution section; and adjusting the second coolant flow through the second distribution section to guide at least a portion of the second coolant flow through the lateral channel into the first coolant flow.

[0073] The method may include regulating the second coolant flow rate independently of the first coolant flow rate; and / or regulating the first coolant pressure at the first distribution section to a different value than the second coolant pressure at the second distribution section. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0074] The techniques of the present disclosure and advantages associated therewith will be most apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments in accordance with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0075] Figure 1a A cross-sectional view along the xy plane of the heat sink according to the first embodiment is given;

[0076] Figure 1bAnother cross-sectional view of the heat sink according to the first embodiment along another xy plane is given;

[0077] Figure 2a A cross-sectional view of the heat sink according to the first embodiment along the yz plane is given;

[0078] Figure 2b Another cross-sectional view of the heat sink according to the first embodiment along another yz plane is given;

[0079] Figure 2c Another cross-sectional view of the heat sink according to the first embodiment along another yz plane is given;

[0080] Figure 3 shows the structure of the first coolant channel and the second coolant channel according to the embodiment;

[0081] Figure 4a A cross-sectional view of a heat sink along an xy plane according to another embodiment is provided;

[0082] Figure 4b Given the basis Figure 4a another cross-sectional view of the heat sink of the embodiment along another xy plane;

[0083] Figure 5 Show according to Figure 4a A perspective view of a heat sink of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0084] Figure 6a A heat dissipation system according to a first embodiment is shown;

[0085] Figure 6b A heat dissipation system according to a second embodiment is shown; and

[0086] Figure 7 A method according to an embodiment is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] Figure 1a , Figure 1b , Figure 2a , Figure 2b , Figure 2c A schematic diagram of a heat sink 100 according to an embodiment is given.

[0088] Figure 1a and Figure 1b 1 shows a cross-sectional view of the heat sink 100 taken along a plane parallel to the xy plane (horizontal plane). Figure 1a The xy plane of the view is approximately at its center along the z direction (vertical direction) (e.g., at Figure 2a , Figure 2b The plane R2 in FIG. 1 intersects the heat sink 100 at a height of the plane R2 in FIG. 1 ; Figure 1a A top view of the heat sink 100 is shown, half of which is cut along the plane. Figure 1b The xy plane of the view is at a position further up along the z direction (vertical direction) (e.g., at Figure 2a The plane P4 in FIG. 1 intersects the heat sink 100 at a height of the plane P4 in FIG. 1 ; Figure 1b A top view of the heat sink 100 taken along this plane is shown.

[0089] Figure 2a , Figure 2b and Figure 2c The heat sink 100 is shown according to Figure 1a A cross-sectional view parallel to the yz plane (vertical plane) obtained by planes P1, P2 (R1) and P0, P3 shown in FIG.

[0090] like Figure 1a As shown in FIG. 1 , the heat sink 100 closes an inner cavity having two types of coolant channels 102 , 112 , namely, first coolant channels 102 and second coolant channels 112 in a fluid-tight manner. The coolant channels 102 , 112 extend from respective inflow sections 104 , 114 to a common outflow section 120 .

[0091] The inflow sections 104 of the first coolant channels 102 are fluidly connected to each other, namely, through the distribution section 108 of the radiator 100. Through the first coolant inlet 210, a coolant, such as water mixed with ethylene glycol, is provided to the distribution section 108, and from the distribution section 108 to the first inflow section 104 of the first coolant channel 102, thereby driving the first coolant flow 106 through the first coolant channel 102. After the first coolant flow 106 has passed through the first coolant channel 102, the first coolant flow 106 passes through the common outflow section 120 and exits the radiator 100 through the outlet 214.

[0092] like Figure 2a As shown in FIG. 1 , the coolant is similarly provided to the second inflow section 114 of the second coolant channel 112 through the second coolant inlet 212 and the second distribution section 118. This drives the second coolant flow 116 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 1a ) passes through the second coolant passage 112.

[0093] like Figure 1aAs shown in FIG. 1 , the end 124 of the second coolant channel 112 is closed, so that the entire second coolant flow 116 passes through a transverse channel 122 formed in the common channel wall 110 of the first coolant channel 102 and the second coolant channel 112. The transverse channels 122 enter the first coolant channel 102, or the first coolant flow 106 in the first coolant channel 102, respectively, and finally enter the common outflow section 120.

[0094] Thus, the lateral channels 122 deflect portions of the coolant flows 106, 116 from the direction x of the coolant channels 102, 112, which direction x is parallel to the surface of the common channel wall 110. Thus, the lateral channels 112 drive portions of the coolant flows 106, 116 toward / away from the common channel wall 110. In other words, they induce a component of the coolant flows 106, 116 that is perpendicular to the common channel wall 110. Thus, the lateral channels 122 disrupt the thermal resistance layer that would otherwise form along the common channel wall 110, i.e., along the inner surface relative to (and defining) the first coolant channel 102 and the second coolant channel 112. Thus, the lateral channels 122 improve the heat transfer between the heat sink 100 and the coolant, and improve the transfer of waste heat away from the heat sink 100 into the coolant channels 102, 112 to the coolant.

[0095] Providing spatially separated, fluidically separated distribution sections 108, 118 allows for providing appropriate coolant pressure and / or coolant flow to them individually to ensure sufficient coolant flow through the lateral channels 122 to reliably separate the thermal resistance layer. Preferably, the coolant flow passing through the first distribution section 108 (and the first inlet 210) respectively has a similar size to the coolant flow passing through the second distribution section 118 (and the second inlet 212) respectively.

[0096] Reference plane R1 and second reference plane R2 intersect coolant channels 102, 112. Reference plane R1 is vertical and perpendicular to coolant channels 102, 112. Second reference plane R2 is horizontal and follows (i.e., includes) the direction of coolant channels 102, 112. All coolant channels 102, 112 are arranged in the second reference plane R2, i.e., they intersect the second reference plane R2.

[0097] Figure 2a , Figure 2b and Figure 2c The heat dissipation body 200 of the heat sink 100 is further shown.

[0098] The heat dissipation body 200 has a cubic shape and has flat and horizontal cooling surfaces 202, 206 at the top and bottom of the heat dissipation body 200. The coolant channels 102, 112 extend along the horizontal plane through the heat dissipation body 200. In the vertical direction, the coolant channels 102, 112 are arranged in the middle of the heat dissipation body 200 between the cooling surfaces 202, 206.

[0099] The thermally conductive material 204, 208, such as copper or aluminum, thermally couples the coolant channels 102, 112 to the cooling surfaces 202, 206. The thickness t1, t2 of the thermally conductive material 204, 208 is 10 mm. For smaller thicknesses t1, t2, such as below 4 mm, heat is transferred away from the cooling surfaces 202, 206, and thus the temperature of the cooling surfaces 202, 206 may become non-uniform along the xy plane of the cooling surfaces 202, 206. For larger thicknesses t1, t2, such as greater than 12 mm, the thermal coupling of the coolant channels 102, 112 to the cooling surfaces 202, 206 may become inefficient.

[0100] Figure 1a , Figure 1b , Figure 2a , Figure 2b and Figure 2c The heat sink 100 is manufactured using additive manufacturing technology or subtractive manufacturing technology.

[0101] When the subtractive manufacturing technique is applied, the upper and lower halves each having a cubic shape and a height corresponding to approximately half the height of the heat sink 100 are initially machined separately. Figure 1a The structure and Figure 2c The inlet / outlet depicted in is milled into the lower half. Figure 1b The structure and Figure 2a The second inlet 212 depicted in FIG. 1 is milled into the upper half. To ensure that the coolant channels 102, 112 are ultimately arranged centrally in the z-direction in the heat sink 100, the thickness of the halves may differ slightly from one another to compensate for the height of the coolant channels 102, 112. The halves are then connected in a fluid-tight manner, such as by vacuum welding or by threading with gaskets between the halves, thereby defining Figure 1a The plane of view of FIG. 1 surrounds a cavity with coolant channels 102 , 112 .

[0102] When applying additive manufacturing technology, the heat sink 100 can be 3D printed from bottom to top to have Figure 1a , Figure 1b , Figure 2a , Figure 2b and Figure 2cAlternatively, the two halves described in the context of subtractive manufacturing may be formed by molding and then connected as described in the context of subtractive manufacturing.

[0103] Figure 3 A detailed view of the first coolant passage 102 and the second coolant passage 112 is given.

[0104] The second coolant channel 112 has an extension direction 300 . This direction 300 coincides with the main direction of the second coolant flow 116 .

[0105] At each lateral channel 122, a portion 304 of the second coolant flow 116 is deflected from the main direction 300 of the second coolant flow 116 and follows the direction 302 of the lateral channel 122. Thus, in the lateral channel 122, the direction 302 of the flow 304 coincides with the direction 302 of the lateral channel 122. Therefore, the flow 304 is also referred to as a lateral flow 304. The lateral flow 304 has a component towards the common channel wall 110 (as seen from the second coolant channel 112) or away from the common channel wall 110 (as seen from the first coolant channel 102), or a component perpendicular to the common channel wall 110, respectively.

[0106] The direction 302 of the flow 304 or the direction 302 of the lateral channel 122 forms an acute angle 306 with respect to the direction 300 of the second coolant channel 112 or the main direction of the second coolant flow 116 , respectively.

[0107] In the depicted embodiment, the cross-sectional area or width or diameter of the second coolant passage 112 increases as the second coolant passage 112 moves away from the second inflow section 114 (and toward the end 124, see Figure 1a This ensures that the pressure in the second coolant channel 112 along its length is higher than the pressure in the first coolant channel 102 along its length, and thus ensures flow from the second coolant channel 112 through the lateral channel 122 into the first coolant channel 102.

[0108] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the cross-sectional area or width or diameter, respectively, of the lateral channel 122 along the direction 300 of the second coolant channel 112 changes as the second coolant channel 112 extends away from the second inflow section 114. In other words, the cross-sectional area (or width or diameter, respectively) of the lateral channel 122 farther from the second inflow section 114 is different from the cross-sectional area (or width or diameter, respectively) of the lateral channel 122 closer to the second inflow section 114. This has a similar effect to the above-described reduction in the cross-sectional area (or width or diameter, respectively) of the second coolant channel 112, i.e., ensuring that the pressure along its length in the second coolant channel 112 is higher than the pressure along its length in the first coolant channel 102. In an embodiment in which the cross-sectional area (or width or diameter, respectively) of the lateral channel 122 is changed, the cross-sectional area (or width or diameter, respectively) of the second coolant channel 112 may be constant along the direction 300. Alternatively, along direction 300 , the cross-sectional area (or width or diameter, respectively) of the second coolant passage 112 may decrease, and the cross-sectional area (or width or diameter, respectively) of the lateral passage 122 may change.

[0109] The flow 304 is further guided into the lateral channel 122 by a guide surface 308. The guide surface 308 is disposed adjacent the lateral channel 122 downstream of the lateral channel 122. The guide surface 308 extends into the second coolant channel 112 at an acute angle 306 relative to the direction 300 of the second coolant channel 112 and at an acute angle 306 relative to a section of the common channel wall 110 between the lateral channels 122. In the depicted embodiment, the acute angle 306 is defined between the guide surface 308 and the average position h of the upstream section of the common channel wall 110.

[0110] The guide surface 308 ensures flow from the second coolant passage 112 through the lateral passage 122 into the first coolant passage 102 , ie, the second coolant flow 116 is guided into the first coolant flow 106 even if the pressure difference between the coolant in the first coolant passage 102 and the coolant in the second coolant passage 112 is small.

[0111] The guide surface 308 is formed on the protrusion 310. The protrusion 310 extends from the common channel wall 110 into the second coolant channel 112, and more specifically, from a section of the common channel wall 110 between the lateral channels 122 into the second coolant channel 112. The protrusion 310 extends deeper into the second coolant channel 112 than a section of the common channel wall 110 upstream of the corresponding lateral channel 122. In other words, the protrusion 310 extending into the second coolant channel 112 exceeds the average position h of the upstream section of the common channel wall 110.

[0112] In addition to providing the guide surface 308 with the advantages described above, the guide surface 308 ensures the above-described reduction in the cross-sectional area (or width or diameter, respectively) of the second coolant passage 112 .

[0113] Figure 4a , Figure 4b and Figure 5 A heat sink 100 according to a second embodiment is shown. This embodiment is similar to Figure 1a , Figure 1b , Figure 2a , Figure 2b and Figure 2c The embodiments are described in the context of FIG. 1 and like reference numerals refer to similar elements.

[0114] Figure 4a , Figure 4b and Figure 5 Embodiments of the invention are dimensioned for use in power electronics, semiconductor electronics, or optoelectronic devices such as diode lasers.

[0115] Figure 4a and Figure 4b Shown respectively with Figure 1a and Figure 1b The corresponding view. Figure 5 Given the basis Figure 4a and Figure 4b A perspective view of a heat sink 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] like Figure 5 As shown in FIG, the heat sink 100 comprises two planar cooling surfaces 202, 206 arranged on opposite sides of the heat sink 100. The cooling surfaces 202, 206 have an extension of 100 mm (along the x-direction) by 140 mm (along the y-direction).

[0117] like Figure 4a As shown in FIG. 1 , the width w covered by the first coolant channel 102 and the second coolant channel 112 is 114 mm in total. The lengths l1 , l2 of the first coolant channel 102 and the second coolant channel 112 are each approximately 100 mm.

[0118] Further references Figure 4a , the radiator 100 includes 14 first coolant channels 102 and 13 second coolant channels 112 .

[0119] Along the direction of the second flow 116 (or respectively along the direction 300 of the second channel 102, see Figure 3 ) of the protrusion 308 (see Figure 3 , not in Figure 4a , Figure 4b and Figure 51 ) protrudes successively into the second coolant channel 112 by 0.2 mm. In other words, in the direction of the second flow 116 (or respectively in the direction 300 of the second channel 112), the subsequent protrusion 308 protrudes 0.2 mm deeper into the second coolant channel 112 than the previous protrusion 308. The section of the common channel wall 110 separating the lateral channels 122 from each other has a length of 1.2 mm.

[0120] The angle between the direction 302 of the lateral channel 122 and the direction 300 of the first coolant channel 102 or the direction 300 of the second coolant channel 112 is 45°.

[0121] The height of the first coolant channel 102 and the second coolant channel 112 along the z direction is 4 mm. The thickness t1, t2 of the heat conductive materials 204, 208 is 10 mm.

[0122] like Figure 5 As depicted in , the radiator 100 includes an inlet element 312 that includes the second coolant inlet 212 .

[0123] exist Figure 4a , Figure 4b and Figure 5 In the embodiment depicted in , both the second coolant inlet 212 and the outlet 214 are formed on the top surface of the radiator 100, and the first coolant inlet 210 is formed on the bottom surface. In an optional embodiment (not shown), any of the coolant inlets 210, 212 and / or the outlet 214 is formed on either of the two surfaces, depending on the requirements of the specific application. Specifically, the coolant inlets 210, 212 and the outlet 214 can be formed on the same surface so that the other surface has no coolant inlet or outlet. Alternatively, any of the coolant inlets 210, 212 and / or the outlet 214 can be formed on both surfaces, for example, the outlet 214 can be formed on the bottom surface and the top surface.

[0124] Figure 6a A heat dissipation system 400 according to a first embodiment is shown.

[0125] The heat dissipation system 400 includes a first pump 402 having fluid connections 406 to the first coolant inlet 210 and outlet 214 to drive the first coolant flow 106 through the first coolant passage 102 .

[0126] The heat dissipation system 400 includes a second pump 404 having fluid connections 406 to the second coolant inlet 212 and outlet 214 to drive the second coolant flow 116 through the second coolant passage 112 .

[0127] The heat dissipation system 400 allows the coolant flows 106 , 116 through the first coolant passage 102 and the second coolant passage 112 to be controlled independently of each other based on relative and absolute values ​​of the coolant flows 106 , 116 .

[0128] The heat dissipation system 400 also allows the pressures at the first distribution section 108 and at the second distribution section 118 to be controlled independently of one another, depending on their relative and absolute values.

[0129] The cooling system 400 also includes a coolant reservoir 410 that is inline with the radiator 100 and each of the pumps 402, 404 of the cooling system 400 to provide a sufficient amount of coolant to the cooling system 400. The coolant reservoir 410 facilitates quick and easy diagnosis (e.g., diagnosis through a viewing port of the coolant reservoir 410) and control / refilling of the coolant level of the cooling system 400.

[0130] Figure 6b A heat dissipation system 400 according to a second embodiment is shown.

[0131] The cooling system 400 includes a first pump 402 having a fluid connection 406 to a coolant flow distributor 408 and the outlet 214 .

[0132] The coolant flow distributor 408 is further fluidly connected to the first coolant inlet 210 , and fluidly connected to the second coolant inlet 212 .

[0133] The heat dissipation system 400 forms a first coolant circulation passing through the first pump 402 , the coolant flow distributor 408 , the first coolant inlet 210 and the outlet 214 .

[0134] The heat dissipation system 400 forms a second coolant circulation through the first pump 402 , the coolant flow distributor 408 , the second coolant inlet 212 , and the outlet 214 .

[0135] Thus, the first pump 402 and the coolant flow distributor 408 drive the coolant flows 106 , 116 through the respective coolant passages 102 , 112 .

[0136] The coolant flow distributor 408 provides a means for controlling the relative coolant flow through the first distribution section 108 (and / or through the first coolant inlet 210, respectively) and through the second distribution section 118 (and / or through the second coolant inlet 212, respectively). Alternatively, the coolant flow distributor 408 provides a means for controlling the coolant pressure at the first distribution section 108 (and / or at the first coolant inlet 210, respectively) and the coolant pressure at the second distribution section 118 (and / or at the second coolant inlet 212, respectively). In one embodiment (not shown), the coolant flow distributor 408 is implemented as a T-shaped or Y-shaped fluid connector with different flow resistances (e.g., different diameters) of the two branches of the T or Y. In another embodiment (not shown), the coolant flow distributor 408 is also implemented as a T-shaped or Y-shaped fluid connector, and a flow valve is introduced in at least one of the branches of the T or Y, and allows the flow resistance of the corresponding branch to be controlled.

[0137] In some embodiments (not shown), the coolant flow distributor 408 is physically included in the heat sink 100, for example, in the heat sink body 200. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the coolant flow distributor 408 can be moved relative to the heat sink 100, which can improve the design flexibility of the heat sink system 400. In a corresponding embodiment (not shown), a single pump 402 and / or a single coolant flow distributor 408 can be provided for several heat sinks 100.

[0138] Figure 7 A method 500 for operating the heat sink 100 as described above is shown.

[0139] At 502 , the method 500 includes regulating a first coolant flow through the first distribution section 108 .

[0140] At step 504 , the method 500 includes regulating the second coolant flow through the second distribution section 118 to direct at least a portion of the second coolant flow 116 through the lateral passage 122 into the first coolant flow 106 .

[0141] Preferably, the method 500 further comprises adjusting the second coolant flow rate independently of the first coolant flow rate; and / or adjusting the first coolant pressure at the first distribution section 108 to a value different from the second coolant pressure at the second distribution section 118, for example, as in Figure 6a and Figure 6b described in the context of.

[0142] List of Reference Numerals

[0143] 100 Radiator

[0144] 102 first coolant channel

[0145] 104 First inflow section

[0146] 106 first coolant flow

[0147] 108 First allocation section

[0148] 110 Public passage wall

[0149] 112 Second coolant channel

[0150] 114 Second inflow section

[0151] 116 Second coolant flow

[0152] 118 Second allocation section

[0153] 120 Public outflow section

[0154] 122 Side Channel

[0155] 124 The end of the second coolant channel opposite to the first inflow section

[0156] P0, P1, P2, P3 planes; yz plane

[0157] R1 reference plane; yz plane

[0158] R2 Second reference plane; xy plane

[0159] 200 Heat dissipation body

[0160] 202 Cooling surface

[0161] 204, 208 thermal conductive materials

[0162] 206 second cooling surface

[0163] t1, t2 thickness of thermal conductive material

[0164] 210 First coolant inlet

[0165] 212 Second coolant inlet

[0166] 214 Exit

[0167] 300 Direction of the second cooling channel

[0168] 302 Direction of lateral channel

[0169] 304 Flow guided by lateral channels

[0170] 306 Acute Angle

[0171] 308 Guide surface

[0172] 310 A protrusion protruding from the inner surface of the second coolant channel

[0173] h is a reference line reflecting the inner surface of the second coolant channel without protrusions.

[0174] I1, I2 Length of the first and second coolant channels

[0175] w Width of the channel area

[0176] 312 Inlet Components

[0177] 400 Cooling System

[0178] 402 First Pump

[0179] 404 Second Pump

[0180] 406 Coolant Line

[0181] 408 Coolant Flow Distributor

[0182] 410 Coolant reservoir

[0183] 500 Methods

[0184] 502 Adjusting the first coolant flow through the first distribution section

[0185] 504 Adjusting the second coolant flow through the second distribution section

Claims

1. Radiator (100), include: A first coolant channel (102), wherein the first coolant channel (102) comprises a first inflow section (104) and is adapted to guide a first coolant flow (106), a first distribution section (108) providing a fluid connection between the first inflow sections (104), A second coolant channel (112), wherein the second coolant channel (112) comprises a second inflow section (114) and is adapted to guide a second coolant flow (116), a second distribution section (118) providing a fluid connection between the second inflow sections (114), a common outflow section (120) for the first coolant flow (106) and the second coolant flow (116), and A lateral channel (122) is provided between the first coolant channel (102) and the second coolant channel (112) to direct at least a portion of the second coolant flow (116) into the first coolant flow (106).

2. The heat sink (100) according to claim 1, comprising an alternating arrangement of the first coolant channels (102) and the second coolant channels (112).

3. The heat sink (100) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a common channel wall (110) of the first coolant channel (102) and the second coolant channel (112).

4. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The directions of the first coolant channels (102) are parallel to each other.

5. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The directions (300) of the second coolant channels (112) are parallel to each other.

6. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The direction of the first coolant channel (102) is parallel to the direction (300) of the second coolant channel (112).

7. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, A reference plane (R1) perpendicular to at least one of the first coolant channels (102) and / or perpendicular to at least one of the second coolant channels (112) intersects the first coolant channel (102) and the second coolant channel (112).

8. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: include: A first coolant inlet (210) is connected to a first fluid, the first fluid being connected between the first coolant inlet (210) and the first distribution section (108) to provide the first coolant flow (106) to the first coolant channel (102), a second coolant inlet (212) and a second fluid connection between the second coolant inlet (212) and the second distribution section (118) to provide the second coolant flow (116) to the second coolant channel (112), and A heat dissipation body (200), wherein the first coolant inlet (210) and the second coolant inlet (212) are arranged on the heat dissipation body (200) to be spaced apart from each other.

9. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The direction (302) of the lateral channel (122) is inclined relative to the direction (300) of the second coolant channel (112).

10. The heat sink (100) according to claim 9, in, The direction (302) of the lateral channel (122) is inclined at an acute angle (306) relative to the direction (300) of the second coolant channel (112).

11. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The width of the lateral channel (122) is smaller than the width of the first coolant channel (102), and / or smaller than the width of the second coolant channel (112).

12. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The lateral channel (122) is adapted to gradually direct the at least a portion of the second coolant flow (116) into the first coolant flow (106).

13. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The lateral channel (122) is adapted to direct the entirety of the second coolant flow (116) into the first coolant flow (106).

14. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, An end (124) of the second coolant channel opposite to the first inflow section (114) is closed.

15. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, Along the direction of the second coolant channel (112), the second coolant channel (112) is closed at both ends.

16. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the above claims, further comprising a guide surface (308), wherein the guide surface (308) is suitable for guiding the at least a portion of the second coolant flow (116) in the second coolant channel (112) to the side channel (122) and / or into the side channel (122).

17. The heat sink (100) according to claim 16, in, The guide surface (308) extends into the second coolant passage (112).

18. The heat sink (100) according to claim 16 or 17, in, The guide surface (308) is inclined relative to the direction (300) of the second coolant channel (112).

19. The heat sink (100) according to claim 18, in, The guide surface (308) is inclined at an acute angle (306) relative to the direction (300) of the second coolant passage (112).

20. The heat sink (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 19, further comprising a protrusion (310), the protrusion (310) protruding from an inner surface of the second coolant channel (112), in, The guide surface (308) is arranged on the protrusion (310).

21. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The first coolant passage (102) provides a Reynolds number between 3,000 and 5,000.

22. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The second coolant passage (112) provides a Reynolds number between 3,000 and 5,000.

23. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The total flow resistance of the second coolant passage (112) exceeds the total flow resistance of the first coolant passage (102).

24. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The cross-sectional area of ​​the second coolant passage (112) decreases as the second coolant passage (112) extends away from the second inflow section (114).

25. The heat sink (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a cooling surface (202, 206).

26. The heat sink (100) according to claim 25, in, At least a portion of the first coolant channel (102) extends parallel to the cooling surface (202, 206).

27. The heat sink (100) according to claim 25 or 26, in, At least a portion of the second coolant passage (112) extends parallel to the cooling surface (202, 206).

28. The heat sink (100) according to any one of claims 25 to 27, in, The heat sink (100) comprises a thermally conductive material (204, 208) arranged between the cooling surface (202, 206) and the first coolant channel (102), wherein a thickness (t1, t2) of the thermally conductive material (204, 208) between the cooling surface (202, 206) and the first coolant channel (102) is at least 4 mm, at least 6 mm, at least 7 mm, or at least 8 mm.

29. The heat sink (100) according to any one of claims 25 to 28, in, The heat sink (100) comprises a thermally conductive material (204, 208) arranged between the cooling surface (202, 206) and the second coolant channel (112), wherein a thickness (t1, t2) of the thermally conductive material (204, 208) between the cooling surface (202, 206) and the second coolant channel (112) is at least 4 mm, at least 6 mm, at least 7 mm, or at least 8 mm.

30. A method (500) for operating a heat sink (100), in, The heat sink (100) comprises: A first coolant channel (102), wherein the first coolant channel (102) comprises a first inflow section (104) and is adapted to guide a first coolant flow (106), a first distribution section (108) providing a fluid connection between the first inflow sections (104), A second coolant channel (112), wherein the second coolant channel (112) comprises a second inflow section (114) and is adapted to guide a second coolant flow (116), a second distribution section (118) providing a fluid connection between the second inflow sections (114), a common outflow section (120) for the first coolant flow (106) and the second coolant flow (116), and a lateral channel (122) between the first coolant channel (102) and the second coolant channel (112); The method comprises: regulating a first coolant flow rate (502) through the first distribution section (108), and A second coolant flow rate (504) through the second distribution section (118) is adjusted to direct at least a portion of the second coolant flow (116) through the lateral passage (122) into the first coolant flow (106).

31. The method (500) according to claim 30, include: The second coolant flow rate is adjusted independently of the first coolant flow rate.

32. The method (500) according to claim 30 or 31, include: A first coolant pressure at the first distribution section (108) is adjusted to a value different from a second coolant pressure at the second distribution section (118).

Images